A new overnight boat offers more activities for sightseers in Ha Long Bay. Mack Jackson reports on the Victory Star.
The two teams sit in respective boats. With paddle raised, we wait for the sign to start. A hundred meters ahead, a buoy lacks the turning point. The first one back is the winner. The signal is given and we set off across HalongÃÔ peaceful waters. At first our crew is all at sixes and sevens. Despite our drummerÃÔ constants beat, we lack discipline and synchronization, hardly surprising since we havenÃÕ had any practice. Eventually someone calls out a rhythm and we start to accelerate though the waters, quickly hauling in our rivals.
A dragon boat is an excellent team building exercise. As we cross the line and return to the pontoon, our sense of increased camaraderie is almost tangible. It may have helped that our boat came first, but our vanquished rivals seemed to enjoy the friendly competition as much as we did. They willingly take photos of our moment of triumph.
Ÿe are the only boat that offers dragon boat racing for passengers says Philippe Royer. Victory StarÃÔ cruise manager. With around 400 boats sailing around Ha Long Bay, he realizes it pays to have a competitive advance.
Launched this April, the 58-meter Victory Star is the longest boat in Halong, according to Royer. Its 32 cabins can hold up to deal for larger groups and incentive trips.
For once, quantity has not affected quality. The cabins are fitted out to a five star standard. With the deluxe cabins measuring 20sqm and junior suites 32sqm, thereÃÔ no change of passengers contracting cabin fever. Except for the two triples, each has its own private balcony, ensuring that all passengers get an excellent view of the bay, regardless of the group.
The five star service extends to the restaurant. Our lunch featured fresh crab prepared at the table by one of the attentive staff. The evening meal was a five course gala dinner that would grace any landlocked five star hotel.
In addition to offering all the standard Halong options such as kayaks, cookery classes and morning tai chi, the Victory Star is one of the few boats in Halong with a spa on board. So White others swim in the crystal clear waters or get up close to the rocks, you can pamper yourself with a body massage or laze in the Jacuzzi. After my workout in the dragon boat some relaxation was in order.

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