Guide to Vietnam

Curving along the east coast of the Indochinese peninsula, Vietnam stretches for over 1600 kilometres comprising endless paddy fields, glorious beaches and breath-taking coastline. Dotted between the patchwork of spectacular landscapes and languid countryside are a number of enthralling cities, the most modern of which is Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Its scooter-strewn streets swarm with people beneath the high-rise buildings, colourful markets and modern shopping centres. Explore the labyrinth Cu Chi Tunnels that were once a haven for Viet Cong fighters before revelling in the vibrant nightlife until the early hours.

The larger, greener city of Hanoi embodies a harmonious fusion of old and new, from lakes, temples and terraces to smart restaurants and chic boutiques. The city makes an excellent base from which to explore the dazzling natural wonder, Halong Bay. Dotted with over 3000 limestone islands rising up from the Gulf of Tonkin, the UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a slice of truly authentic Vietnam.

The fantastic sailing conditions and beautiful off lying islands of Nha Trang are an unmissable part of any yacht charter itinerary in this region. Spend a day enjoying vibrant street markets and seeing magnificent ancient monuments before casting off to the Khanh Hoa province; a stretch of dazzling coastline with spectacular beaches and deep lagoons.

Immerse yourself in old Vietnam in the elegant riverside town of Hoi An, dotted with temples, shrines and beautiful Chinese-style wooden houses amongst traditional restaurants and pretty shop fronts. Have a suit made to measure in one of the traditional tailors and enjoy a stroll through the cobbled streets lined with galleries and cafés. Within easy reach of the town lies the paradise of Lao Cham, a group of eight islands boasting secluded bays and beautiful beaches, ideal for snorkelling in the balmy waters and soaking up the sun with a cocktail.

As a multi-centre luxury yacht charter destination, Vietnam is hard to beat. Whether cruising down the Mekong Delta past mangroves, relaxing on enchanting beach resorts such as Ninh Van Bay, or snorkelling and diving in the renowned dive sites of the Con Dao Islands archipelago, Vietnam is the personification of understated luxury.