Xep Islet in Bai Tu Long Bay: Travel Guide, Activities, Costs & Eco-Tours

Xep Islet, also known as Layer Islet, is a striking geological formation in Bai Tu Long Bay, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site near Halong Bay in Halong Region, Vietnam. Resembling a multi-layered, square stone pyramid reminiscent of Egyptian architecture, this 15-meter-high karst stands majestically in the serene waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, Cam Pha area, approximately 10 km east of Van Don Port. Unlike the busier Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, spanning 157.8 km², offers tranquility with its pristine beaches, clear waters, and cultural gems like Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Xep Islet’s unique, tiered structure, formed over millions of years, highlights the bay’s ancient geological history, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Ha Long City has transitioned into Halong Region, reinforcing its tourism prominence while prioritizing sustainability. Aligned with Quang Ninh’s “Green Tourism” initiative, Bai Tu Long Bay promotes eco-friendly exploration through regulated cruises and community-supported tourism. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours provide an authentic, responsible way to experience Xep Islet—book your adventure via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia journeys, prioritizing environmental and cultural preservation. Our Bai Tu Long Bay tours, including Xep Islet visits, feature eco-friendly transport—electric boats, bamboo rowboats, and low-emission shuttles—guided by local experts who share the bay’s heritage. Supporting communities in Halong Region and Van Don, we align with Quang Ninh’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore Xep Islet responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative reorganization has integrated Ha Long City into Halong Region under Quang Ninh Province, streamlining access to Bai Tu Long Bay’s attractions, including Xep Islet, Thien Canh Son Cave, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND1.2 trillion coastal preservation project—Halong Region facilitates eco-conscious exploration, making Xep Islet a key highlight in sustainable tourism itineraries.

Xep Islet, within Bai Tu Long Bay, is a year-round destination, with optimal times based on weather and crowd levels. The bay’s tropical monsoon climate influences visibility and activities around this iconic karst.

• Autumn (September–November): Best Time. Cool and dry, 22–30°C (71.6–86°F), low humidity (70–75%), minimal rainfall (50–150 mm/month). November’s clear skies and fewer crowds offer perfect conditions for photographing Xep Islet’s pyramid-like structure and cruising ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND). Ideal for kayaking ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND).

• Spring (March–May): Warm and pleasant, 20–28°C (68–82.4°F), moderate humidity (75–80%), low rainfall (<100 mm/month). Clear views of Xep Islet, but peak season crowds require early bookings ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND). Great for water activities.

• Winter (December–February): Cool and dry, 10–22°C (50–71.6°F), low humidity (65–70%), minimal rainfall (<30 mm/month). Occasional fog adds a mystical vibe to Xep Islet, ideal for cultural cruises ($100–$250 or 2,500,000–6,250,000 VND). Book early for Christmas/New Year ($120–$300 or 3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, 27–34°C (80.6–93.2°F), high humidity (80–90%), frequent showers (300–450 mm/month). Budget-friendly cruises ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND) offer clear Xep Islet views between showers, but typhoon risks require weather checks.

Tip: Visit in October–November for optimal weather and serene views of Xep Islet, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Autumn Heritage ($100–$150).

Xep Islet’s unique geological formation and scenic beauty make it a highlight of Bai Tu Long Bay cruises. Below are eco-friendly activities to enjoy nearby, emphasizing sustainable tourism:

• Eco-Cruise: Sail past Xep Islet on an electric boat, capturing its layered, pyramid-like silhouette against emerald waters ($80–$200 or 2,000,000–5,000,000 VND for 2D1N). Cruises often include nearby Thien Canh Son Cave ($5 or 125,000 VND entry) and Cong Do Area.

• Kayaking: Paddle around Xep Islet and nearby karsts like Cap La for an up-close view of its tiered structure ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND). Ideal in calm autumn waters, offering a zero-emission experience.

• Photography: Capture Xep Islet’s Egyptian pyramid-like form at sunrise or sunset, especially in November’s clear skies. Use a drone with cruise permission for aerial shots, or shoot from the cruise deck for stunning perspectives.

• Bamboo Boat Tours: Visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village, 25 km from Xep Islet, to explore floating communities with local rowers ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND), supporting community-based tourism.

• Squid Fishing: Try eco-friendly night fishing near Xep Islet, a cultural highlight included in select cruises, using sustainable fishing methods.

• Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Vietnamese dishes like banh gat gu onboard ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND), complementing the cruise experience with local flavors.

Tip: Opt for a 2D1N or 3D2N eco-cruise to combine Xep Islet views with multiple activities, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Explorer ($95–$140).

Xep Islet, located in Bai Tu Long Bay’s Cam Pha area, is accessible only by boat, typically via eco-friendly cruises departing from Hon Gai or Van Don ports, 180 km from Hanoi. Below are sustainable transportation options to reach the ports and cruise to Xep Islet, including costs and travel times.

1. Eco-Cruise with Included Transfers (Most Convenient)

• Description: Most Bai Tu Long Bay cruises include round-trip transfers from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports via low-emission limousines or shuttles, docking near Xep Islet during the itinerary. Operators like Indochina Junk use electric boats for sustainability.

• Travel Time: 2.5–3.5 hours (Hanoi to port) + cruise duration (2D1N or 3D2N, passing Xep Islet on day 1 or 2).

• Cost: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N, including transfers, meals, and activities.

• Departure Points: Hanoi Old Quarter or your hotel to Hon Gai/Van Don ports, then cruise to Xep Islet.

• Sustainability: Electric boats and waste-reduction practices align with UNESCO conservation goals.

• How to Book: Reserve through Legend Travel Group for trusted operators like Dragon Legend or Swan Cruises.

• Tip: Choose cruises with Xep Islet on the itinerary, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Cruise ($95–$140).

2. Shuttle Bus to Port

• Description: Air-conditioned shuttle buses (e.g., Hoang Khoi Limousine) offer shared rides from Hanoi to Hon Gai or Van Don ports, where cruises to Xep Islet depart. Fuel-efficient fleets reduce emissions.

• Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours, with a 15-minute rest stop.

• Cost: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way per person.

• Departure Points: Hanoi Old Quarter (My Dinh or Gia Lam stations) to Hon Gai/Van Don ports.

• Sustainability: Shared transport lowers carbon footprints.

• How to Book: Book via Legend Travel Group or platforms like 12Go.

• Tip: Align bus arrival with cruise schedules (10:00 AM–12:00 PM), included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery Tour ($90–$130).

3. Private Car or Limousine

• Description: Private cars or limousines (e.g., Indochina Go) provide door-to-door service from Hanoi to Hon Gai/Van Don ports, ideal for groups. Hybrid vehicles are available for eco-travel.

• Travel Time: 2.5 hours via 5B Highway.

• Cost: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) one-way for a 4-seater; $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) for a 9-seater.

• Departure Points: Hanoi Old Quarter, Noi Bai Airport, or your hotel to Hon Gai/Van Don ports.

• Sustainability: Request hybrid vehicles to reduce emissions.

• How to Book: Arrange through Legend Travel Group or trusted providers.

• Tip: Customize eco-friendly stops en route, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Heritage Cruise ($100–$150).

4. Seaplane (Luxury Option)

• Description: Hai Au Aviation’s seaplane flights from Noi Bai Airport to Tuan Chau Marina offer aerial views of Bai Tu Long Bay, followed by a transfer (30 minutes, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) to Hon Gai/Van Don ports for cruises to Xep Islet.

• Travel Time: 45 minutes (flight) + 30 minutes (transfer), totaling ~1.5 hours.

• Cost: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way per person.

• Departure Points: Noi Bai Airport to Tuan Chau Marina, then Hon Gai/Van Don ports.

• Sustainability: Low per-passenger emissions for short flights.

• How to Book: Reserve via Hai Au Aviation or Legend Travel Group’s luxury packages.

• Tip: Book early for peak seasons, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Tour ($250–$400).

Visiting Xep Islet is typically part of a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise, with costs covering transportation, activities, and onboard amenities. Below are approximate expenses for an eco-conscious trip:

• Transportation:

  • Shuttle Bus: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) one-way.

  • Private Car/Limousine: $50–$120 (1,250,000–3,000,000 VND) one-way for 2–4 people.

  • Seaplane: $400 (10,000,000 VND) one-way.

  • Eco-Cruise with Transfers: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND) for 2D1N; $120–$350 (3,000,000–8,750,000 VND) for 3D2N.

• Accommodation (if not on a cruise):

  • Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND), e.g., Van Don Homestay.

  • Budget Hotels: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Hotels: $30–$80/night (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Activities:

  • Kayaking near Xep Islet: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Bamboo Boat Tour (Vung Vieng): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Cooking Class: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

  • Cave Entry (e.g., Thien Canh Son): $5 (125,000 VND).

• Food and Drinks (if not included in cruise):

  • Street Food (e.g., Bánh Gật Gù): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Restaurant Meals: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bottled Water/Coconut Juice: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Total Daily Budget (per person, excluding cruise):

  • Budget Traveler: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).

  • Mid-Range Traveler: $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

  • Luxury Traveler: $150–$400 (3,750,000–10,000,000 VND).

Tip: Choose a cruise package for all-inclusive pricing, included in our Bai Tu Long Bay Eco-Tour ($95–$140).

• Book Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group 1–2 months in advance for peak seasons (September–November, March–May) or festive periods like Christmas to secure preferred dates and eco-friendly boats.

• Sustainability: Select cruises with eco-certifications (e.g., Indochina Junk) to minimize environmental impact; support local vendors at Vung Vieng to align with Quang Ninh’s green goals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Halong Region, Van Don, and Hon Gai; save Hon Gai Port as a landmark for cruise departures.

• Safety: Secure valuables on cruises; wear life jackets while kayaking; check summer forecasts for typhoons (June–August).

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for cultural visits to nearby fishing villages (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you).

• Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for outdoor activities.

Our sustainable tours include Xep Islet visits, tailored to Bai Tu Long Bay’s serene climate and attractions, with eco-friendly transportation from Hanoi:

• Bai Tu Long Bay Explorer (2D1N, $95–$140/person): Overnight cruise past Xep Islet, Thien Canh Son Cave, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village with kayaking and limousine transfers. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Immersion (3D2N, $150–$300/person): Two-night cruise to Xep Islet, Ba Mun Island, and Minh Chau Beach with bamboo boat tours. Includes guide, meals, and eco-transfers.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Foodie Cruise (2D1N, $85–$120/person): Seafood tasting, cooking class, and Halong Night Market visit, cruising past Xep Islet with shuttle bus transfers. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Heritage Cruise (2D1N, $100–$150/person): Xep Islet, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and squid fishing with private car transfers. Includes lunch and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Discovery (2D1N, $90–$130/person): Quan Lan Island cycling, Tuan Chau cultural shows, and Xep Islet views with eco-transfers. Includes snacks and guide.

• Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Tour (3D2N, $250–$400/person): Seaplane transfer, luxury cruise past Xep Islet, and Ba Mun rainforest hike. Includes meals and guide.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!

Xep Islet, a pyramid-like geological marvel in Bai Tu Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, offers a serene glimpse into Vietnam’s natural wonders, best explored via eco-friendly cruises from Hanoi (300 km, 3–4 hours). With optimal visiting times in autumn (September–November, 20–25°C) and spring (March–May, 18–24°C), activities like kayaking ($10–$20, 250,000–500,000 VND), photography, and cultural tours enhance the experience. Legend Travel Group’s Quang Ninh Tours ensure a sustainable Quang Ninh Travel experience, featuring seamless transportation and eco-conscious practices like low-emission boats and community-led conservation, immersing you in Bai Tu Long Bay’s pristine landscapes and hidden lagoons. Don’t wait—browse our curated eco-tours and book your Bai Tu Long Bay adventure today!
Ready to cruise past Xep Islet’s layered silhouette? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s coastal treasure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Xep Islet and Bai Tu Long Bay Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, tripadvisor.com, halongbaytours.com