This is a nice cruise to pick if you prefer a relaxing laid back tour of halong bay. I was afraid the usual tours would be stopping at places packed full with tourists, which is why I picked this one that has a different itinerary. In the morning, the shuttle bus stops at a pearl farm rest stop, but no one pressures you to buy anything. After boarding the boat, the crew will serve a 5 star lunch while the boat cruises through the beautiful mountains and islands. We were delightfully full and satisfied with the delicious 6-course meal. You can order cocktails and mocktails or beer or coffee. Then you get to choose to kayak or ride a bamboo boat to see the dark and light cave. Next activity is swimming, the boat will park in a secluded bay area but not go on shore, no beach. Last activity is making spring rolls and light afternoon tea with cakes and fruit. The boat has plenty of clean and comfortable sitting space for chilling or sunbathing. There is also a shower if you need that after swimming. The crew is friendly and service is good. Bottled water is provided on the bus but not on the boat.