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Halong Bay Cruises

Top 10 Best Halong Bay Cruise Deals Recommended For You

The highly trusted collection of Best Halong Bay Cruises that is frequently updated by our Halong Cruise Experts depending much on the cruises' conditions: best facilities, unique experiences, best offers, high-end meals on board, professional staff, and especially excellent comments, feedback from our real valuable customers. We hope that you can select a suitable Halong bay cruise for your holiday and have unforgettable experiences beside your beloved ones. Save Time - Save Money - Travel more!

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Ambassador Signature Cruise

Style: Modern    Rooms: 39   

Step on board the elegant and opulent Ambassador Signature Cruise for an unforgettable journey as you discover Lan Ha Bay's magnificence. With 39 trendy and modern cabins and a capacity for 120 guests, this 5-star floating hotel has everything you need for a feel-at-home journey in the middle of the sea: air conditioning, private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, and bathtubs. Along with first-rate accommodation, Ambassador Signature also offers a premium Asian – European cuisine experience as well as a complete complement of modern facilities, including a luxury spa on board, a piano lounge, and a restaurant & bar.

Orchid Trendy Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 20   

Being a sister cruise of Orchid Classic Cruise, Orchid Trendy is also a luxurious overnight cruise accommodating 20 cabins on board with a private balcony on each cabin overlooking the World Heritage Site. Possessing the finest amenities with the most professional crew as her sister, Orchid Trendy Cruise is a promisingly great alternative of the luxury segment for those who wish to explore Lan Ha Bay with a first-class leisure trip.

Ambassador Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 46   

Launched in November 2018, Ambassador Cruise by now has been affirmed its notable reputation among Halong Bay luxurious cruises. Not only being the BIGGEST and NEWEST steel vessel in Halong Bay, but Ambassador Cruise also possesses distinctive highlights: signature Michellin menu with various options, finest amenities, one and only outdoor jacuzzi in Halong Bay Cruises, classy live music, and professional butlers; which make it exceptional to the others. Confidently proud as a top-notch cruise, Ambassador Cruise assures that every single moment of yours in Halong Bay would be the incredibly sumptuous experience ever. 

Orchid Classic Cruise

Style: Modern    Rooms: 14   

Being one of the best luxury 5-star cruises as well as the first cruise company to set up a newly overnight cruise itinerary throughout Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay, Orchid Cruise leads passengers to explore the pristine beauty of the Heritage Site which is less touristic and more wildly untouched. With only 14 spacious cabins, Orchid Cruise offers a really comfortable private space with an upgraded level of premium cruising services that make your discovery full of exceptional experiences.

Peony Cruise

Style: International & Boutique    Rooms: 20   

Peony Cruise is one of the luxury cruises of Big Bay Group launched in October 2018. Following the successful sister cruise ship,Mon Cheri Cruise, Peony Cruise brings to passengers the chances to explore the magnificent and pristine beauty of the cruising route through Lan Ha Bay. Housing 20 spacious luxury cabins artfully designed in the modern style, Peony Cruise promises to provide memorable voyages with a professional crew and premium cruising services.

Scarlet Pearl Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 23   

Being one of the newest and biggest 5-star cruises in Halong Bay, Scarlet Pearl Cruise guarantees passengers from all over the world the ultimately luxury experience from beginning until the end with spacious modern waiting lounge in Tuan Chau Port, luxurious and well-furnished steel main ship, as well as super-advanced Catamaran Sailboats used for day trip. Besides, with 2 days 1 night itinerary equivalent with that of 3 days 2 nights from other cruise lines and featuring unique route exploring untouched Lan Ha Bay, Scarlet Pearl Cruise confidently assures every single minute you experience onboard would be the most impressive moments in your lifetime.

Paradise Elegance Cruise

Style: Modern    Rooms: 31   

Managed by the pioneering cruising company in Halong Bay, Paradise Group, Paradise Elegance Cruise is an outstanding brand in Paradise Cruises Collection, which is renowned by its exquisite service and high-end professionalism among Halong Bay Fleets. This cruise is an ideal option for anyone seeking a luxurious experience to Halong Bay, which will definitely bring to guests the exceptional touch for their fantastic voyage amid the World Heritage Site.

Nostalgia Cruise

Style: Boutique    Rooms: 10   

Scheduled to set sail in December 2022, Nostalgia Cruise promises an exceptional voyage to amazing yet less touristy corners of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. With only 11 elegant cabins, this unique boutique cruise ship pays much attention to details of both interior and exterior, as well as always guarantee top-notch service. You will see traditional decor arts and well-designed wooden furniture that remind much of the royal Vietnamese architecture. If you are seeking serenity, peace and purity in the beauty of Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay, Nostalgia Cruise is surely the perfect option.

Mon Cheri Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 18   

Mon Chéri Cruise offers 18 stylish cabins alongside the elegant restaurant and bars, fitness facilities and spa service. The cruise provides 5-star standard services with professional staff to guarantee that can satisfy even the most demanding guests. In addition, we absolutely serve the Western and Asian cuisines, and Mon Chéri Cruises is the first cruise in Halong bay having a separated kitchen for Halal foods which are cooked by foreign Chefs with well equipped Halal Cooking Certification. Moreover, unlike the classic Halong bay tour, Mon Chéri Cruise departs from Hai Phong city, which is approximately 1.5 hours driving from Hanoi, thus the transferring time from Hanoi to the harbor is considerably reduced. 

Paradise Grand Cruise

Expected to join the luxurious cruise segment in Lan Ha Bay at the beginning of 2020, Paradise Grand Cruise welcomes passengers to explore and discover the pristine natural beauty here on newly distinctive itineraries. Proudly managed by one of the pioneering cruise companies owning one of the best fleets in Halong Bay – Paradise Vietnam, Paradise Grand promisingly creates the incredibly sumptuous voyage to a mystic and tranquil Lan Ha Bay – another charming beauty amid the Heritage Site.

Newest Halong Bay Cruises

Capella Cruise

Launched: 2020    Rooms: 26   

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 39   

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 10   

Orchid Premium Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 5   

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 46   

Luxury Halong Bay Cruises

Launched: 2016    Rooms: 14   

Essence Grand Cruise

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 56   

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 31   

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 20   

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 20   

Deluxe Halong Bay Cruises

Mila Lux Cruise

Launched: 2012    Rooms: 22   

Paradise Sails Cruise

Launched: 2009    Rooms: 17   

Sena Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 16   

Renea Cruise

Launched: 2015    Rooms: 11   

La Regina Royal Cruise

Launched: 2015    Rooms: 20   

La Pandora Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 23   

Budget Halong Bay Cruises

Mila Cruise

Swan Cruises

Launched: 2015    Rooms: 18   

Sapphire Cruise

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 21   

Halong Bay Day Cruises

JadeSails Day Cruise

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 48   

Serenity Luxury Day Cruise

Rooms: 60   

Cong Day Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 30   

L'Azalee Day Cruise

Rooms: 40   

Halong Sen Day Cruise

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 50   

Paradise Explorer Day Cruise

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 50   

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Recent Reviews About Halong Bay Cruises

Elite of the Seas - Seamlessly organised by Sophie

The Elite of the Seas 3 day/2 night Halong Bay cruise organised by Sophie at Inside Travel was just about perfect. The vessel is... Elite of the Seas Cruise

Unforgettable trip!

We had a great experience booking Hermes halong bay cruise with Inside Travel. The entire trip was very well organized and truly... Hermes Cruise

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the trip is nice

... Ambassador Cruise

Great Ha Long Bay trip booked.

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Official website of Halong Bay Cruises - The Best Choice to discover Halong Bay

Situated on the Gulf of Tonkin, Halong Bay - one of the World's New7Wonders of Nature is the perfect blend of aesthetic, geological and geomorphologic values. Experienced at least 500 million years in many different geological states, Halong Bay now is well-known as the paradise of sea and islands with thousand of lime-stone mountains and islets in various sizes and shapes. Furthermore, this is also a wonderful destination for cruising , kayaking and enjoying tropical charming beaches.

Coming to Halong Bay , one of the world's natural heritages and also among seven natural wonders, soon you will notice taking part in a Halong Bay cruise is the best way to completely explore the stunning beauty of this destination. The feeling of cruising through around 3,000 thousand islets of Halong Bay is definitely a fantastic experience to every tourist.

Being on Halong Bay cruises , along with embracing the wonders of nature , there is no doubt you will be indulge yourself in a strong sense a comfort - joint together by pleasant accommodations, dainty dishes as well as enthusiastic and dedicated services. Regardless whoever you are and how much money you have in your pocket, you still find your wishes fulfilled and your requirements met with a wide variety of Halong Bay cruises .

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EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE

The first choice for domestic and international tourists.

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The most flexible booking policy, putting customers' needs first.

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Support the local community, ensuring sustainable tourism.

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NEW CRUISING art in Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay

Pioneering in cruising the wonderful northeast gateway of Vietnam: Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island , Orchid Cruises offers premium experiences with finest quality boats: Premium - Classic - Trendy.

Engage in a journey of sublimate emotions with Orchid Cruises, enjoy high-class services and experience the quintessence of Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of this charming world heritage.

ORCHID CLASSIC

14 private suites with large balcony

Steel boat with guaranteed security

Jaccuzi and open bar on sundeck

ORCHID TRENDY

20 private suites with balcony

ORCHID PREMIUM

5 private suites with large balcony

INSPIRATION

Sightseeing

Culinary tasting

Night squid fishing

Spa treatment

Tea ceremony

ENJOY THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF SERVICE with many INTERESTING ACTIVITIES and TOP ATTRACTIONS nearby

Special promotions, living blog with orchid.

A Moonlit Voyage in Ha Long – Lan Ha Bay: Mid-autumn Festival

Golden Season, Golden Moments: Autumn on Orchid Cruises

September – Summer’s sunset, autumn’s dawn

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CAPELLA CRUISE

The most brilliant cruise in gulf of tonkin.

Named after the brightest northern star, Capella Cruise was officially launched in August 2020, carrying the same spirit and mission to become the most brilliant cruise in the Gulf of Tonkin, pioneering outstanding facilities and attentive services that never been experienced in magical landscape of Halong & Lan Ha bay.

Let all your senses be embraced by emerald green ripples from a remote beach, the story of stalagmites and stalactites inside a cave, and the raw beauty of a forested island with your once-in-a-lifetime journey onboard Capella Cruise.

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Discover the best of halong and lan ha bay with exclusive packages.

3D2N discover hidden gems of the bay

From $980/cabin/2 people.

⚓ Attractions : Lan Ha bay, Frog Lagoon, Viet Hai Village, Three Peach Beach, Dark & Bright Cave

🔖 Activities : Kayaking, Water sliding, Cycling in ancient village, Tanning at the beach, Swimming, Cave-visiting by bamboo boat, Joining cooking demonstration

4D3N set sail for a great voyage

From $1470/cabin/2 people.

⚓ Attractions : Lan Ha bay, Viet Hai Village, Three Peach Beach, Dark & Bright Cave, Trung Trang Cave

🔖 Activities : Cycling in ancient village, Tanning at the beach, Swimming, Kayaking, Cave exploring, Cave visiting by bamboo boat, Joining cooking demonstration

CAPELLA CRUISE DISTINCTIVES

The ultimate leisure & recreation cruise in natural world heritage, state-of-art accomodation.

Capella Cruise boasts 30 cabins, each featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies that offer an unforgettable view of the limestone mountain landscape. The cabins embody the concept of contemporary luxury, where comfort is the ultimate luxury, elegance is achieved through simplicity, and supreme indulgence creates a sense of total well-being.

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Modern Facilities

Capella Cruise offers guests an exceptional experience with state-of-the-art facilities, which include a thrilling waterslide, a heated pool and jacuzzi, an onboard poker & cigar club, and a mobile theater.

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Cruise In Style

Capella Cruise invites you to unwind and experience true relaxation amidst the tranquil greenery of Ha Long-Lan Ha Bay with a wide range of exciting activities on offer.

Sustainable Tourism

Understanding the importance of sustainability in the advancement of the tourism industry, Capella Cruise have taken steps to implement the ECOMASTERY Project, which aims to preserve the pristine environment of the bay and raise awareness regarding environmental concerns.

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12 Best Halong Bay Cruises from Hanoi

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Are you looking for the best Halong Bay cruises from Hanoi? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Known for its emerald waters and limestone islands, Halong Bay is one of the most picturesque areas in Vietnam – and offers plenty of opportunities for a relaxing cruise along its waters.

There as so many available boat tours that it can be challenging to pick the one that’s right for you. But worry not, as we have listed the best Halong Bay Cruises. Read on, and enjoy.

1 – Halong Bay Deluxe Cruise (1-3 Days)

Choose your length of stay, from one day or two nights and three days, with this Halong Bay Deluxe cruise. The natural beauty of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is on offer, and you will marvel at the beautiful limestone islands.

The trip includes a visit to Cua Van Floating village, which is the largest fishing village in Halong Bay. Other features include famous islands such as Fighting Cocks and Stone Dogs. You’ll discover hidden beaches, where you can laze of the soft sands before dipping into the relaxing waters.

2 – Halong Bay Day Tour from Hanoi

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Halong Bay with this day tour from Hanoi. After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll journey along the Red River delta before arriving at Halong City harbour. From here, you will board a traditional wooden junk boat and head out into the bay.

Enjoy a spot of seafood for lunch, then take in Halong Bay and its surroundings. The tour includes a stop at Thien Cung Cave, a huge chamber filled with stalactites and stalagmites. There will also be an opportunity to kayak around the islands.

3 – 2-Day Oriental Sails Junk Cruise of Halong Bay from Hanoi

One of the best Halong bay cruises, this trip affords the opportunity to enjoy a stay on the ‘Oriental Sails’, a traditional-style junk boat featuring 18 deluxe cabins that are designed to provide maximum relaxation. They are the perfect starting point for your Halong Bay adventure. The two-day tour includes a visit to Tiptop Island, where you can enjoy a spot of hiking and swimming.

Next, kayak to Luon Cave and enjoy a tai chi morning exercise with a cooking lesson thrown in for good measure. From here, you will have the opportunity to relax at your own leisure and soak up the beauty of Halong Bay’s surroundings.

4 – Halong Bay Full-Day Deluxe Tours Including Cruise, Kayaking and Lunch from Hanoi

Experience an all-action adventure combined with the stunning sights of Halong Bay with this full-day deluxe tour. Your day will begin with a bus ride from Hanoi and lunch on the boat that will take you around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.

Discover the Sung Sot Cave, which is Halong Bay’s largest cave and features stalactites and stalagmites that serve as the folklore of the area. Once you have conquered the caves, enjoy a spot of kayaking and swimming in the soothing waters.

5 – Jadesails – Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay Luxury Day Tour

Turn your day trip to Halong Bay into a luxury one and incorporate a stop at Lan Ha Bay, the equally beautiful karst islands. This 12-hour day tour starts with a ride in a limousine to Halong Bay, where you will then board a luxury boat. There is also the opportunity to choose an overnight cruise option.

Your first experience is Halong Bay, where you will witness the UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying kayaking and swimming. Next, you will head to Lan Ha Bay and take in the local area of this less tourist, quieter bay.

6 – From Hanoi: Halong Bay One Day Escape Including Lunch on the Boat

Marvel at everything the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay has on offer with a one-day escape from Hanoi. From the Sot Cave to picturesque limestone islands, your day will be filled with spectacular sites.

The tour includes other prominent sites, such as rural and rustic villages of northern Vietnam, as well as sweeping scenery on offer. Lunch is also included, with a seafood buffet ready and waiting for you if you work up an appetite exploring the beauty of Halong Bay.

7 – Genesis: Halong Bay Luxury Day Tour with Premium Transport

Upgrade your Halong Bay visit with a high-class cruise. Start your 12-hour day trip with luxury transportation from Hanoi, before enjoying a welcome drink on the ship. Then get down to some major sightseeing with all of Halong Bay’s top attractions, including 2,000-plus limestone islands.

Back on the ship, a nine-dish Vietnamese lunch awaits you and offers a chance to sample local cuisine. After lunch, take part in some kayaking or hop on a rowboat and explore the relaxing waters of Halong Bay – all in the comfort of a luxury boat.

8 – Halong day tour islands caves kayak with dragonfly cruise Halong Day Tour: Islands, Caves, Kayak with Dragonfly Cruise

One of the best Halong Bay Cruises, this trip sees you enjoying everything on offer at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay, where you make a short stop to see local craft workshops.

Once on the boat, experience a cruise that visits Heavenly Palace Cave, otherwise known as Thien Cung Cave. Other features include a local fishing farm, an idyllic floating village, and the famous James Bond Cave – the site of a scene in James Bond: Tomorrow Never Dies.

9 – Halong Bay, Thien Cung Cave & Kayak with Incredible Cruise

Sail amongst Halong Bay’s natural beauty with a day cruise that features some of the area’s best sites. Dog Stone and Burning Incense, some of Halong Bay’s most iconic islets, will be on view during your cruise.

So too will be local fishing villages, where you can take a moment to kayak in the waters and jump on a bamboo boat that’s rowed by the locals. Fighting Cock island and the Heavenly Palace cave round off your trip before heading back to the wharf.

10 – From Hanoi: 2-Day & 1 Night Halong Bay Tour

Hop on a four-star junk cruiser for the night and marvel at the wonders of Halong Bay, before and after sunset. The overnight tour sees you visiting the karst rock formations, which have been named after the shapes they form.

There will be a chance for kayaking around the Luon Cave area, while Titop Island provides the perfect opportunity to take in Halong Bay’s outstanding views. Other highlights of the tour include a visit to Surprise Cave, the largest on Halong Bay; cooking classes on the cruise; and an opportunity to see the sunrise at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11 – Hanoi: 2-Day & 1-Night Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise

Make the most of your Halong Bay adventure with an overnight stay on a luxury boat with 12 cabins. The trip will see you taking in the wonderful sites of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay – the quieter, less touristic area that features plenty of natural beauty.

Swim in the secluded and relaxing area of Lan Ha Bay’s Tra Bau, before heading back to the ship and learning how to make traditional Vietnam dishes. This trip is one of the best Halong Bay cruises around and provides you with a chance to enjoy a five-star experience of the area.

12 – Halong Bay Day Trip

Take a day trip to paradise! Start the day at the port of Tuan Chau island, which is nearby Halong Bay and was officially named as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Here, you can witness the iconic formations of limestone rock that go all the way to the turquoise ocean waters.

Other points of interest on your Halong Bay day trip includes Hon Ga Choi, otherwise known as Fighting Cock. The stalactite and stalagmite rock formations inside Thien Cung cave will also be on the itinerary of things to see and do at Halong Bay.

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The Athena Executive Suite with Balcony is our most affordable cabin.

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The Athena Family Triple Suite is a great option for families or large groups.  Located on the first deck,

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ATHENA CRUISE’S INTERIOR & FACILITIES MEET UP 5 STAR

Roomy and comfortable interior with generous headroom throughout and large sliding glass window to outside seating area at balcony and all rooms consists of electric refrigerator, and high-quality equipment and utensils and en-suite bathrooms & automatically flush toilet and especially, two bright and spacious Restaurant and Open Sky Men Bar with convertible seats to admire the beautiful sea scape and sunbath with ambient lights

ATHENA CRUISE – TOP 10 IN HALONG BAY

Athean Cruise was launched in 2017 and designed exclusively for Relaxing and Enjoying Boat Trip with customers in mind. With 22 ensuite cabins, Athena Cruise is a spacious boat for single guests and large groups. Its roomy saloon and Restaurant and Bar are 2 separate places open to a rear seating and front area, and you will love its large sundeck with second steering position, dining area, Open Sky Men Bar and sunbathing area and Athena Cruise is the perfect boat for couples or families with their loved ones.

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Hanoi to Halong Bay: The Definitive Travel Guide for 2024

Absolutely everything you need to know about visiting Halong Bay from Hanoi in 2023, including a comprehensive guide on how to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay on a day tour, overnight cruise, or DIY.

This post includes what to do in Halong Bay, recommended tour companies, and my top 3 Halong Bay alternatives based on my personal experience travelling to and living in Northern Vietnam.

Halong Bay (Hạ Long Bay) is Vietnam’s best-known and most-visited tourist attraction. More than 6 million people flock to the area every year to cruise around on wooden boats, known as junks .

What makes Halong Bay so unique is the 2,000-odd limestone islands and islets that emerge from the waters off the coast. These range from towering karsts with deep caves, to tiny formations ringed by white-sand beaches.

More from Vietnam

Discover the best city guides, itineraries, travel tips & hidden gems in my Vietnam Travel Guide.

In 1994, Halong Bay was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Ever since then, it’s featured near the top of every traveller’s bucket list.

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, is the jumping off point for Halong Bay. But figuring out how you’re going to visit Halong Bay from Hanoi can be confusing.

There are literally thousands of tour operators organising tours and packages. Fair to say they vary dramatically in quality.

When I moved to Hanoi , the very first piece of advice I received was ‘Don’t book the $12 Halong Bay cruise’ .

It was a good life lesson!

I’ve seen far too many travellers get sucked in by cheap deals and have their Halong Bay experience ruined as a result.

This guide is designed to help you tackle Halong Bay like a pro and have the best experience possible. It covers three main topics:

• Hanoi to Halong Bay day tours (great if you have limited time and are travelling on a budget)
• Halong Bay overnight cruises (the best way to see the bay, provided you have the time and funds)
• Halong Bay DIY trips from Hanoi (using bus, train, van or car)

A big thank you to my friend and Hanoi-based tour guide, Trang, who helped to ensure this guide is up-to-date and accurate!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Halong Bay: The basics

In this section, I’ll run through the Halong Bay basics: What, where, when, and how. I’ll also throw in my two cents about whether or not Halong Bay is worth visiting.

Feel free to skip ahead if you’ve already done your research.

Where is Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is located off the coast of Northern Vietnam. It is part of Quảng Ninh Province, which borders on China. The nearest major city is Halong City (Thành phố Hạ Long).

Most boats and cruises depart from Halong Bay cruise port, also known as Tuan Chau Gateway . It is located on the island of Tuần Châu, 13km or a 20-minute drive from Halong City via land bridge.

The heart of Halong Bay, where boats cruise around the karsts and you get those amazing photos, is approximately 20 km off the coast from the port.

How far away is Halong Bay from Hanoi?

Tuan Chau island, the jumping off point for Halong Bay, is located roughly 153 km (95 miles) from Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city.

How long does it take to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

Hanoi and Halong Bay are connected by the 5B Highway, one of the newest and best highways in the whole country . The area has very good infrastructure, partly because of tourism, and partly because the nearby city of Hai Phong is Northern Vietnam’s main seaport.

It takes 2.5-3 hours on average to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by car or van. With a bathroom break half-way, the journey usually takes 3.5 hours.

By bus , it takes between 3.5 and 4.5 hours.

And by train , it takes 7 hours to get to Halong from Hanoi.

How long do you need in Halong Bay?

Typically, people visit Halong Bay for 1 or 2 nights. If you have the time and your budget allows for it, I recommend staying for 2 nights . This is the option I chose the first time I visited Vietnam.

If you have 2 nights on the boat, you naturally have one full day of cruising, which means a whole day without having to be on a bus or in a car. Having this day in between gives you a chance to relax and take in the landscape.

It also means your junk boat will travel further out into the bay. And the further you go, the less polluted and the more beautiful it gets.

Can you visit Halong Bay as a day trip from Hanoi?

Yes, it is possible to visit Halong Bay as a day trip from Hanoi . In this post, I’ll show you exactly how.

A day trip is a good way to go if you’re pressed for time or on a tight budget. Just be aware that a large chunk of your day will be spent in the car. You’ll miss out on the chance to wake up amongst the karsts, which was the highlight of Halong Bay for me.

Is Halong Bay worth visiting?

There’s an elephant in the room.

If you’ve read this blog before, you’ll know that I’m a big believer in travelling off the beaten track . So why am I writing about Halong Bay, Vietnam’s busiest tourist attraction?

Halong Bay is a bit like Sapa : It’s very touristy, it has a pollution problem, and very sadly, tourism development hasn’t been managed particularly well.

But Sapa is still Sapa, and Halong Bay is still Halong Bay.

It’s still a UNESCO Site. It’s still one of the ‘wonders of the world’. And it’s still one of the most majestic landscapes on planet Earth.

It’s still a huge employer of local guides, chefs, skippers and tourism professionals, and it’s still a major driver of the tourism economy in Northern Vietnam.

I’m not here to tell you you shouldn’t visit Halong Bay – that would be hypocritical. I have been to Halong Bay twice now, and both times I enjoyed it.

At the same time, I do want you to be aware that there are some great Halong Bay alternatives out there. Bai Tu Long Bay is one of them, and I’ve included a few tour providers that visit Bai Tu long in this guide.

At the end of this guide, you’ll find some of my favourite Halong Bay alternatives – or you can browse this separate guide for more ideas .

Just like you can still have an authentic experience in Sapa , I think it’s possible to have an enjoyable experience on Halong Bay. You just have to be prepared, well-informed, and manage your expectations.

Just don’t book the $12 cruise!

Is Bai Tu Long Bay the same as Halong Bay?

Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are two separate bays that sit side by side. If you look at the map, you’ll see that Bai Tu Long Bay wraps around the northern coast of Vietnam, just to the northeast of Halong Bay. A third bay, Lan Ha Bay, is located west of Halong Bay. It hugs a large forested island, Cat Ba.

In recent years, Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay have become more popular as alternatives to Halong Bay. The landscape in all three bays is basically the same – dramatic karst rocks and caves. But each one feels very different.

As a general rule, there are more restrictions on how many boats can go out into Bai Tu Long Bay at any one time, so it can be significantly quieter. It’s also more remote and less polluted.

Lan Ha Bay attracts a particular crowd, mainly backpackers and budget travellers, and has additional activities on offer on Cat Ba Island.

Many Halong Bay cruises will take you through Bai Tu Long Bay as part of the itinerary. Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island can be visited separately from Hai Phong (refer to the section on Halong Bay alternatives for more details).

How to visit Halong Bay from Hanoi

Most people go to Halong Bay for one reason, and that’s to drift amongst the karsts on board a junk.

To go on a junk, you need to book a tour. You can either do that online before you arrive in Vietnam, or in person in Hanoi or Halong.

There are hundreds (literally) of tour operators working in this space, and they differ vastly in quality and price. I’ll say more on this later, but for now, all you need to know is that 95% of Halong Bay cruises include transfers between your hotel in Hanoi and Halong Bay . This will either be rolled into the price, or added on when you book.

In other words, if you book a tour package – which I recommend you do – your transportation to Halong will automatically be taken care of.

There are two basic tour options to choose from, depending on your budget and how much time you have:

• Halong Bay day tour from Hanoi
• Halong Bay overnight cruise from Hanoi (1 or 2 nights)

Under certain circumstances, you might want to travel to Halong Bay from Hanoi independently . Consider this option if:

• You prefer a private transfer rather than the standard transfer offered in your tour package (in which case, you can take a private car with driver)
• Your tour package has transport as an optional add-on and you want to find a cheaper option
• You are on a very tight budget and want to organise your cruise the cheapest way possible (in which case, you can use the limousine bus, public bus or train)
• You want to stay in Halong City
• You want to visit Sun World Park and the cable car before Halong Bay

If you do want to travel to Halong Bay independently, know that it’s going to take a bit more organising and a bit more effort. I will go over this in detail in Option 3 below.

Option 1: Halong Bay day tour from Hanoi

First let’s look at the easiest, quickest and most affordable way to see Halong Bay, and that’s with a Halong Bay day trip from Hanoi.

There are a bunch of Halong Bay one-day tour options that cater to travellers who are time-poor but still want to tick the UNESCO site off their list.

I’ll be honest: A Halong Bay day tour is a tightly packed schedule. It starts early, finishes late, and involves spending about 6 hours or more on the road. I probably wouldn’t recommend you attempt it with kids in tow.

It’s still the quickest way to get a taste for the bay. Tours usually include boat cruising, lunch on deck, and a couple of activities such as walking through caves, kayaking or swimming.

How to book a tour before you arrive in Vietnam

It’s possible to book a tour in person at one of the many agencies in Hanoi. However, I strongly recommend booking online.

Using a booking service such as Viator or Get Your Guide gives you the added safety net of a third party if anything goes wrong.

Online payment is secure, cancellation policies are usually quite relaxed if your plans change, and you can manage your booking on the app (no need to print anything).

Booking online also gives you time and space to properly research the options (and when it comes to travelling to Halong Bay from Hanoi, there are a lot). This reduces the likelihood of getting pressured into something you don’t want to do.

Get Your Guide list the tour provider for each itinerary, so you can do independent research to verify the company and the boat itself before you book.

I would recommend booking your day tour at least 3 weeks out if you’re travelling in low season or 6-8 weeks out if you’re travelling in high season .

If push comes to shove, you can usually find a tour with availability a few days out (or even the night before).

Recommended Halong Bay day tours

I’ve done the legwork for you and put together this list of reputable Halong Bay day tours from Hanoi. Each one follows a good itinerary, has great reviews, and is backed by a reputable company. All tours have an English-speaking guide.

Top choice: Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour

• Inclusions: Kayaking, short hike, lunch on the water, sunset drink on the boat
• Travellers love: Attentive staff, great organisation, excellent food
• From $56 per person
• Bookings through Viator

With more than 500 customer reviews and a five-star rating , this Vietnam Tonkin Travel tour is one of the best options out there.

The full-day tour of Halong Bay starts with pick up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. Transfer to the marina is by bus. You also have the option to organise your own transportation and meet the group at the pier. If you do this, the cost of the van transfer (around $20) will be subtracted from the price when you book.

On-board the air-conditioned junk, you’ll cruise both Halong and Lan Ha bays while enjoying a seafood lunch. The tour then visits Halong Surprise cave and Titop island for views. Activities include kayaking (included in the price), swimming , a gentle trek on Cat Ba Island , and a Vietnamese cooking demonstration .

The day ends with sunset on the boat before departing for Hanoi. At under $60 per person with transfers included, it’s excellent value for money.

Top choice: JadeSails Luxury Cruise of Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay

• Inclusions: Kayaking/row boating, lunch, cooking demonstration, swimming, sunset drinks
• Travellers love: VIP limousine minivan transfers, beautiful boat design, focus on quieter Lan Ha Bay
• From $105 per person

This full-day cruise leaves Hanoi earlier and includes transfers by limousine van (8 pax), meaning you’ll be boarding the junk boat and sipping your welcome drink by 9.30am . This is a huge plus, giving you a full 7 hours on the water – much longer than most other day tours.

JadeSails is a luxe, modern vessel with tasteful lounge spaces and a big sun deck . It’s not too big, so you won’t feel like you’re packed in like a sardine as you do on some of the larger boats! I especially recommend this day cruise for couples .

Lunch is served on board, then you’re off to explore sea caves and secret lagoons by kayak or local row boat. In the afternoon, the boat docks in a quiet and clean spot on Lan Ha Bay for swimming .

The day wraps up with a cooking demonstration and sunset drinks on the deck . You’ll then be whisked to the marina by speed boat and head back to the city on the same highway, getting you home to Hanoi by 7.30pm.

Round-trip transfers from Hanoi by VIP van, welcome drinks, lunch, and all entrance fees and equipment hire are included in the price, which starts from just $105 per person.

Halong Dragonfly Boat Cruise

• Inclusions: Kayaking, Heaven Palace Cave, lunch on the water
• Travellers love: Variety of food, efficient itinerary, early return to Hanoi
• From $100 per person
• Bookings through Get Your Guide

Organised by Charming Vietnam Travel, this day cruise on the beautiful Dragonfly Boat includes round-trip transfers from Hanoi by coach.

You can opt for a private tour which includes private transfers from Hanoi and a one-on-one tour of the cave before joining the rest of the group (usually 20-30 people) on the boat.

First comes a generous lunch on the water, then you’ll have a chance to explore Thien Cung (Heaven Palace Cave), a massive limestone grotto.

45 minutes is set aside for kayaking (equipment hire is included in the price). Because transfer is by coach, this tour departs a little earlier to get you back to Hanoi by 7-8pm . This does eat into your time on the water, but it might be a good option if you have big plans for the next day and need your rest.

There are often great specials on this cruise. The advertised price is $100, but I’ve seen it for as low as $50.

Important things to know about Halong Bay tours

• When booking a Halong Bay tour, you’ll need to enter your details including your full name, passport number and visa expiry date. If you don’t yet have your Vietnam visa, you can note this down. Remember to bring your passport with you on the day! You’ll need it in order to check in at the dock.
• Some tour operators will only pick you up from a hotel, not an Airbnb. That doesn’t mean you have to organise your own transport, it just means you need to get yourself to the nearest hotel for the scheduled pick up.
• Similarly, most tour operators charge an additional fee (around $10) for pick up from a hotel outside of the Old Quarter.
• Most lunches are seafood-heavy, but can be customised. If you’re veg/vegan or you have dietary requirements, give the company plenty of advance warning.
• It’s customary to tip your guide provided you were happy with the service. How much you leave depends on you – and the size of the group, length of the tour, etc. A small tip for your skipper or driver is also appreciated. If you visit a floating village, you often have an opportunity to leave a donation at the local school or library, etc. Do not hand money straight to children.
• Most buses and vans will stop at ‘souvenir’ shops or craft workshops on the road from Hanoi to Halong. Don’t feel pressured to buy anything; it’s perfectly OK just to smile and walk through. Save your money for Hanoi’s shops instead!
• Be very careful to note what’s included in the tour price and what’s not. Most day tours include lunch, but some don’t include drinks. Equipment hire for kayaking is often an optional extra that you have to pay for in cash on the day.
• Overnight tours often have a holiday surcharge (around $20) for Christmas, International New Year and Tet (Lunar New Year). Some companies also add a peak season surcharge to the price for bookings between October 1 and April 30.
• Halong Bay tour itineraries are always subject to change. Boats will still sail if it’s raining, but if the weather is bad enough, there’s a chance your tour might be altered or even cancelled.

Option 2: Halong Bay overnight cruise from Hanoi

One of the best experiences you can have in Vietnam is spending the night on a Halong Bay junk cruise. I have vivid memories of taking a shower on our junk and looking out the round portal window as the karsts floated by. I will never forget that view!

Like day tours, most overnight cruises start from Hanoi and include transfer to and from your hotel in the price. (Some charge extra, however, so always check before you book!).

How to book a Halong Bay cruise

Again, I highly recommend booking through a third party website for secure payment and extra insurance. Hotel booking websites Agoda and Booking.com both have a big selection of boats available – especially Agoda, which is my preferred platform for Southeast Asia.

You can also book Halong Bay overnight cruises through Viator and Get Your Guide. Viator has a bigger selection and is my preferred booking site.

However – things have changed in the past few years and increasingly, cruises are being advertised on tour websites through agents such as Halong Bay Cruise Hunters. This makes it very difficult to do your research when you can’t view the name of the boat. For this reason, I highly recommend booking through Agoda , which is more transparent.

If you’re a solo traveller, note that some boats do charge a single supplement (up to 70 USD) for a single room.

Consider reserving overnight tours a little further in advance – 5-6 weeks out for low season or 10-12 weeks out for high season .

Best Halong Bay overnight cruises

Most (but not all) overnight cruises follow a very similar itinerary. The main difference between companies is the quality of the boat and the standard of the accommodation and food .

There are literally thousands of boats on Halong Bay. To make things easier for you, I’ve put together a shortlist of 9 reputable Halong Bay overnight cruises with excellent reviews.

Top choice: Genesis Regal Cruises (⭐ 9.3)

• Highlights: Outdoor hot tub, spacious rooms with clawfoot tubs, 5-course meals, great range of activities
• Best choice for: Couples & honeymooners
• Book online through Agoda or Viator (2D1N cruise)

With its turmeric-coloured sails and an impressive hot tub on its bow, Genesis Regal is certainly one of the flashiest boats on the bay! Their cruise itineraries cover both Halong and Lan Ha, with one of the highlights being a visit to the Dark and Light Caves by sampan boat.

Suites are positively palatial, with floor-to-ceiling windows for uninterrupted views of the water. Generously proportioned ensuites feature freestanding clawfoot tubs that also look out over the bay.

Transfers to/from Hanoi by limousine van are standard. 5-course meals (Vietnamese and French cuisine) come included. You can opt in for a range of great off-boat activities including kayaking, visiting floating villages, and cycling in Viet Hai village.

Top choice: Mon Cheri Cruises (⭐ 9.1)

• Highlights: Elegant rooms, attentive staff, on-board spa & in-room massage service
• Best choice for: Couples
• Book online through Agoda

This luxury cruise is a bit different from the others because it concentrates on Lan Ha Bay while incorporating a visit to Cat Ba Island on the last day. In addition to the regular kayaking and caving, you also get a chance to explore the national park by bicycle.

The package includes transfers from Hanoi by limousine bus and accommodation in superb 5-star cabins (full-size bath and private balcony included). This feels more like a couples’ boat, but there are interconnecting suites available for families.

In terms of ammenities, Mon Cheri is up there with the best. There’s a gym, outdoor pool , and a spa on board. From early morning Tai Chi classes on the top deck to sunset BBQs , staff will keep you entertained from dawn to dusk!

Ultralux Hera Cruise (⭐ 10)

• Highlights: Luxury rooms with king-size beds, exquisite design, terrific service
• Best choice for: Luxury travellers, honeymooners

Billed as the first ‘6-star boutique cruise on Halong Bay’ , Ultralux Hera is a great option for luxury travellers or honeymooners. The top suites even come with a private chef and butler service !

Suites (there are only 11 of them, making for an intimate experience ) are spacious and thoughtfully decorated with bespoke wood furnishings . The common areas, including the bars and Lotus Lounge where afternoon tea is served, are similarly lovely.

Hera’s 2D1N itinerary (more here ) has a relaxed pace, with lots of downtime to enjoy the on-board spa .

Eric from Travel Babbo took a Hera Cruise and had this to say:

“We did a two-day, one-night cruise with Hera Cruises on Ha Long Bay this past summer. Having sailed with a different company in the past, I was extraordinarily impressed with Hera.

Our cabin was huge with a private deck that took up half the back of the ship. (We enjoyed afternoon tea on the deck). Our bathroom and tub were large as well. The food was excellent, and there way too much of it.

Hera is more expensive than other companies, but we felt like it was worth it given how few others were on our ship (maybe 6?), the service and our cabin.”

Halong Paloma Cruise (⭐ 8.9)

• Highlights: Neat & tidy rooms, rooftop deck, attentive staff
• Best choice for: Budget-conscious travellers

A popular choice for budget travellers, Halong Paloma Cruise primarily focuses on Bai Tu Long Bay .

Rooms are definitely more pared-back, but the deluxe ocean view cabins and family suites have floor-to-ceiling windows and enclosed balconies . The boat features two staterooms, a generous dining room, and an open deck bar. On-board activities include Tai Chi and traditional massage .

There’s plenty of time set aside for swimming, visiting floating villages in a sampan boat, and caving . On the last day, you’ll be treated to a traditional Vietnamese cooking class before heading back to Hanoi.

Lee and James, The Travel Scribes, booked their cruise with Paloma and had this to say:

“If you’re looking for a mid-range option for Bai Tu Long Bay, then Paloma Cruises is a cracking choice. One of the better operators in this breath-taking area, Paloma offers a 4 star experience that often feels closer to 5 star luxury than the price tag might suggest.  

Think crisp white linen, downy soft pillows, well-appointed rooms and – of course – a bathroom with a view of limestone karsts as you drift on past. The highlights of doing a Paloma Cruise? Undoubtedly, the food. Over your time on the boat you’ll be plied with deliciously pungent pumpkin soup, heavenly sweet and sour chicken and more gourmet food than you can shake a spring roll at.

Speaking of spring rolls, the crew do a great little exercise of ‘making’ your own spring roll – it’s activities like this, and the impeccable eye to detail and friendliness of the entire staff contingent that makes the Paloma experience so special.

Your activities while aboard are quite standard – tai chi in the mornings, a visit to the caves, kayaking in the bay, and a visit to the fishing village and pearl farm. It’s all wrapped up in a well-executed yet affordable package.”

Era Cruises Ha Long (⭐ 8.9)

• Highlights: Large cabins, gym & cinema room onboard, 24-hour room service
• Best choice for: All travellers

Era Cruises offers 1-3 day itineraries with all the usual perks.

The 3-day schedule is particularly interesting because it charts a slightly different course, visiting Lan Ha Bay, Ba Trai Dao Beach, and Ba Ham Lake . Plenty of water and on-shore activities are available, including squid fishing and cycling.

Rooms are tastefully decorated – especially the Era Suite and King Terrace, which both have separate lounge spaces and private sun decks .

Alisa Premier Cruise (⭐ 8.9)

• Highlights: Glamorous rooms with dark wood details, outdoor pool, excellent ammenities

This glamorous junk boat with typical red sails boasts a bow swimming pool and stately suites. Dark wood and quilted bedheads give the vessel a sense of old-world glamour , while you still get access to all the mod-cons you need for a comfortable passage.

Alisa Premier gets great reviews for both its food and customer service. Limousine shuttle bus transfers come included in the price.

La Regina Legend Cruise (⭐ 8.9)

• Highlights: Outdoor jacuzzis, great value cocktails & nightly happy hour

This boat’s newly renovated suites are certainly regal, with wood panelling, separate sitting areas, and gorgeous ensuites with picture windows and bay views. I love the design on the common spaces which feature old-school pressed tiles and archival photos .

The 3-day cruise has some interesting stops including kayaking at Van Boi and an island driving tour to visit caves and the Quan Y War Hospital. One of the coolest features is that the boat anchors close to the fishing villages.

You’ll also be treated to sunset cocktails and BBQ buffets, plus a fun Indochine movie night with the crew.

Victory Star Cruise (⭐ 8.9)

• Highlights: Classy rooms, great buffet, friendly staff
• Best choice for: Families

This Bai Tu Long Bay cruise boat has classy rooms decorated with wood panelling, pressed tiled floors and Vietnamese artwork.

The boat has everything you might need, including a generous sundeck , a bar, and massage facilities.

Majestic Halong Cruise (⭐ 8.0)

• Highlights: Private balconies, generous meals, tons of off-board activities
• Best choice for: Budget travellers

If you want to make your budget stretch further, Majestic Halong offers the same sort of activities as other cruises but at a lower price . The rooms are not as luxurious as some of the other boats, and the shuttle transfer from Hanoi costs extra.

2D1N and 3D2N itineraries (more here ) both include the hike up Ti Top Mountain .

Julie from Ruhls of the Road cruised with Majestic and had this to say:

“Majestic Cruise is a great budget friendly option for cruising through Halong Bay. For our cruise, the boat fit about 20 people fully loaded which made for a more intimate experience than the larger capacity ships. Our room was fully equipped with a queen bed and our own balcony for morning coffee and relaxation.

The itinerary was filled with activities, including a cooking class, kayaking, squid fishing and Tai Chi as the sun came up! All meals came included in the cruise price and were delicious! Lastly, our guide was top notch, friendly, knowledgable and hilariously entertaining.

We chose Majestic Cruise mainly because this was an inexpensive option that still had a ton of excursions. We were very pleased with our experience and would recommend cruising through Halong Bay during a trip to Vietnam.”

Option 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay independently

If you want to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay independently, there are several options available. In the next section, I’ll go through each transportation method in detail.

PRIVATE TAXI

• Flexible & pre-booked
• From 80 USD/car
• 3.5 hrs travel time

via 12GoAsia

VIP LIMO VAN

• Reliable & comfortable
• From 21.50 USD

via GetYourGuide

• Budget-friendly
• From 10 USD
• 2.5 hrs travel time (to the harbour only)
• Slow but scenic
• From 4.50 USD
• 6 hours travel time

[Buy tickets at the station]

Option A: Private car from Hanoi to Halong Bay

There are a few major advantages to booking a private car and driver from Hanoi. It’s a door-to-door service, you can stop whenever you want, and it’s a lot faster than the bus or van (a professional driver can get you from Hanoi to Halong Bay in as little as 3 hours with no stops).

Ouros Travel is one of many local companies that run SUVs, sedans and small vans between Hanoi and Halong. The quoted price is per vehicle, and depending on what model you choose, it will cost you between 80-120 USD for 2-9 people.

If you’re travelling with kids or a large group, this can work out as an economical alternative to the bus.

Private car from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay

If you’re flying into Hanoi and you want to hit the ground running, you can pre-book a private transfer from Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi to Halong Bay .

The driver will meet you at the airport in Hanoi and drop you off either at the boat dock in Tuan Chau or at your hotel in Halong.

This is a particularly good option if you’re arriving mid-morning and want to get to Halong on the same day. I would also consider using this service to get back to the airport after your cruise.

Most tour companies will drop you at the airport, but a private car is a safer bet if you’re trying to make a tight connection.

Option B: Hanoi to Halong Bay by limousine van

I love limousine buses and used them regularly when I lived in Hanoi to get to Ninh Binh, Sapa, Thai Nguyen, and other locations around the north. The limousine van is a nice middle ground between hiring a private car and taking a public bus.

Basically, it’s a minivan fitted out with super comfy lazyboy-style recliner chairs. WIFI, power sockets and drinking water is all provided. It’s a door-to-door service.

A good budget limousine van is Rosa Eco Bus . They run 2 vans to Halong, starting from Hanoi at 7.30am or 11.30am.

Tickets start from $21.50 and can be reserved online through Get Your Guide or booked via 12GoAsia. Hotel pick up in Hanoi is included, and conveniently, the driver can either drop you at the boat jetty waiting hall or at your accommodation in Halong.

Option C: Hanoi to Halong Bay by local bus

There are several bus services between Hanoi and Halong. Some terminate at Tuan Chau Gateway (the boat dock), while others only go as far as Bai Chay Bus Station on the outskirts of Halong City. Make sure you check before you board.

Sapa Express is my top choice. The coaches have AC, and you can reserve tickets online in advance to avoid missing out .

There is a scheduled departure for Tuan Chau every day from Hanoi, with free pick-up available if you’re staying in the Old Quarter.

The bus leaves at 8.30am and arrives at the dock at 11am. Tickets cost $12 .

A cheaper option is local bus company Kumho Viet Thanh . They run 6 buses every day starting from around 6am and finishing at 6pm. Tickets cost 120K VND ( $5.20 ) and can be bought from the bus station in Hanoi or online here . Note that these buses terminate at Bai Chay Bus Station.

Hanoi has several bus stations. The one you want for Kumho Viet Thanh is My Dinh . A Grab car from Hanoi Old Quarter to My Dinh costs around 120K VND ($5.20).

At the other end, a Grab car from Bai Chay Station to the boat dock costs at least 110K VND ($5). This brings the total cost to approximately $15.40, making the Sapa Express bus a more affordable option overall.

Option D: Hanoi to Halong Bay by train

You can also travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by train. BUT it’s a very long journey – around 6 hours – and because there are only hard seats available, it’s not terribly comfortable.

Bus or VIP van is a much better way to travel overall.

There is just one train daily, Vietnam Railways train 51501. It departs from Yen Vien Station bright and early at 4.55am, and pulls in at Halong Train Station (Ga Hạ Long) at 11.45am.

A ticket for the train costs $4.50 per person . A Grab car from Hanoi Old Quarter to Yen Vien Station in the city’s east costs at least 140K VND ($6). At the other end, a Grab car from Halong Train Station to the boat dock costs at least 110K VND ($5). This brings the total cost to approximately $14.50 .

If you’re taking this train or any other train in Vietnam, make sure you read my tips for what to pack for a long rail journey .

Things to do in Halong Bay & surrounds

Now that you have the logistics of your Halong Bay trip sorted, it’s time to start exploring the different attractions and activities on offer.

Not all tours follow the same prescribed itinerary, so having an idea of what you actually want to do on Halong Bay will help you choose one that’s right for you.

Note that anyone visiting Halong Bay must pay a compulsory 200,000-500,000 VND (8-20 USD) national park entrance fee.

Some attractions, including caves and fishing villages, also charge a small fee (typically 30,000 VND 50,000 VND).

The main things to do on Halong Bay include:

• Cruising the bay and overnighting on a junk boat
• Touring fishing villages (floating villages)
• Sun Sot (Surprise Cave) & other caves
• Kayaking, snorkelling and swimming
• Ti Top Island (that famous photo spot)

Extra things to do around Halong Bay include:

• Bai Chay Beach
• Halong Queen Cablecar
• Sun World Halong Park
• Poem Mountain
• Cat Ba National Park (Cat Ba Island) and Monkey Island

Halong City tips

Here are a few quick pointers for anyone travelling through Halong City.

How to organise a Halong Bay tour from Halong City

There are a couple of options here: Join a cruise coming from Hanoi that gives you the option to meet at the boat dock, book a boat cruise that includes pick from your hotel in Halong , or head down to the dock in the morning and join a boat tour.

Your hotel should be able to give you more advice on the latter.

To do a Halong Bay tour on the fly:

• Get yourself from Hanoi to Halong City using one of the transport methods above.
• Transfer to Tuan Chau boat dock (a car costs around 140K or a bike 70K when booked through Grab).
• Buy a cruise ticket at the dock in Tuan Chau (250,000 VND per person for 4-6 hours, plus an extra 200,000 VND for entrance to the UNESCO Zone).

Other things to do in Halong City

If you base yourself in Halong City, you have an opportunity to do other activities in the area. Popular spots include Sun World Park (a massive amusement park, great for kids ) and Queen Cable Car . You also have the option to hike up Poem Mountain for a nice view of the bay.

It’s also worth having a stroll around Halong City to visit the local market and Quang Ninh Museum . Like nearby Haiphong , Halong is a great example of a less-touristy city that has its own particular charms.

Ti Top Island and Sung Sot Cave can be visited on a short boat trip from Halong. Just head to the dock and ask around.

Where to stay in Halong City

Budget: BBQ Hostel (from $8) has free bikes and a popular on-site restaurant.

Mid-range: Beachfront Deja Vu House (from $24) has a gorgeous design and boutique-y feel. It’s close to the beach on the eastern side of town (other side of Bai Chay Bridge), and features a shared kitchen and free bikes.

Up-market: Novotel Halong Bay (from $50) is close to Bai Chay Beach and has a spectacular outdoor pool. Wyndham Legend (from $92) is located in the city. The high-rise has ultra-modern rooms and two cocktail bars.

Hanoi to Halong Bay: Summary

BEST OVERALL OPTION

OVERNIGHT HALONG BAY CRUISE

• From 120 USD including transfers from Hanoi

EFFICIENT OPTION

HALONG BAY DAY TRIP

• From 60 USD including transfers from Hanoi

DIY OPTION A

DIY OPTION B

• From 22 USD

DIY OPTION C

DIY OPTION D

What to pack when you visit Halong Bay

• Your passport. Most companies require you to present your documents when you check in for your cruise at the dock (even if it’s just a day trip).
• Motion sickness and/or sea sickness medication. Pack plenty for the boat and the bus/car if you suffer from motion sickness.
• Book or e-reader. Depending on what kind of tour you do, there may be some downtime. All boats have WIFI these days, but I recommend unwinding with a book. I travel with a Kindle and couldn’t live without it.
• A reusable water bottle. Absolutely essential for minimising plastic waste and staying hydrated. I love my S’Well water bottle – it’s vacuum insulated to keep water icy cold for the whole day, and it doesn’t sweat. Most boats have pure water refill stations.
• Rehydration tablets or sachets. I always travel with a tube of Hydralyte tablets .
• Rain jacket. It does get wet on the bay, so it’s good to have rain gear with you in case you get caught out when you’re kayaking or exploring the caves. I love the packable rain jackets by Lomon for women and EZRUN for men .
• Your swim kit. Don’t forget your bathers! Towels, snorkels and flippers and provided. If you want to bring your own instead, you can.
• Warm jacket or scarf. It can get chilly in the evening when you’re out on the water, so remember to pack something you can throw over your shoulders at night.

Tips for being a responsible traveller in Halong Bay

• Choose a locally owned company if you can.
• Don’t litter! Avoid single-use plastics when you’re out on the bay (and anywhere else in Vietnam or Southeast Asia, for that matter).
• Be respectful when visiting floating villages. Remember that these are people’s homes and communities. Never photograph children.
• Support a few of these Hanoi social enterprises when you’re back in the city – all do amazing work for the environment and Vietnamese people.

Halong Bay alternatives

If you decide that Halong Bay isn’t quite what you’re looking for, I can recommend these 3 alternative options:

• Bai Tu Long Bay & Yen Duc Village: This is definitely an option you should consider for a more ‘off-the-beaten-path’ experience. Some tours combine a boat trip and a homestay , so you get to experience the best of both worlds. Indochina Junk, one of the most reputable tour companies working on the bay, offers a great itinerary for this area.
• Cat Ba Island & Lan Ha Bay: I recently visited Cat Ba Island and did a boat trip around Lan Ha Bay. It was pleasant – much quieter than Halong, and the National Park offers some great outdoor activities including cycling tours and hiking. Unfortunately though Lan Ha Bay is quite polluted – plastic waste is a huge problem.
• Ninh Binh: ‘Halong Bay on Land’, as it’s known, also offers boat trips (although the waterways are very shallow), cool bungalow accommodation and other activities. It’s only 1.5 hours from Hanoi, making it a great day trip option. Here is my comprehensive Ninh Binh guide and itinerary .

Where to stay in Hanoi

If you’re going to Halong Bay, you’ll probably be staying in Hanoi on either side of your trip.

My favourite hotel in Hanoi is AIRA Boutique ( formerly Essence Hanoi ). The rooms are gorgeous, the on-site restaurant is one of the best in the city, and the service is unbeatable.

When we did our Halong Bay tour, this hotel stored our big luggage free of charge. When we got back, they allowed us to have a shower before our night train, even though we had already checked out.

TOP CHOICE: AIRA Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa (⭐ 9.4). Strategically located in Ba Dinh, a local area halfway between the Old Quarter and the Temple of Literature, AIRA has polished rooms, a gorgeous rooftop pool and an excellent restaurant-bar. This is where I stayed on my first visit to Hanoi.

SPLURGE: Sofitel Legend Metropole (⭐ 9.2). Set inside a heritage 1901 colonial building in Hanoi’s French Quarter, this luxe resort-hotel has stately rooms, beautiful gardens and pools, and a legendary buffet breakfast.

BOUTIQUE: Capella Hanoi (⭐ 9.8). Quite possibly the best designed hotel in Hanoi, Capella is located in a grand corner building in the heart of the Old Quarter. Every room features gorgeous heritage-style furnishings.

MID-RANGE: Hanoi Delica (⭐ 9.0). A great choice for budget-conscious travellers and families alike, this Old Quarter hotel has tidy, comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.

BUDGET: Little Charm Hanoi Hostel (⭐ 9.4). This popular hostel offers 4, 6 and 8-bed dormitories. The property has a pool and several accommodating shared spaces for socialising.

If Airbnb is more your thing, here is my curated list of the best quintessentially Hanoian Airbnb apartments .

Still have questions, concerns about visiting Halong Bay? Leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to help out.

Vietnam essentials

Here are the booking sites and services I personally use whenever I travel to Vietnam .

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Vietnam using Skyscanner .

VIETNAM VISA: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Vietnam and apply for an expedited e-visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation if required.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Pre-book a private hotel transfer from Hanoi Airport or Ho Chi Minh City Airport via Get Your Guide.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Vietnam online before you go. My top choice is the Asia Link Regional eSIM by Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Vietnam on Agoda or book a Vietnam hostel .

TRAIN TICKETS: Reserve your Vietnam Rail tickets for the train to Sapa , Da Nang, Hue or Saigon via 12GoAsia.

BUS TICKETS: Buy your domestic bus or plane tickets in advance using 12GoAsia or Bookaway .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best cooking classes and foodie experiences in Vietnam on Cookly. Here are my top 15 Vietnam food experiences to help you decide.

DAY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Vietnam on Get Your Guide. Check out my top 10 best Vietnam day trips for more inspiration.

HALONG BAY: Consult my comprehensive Halong Bay guide to find the best cruises & tours.

VIETNAM GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Vietnam .

Hanoi to Halong Bay: Pin it!

More Vietnam travel resources

• Off the beaten track in Northern Vietnam – hidden gems & local favourites
• Where to go in Southern Vietnam – 5 must-sees
• The best things to do in Dalat
• How to spend 3 days in Hoi An
• How to get from Danang to Hoi An – transport guide
• How to visit the abandoned dragon waterpark in Hue
• Where to buy authentic Vietnamese souvenirs in Hanoi
• The best national parks to visit in Vietnam – for trekking & more
• Waterwheels & rice fields in Pu Luong Nature Reserve
• Cycling the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Phong Nha
• Homestays in Da Bac village
• How to travel to Sapa from Hanoi – transport guide
• Where to stay in Sapa, Vietnam – best homestays & more
• Visiting Bac Ha Market near Sapa
• Guide to Ha Giang in far-northern Vietnam
• Guide to visiting Ninh Binh
• Exploring colonial architecture in Hai Phong city
• Day trip from Hanoi to Duong Lam Ancient Village

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Cruise from Hanoi to Halong Bay - A Once in a Lifetime Experience You Can't Miss

Halong Bay is no stranger to both Vietnamese locals and foreigners, lauded as one of the most reputed UNESCO World Heritage Sites for years. While the bay welcomes tourists from all cities and countries, traveling from Hanoi remains the favored option due to the broad array of cruise packages and services available. 

More details about the cruise from Hanoi to Halong Bay will be discussed in the following sections.

Where is Halong Bay?

It is situated within the Gulf of Tonkin. 

Halong Bay is situated within the Gulf of Tonkin (Province Quang Ninh) in northern Vietnam. Its core shares the same recognition as the two sibling bays, Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, together shaping a vast seawater area referred to by most tourists as Halong Bay.

The bay is dotted by over 1900 islets and limestone monoliths perking from the water, topped by dense jungle vegetation.

How Far Away Is Halong Bay from Hanoi?

It is 101 miles from Hanoi.

Situated on the coastline of Vietnam, the distance from Hanoi to halong bay by more than 101 miles (or 163 kilometers) in the east, far from the capital’s bustling life. 

While the number seems overwhelming, traveling to Halong from Hanoi is unsurprisingly easy due to the numerous transportation options and services to choose from. We will discuss each in the next section.

Read More:   Best Time to Visit Halong Bay - Enjoying Its Ideal Climate

How to Get to Halong Bay from Hanoi? 

There are several common methods to get to Halong.  

1. Minibus/ Luxury Shuttle Bus Included in Cruise Booking

Here at Paradise Vietnam, we offer Hanoi - Halong luxury shuttle buses door-to-door transfer with full-fledged amenities, like free Wi-Fi, cozy seats, ambient light, and mineral water.

Cruise Halong Bay from Hanoi

2. Private Cars

Notably lauded by most travelers as the most convenient and direct solution, private cars allow ambitious customers to spend their entire holiday solely on bay exploration. Those traveling in large groups - or not fond of sharing the same vehicle with strangers - would also find private cars quite ideal.

3. Online Taxi Booking

We suggest pre-booking your ride to avoid overcharges and scams - a common issue in most countries with well-developed tourism systems like Vietnam. The price usually ranges from $20 to $40 for each way.

4. Public Buses

Backpackers or tight-budget tourists seeking cheap traveling between Halong and Hanoi should settle with a local bus, whose bus tickets cost below $5 per person. Note that no return is included in the deal, however.

5. Motorbikes

An option reserved for adventurous, confident riders, a motorbike trip only requires an average bike model for the rest of the way. The common price range only fluctuates around $5 to $6 a day. 

6. Slow Trains

Each train to Halong Bay takes 7 hours or even more; but in compensation, the ticket costs less than $4 while allowing you many opportunities to take pictures of the stunning roadside scenery.

Read More:  Should you travel by train from Hanoi to Halong Bay ?

Top 5 Halong Bay Cruise Options from Hanoi

1. paradise sails cruise - the best halong bay cruise .

Paradise Sails Cruise - Best Halong Bay Cruise

It offers 16 cabins of the best quality.

As one of the best Paradise Vietnam cruises, Paradise Sails offers 16 luxurious cabins for personal use and extremely spacious sundecks (sunbeds included) to guarantee unprecedented views of Halong Bay’s emerald water and limestone formations. After a long day of kayaking and exploring, passengers can return on board to rest in the comfortable lounge or have world-class spa treatments in the Le Parfum Spa. 

Intimate dining is another non-skip highlight of Paradise Sails, boosted to the highest levels with sophisticated dining rooms and royal-like Vietnamese menus, offering you an hands-on experience of the country’s cuisine cultures. In the morning, do not forget to participate in the 30-minute Tai Chi sessions while enjoying the ocean’s refreshing air. 

Read More:  Ha Long Bay Cruise : A Perfect Family Vacation

2. Paradise Peak Cruise

Paradise Peak - Best Luxury Cruise

Paradise Peak has fitness rooms, day spas, and libraries.  

The 5-star luxury cruise ship peaks through the competition with 8 cabins equipped with all-inclusive amenities -  entailing private dining areas, Jacuzzi, butler services, and a private balcony for the best sightseeing experience. Day spas and libraries are also included, and those who love to exercise even during sea travels would love the Paradise Peak’s premium onboard fitness room that looks directly to the sea’s unique view.

Exciting water-based activities aside, you also have the chance to try out traditional cooking classes before dinner, guided by the most talented chefs on the cruises.

3. Paradise Elegance Cruise 

This sleek vessel inspires a sense of comfort and luxury.  

Paradise Elegance - Best Halong Bay Cruise

Paradise Elegance is a modern, sleek vessel that combines Vietnamese’s remarkable design concepts with contemporary styling, inspiring a sense of luxury and comfort the moment you step on board. 

The cruise prides itself on high-quality restaurants and bars serving two-star Michelin dishes, day spas, wellness centers, and spacious piano lounges for a good-hearted rest after dinners. There is also a huge sundeck (holding 90 people), ideal for both formal event organizations and casual get-togethers between friends.

Regarding itinerary, Paradise Elegance introduces in-depth dives into Sung Sot Cave/Surprise Cave - Halong’s largest cave, kayaking trips near Tung Sau Pearl Farm, and extended hiking atop Titop Island for the best panoramic view. 

Read More:  Comfort and Adventure on a Halong Bay Cruise Luxury

4. Paradise Delight Cruise - The Best Luxury Halong Bay Cruise

It has a 360-people capacity.

Paradise Delight - Halong Bay Luxury Cruises

With a capacity of 360 people, this five star cruise is a great place for weddings, seminars, conferences, events, parties, and arts shows thanks to the modern and elegant European style. The cruise also passespass through the bay’s scenic spots, such as Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, Reu Island, and more, giving you the chance to bask in the full glory of this world-famous UNESCO Heritage Site.

The fine-dining restaurants and their excellent gourmet specialties serve as another cruise highlight. While you enjoy the high-quality culinary dishes, the surrounding curved glass walls form a 360-degree visual feast to boost your dinner quality to a new height.

Paradise Delight also introduces the first visual spectacle show on the Halong Bay cruise, staged by the reputed director Hoang Nhat Nam, which cites the bay’s famous legends through world-class visual effects.

5. Paradise Explorer Cruise - The Best Halong Bay Cruise Mid-Range

Explorer is a good choice for budget cruisers.

Regarding the best mid range cruise, Paradise Explorer is indeed the most favored Halong Bay day cruise from Ha Noi , tailored for people who still wish to have a taste of the bay’s beautiful landscapes and crystal water without breaking the bank. 

As the day cruise travels past Titov Island and Trong Mai islets , passengers can enjoy hearty lunches onboard and capture beautiful pictures from Explorer’s 360-degree sundecks. A wide range of Asian/European menus and beverages are also available on this budget cruise, boosting your energy during mid-time breaks between kayaking and swimming sessions.

Note : This cruise is reserved for groups, not for individual cruisers.

Tours and Things to Do in Halong Bay

1. Kayaking

Passengers can choose to admire the stunning landscape from the deck; nevertheless, kayaking allows better access to places a day boat cannot reach. Aided by the gentle waves of the lake and sea, it has become one of the most common activities to partake in once you arrive in Halong Bay.

Several caves have wide channels to paddle through, leading you to completely hidden parts not included in the itinerary. Visiting various beaches through kayaking is also highly recommended and often included in numerous travel programs - both day tours and multi-day packages.

2. Squid Fishing

Squid fishing gives you a good-hearted lesson on how to be patient, while also rewarding all your efforts with mouth-watering, refreshing dishes if the squids are caught fresh. 

As per local experience, nights without moonlight are the perfect time to join squid-fishing gangs in Halong Bay. Daytime or nights with bright moons, on the other hand, give the squids too much visibility advantage; hence, they will not flock around your boat once the flashlight is turned on.

Read More:  Halong Bay Day Cruise : A Perfect Way to Spend Your Vacation

Squid fishing

3. Cooking Class

Cooking classes on luxury cruises like Paradise Vietnam usually take about 1 hour (depending on your chosen itinerary) before dinners or after kayaking/cave exploring sessions. 

They offer great opportunities for passengers to sample the best cuisine dishes while discovering impressive backstories about Vietnam’s culinary culture. The chef also shows and teaches you preparation methods for some reputed traditional dishes , such as dried or fresh spring rolls, vegetables/fruit carving, and more.

From time to time, fierce competition will break out among the cruisers, and the fun gets twice better if you manage to seize the number 1 spot. After all, there is no better experience than to taste your own cooking.

Cooking classes in Halong Bay Trip

4. Tai Chi Classes

Tai Chi sessions are often organized about half an hour in the morning before breakfast. The relaxing poses, breathtaking landscapes, and refreshing air will lift heavy thoughts off your mind to welcome fresh bounds of energy for the adventure ahead.

Choose the most comfortable and loose-fitting outfit to avoid motion restriction. Regarding footwear, you will need lightweight, flexible shoes that provide sufficient support for body balance - while still being thin enough on the soles to let you feel the floor better. Sometimes, barefoot practices are also a great idea.

Most instructors ask you to observe their movements first, so remember to pay extra attention to each gesture change. Always focus on your ground connection and the base, too.

You can have Tai Chi sessions before breakfast.

5. Overnight Cruise

Though a Halong Bay day tour does have its perks, those with generous budgets should not miss the chance to stay in Halong Bay for more than a day; in-depth explorations and ample opportunities to discover off-beaten places are awaiting. 

The most common overnight options for the Halong Bay tour from Ha Noi: 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights. Consider your time limits, preferences, and financial conditions to settle on the most suitable package.

Stay overnight to enjoy the natural beauty of the bay.

Cycling with your friends and families under the warm sunlight and gentle winds is nothing short of exciting; fortunately, numerous Halong Bay cruises include this activity in their itineraries to the Viet Hai Village (Cat Ba). For those not taking cruises, bicycling renting services around the area are still available.

• Cycle renting: 20,000 dong/ hour; 100,000 dong/day
• Bike renting: 120-200,000 dong/day

Should You Travel Independently or With A Package Tour?

Each option has its respective perks and downsides; it would be better to assess the pros and cons while taking in your own traveling preferences and budgets.

1. Independent Travel for A Halong Bay Cruise:

Independent travelers still have their routes and certain amenities arranged by their company. But other than that, they are responsible for the rest of the Halong Bay trip and navigate from one destination to another entirely by themselves. There is no group support or guides included in these tours - though some agencies do offer luggage transfers, pointers, basic maps, and so on.

• You can decide at your own pace. Compared to package tours, you will have much more flexibility in choosing your pacing and how many hours/days to spend for each area.
• You can travel with anyone and make friends during the trip. One notable perk of a self-guided tour is that you are free to choose your partners, join groups with other tourists taking similar routes, or alternate between the two according to specific destinations. There is no need to confine yourself within hundreds of strangers all the time like with package tours.
• You don’t have to do much research. While the notion of independent tours often implies travelers have to do everything on their own, that is not always the case. The tour operators still give you all the necessary information and must-see tourist destinations to refer to, and they are certainly much cheaper than hiring an inexperienced guide.
• It is still safe . Contrary to popular belief, independent travel is no longer considered dangerous, especially with the help of 24/7 Internet, mobile phones, and local advice. These strips strike a good balance between safety and adventure, ensuring you enjoy the beauty of Halong to the fullest without putting yourself at risk.

You have to be very proactive and keep good track of your itinerary. Always be punctual, especially if your schedules are tight, to avoid messing up the day’s overall plan.

2. Package Tours for a Halong Bay Cruise:

Package tours for a Halong Bay cruise

Packaged tours refer to all-inclusive traveling experiences led by a cruise operator/ tour guide and following pre-planned itineraries. Regarded as the most popular option for Halong Bay, they introduce a wide range of packages that suit different budgets and preferences.

• It saves first-time tourists from trouble . Joining package tours to Halong is the safest choice if you have little experience in off-the-beaten places that are hard to access or do not speak Vietnamese or even English.
• You will gain a deeper historical and intellectual understanding of Halong. Luxury ships like Paradise Vietnam pride themselves in experienced and well-trained guides, from whom you can learn many interesting tidbits and stories about each cave, island, and artifact.
• They are convenient. Coordinating every aspect of the trip, from event tickets and transportation to restaurants and resting places, can be very daunting, especially for beginners or people on tight schedules. As such, a pre-arranged itinerary handled by professionals will save you lots of time and effort.
• Better deals are available . Since tour providers have already negotiated group rates for every amenity, you will usually gain access to much better hotels/activities than what you would have got as individuals and at the same pricing.

You barely have any freedom to plan adjustments, which does not sit right with people who prefer going-with-the-flow types of traveling.

Nevertheless, several 5-star cruise companies do pay attention to these critical demands and strive to balance personal time and free time for you, paving the way for both organic experiences and snapshot moments. 

Read More:  When is the best time to cruise Vietnam Halong Bay? Find Out Now!

FAQs about Cruise Halong Bay from Hanoi

How long does it take to visit halong bay from hanoi.

Visiting Halong Bay takes about 2 to 4 hours of traveling; the exact number depends on the type of transportation you choose.

How much is the transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

230,000 VND to 9,000,000 VND, depending on whether you choose shuttle buses, private cars, or seaplanes.

How to go from Hanoi to Halong?

Trains, motorbikes, day/night cruise tours, private tours, private cars, traditional junk boat trips, and so on. Refer to the guidelines above for further information.

Is it worth staying on a cruise in Ha Long Bay?

Yes. Paradise Vietnam day/night cruise packages offer inclusive itineraries and excellent onboard amenities to cater to all preferences and activities, ensuring every moment in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay is well-spent.

What dining options are available on these cruises? Are there opportunities to experience local cuisine? Cruise ship restaurants offer a variety of dining options for tourists, including regional dishes like Eurasian cuisine, seafood, and local specialties from Halong and Vietnam. In particular, visitors can enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes, and specialty seafood caught right on the bay.

Is there flexibility for passengers to personalize their experience? It's exhilarating to have a tailored cruise tour experience. For instance, you can indulge in private activities or time spent relaxing on a cruise. Along with catering, you may also ask for a customized menu that is made to your specifications.

Are there specific cultural or historical insights that these cruises offer about the region? Ha Long Bay cruises provide a glimpse into the area's one-of-a-kind culture and past. Tourists can discover local customs, see landmarks like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island, and interact with native communities. Guides share captivating tales about the region's history, traditions, and festivals. Cultural events such as cooking lessons and traditional shows enhance the trip, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in Ha Long's unique cultural fabric.

Could you detail the types of accommodations available on these cruises? Are there options for different budgets or preferences? The types of accommodations available on these cruises are very diverse. The entry-level rooms and rooms on the upper deck offer comfort and convenience, while those positioned at the back of the upper floor provide tranquility with stunning views. On the second deck at the front of the ship, guests enjoy panoramic vistas of the horizon, witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Each room type caters to varied preferences with diverse prices, ensuring a delightful stay amid different locations and scenic backdrops. 

Paradise Vietnam cruise Halong Bay from Hanoi promises to cover your traveling demands throughout the entire trip with dedicated staff, five-star services, and great balances between planned itineraries and your personal experience. Contact Paradise Vietnam to settle on the best Halong Bay day trip!

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SUMMER RETREAT - 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS COMBO CRUISES & HOTEL

Embark on a 2-day-1-night voyage aboard the internationally acclaimed 5-star Paradise Elegance in Ha Long Bay and Paradise Grand in Lan Ha Bay for a dream-like holiday experience combined with Paradise Suites Hotel Ha Long.

STAY & PLAY PACKAGE AT PARADISE SUITES HOTEL & TUAN CHAU GOLF COURSE

Experience our stay & play package, combining golf at the expansive 18-hole Tuan Chau Golf Course in the North with a delightful stay at the enchanting boutique hotel, Paradise Suites Halong. In just a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi, our exclusive package offers a range of privileges.

DELIGHT DINNING CRUISE - TOP NOTCH CULINARY EXPERIENCES

As a unique 5-star super-dining cruise with a capacity of up to 360 people, Paradise Delight is an iconic rendezvous for epic art shows, parties, events, conferences, seminars, and weddings, thanks to its modern European style and an itinerary that includes scenic spots around the natural heritage of Halong Bay. Embarking on a Ha Long cruise aboard Paradise Delight guarantees an unforgettable experience.

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A:Unit 903, 9th Floor, Gelex Tower, No. 52 Le Dai Hanh St., Hai Ba Trung Dist., Hanoi, Vietnam Hanoi, Viet Nam

T: +84 24 3941 6666

Hotline: +84 906099606

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A: Tuan Chau Island, Halong, Quang Ninh, Vietnam

T: +84203 384 2368

E: [email protected]

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Cruises to Hanoi (Halong Bay), Vietnam

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Hanoi (Halong Bay) Vietnam Cruise Port Guide

Since being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Halong Bay has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors with its floating taxis, vibrant night markets, and proximity to some of Vietnam’s biggest destinations. An Asia cruise with Celebrity provides a glimpse of Vietnam’s undisturbed beauty and the sheer variety of things to see while you’re there.

If it’s your first time in Vietnam, it’s destined not to be your last. Whether you keep close to the limestone structures dotting Halong Bay or venture 100 miles inland to the cosmopolitan Hanoi, there’s something in Vietnam for any type of adventurous traveler. From your Hanoi cruise, arrange a paddling or boat tour of the limestone islets and elaborate network of caves in Halong Bay, spend an afternoon exploring historic temples, or go trekking through Cat Ba National Park.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to hanoi (halong bay), cat ba national park.

Hiking the challenging trails of Cat Ba National Park isn’t for the faint of heart, but the verdant, lush canopy of Cat Ba is well worth the trek. Guided hikes lasting between three to six hours are available for all types of day trips and schedules. Look out for the rare mammals and endangered species that call Cat Ba home.

Hang Sung Sot Cave

Explore the largest cave in Halong Bay on a guided tour. Learn the folklore of the limestone stalagmites and stalactites, and find out why the French, who discovered the grotto, nicknamed it the “Cave of Surprises”.

Old Quarter Hanoi

Roam the narrow, winding, and often crowded streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter district, which is the beating heart of Hanoi’s cultural scene. By day, these French colonial buildings are office buildings, but by night, the district bursts to life with eateries, art galleries, and shophouses. Leave a few hours to stroll unhurriedly so you can explore Dong Xuan, the city’s biggest market, or the National Museum of Vietnamese History.

Learn More About Hanoi (Halong Bay) Shore Excursions

Top things to do in hanoi (halong bay), kayak along halong bay.

What better way to experience the dramatic landscape and emerald waters of Halong Bay than by paddling through it? Full day kayaking experiences are inexpensive considering how picturesque the experience is, though they are better for experienced paddlers. First-timers should consider a tour or hour-long kayak instead.

See a Show at the Hanoi Opera House

Once you get into Hanoi from where your cruise ship is docked, why not head to the Hanoi Opera House for an evening of culture and entertainment? Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the Opera House is a French colonial gem for architecture buffs. Get dolled up and enjoy the show.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Also called the Hanoi Citadel, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in this part of Vietnam. The Citadel was once critical in the history of Hanoi and holds special cultural and governmental significance. Don’t miss the D67 house tucked within the citadel, which was the HQ of the People’s Army during the American Vietnam War.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Hanoi (Halong Bay) Cruise Port

Address: Bến tàu khách Cát Bà, đường đi bãi tắm Cát Cò 3, vịnh Đồng Hồ, Cát Hải, Hải Phòng, Vietnam

On Cat Ba Island, Quang Anh is an excellent option after a day’s worth of hiking. There’s a land version of the establishment, but the floating restaurant is more of a novelty. Steamed, fried, or roasted, local seafood rules the menu here.

Avocado Restaurant

Address: C342-343, Old Street Zone, No. 9 Halong Road, Quảng Ninh 200000, Vietnam

Avocado Restaurant has both Western-inspired dishes like lamb loin and grilled chicken breast as well as traditional Vietnamese dishes. Try the steamed sea bass or the traditional Halong squid cake with sticky rice while you’re here.

Family Bakery

Address: TT. Cát Bà, Cát Hải, Hai Phong, Vietnam

Coffee and pastries are the main menu items at Family Bakery, influenced by European-style breakfast treats like flaky croissants. If you have a sweet tooth, this is the place to go in Cat Ba. Cakey chocolate doughnuts and filling egg sandwiches are must-tries, too.

Culture & History of the Hanoi (Halong Bay) Cruise Port

Hanoi, which is now the capital of Vietnam, has passed through the hands of many colonizers, including the Chinese, the Europeans, British, and French. As part of the Geneva Accord, Hanoi was declared the capital in 1945. The U.S. Vietnam War devastated parts of Vietnam through attacks and bombings, and killed thousands of Vietnamese citizens.

Today, Hanoi is facing rapid growth in population and infrastructure. Halong Bay has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, known as a solo traveler’s haven for its hiking, scuba diving, and incredible rock climbing. They’re mostly uninhabited and remote, but Halong Bay’s islets have become synonymous with the backpacker’s off-the-beaten-path Vietnam. More importantly, they have left a mark on the culture and traditions of Vietnam, as Halong Bay is viewed as a sacred site.

Hanoi (Halong Bay) Port Facilities & Location

As part of a Halong Bay cruise package, your cruise ship will dock in Halong Bay or at the nearby Cai Lan port. Most cruise passengers stay in Halong Bay and explore the surrounding areas rather than venturing too far into the mainland. You’ll be about a 15-minute walk from cafes, free wifi, souvenir shacks, and restaurants.

Transportation in Hanoi (Halong Bay)

Taxis will be waiting for passengers at the cruise port. Uber and the taxi app Grab are in operation in Hanoi as well. Buses to Halong from Hanoi leave every half hour. Motorbike taxis are called xe om in Vietnam, and they’re a great option for solo travelers wanting to experience the city on a motorbike.

Shopping Near the Hanoi (Halong Bay) Cruise Port

On a Hanoi cruise, you’ll find that shopping opportunities in Halong Bay area aren’t highly developed yet, but small ships float along the bay selling snacks and sweets. The Bai Chay night market is the place to go for Vietnamese artisanal items and handmade goods, plus plenty of authentic Vietnamese street eats. Don’t forget that bargaining is part of the culture here, so stick to your guns to secure a good deal.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

In Vietnam, the official currency is the dong, or VND. Tipping isn’t an expected practice in Vietnam, but leaving extra change for a taxi driver is welcome. Tour drivers rely on tip income, so be sure to tip any guide who helps you during your time on a Hanoi cruise. A general practice is to tip waiters and waitresses 5-10% at a restaurant. Bargaining is a central part of the culture in Vietnam, so you’re welcome to practice your haggling at the markets and shops here.

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Halong bay one day tour – Suggested Itineraries & Price [2024]

Halong Bay one day tour is a must-do experience when visiting Vietnam. With only a 2.5 hour transfer from Hanoi, you can visit Halong Bay on a day boat and back to Hanoi within 1 day. This one-day tour is a perfect option for travelers who have limited but still want to discover the stunning beauty of the World Natural Heritage Site. 

In this article, Vivu Halong will help you choose the best itinerary (4 hours, 6 hours, 8 hours) with suitable cruising boat options (wooden boats, steel boats) at good prices. You also get to know which activities you will experience in a Halong Bay one-day tour.

 >> Vivu Halong is the #1 local travel agency specializing in tours, cruises, and transfers in Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh, f ully licensed by the National Administration of Tourism. Want to know more about us? >> CLICK HERE or read our reviews on TRIPADVISOR

• Address : No 12, 461 Tran Khat Chan Str, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi ( Map )
• Phone/WhatsApp/Zalo : +84.789.455.888
• Phone/WhatsApp/Zalo : +84 961 250 100
• Email : [email protected]
• FB : facebook.com/vivuhalong

Price of Halong Bay one day tour 

Halong Bay one-day tour is a group tour with a transfer from Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, and activities. The private tour is also available based on your request.  Here is the price list for the tour, please contact us for the best price and tour available when booking.

Inclusions & Exclusions 

• Lunch with Ha Long seafood dishes with a set menu or buffet meal depending on the tour.
• Shuttle bus / Limousine van from Hanoi to Ha Long
• Boat to visit the bay (4 hours – 6 hours – 8 hours), depending on the cruise you choose.
• Entrance ticket to visit Halong Bay for 1 day (VND 290,000/person)
• Tour guide to escort your trip 
• Not including drinks and personal expenses.

>> In case, you need a shuttle bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay, check out this post for the schedule and rate: https://vivuhalong.com/en/transfer-hanoi-ha-long-bay/

[Deluxe] 6-HOUR Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi

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[8 HOUR] Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi (limousine transfer)

[Luxury] 8-Hour Halong Bay cruise

[Luxury] Lan Ha Bay cruise from Hanoi

Which Halong Bay one day itinerary to choose? 

6-hour cruise tour with transfer from Hanoi

This 6-hour tour is the most popular Halong Bay one-day tour, with a shuttle bus transfer from Hanoi. On this tour, you will visit Amazing (Sung Sot) Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay, kayak in Luon Cave then get to Titop island for beach relaxation and hiking to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of Halong Bay. 

• The tour starts at 8:30 am with a shuttle bus pick up at your hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter and ends at 08:30 pm
• Cruise from 12:00 pm to 5:30 pm, 5 – 6 hours boat cruising on Halong Bay 
• Itinerary following Route 2: Habour –  Surprise Cave – Luon Cave (kayaking) – Titop Island (beach & panoramic view) 
• Vietnamese lunch included
• Departure from Ha Long International Port or Tuan Chau International Port

>> Tour details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/tours/halong-bay-one-day-tour-wonder-bay-cruise/ 

For booking, please send us an email or contact us via Phone/ WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888 https://youtu.be/kvyplIXeCYU?si=4_oep3V21fRkWKdA

7- 8 hour cruise tour with transfer from Hanoi 

Halong Bay 7 – 8 hour tour is the longest journey to visit the bay during the daytime. You can have a lot of time to visit caves, and beaches, explore the islands and experience kayaking on the calm water of Halong Bay. 

Unlike other tours departing at noon, this tour departs early at 9:30 a.m., so you will depart from Hanoi at 06:30 a.m. It means you can have enough time for an 8-hour journey. Travellers can visit tourist attractions and experience no less than an overnight cruise. In the past, visitors used to rent a private boat for such long tours. But now there is such an interesting 8-hour tour to from choose. 

• The tour starts from Hanoi at 07:00 am with a shuttle bus pick up at your hotels and ends at 08:30 pm
• Cruise from 10:30 pm to 5:00 pm, 8 hours on the boat to visit the bay
• Itinerary following Route 2: Thien Cung Cave – Fighting cocks Islet – Amazing (Sung Sot) Cave – Titop Island – Afternoon tea 
• Tour includes lunch
• Departure from Tuan Chau International Port

>> Tour details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/tours/halong-bay-day-cruise-8-hour/ For booking, please send us an email or contact us via Phone/  WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888  

4-hour day cruise, ( depart from Halong City ) 

This traditional tour takes you to the most famous spots of Ha Long Bay. 4 hours is a suitable time if you don’t want to be on the boat for too long. The tour is suitable for travellers who stay in hotels in Halong City and want to see Halong Bay on a half-day tour. The tour includes a visit to Thien Cung cave, go kayaking in Ba Hang and a Vietnamese lunch. 

• The cruise schedule is from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm in the afternoon, or  from 08:00 to 12:00 in the morning
• 4 hours on the cruising boat to visit the bay.
• Itinerary following Route 2: Habour > Cho Da islet > Dinh Huong islet >  Thien Cung cave > Ba Hang fishing village (kayak or bamboo boat ride)
• Lunch included 
• Departure from HaLong International Port (Ha Long Road, Bai Chay, Halong City) 

Morning tour 

• 07:00 – 07:30: Pick up at your Hotel in the Bai Chay area
• 07:40: Arrive at Ha Long International Port to check in on the boat.
• 08:00 – 08:15: The cruise starts visiting Halong Bay – one of the New Seven Wonder world heritage
• 08:50: Passing through Stone Dog islet, Incense burner Islet – the image in the back side of Vietnam currency 200.000d.
• 09:00: Visit the Ba Hang area – where you can do kayaking or bamboo boat to explore the area.
• 09:50: Visit Fighting Cock Islet – a symbol of Halong Bay
• 10:10: Visit Thien Cung Grottos – one of the most beautiful areas of Halong Bay
• 11:10: Have lunch on the boat (Set Menu lunch,  6 person/table)
• 11:45-12:10: Back to Ha Long International Port.
• 12:30: A shuttle bus take you back to your hotel in Bai Chay

Afternoon tour 

• 11h-11h30: Pick up at your hotels in Bai Chay area, Halong City
• 11h40: Arrive at Ha Long International Port.
• 12h00 – 12h15: Ha Binh cruise starts to visit Halong Bay – the World Heritage Site
• 12h30: Have lunch on the boat (Set menu lunch,  6 person/table)
• 13h30: Visit Stone dog islet, Incense burner islet – the image in the Vietnam currency 200.000d
• 13h40: Visit Ba Hang area – where you can go kayaking or bamboo boat or relax on the cruise.
• 14h20: Visit Fighting Cock Islet – a symbol of Halong Bay
• 14h40: Visit Thien Cung grotto – one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay
• 16h30: The cruise arrives at Ha Long International Port
• 17h00: Shuttle bus takes you back to the hotels

> Tour details: https://vivuhalong.com/en/tours/halong-bay-day-tour-4-hour-cruise/ For booking, please send us an email or contact us via Phone/  WhatsApp: +84.789.455.888  

Which route to choose? 

There would be different routes for visiting Halong Bay in one day, you can choose to visit the route of Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay. All the routes have similar natural landscapes with limestone islets on green water. However, each cruising route has its own advantage.

Let’s check which route might suit you!

What you would experience in a Halong Bay one-day tour? 

Join a day tour to visit the bay, in addition to boarding the sightseeing boat, you will experience kayaking for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. It is so interesting to explore the different corners of the bay by yourself. Kayaking is the best way to get closer to the limestone islands in the bay. 

Exploring cave 

Halong Bay is home to many wonderful natural caves, such as Sung Sot Cave , Thien Cung Cave , Trinh Nu Cave, Thien Canh Son Cave … You can climb up the island to go inside the caves. Then you will admire such interesting landscapes bestowed by nature.

Bamboo boat with locals 

If not kayaking, you can choose to take a bamboo boat carried by locals, visit Luon cave , and enter the “lagoon” areas with beautiful scenery, covered by limestone mountains. 

Beach, swimming, hiking on mountain 

The beaches on the bay are not very big but beautiful. You can find a nice beach on Titop island and many small beaches dotted in the bay. On the island, you can relax on the beach, swim, or climb to the top of the mountain to see the whole view of Halong Bay, to save the best selfie photos.

Afternoon tea, cooking lessons

This experience is so relaxing that many travellers want to join in. You can use a cup of coffee, a cup of tea, or a glass of wine to wait for the sunset on Halong Bay. It’s not easy to capture this moment so good luck.

Where to depart for the tour? 

There are two cruise ports in Halong Bay where you embark for cruising

Halong International Port 

Halong International Port is located on Halong Road, right in the centre of the Bai Chay tourist area, providing easy access for both domestic and international tourists coming to visit Halong Bay on a day cruise. You can visit Halong Bay on a day cruise departing from Ha Long International Port following a morning tour or afternoon tour.

• Direction to Halong International Port

Tuan Chau Marina 

Tuan Chau International Port is located on Tuan Chau island, the port is 12.5km from Ha Long city and 150km from Hanoi. Tuan Chau is a popular port for both domestic and international visitors taking a day cruise on Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

• Direction to Tuan Chau Marina

• More details about Halong Bay Cruise Ports 

Food & Drinks 

On a day tour to Halong Bay, you will be served a Vietnamese lunch with some local seafood dishes, the set menu lunch will be served for 6 persons/table, joining the group. Some bigger boats will offer a Buffet lunch with more choice of food served. Check out the typical menu for lunch on a Halong Bay day tour. Drinks are served with beer, soft drinks, and water… at an extra fee.

Set Menu lunch 

• Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad
• French Fries
• Ha Long Grilled Squid
• Steamed Shrimp With Beer
• Grilled Oyster With Onion Fat
• Sea Bass with Sauces
• Stir-fried Vegetable
• Jasmine Rice
• Seasonal Fruits

Vegetarian Lunch Menu 

• Dumpling Cake
• Vegetable Spring Roll
• Tofu with Sweet and Sour Sauce
• Vietnamese Egg Roll
• Seasonal stir-fried vegetable

Buffet menu (8-hour day cruise) 

• Asparagus soup with seafood
• Rice congee with pork meatballs
• French fries/ fried corn
• Green Papaya salad with dried beef
• Russian Salad
• Pomelo salad with shrimp
• Spring rolls
• Sushi rolls
• Stir-fried noodles with seafood
•  Sauté diced beef
• Grilled shrimp
• Crispy fried squid
• Stir-fried flower clams with basil leaves
• Grilled fish with chilli paste
• Grilled chicken wings
• Salt-roasted mantis shrimp
• Grilled oysters with scallion oil
• Vegetable stir fry
• Mixed fried rice
• Green beans sweet gruel
• Profiteroles
• Strawberry, orange Jam
•  Seasonal fruits
• Pure dumplings
• Pan-fried hot dog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is one day tour enough for Halong Bay?

Yes, it is an option to admire the natural beauty of Halong Bay within one day (4-8 hours on a boat). The tour could be also arranged with a transfer from Hanoi  (2.5-hour transfer) and back. If you have longer time, the 1-night cruise and 2-night cruise are recommended.

Is Halong Bay a day trip from Hanoi? 

The Halong Bay day tour is the most popular day tour from Hanoi. The distance between Hanoi and Halong Bay is 150 km for 2.5 hour’s transfer time

How long do you need in Halong Bay?

You should visit Halong Bay for 1 night or 2 nights. A day tour to Halong Bay is an option if you do not have much time here.

Is the Halong Bay day trip worth it?

Yes, it worth visiting. The trip takes you to visit most highlights of Halong Bay including a cave, and island and experience kayaking or bamboo boat rowing…

Can you swim in Halong Bay?

Yes, swimming is an exciting activity when visiting Halong Bay. The water is calm and clean. You might swim from a small beach or in the middle of the bay. In winter (Nov – Feb), it is too cold for swimming.

What is the best month to visit Halong Bay?

April – September is the best time to visit Halong Bay, it is the summertime, with blue water & clear sky.

Is Halong Bay too busy?

Halong Bay is a must-visit so it attracts a lot of visitors during the year. However, the busiest time is in summer month (the peak season for domestic tourists)

How do I book a Halong Bay cruise?

You can book through travel agents, tour operators, and OTAs or book directly with cruise operators. Just check for the best price and trusted service provider 

Are there jellyfish in Halong Bay?

Yes, there are jellyfish in Halong Bay and it could be more jellyfish in the summer months.

With the above information provided by Vivu Halong, hopefully, you have enough information to choose a suitable day tour to visit Halong Bay. If you have any questions or need further advice, do not hesitate to contact Vivu Halong. 

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6 Transportation Options to Get from Hanoi to Halong Bay & Vice Versa

How to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Most tourists combine a tour to Hanoi with a visit to Halong Bay, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, located to the east of the city. How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay ? What are the best ways to travel to Halong Bay? In this article, we’ll look into 6 ways to commute between the two destinations, and advise you on the best for your trip.

I. Distance from Hanoi to Halong Bay

How far is Halong Bay from Hanoi?

Halong Bay is located on Vietnam’s coastline, just over 160 kilometers to the east of Hanoi . Hosted by Quang Ninh province, Halong Bay boasts a picturesque scenery of emerald water, endless sky and tranquil atmosphere. Thousands of impressive limestone karsts and islets here contributed to the UNESCO World Heritage title. 

There are mainly 06 ways to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay, each of which has its own pros and cons. We’ll look into each and every way in the following part of the article.

II. How to Get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

1. travel from hanoi to halong bay by local bus.

Local buses are among the easiest and cheapest options to get to Halong Bay.

Booking : 

The first thing you’ll have to do is to check the closest bus station that will drop you off at Halong Bay. These five bus stations host buses from Hanoi to Quang Ninh Province:

Arriving at the bus station, you’ll find a great deal of suppliers providing transport services to Halong Bay. Come to the counter to ask for a ticket to Halong Bay and the staff will assist you.

Route : the bus will drop you off at specific stations, and you will have to get a taxi or Grab to get to your hotel or the cruise port (Tuan Chau Gate). To save money on the connecting trip, consult your hotel or cruise supplier for the closest station to get off. 

Duration : a ride on the local bus will take about 3-5 hours depending on whether the bus runs around to pick up passengers. 

Cost : For a ride in a typical 40-seat bus, the ticket will cost you 100,000 – 120,000 VND. You’ll spend another 50,000 – 70,000 VND to get from the station to the hotel or cruise port.

Pros and cons : a one-way ride will cost 150,000 – 200,000 VND in total, making it one of the cheapest means of transportation available. However, you’ll face a number of difficulties: 

• Language barrier at the stations
• Time consuming
• Inflexible departure and arrival stops

2. Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by shuttle bus

Shuttle buses are the smaller buses that offer better services with fewer passengers, and direct routes .

Google for the phrase “vexere” and you will find a website that hosts online booking. Lock in your departure point (Hanoi) and arrival point (Quang Ninh), and you’ll see a number of available shuttle bus suppliers. There are typically 9-seat so-called “limousines” and 19-seat minibuses and they often depart from their own Hanoi offices, rather than the public stations. The arrival points vary between buses, hence you’ll have to look it up yourself to see which is the closest to your hotel or the cruise port.

Things will be much easier if you book a tour via a cruise or tour operator. They will take all the booking off your hands with a relatively cheaper price if you book it yourself. The arrival destination will be pre-determined and you won’t have to worry about getting off at the right place.

Route : like local buses, shuttle buses will drop you off at specific stations. If you are hosted by a tour/cruise operator, they will deliver you to your hotel or the cruise port. 

Duration : shuttle buses often travel with a direct route, resulting in a shorter commuting time. Thanks to the new highway connecting Hanoi and Halong Bay, a one-way trip will only take 2.5 hours minimum.

Cost : For a ride in a typical 9-seat bus, the ticket will cost you 200,000 – 300,000 VND. You’ll spend another 50,000 – 70,000 VND to get from the station to the hotel or cruise port, if you travel without a travel agency. 

Pros and cons : shuttle buses are much more comfortable and time-saving, in comparison with local buses. However, communication will again be a burden if you don’t book via a tour operator. 

3. Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by train

Trains will be a slow option, but fairly cheap compared to others.

There is only one train that heads to Halong Bay everyday. It departs at Yen Vien Station (Hanoi) at 4:55 am. You can only opt for “hard” seats, which are made of wood and not very comfortable. Go to dsvn.vn and lock in your departure point (Yen Vien), arrival point (Halong) and process to buy the ticket.

Route : the train will head to Halong Station, from which you will need to get a taxi/Grab to arrive at the hotel or cruise port. 

Duration : a train ride will typically take 6-7 hours.

Cost : a train ride is 90,000 – 100,000 VND on average, depending on the time in the year. Another 50,000 – 70,000 VND will be spent on a connecting ride on taxi/Grab.

Pros and cons : for those who have only one day in Halong, a 6-hour train ride will definitely be unsuitable. However, it’s one of the safest and cheapest options, if you don’t mind the noisy sounds of the train.

4. Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by seaplane

Seaplane is the only option if you want to fly to Halong Bay, as well as the fastest and most expensive way .

Google “seaplane from Hanoi to Halong Bay” and you’ll find the only supplier – Hai Au Aviation among the top results. Call them up and they will take care of you from here.

Route : There is a straight Hanoi to Halong Bay flight, but the airplane will be landing at Tuan Chau Gate.  

Duration : the flight will take 45 minutes to 1 hour at the maximum.

Cost : a one-way flight will cost 4,000,000 – 10,000,000 VND, depending on the time of the year. 

Pros and cons : it will surely be great to admire the majestic views of Halong Bay from above, as you fly over limestone karst mountains and islets. Seaplane is the ideal option for those seeking a luxurious, stress-free experience.

5. Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by motorbike

Motorcycling is only recommended for those having a legal driving license in Vietnam. Please don’t risk being involved in legal issues if you only visit the country for a temporary period. It is the cheapest yet most adventurous option among the six.

Motorbike renters are readily available, especially in the Old Quarter. You can easily rent a bike for 100,000 – 150,000 VND per day. Simply Google “bike rental” or consult your accommodation owners.

Route : there are a few routes for you to choose from. Google Map will assist you on the way.

Duration : depending on your riding speed, you will get to Halong Bay after roughly 3 hours.

Cost : 100,000 – 150,000 VND for a bike rental. 

Pros and cons : it doesn’t seem like a good idea to travel over 160 kilometers on a motorbike. The ride will be exhausting and rather dangerous, if you are not accustomed to Vietnamese traffic. Other risks involve bad weather and getting lost. If you do travel on a motorbike, make sure you have a license, appropriate protective gears, a smartphone with working Google Maps, and a friend to help you in emergencies.

6. Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by private car/taxi

Private cars and taxis will ensure you and your family utmost privacy , but they are also among the most expensive options .

Google “car rental” to find an appropriate supplier, or simply pick up the phone and call a taxi. 

Route : as the most tailormade option, you will be transported to your chosen destination.

Duration : it will be a 2.5 hour-ride, or 3 hours at the maximum, depending on traffic.

Cost : roughly 1,500,000 – 5,000,000 VND, depending on the choice of service. 

Pros and cons : if privacy and convenience matter most to you, this is your ideal option. However, double check the price of the taxi before embarking on your journey. 

Given a lot of options, it’s not easy to pick the best means of transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay, taking account of the weather, budget and travel time. Each means of transportation will have its own pros and cons, and the final decision lies in your hand. We hope that you found this article useful for your upcoming trip to Halong Bay.

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The 10 Best Halong Bay Tour Packages

• Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong - ONSEN tour (3D2N)
• Hanoi - Sapa - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay (5D4N)
• 5-Star Cruise Tour Exploring Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay (2D1N)
• Co To Island - Halong (3D2N)
• Hanoi - Halong Teambuilding (2D1N)
• Halong city - Ninh Binh - Sapa - Hanoi (4D3N )
• Yen Tu - Ba Vang Day Tour
• Hanoi - Bai Dinh - Trang An - Halong - Sapa - Fansipan (5D4N)
• Hanoi - Halong city (2D1N)
• Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong - Yen Tu - Sapa (5D4N)

Halong Bay is undoubtedly an irresistible destination but sometimes you may come up with an idea to combine other tourist spots for a longer vacation.

1. Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong - ONSEN tour (3D2N)

Estimated price: VND6.980.000/pax (USD$303/pax)

The 3D2N Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong - ONSEN tour brings you fresh relaxation in your mind by integrating and immersing in nature.

• You will relax in Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh Hot Spring, a Japanese-style hot spring resort surrounded by picturesque cliffs and mountains.
• Contemplate the splendid beauty of Halong Bay.
• Visit Ninh Binh, the ancient capital imbued with historical and cultural values, and explore Trang An landscaped complex with unspoiled nature.

2. Hanoi - Sapa - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay (5D4N)

• Independent travelers
• Small groups

Estimated price: VND6.990.000/pax (USD$304/pax)

A 5D4N Hanoi - Sapa - Ninh Binh - Halong Bay promises a wonderful journey with magnificent mountainous landscapes and a plethora of activities. You will pay visits to authentic hill tribe villages in Sapa, Tam Chuc pagoda - the world's biggest pagoda, historical monuments in Hanoi, and finally contemplate the natural wonders on Halong Bay. Excursions also come with a vast selection of local specialties and cultural activities like night markets and local music performances.

• Visit Trang An Landscape complex and enjoy the scenery on a rowing bamboo boat.
• Check-in iconic stone formations on Halong Bay like Rua islet, Dinh Huong islet, Cho Da islet, and Fighting Cocks islet.
• Take beautiful photos of Cat Cat village - the village of H'mong ethnic people and you will also have a chance to know more about local customs.

3. 5-Star Cruise Tour Exploring Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay (2D1N)

Estimated price: VND4.750.000/pax (USD$190/pax)

Orchid cruise boasts a 5-star steel boat comprising 14 spacious suites with wooden furniture and luxurious amenities. The 2 days 1 night journey on the Orchid cruise takes you to less-touristy, primitive corners of Lan Ha Bay namely the Ba Trai Dao area and Tra Bau area along with many exciting activities.

• All cabins have private bathrooms and balconies.
• The cruise has a fitness center and a spa for guests to relax.
• A sunset party on deck to marvel at the sunset on the bay.
• Free decoration for special occasions such as birthday parties, honeymoons and wedding ceremonies.

4. Co To Island - Halong (3D2N)

Estimated price: VND3.080.000/pax (USD$134/pax)

In addition to Halong Bay, Co To island is a favorite destination for visitors with long and beautiful beaches.

• Visit Hong Van beach - one of the most beautiful beaches on Co To Island.
• Visit Mong Rong rock area, My bridge, Ong Minh cape, and other magnificent scenery on the island.
• Take part in many entertainment activities at the Sun World Halong Complex .

5. Hanoi - Halong Teambuilding (2D1N)

• Team building
• Group of friends

Estimated price: VND 1.480.000/pax (~ USD$65/pax)

A 2D1N teambuilding tour of Hanoi - Halong allows you to admire the staggering landscapes of Halong Bay, take part in fun-filled activities in Sun World Halong Park and join other teambuilding activities.

• Contemplate the unique rock formations and exquisite scenery of Halong Bay as well as savor fresh seafood.
• Join various entertainment activities in Sun World Halong Bay, an entertainment hub with two main areas: the coastal area and Ba Deo area connected by a cable car system.
• Take part in team building activities to connect staff members in a company.

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong - Teambuilding (L, D)

8:00: The tour guide will pick you up to transfer to Halong.

11:30: Arrive in Halong city. You will be served a hearty lunch with local specialties before moving to the hotel for check-in.

15:00: Transfer to the teambuilding area and participate in various games here.

19:00: You have a dinner full of seafood in the restaurant. After that, it is your time to freely explore the city at night. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 2: Halong - Sunworld Halong Park (B, L)

8:00: After breakfast, you will have free time to visit the city and buy specialties. Some attractions that are highly recommended are Halong Museum, Bai Tho mountain, and Sun World Halong Park.

12:00: A lunch with seafood awaits you.

14:00: Return to Hanoi and you will be in Hanoi at around 17:00.

6. Halong city - Ninh Binh - Sapa - Hanoi (4D3N )

Estimated price: VND6.590.00/pax ( USD$287/pax)

This 4D3N to Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, and Hanoi tour provides you with a comprehensive insight into wonderful natural landscapes and cultural features of the north of Vietnam. You can capture the most beautiful photos of nature, have a chance to meet local ethnic inhabitants, and enjoy great cultural shows namely the water puppet show.

 Highlights

• Enjoy the spectacular scenery of famous tourist attractions in northern areas of Vietnam.
• Take a pilgrim tour to Bai Binh pagoda and admire the Trang An Landscape complex.
• Get on a cruise to explore Halong Bay, a renowned UNESCO world heritage site.
• Explore Sapa, a beautiful town in a misty atmosphere.
• Sample regional specialties.

Day 1: Hanoi - Halong (L, D)

Morning: You will be picked up from Hanoi to transfer to Halong. 

Noon: Arrive at Tuan Chau Habor, ready for a cruise tour on Halong Bay. You will eat lunch onboard while the cruise glides through famous sites like Cho Da islet, Lu Huong islet, and Fight Cock islet - the symbol of Halong Bay.

Afternoon: The boat takes you to Thien Cung cave where you will be impressed by incredible rock structures. 

Back to Halong city and check in the hotel room.

Evening: You will have time to take a leisure walk around Halong City or check in Queen Cable Car in Sun World Halong Complex. Overnight in Halong city.

Day 2: Halong - Ninh Binh - Hanoi (B, L, D)

Morning:  You will have breakfast in the restaurant and check out the hotel room. Continue to transfer to Ninh Binh. Here you will first visit Bai Dinh pagoda with an impressive design and many significant records.

Noon: Enjoy lunch in Trang An Landscape complex with an amazing system of mountains, rivers, and caves. This site is dubbed "Halong Bay on land".

Afternoon: Return to Hanoi to check in the hotel room and relax.

Evening: You have free time to walk around Hanoi Old Quarter and enjoy Hanoi's nightlife.

Day 3: Hanoi - Lao Cai - Sapa (B, L, D)

Morning: You have breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Sapa on Noi Bai - Lao Cai Expressway.

Noon: Arrive in Lao Cai city, you will then travel 38km further to Sapa town.

Afternoon: You will take a cable car to Fansipan peak (3143m above sea level). The ticket price is around VND 750.000/ pax.

Evening: You can walk around Sapa town and stay overnight in Sapa.

Day 4: Sapa - Hanoi (B, L)

Morning: You will climb Ham Rong mountain and check in at Heaven Gate as well as the Sapa scenery in the mist. Alternatively, you can visit Cat Cat village, a famous village of H'mong people.

Check out the hotel room and return to Hanoi.

7. Yen Tu - Ba Vang Day Tour

Estimated price: VND850.000/ pax (USD$40/pax)

Ba Vang-Yen Tu become the primary destination for visitors, especially pilgrims in spring. In the mist and cool weather, coming to Ba Vang-Yen Tu, you will be embraced by the sacred atmosphere of the motherland of Buddhism.

5:00:  The tour guide will pick you up at the Hanoi Opera House and transfer you to Yen Tu . Upon arrival, you will get on a cable car running through Bach Van Son mountain. You will attend the incense offering ceremony before moving down for lunch.

14:30: You continue transferring to Ba Vang pagoda, a huge pagoda with a unique design and beautifully landscaped surroundings.

16:00: Return to Hanoi and you have a chance to buy local specialties on the way.

8. Hanoi - Bai Dinh - Trang An - Halong - Sapa - Fansipan (5D4N)

Estimated price: VND5.500.000/pax (USD$240/pax)

Northern Vietnam is a wonderful land of remarkable landscapes and cultural & historical richness. The 5D4N exploring major destinations like Bai Dinh - Trang An, Halong Bay, Hanoi, and Sapa is a good chance for you to capture beautiful limestone formations, mighty mountain ranges, historical sites, eat specialties, as well as talk with ethnic people.

• Take a city tour around prominent attractions in Hanoi downtown namely Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem lake, Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Visit the new Trang An Landscape complex with impressive limestone mountains, dense valleys, and winding rivers.
• Explore Halong Bay on a 5* cruise.
• Conquer Fansipan Mount in Sapa.

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

You will have a day freely exploring Hanoi downtown. Some famous attractions that you should pay a visit to are Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Temple of Literature. You can rent a motorbike or hop on a cyclo around Hanoi Old Quarter.

You have dinner on your own with plenty of options such as Ly Quoc Su beef noodles, La Vong grilled fish, and Ngu Xa rice noodle rolls. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi - Bai Binh - Trang An Scenic Complex - Cycling tour (B, L, D)

7:30 - 8:00:  The tour guide will pick you up at the hotel to move to Ninh Binh province which is around 110km to the south.

10:00: Arrive in Bai Dinh pagoda. This pagoda possesses the two biggest bells in Southeast Asia which are 36 and 27 tons.

12:00: You will have lunch at a restaurant, sampling goat meat.

13:30: The driver will transfer you to the new Trang An Scenic Complex with wonderful natural scenery. You will get on a rowing boat passing mysterious caves namely Lam cave, Vang cave, and Thanh Truot cave.

15:15: Continue to transfer to Mua cave.

15:30: You will climb hundreds of steps to the top of Mua cave and Ngoa Long peak to admire the panoramic view of the paddy fields and Ninh Binh city.

17:00: Return to Hanoi.

19:30: Arrive in Hanoi. You will check in at the hotel and then have free time to walk around the streets. Overnight in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Day 3: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Halong Day Cruise (B, L)

8:00 - 9:00: After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up to transfer to Halong following 5B Highway Hai Phong - Halong.

12:00: Arrive in Tuan Chau Harbor. The day boat will take you on a 6-hour itinerary exploring Halong Bay. You will have a chance to take photos of beautiful limestone karts and rock formations like Fighting Cock Islet, Cho Da Islet. Lunch is served on the boat.

14:00: You approach Bo Hon Island where you will discover Sung Sot cave - one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay. Next, you will do kayaking in Luon Cave for 30 minutes before returning back to the boat.

The next destination is Titop Island . Here you can freely swim and climb to the top of the mountain to admire the Halong Bay view from above.

17:00: Back to Tuan Chau port.

18:00: Return to Hanoi.

20:30: Arrive in Hanoi. You have dinner on your own and stay overnight in Hanoi Old Quarter .

Day 4: Hanoi - Sapa - Cat Cat Village/ Moana View (B, L, D)

6:30: After breakfast, you check out of the hotel. If you do not have enough time for breakfast, you can have it on the way.

12:30-13:00: Arrive in Sapa town. You check in at the hotel and have time to relax.

14:30: You will have two options:

• Option 1: Check in Cat Cat village, the hometown of the Black H'mong people. You can take photos of peaceful landscapes here and the Cat Cat hydroelectric plant built by the French in the 20th century.
• Option 2: You can choose to check Moana Sapa, a new place of interest in the town with multiple beautiful scenery.

17:30: You come back to Sapa town.

19:00: You have dinner on your own and then have free time to discover Sapa town. Overnight in the hotel.

Day 5: Sapa - Fansipan - Hanoi (B, L)

7:00:  You enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out.

8:00: You will move to Hoang Lien Son mountain range and then take a cable car to reach Fansipan Mount. From here you will be captivated by the cloud and breathtaking scenery.

11:30: Back to Sapa town and check out.

12:00: You have lunch at the hotel.

14:00: The driver drives you back to Hanoi.

9. Hanoi - Halong city (2D1N)

• Business groups
• Individual travelers

Estimated price: VND1.880.000/pax (USD$82/pax)

The 2D1N tour of Hanoi - Halong allows you to discover Halong city, another aspect of the city of natural wonders. The highlights of the tour are a vast range of water-based entertainment activities in Typhoon Water Park and a city tour around Halong city.

• You will have an afternoon with fun-filled activities in Typhoon Water Park and then a free night in Halong city.
• The next morning is a great time for watching the sunrise and swimming on Bai Chay beach .

10. Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Halong - Yen Tu - Sapa (5D4N)

Estimated price: VND8.488.000/pax (370 USD/pp)

• You immerse in the picturesque and pristine beauty of Trang An Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh province.
• Pay a visit to Bai Dinh, a famous pagoda with many records.
• Take a cruise tour to Halong Bay and discover the charming limestone karts.
• Climb Yen Tu mountain with a majestic panoramic view.
• Conquer Fansipan Mount, the roof of Indochina.

This tour combines both sightseeing trips and pilgrim tours to sacred destinations like Yen Tu mountain and Truc Lam Zen Monastery. You will also have a lot of extreme feelings experiencing wonderful activities both on land and on the water.

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More related articles

• Halong Bay 2 Days Itinerary For First-Timers
• Halong Bay 3 Day Itinerary For First-Timers
• How Many Days Should You Spend in Hanoi and Halong Bay?
• 5 Days Itinerary: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Sapa (for the first timers)
• 4 Days Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh Itinerary

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We had an amazing time on the ambassador cruise. The boat looks amazing, the food was delicious and the staff were absolutely fantastic. Huge thanks to Dai, the cruise manager who made our stay so fabulous by making us feel welcome. Highly recommended!

Had a very relaxing cruise into the Halong Bay islands; beautiful settling and most unusual. Tour included visits to a pearl farm and climbing island with amazing caves. Boat was comfortable, staff friendly and food very good. Don’t miss this if in Vietnam.

This was an experience of a lifetime, amazing scenery.

The accommodation on the boat was excellent and the service provided by the staff made the trip even more special.

Absolutely wonderful. Halong Bay is spell binding, and the Ambassador cruise enabled us to enjoy it in absolute luxury. Top class

Great trip, everyone on the staff were excellent, doing above and beyond their duties! We were on the 1 night cruise. Dai our butler was excellent. We enjoyed very much and would highly recommend it

It is our first time here in Vietnam and we chose Ha Long bay as one of our destination and we made the best choice. Places are so majestic, foods are very good especially the seafood. The staff was great.

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Majestic Halong cruise combines charm and great comfort to meet the growing demand of travellers looking for LUXURIOUS CRUISE with CHEAP PRICES in the bay. • Fully furnished deluxe en-suite cabin with A/C, hot water • Including all meals on board • FREE morning tea and coffee • FREE Shuttle Bus pick up from hotel in Hanoi - Halong Bay - hotel in Hanoi • Including Local rowing boat, Fishing equipment, Movie, Exciting games • Fruits and local wine party • Including on board insurance and service charges

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Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
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What's Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Local rowing boat
• Full furnished deluxe en-suite cabin with A/C, hot water
• English speaking guide
• Fishing equipment, movie, exciting games
• Complimentary morning tea and coffee
• Free internet access
• Round-trip shared transfer
• Welcome drink
• All meal on board (02 lunches, 01 dinner, 01 breakfast)
• On board insurance and service charges
• Complimentary 02 bottled waters in the cabin

What's not Included

• Personal expenses
• All services and items not mentioned specifically in the list above
• Pre-post accommodation in Hanoi
• Visa arrangements

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• A minimum of 02 people per booking is required
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

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