The boat and crew on Alova are great. All very friendly and polite and we especially loved Mr Hung, the bartender whose cocktails were superb. Drink prices are high but they have ‘happy hour’ every night on cocktails (2 for 1). Food excellent but menu the same both nights. Everything very clean and well presented.
Yes, you have to stop at an overpriced shop on the way but you don’t HAVE to buy anything and the toilets there are the cleanest in Vietnam!
It’s disappointing that the amount of boats in the designated areas means you feel like part of a circus but this is no fault of the boat operators. Also, the cleanliness of the water where you are allowed to swim is revolting, again no fault of the tour operator but sad that this beautiful area is being ruined by pollution.
We felt Alova Gold did everything within its power to give us the best experience possible at Halong Bay and our guide, Sunny, was ever alert to our needs and wishes. Highly recommended.