"Blue Swimming Adventures" (BSA) for You?

Here's a post I've created for Trip Advisor that I also thought you might find of interest?

After exploring multiple tour options for our scenic Halong Bay and/or Cat Ba  Island tour, we chose BSA for its strong Trip Advisor ratings.  

But, once again, I think the ratings miss an important perspective: don't expect ANY hint of "luxury" accommodation or even much "comfort" on this tour for $300 /couple /night.  

You're  paying strictly for 1st Class ADVENTURE. 

Right  up front, here's a list of things you'll need to be able to overlook: a  scenic but "high end campground" level resort featuring  a mixed bag dinner buffet, slices of Wonder Bread for breakfast and surly service, when any is offered at all. 

Now add to this: unhinged toilet seats; rock hard mattresses; sliding doors that don't slide and the company of a particularly aggressive earthworm in the "bathroom" that seemed to prefer that the shower remain heatless.  

Now let's head to our private boat for our 2nd night's accommodation featuring a toilet that doesn't flush and, amazingly, the same Wonder Bread-based breakfast, less the fried eggs. 

And if you want any chance at comfort, definitely accept the highly recommended sleeping "on deck" versus the cabin option - trust me!

So if I haven't completely lost you, here's why you SHOULD choose BSA Tours.

Theyll allow you to see and experience a unique perspective on Vietnam's bay culture that money can't buy: stunning geographic formations rising from the sea; an endless variety of caves to explore; hardworking independent fishermen using timeless fishing techniques and new oyster "farms" dotting the inner waterscape.  

If you're as lucky as we were, you'll also enjoy a truly world class tour guide, Hien, who'll confidently take you on multi- hour tours. 

These activities include kayaking tours featuring a knowledge of all the best caves; the presence of someone whom you sense is always three steps ahead of you in terms of meeting your needs and ensuring your safety.

Finally,  you get an individual who,  despite a few episodes of my complaining, ALWAYS managed to maintain a positive attitude - and a most endearing smile. 

Now toss in a few of the intangibles: an evening spent on board your "own" boat, howling with laughter as you attempt speaking each other's language for the first time; use of various sections of the boat for swan dives and "whenever you feel like it" swims; an awesome end of the day authentic Vietnamese dinner and a couple of fun crew members who'll remind you of  a Vietnamese version of The Skipper and  Gilligan.  

All in all, an individual tour and adventure I'm very pleased to have had, but one that's clearly not for everyone!t