Located in the splendid Halong Bay, Cua Van Fishing Village is a remarkable destination that blends the beauty of nature with the unique charm of traditional Vietnamese culture. This UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site captivates visitors with its picturesque scenery, friendly local people, and authentic experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the enchanting Cua Van Fishing Village, its history, the best time to visit, and the most exciting activities to enjoy during your visit.
An Overview of Cua Van Fishing Village
Cua Van Fishing Village, also known as Cua Van Floating Village, is situated in Hung Thang Precinct, Quang Ninh Province, approximately 20 kilometers away from the tourist pier. This ancient village is nestled amidst the majestic limestone mountains of Halong Bay, offering a serene and captivating retreat for visitors.
The Origin of Cua Van Fishing Village
Cua Van Fishing Village traces its origins back to two ancient fishing villages, Giang Vong and Truc Vong, which combined to form this unique coastal community. The village has been recognized as one of the 16 most beautiful ancient villages in the world by Journeyetc.com. Its distinctive cultural patterns and traditions have captivated tourists from all corners of the globe.
The Community of Cua Van Fishing Village
The village is home to over 300 households who live on floating houses and rely primarily on fishing as their main source of livelihood. The residents of Cua Van are warm, hospitable, and friendly, always striving to make visitors feel welcome.
Best Time to Visit Cua Van Fishing Village
The ideal time to visit the floating village is from October to September of the following year. It is advisable to avoid the months of July and August due to the frequent occurrence of tropical cyclones, depressions, heavy rainfall, and rough seas in Vietnam during this time.
The period from October to September is also divided into two peak seasons. The first peak season is for domestic tourists, while the second one is for foreign tourists. The peak season for foreign tourists in Halong Bay, including Cua Van, runs from October to April of the following year. This is because winter vacations and New Year holidays in foreign countries often coincide with this period, making tropical destinations with higher average temperatures and affordable costs an ideal choice.
How to Get to Cua Van Fishing Village
Cua Van Fishing Village is situated dozens of kilometers away from the coastline, requiring a boat trip to reach it. A range of cruising boats is available for you to choose from, which may be included in some full-package tours offered by large tourism corporations. However, the following two options are the most favorable for foreign guests:
- If you decide to spend only one day visiting the floating village: Feel free to buy boat tickets directly at the wharf, or through telephones, or even some online registering platforms associated with service providers.
- If you prefer a longer trip lasting 2-3 days: You must plan ahead, ensuring that you (and your group) have precise information about time, places, and means of transport. As a result, many people opt for a full-package cruising tour of 3 days and 2 nights, considered to be more economical and money-saving than going on your own without assistance from travel agencies.
The Unique Features of Cua Van Fishing Village
The Cua Van Fishing Village captivates not only domestic tourists but also foreign visitors with its unique features and serene atmosphere.
A Tranquil Escape
Leave the hustle and bustle of the big cities behind and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the floating village. The village boasts over 300 households living in floating houses, which are tightly attached to each other to withstand strong winds.
A Rich Cultural Experience
One of the most original characteristics of the floating village is the abundance of small boats and rafts anchored in front of every house, representing the spirit of fishermen who hope to secure a brighter future for their children and families. The native residents of Cua Van are well-known for their warmth, hospitality, and friendliness, always trying to make visitors feel welcome.
Highlights of Cua Van Fishing Village
The floating village offers a plethora of unique experiences and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Below are some of the most notable highlights of this enchanting destination.
Cua Van Floating Culture Center
Cua Van Floating Culture Center is a facility dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditional values and cultural heritage of the long-standing fishing village. This site features a wide range of educational and cultural exchange activities, as well as hundreds of archaeological antique collections, including ancient fishing tools dating back centuries.
Daily Life of Local Fishermen
As mentioned earlier, the majority of residents in the village rely on fishing for their livelihood. The sea is considered their homeland, and the boat is their shelter, as it has been for generations. Their children are accustomed to swimming, sailing, and even dealing with risks and dangers from a very early age.
Kayaking/Boat-sailing
In addition to fishing, local residents also earn their living by providing kayak services or working as tour guides who know the village intimately and can help you navigate the boat properly. Kayaking is one of the most popular activities among foreign tourists, as it offers a unique perspective of the village and the opportunity to capture stunning photographs.
Service fees:
- Hiring a kayak: 100,000 VND/h
- Hiring a local tour guide: 60,000 VND/h
What to See and Do at Cua Van Fishing Village
To fully explore and appreciate the charm of the floating village, it is recommended that you spend at least one day and one night discovering the various attractions and activities the village has to offer. Below are some suggestions for things to see and do during your visit.
Visit the Tien Ong Cave and Ba Ham Lake nearby
While visiting the Cua Van Fishing Village, take the opportunity to explore the nearby Tien Ong Cave and Ba Ham Lake. These natural wonders offer captivating views and unique experiences that complement your visit to the fishing village.
Experience Traditional Fishing Activities
Join the local fishermen in their daily activities, such as rowing boats, casting nets, and catching fish. This hands-on experience provides an authentic insight into the traditional fishing culture of the village.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
Savor the delicious flavors of the village by indulging in local seafood dishes prepared by the residents. From freshly caught fish to mouthwatering seafood barbecue, there is no shortage of culinary delights to enjoy during your visit.
Extra Tips for Visiting Cua Van Fishing Village
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, consider the following tips when planning your visit to the floating village:
- Bring a power bank and other essential tools to charge your phone and handle any other necessities.
- Carry a flashlight and power banks, as electricity in the village is generated from generators.
- Be cautious of additional fees when booking a full-package tour, as some may charge you for meals and drinks separately.
- Maximize your time and money by visiting the Vung Vieng Fishing Village, just a 20-minute boat trip from Cua Van, and the nearby Ham Rong Mountain. Vung Vieng Village is famous for its clear stream of ocean water – a fantastic experience you will cherish for a lifetime.
- Bring mosquito repellent, anti-motion sickness medicine, cold medicine, and other necessary medications, as access to medical facilities may be limited during the night.
- Avoid giving money or candy to children during your visit, as it may discourage them from attending school. Instead, consider providing them with educational supplies such as notebooks and pencils.
Conclusion
Cua Van Fishing Village is a hidden gem in the magnificent Halong Bay, offering visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its unique cultural heritage, picturesque scenery, and warm, hospitable locals make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Vietnam’s enchanting coastal landscape. Whether you are seeking an authentic cultural experience, breathtaking natural beauty, or a peaceful retreat, the floating village promises unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.