halong bay day trip vs overnight

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Halong Bay Day Trip Or Overnight: Which One Is Better?

Halong Bay is always one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. With plenty of various and interesting activities, the bay attracts a huge number of tourists. Most tourists spend 2 or 3 days here to fully enjoy this beautiful area. But if you don’t have enough time but still want to enjoy its charming beauty, you can consider choosing a Halong bay day trip or overnight . In this article, we will tell you about the highlights of each option so you can choose the most suitable one for you.

I. Factors to Decide Halong Bay Day Trip or Overnight Stay

Your decision should be definitely based on your goal, your budget, and your time . So, the very first thing you need to do is consider these factors.

1. Your Goal

So what exactly do you want for this trip to Halong Bay? Are you looking for relaxing moments or waiting to see the unique and gorgeous beauty of the sea and caves? For those who love to see charming caves with your own eyes and taking part in some recreational activities like swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling, etc, an overnight trip will be an ideal choice. Halong offers quite a lot to see especially in some islands so an overnight trip will give you a chance to see a wider part of it. But, if you have already visited the bay and this time you just want to see a certain island or cave, a day trip will be enough. You will have more time for other activities.

2. Your Budget

Your budget is definitely a great matter to consider before choosing day trip or overnight trip. Generally, a day trip with lots of activities and traveling to different islands will cost quite a lot as you need to rent a boat to move from this island to another. Besides, you also need to pay for some activities like kayaking. The price for a day trip is surely cheaper than the price for an overnight stay in Halong bay. 

For an overnight cruise, it often includes a package tour so you don’t need to pay for hotel fee or activities. There are many types of cruise categorized by many criteria like styles (charming, oriental, traditional or modern), by sizes (few cabins or many cabins), and by materials (metal or wooden), which leads to various prices. 

3. Your Time

If you have limited time , a day trip would be a wise choice. Generally, you will be picked up in the early morning from your hotel in Hanoi and drive around 4 hours to Halong bay. Upon arriving, lunch will be served on a boat before you spend your time cruising some islands and islets and participating in some activities. At 5 pm, you will depart from Halong bay to Hanoi and end the day trip.

If you have 2-day or 3-day time for Halong bay, we would recommend an overnight cruise . It will allow you to see and experience more of the bay and a wider range of excursions, as well as get a deeper insight into this UNESCO World Heritage site . 

II. Highlights of Halong Bay Day Trip

Most visitors choose a day trip due to limited time. However, to make your trip worth it, the most important thing you need to do is choosing the right tour . Taking a wrong tour will ruin your whole trip. If you are expecting gorgeous sails that you saw on travel blogs, one day trip may disappoint you because you will not have a chance to step on those sails. A day trip normally involves a couple of activities. 

• Visit a cave

Among thousands of peaks rising out of the water in Halong Bay, there are picturesque hidden caves, illuminated caves, and isolated grottos of all shapes and sizes. Landing on the bay, you can rent a boat to explore one of these caves in Halong . Among these caves, Thien Cung , also known as Heavenly Palace Cave, is standing out with its stalagmites and stalactites. Visiting one cave will give you more time to enjoy other activities like kayaking or swimming. But if you only expect to see grottos and caves, you surely can visit 1 or 2 more caves in a day.

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• Go kayaking

While some visitors enjoy discovering the bay in a relaxing pace , others prefer kayaking for something more adventurous. It is a type of padding and uses a kayak to move across the water. With clean and calm water, Halong Bay is an ideal place for this activity. The most common spots for kayaking are Dark and Light Cave , Monkey island, and Peaches islets. The perfect time to enjoy this activity is from August to March as there is not much rain and the weather is quite nice. Trying kayaking in the bay takes around 30 minutes or 1 hour but it makes your trip more memorable and interesting.

III. Highlights of an Overnight Trip in Halong Bay

For an overnight trip, there are many options for you to choose from. You can choose a luxury or budget cruise. And, the longer the cruise is, the more activities are. Below are some activities that are included in the itinerary of 2 nights and 3 days option.

• Watching sunrise over the limestone karsts

Sunrise in Halong bay is one of the most attractive scenes that you should not miss. You can witness it with an overnight cruise. Waking up early, a spectacular scene is in front of your eyes. It’s the sun rising up over the limestone karsts and the immense sea. The emerald waters of the sea and red color of the rising sun bring a great feeling. This beautiful picture will bring you unforgettable peaceful moments .

• Visiting Cua Van floating village by bamboo boat

Most overnight cruises will not miss this largest floating fishing village located in the calm Halong bay surrounded by small islets and limestone mountains. The fishing village is home to nearly 180 households . Local people here all live on floating houses and mainly make their living by fishing. Cua Van floating village has been voted as one of the 15 most beautiful ancient villages in the world. Coming here, you not only witness the beauty of the village but also feel a sense of responsibility in keeping the surrounding environment clean. Everyday, local people often collect floating waste and garbage to protect the water from pollution.

• Explore some caves in Halong bay 

Booking an overnight cruise will offer you a chance to explore many hidden secrets of this famous bay. An amazing thing you can’t miss in this area is its caves. There are plenty of caves with mysterious legends from thousands of years ago. To name a few, it would be Sung Sot Cave , Me Cung Cave , Thien Cung Cave , Dau Go Cave , Trong Cave , and Trinh Nu Cave – the most visited caves in this area. In a 3 days 2 night tour, you will have a chance to visit most of these caves. Each cave has its own beauty and features, so your trip is not boring at all. Colorful stalactites in the caves in different shapes and sizes under the light make you feel like entering a magical world. And for those who are interested in science, these unique caves are worth researching also. 

• Taking a Vietnamese cooking class

Vietnam is famous for its fine and delicious cuisine . So in the overnight cruise, it often combines a cooking class in the itinerary to make the trip more interesting and help visitors get to know Vietnamese cuisine. On the cruise, the chef will instruct you step by step about the ingredients and Vietnamese cooking techniques. After cooking, you can enjoy the delicious dish cooked by yourself. So if you are a food lover, an overnight trip with a cooking class is for you.

• Enjoying Tai Chi exercises on the sun deck

Getting up early in the morning, it is a great time to experience Tai Chi exercise. Being an outstanding gem of Chinese culture, Tai Chi is a good exercise to get good health, improve your concentration as well as many other skills. Referring to the complete relaxing state of mind and body, the exercise is better done in a peaceful time and tranquil atmosphere with fresh air so your body can get the balance state. And, nowhere is better than a cruise on the sea in the early morning.

• Trying night squid fishing with locals

Halong Bay squid fishing is one of the most expected for those who choose overnight trips. After a long day of cruising, swimming, or kayaking, etc, squid fishing at night is an unique activity that can bring a refreshing travel experience. In recent years, this activity has become more popular and gained popularity among travelers to Halong bay. After learning basic information on squid fishing, you can go squid fishing yourself under the instruction by friendly locals. The squids you caught will be cooked into yummy night snacks after.

IV. How to Choose Between a Halong Bay Day Trip and Overnight Trip?

It is quite a tough decision to choose between these 2 interesting trips. So, here comes the tips for you:

• If you choose the day trip, there are some options for you: four (04), six (06), or eight (08) hours. Your decision should be determined by the time.
• It’s better to book through the boat or with the operator to get the best boat and most useful guide.
• Vietnamese ports take quite high rates right from the parking lot. You can save up to 30$ by telling your reservation agent to meet outside the pier area.
• It is necessary to read the itinerary carefully and check whether it can meet your expectations for the trip.
• Going in small groups costs higher than going in larger ones. 

Generally, there are both advantages and disadvantages when choosing a Halong bay day trip or overnight cruise. If you have enough time, we suggest 2 days 1 night trip to enjoy the best highlights of Halong bay and try some fun activities here. 

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Halong Bay on a Day Trip or Overnight Cruise?: Which One is Suitable?

Halong Bay overnight cruise or Day cruise: which one should I choose?

Halong Bay offers visitors not just stunning natural scenery made up of hundreds of limestone islands and islets, but also incredibly fascinating and engaging experiences. If you’re unsure of how long to stay in Halong, the following guide will assist you in deciding whether to take a day trip or an overnight cruise.

• How To Choose Your BEST Halong Bay 1 Day Cruise Tour?
• Halong Bay Luxury Cruise – How To Choose The BEST One!

Table of Contents

Things to consider while choosing between a day trip and an overnight stay in Halong

Halong Bay might keep you occupied with an endless number of recreation activities in addition to a large selection of tours and excursions. As usual, most visitors prefer to spend 2 or 3 days on an overnight trip, however some opt for a day trip.

• Best Things to do in Halong bay
• Lan Ha Bay: All You Need To Know Before Travelling
• How to Make a Perfect Halong Bay Day Trip from Hanoi?

For those who are still considering, this post will provide you with the deciding factors, the key distinctions between an overnight cruise and a day trip in Halong Bay, as well as some advice on how to choose the best route.

Your trip time, your expectations, and your travel budget are the three primary criteria that will greatly influence how long you stay in HaLong Bay.

Length of trip

Have a look at:

• Best Itinerary Day Cruises for Halong Bay One Day Tour
• BEST Lan Ha Bay Day Tour from Hanoi

Your vacation plans will also undoubtedly have an impact on how long you stay in Ha Long.

• A-Day Trip: A day cruise in Halong Bay is the best option if you have a busy itinerary while visiting Vietnam. The excursion will run from 8 am to 5 pm, so it is suitable for those with a tight schedule. You will choose from the option of visiting the bay in 6 or 8 hours on a day trip.
• Overnight Cruise: For those with flexible schedules, it is advised to stay in Halong Bay for 2-3 days. In fact, a 2-day Halong cruise lasts for 24 hours on the bay to visit a few sites, while a 3-day Halong cruise lasts for 48 hours so that you can explore all the must-sees, must-dos, and untouched locations in the breathtaking bay.

Your Expectation

Halong Bay can be visited in a variety of ways, as preferred by each visitor. While some returning tourists can just spend a day visiting particular areas, first-time visitors need more time for an overnight cruise to fully explore the bay.

So what is your expectation of your Ha Long trip?

• A-day Trip: If you’re really into the natural wonders made of distinctive limestone mountains and caves, a full day tour is enough to visit most of the well-known sites.
• Overnight Cruise: For those who want to experience exciting things to do in Ha Long, an overnight cruise offers a wonderful opportunity to partake in swimming, kayaking, cooking classes, cycling, visiting pearl farms and fishing villages, doing morning Tai Chi exercises,… You’ll have an additional chance to visit several of the large islands and less touristy areas.

Your Budget

Tour costs are undoubtedly an issue to take into consideration while deciding between a day trip and an overnight cruise to Halong Bay. The longer you stay in the bay, the higher the cost you will have to pay for your trip, but it is well worth it

• Cost of Day trip: The cost of a full day trip typically includes lunch, entrance fees to several caves, kayaking and boating to the fishing village,… Typically, a 1-day excursion costs between $45 and $100.
• Overnight Cruise: The cost of an overnight stay will be much higher due to a wider range of costs. The price of a 2-day cruise in Halong Bay typically ranges from $125 to $235 per night, depending on the quality standards.

Manage your expectations. Remember, if you are looking for a cheap Halong Bay cruise, it will not look like that dreamy cruise you might have imagined!

What distinguishes an overnight cruise in Halong from a day tour?

This part provides you with the main differences between a day trip and an overnight cruise in Halong to assist you in making a better choice.

Highlights of Halong Bay Day Tour

Overall, a few hours are barely enough for a few activities, such as cave explorations, swimming, kayaking, and occasionally cooking classes on a full-day Halong Bay cruise.

Visiting caves

A visit to the cave, which is one of the must-do things on the Halong itinerary, will make you impressed by the magnificent and magical caves. And in order to provide time for additional activities, a day tour often only takes you to one of the renowned caves of Halong Bay.

You may like to read more:

• Luon Cave Halong Bay – Travel Guide to the Heaven Gate in Halong Bay
• Sung Sot Cave Halong Bay – All You Should Know about Surprise Cave
• Halong Bay Caves – 10 Must-Visit Caves in Halong Bay

Kayaking and swimming

A day cruise to Halong allows you to kayak and swim on the pristine beaches. You are often provided an hour to paddle slowly between the emerald waters and the steep rock formations.

>>> Read more: Kayaking in Halong Bay – The Completed Guide to Explore Amazing Bay

Watching the sunset on the bay

Halong Bay is a popular destination for tourists due to its landscape and cuisine, but it is also a great location to view the “masterpiece of nature” on the sea every afternoon, which is sunset.

Halong is extremely beautiful when the sun goes down. The colorful lights from the Halong cruises reflect on the sea, creating a shimmering scene with a variety of fanciful colors.

>>> You may want to read Other BEST Day trip from Hanoi

Highlights of Halong Overnight Cruise

There are typically two alternatives for overnight cruises: 2-day, 1-night cruises and 3-day, 2-night cruises. The longer you stay in Halong, the more activities on board you can take part in. Here are some additional activities that overnight itineraries include besides kayaking and exploring caves.

Watching the sunrise

An overnight cruise will give you the chance to view Halong Bay’s gorgeous scenery in the early morning.

Taking a Tai Chi session

You can take part in Tai Chi, a Chinese practice, as part of another fascinating activity on board at dawn. What could be better than to meditate while surrounded by the calm waters of Halong Bay? Early in the morning, the fresh air here will provide you a perfect retreat for your mental well-being and physical balance.

Taking part in a cooking classes

A cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese foods will be included in the first afternoon’s itinerary. You can learn step-by-step about the ingredients and the cooking procedure. For foodies and people who are enthusiastic in both food and Vietnamese cuisine, this is definitely a great activity.

Experiencing night squid fishing

Squid fishing is a must-do activity during an overnight trip to HaLong Bay. You can experience squid fishing on a boat by following the locals’ instructions at night.

In addition, when going squid fishing, you will have the chance to unwind and take in the nighttime splendor of Halong Bay. Then, the squids you caught will be prepared into delectable delicacies so that you can celebrate your fishing achievements.

Check out: The Best Halong Bay Overnight on Cruise

In conclusion, you should consider the pros and cons of each Halong overnight cruise option as follows:

Recommendations for the top cruises to Halong Bay

There are a variety of Halong Bay cruises available with varying lengths to choose from. The following are top-rated cruise suggestions based on their excellent quality, service, price, and positive reviews from previous customers.

Tips for choosing the best itinerary

After carefully examining each sort of itinerary, you should take into consideration the following advice to make your final choice.

The length of stay is the most important thing to consider.

• Your decision will be directly influenced by how long you stay. For overnight cruises, there are two options available, including two-day, one-night cruises and three-day, two-night cruises. And if you want to take a day trip, you can opt to visit the bay in four hours, six hours, or eight hours. For the best decision, you must consider utilizing your time effectively.

An overnight Halong Bay cruise is highly recommended

• because you will have more opportunities to visit unique tourist sites and engage in a variety of activities. A stay of two to three days is also sufficient for you to fully appreciate Halong Bay’s stunning scenery.
• In addition to the above mentioned factors, the weather might occasionally have a significant impact on your plans. A day trip to Halong will be the best option in case of bad weather because it is quite dangerous to spend the night on the bay. On the other hand, if you’re a connoisseur, a 2- or 3-day Halong cruise will allow you to have the most beautiful photos and a delightful experience on one of the most modern cruises.
• In conclusion, Halong Bay is a must-see destination that any traveler to Vietnam should spend at least a day exploring. A day trip is still a great choice if you have a busy schedule. Otherwise, an overnight trip to Halong Bay is highly recommended to fully experience a cruise on the bay.

For further helpful information, don’t hesitate to contact us, we are always willing to assist you.

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Are you buckling up for the Halong Bay tour of a lifetime? This Vietnam's gem is calling, and you're faced with a decision – a day trip or the whole shebang with an overnight cruise? We get it, it's like choosing between a quick espresso shot or savoring a full cup of Vietnamese coffee.

Picture yourself aboard a vessel, gliding through the emerald waters, surrounded by nature's grandeur. Should you opt for a Halong Bay day trip or overnight under the stars ? Halong Bay Cruise Deals will decode the nuances, weigh the pros and cons, and guide you toward a decision that aligns with your wanderlust.

This guide is your backstage pass, your VIP entry into the Halong Bay dilemma. We'll break down the cruise lengths, highlight the differences between day and night options, and even chat about the perks of a single-nighter versus going all-in with two or three nights. Spoiler alert: each has its charm!

So, whether you're ready to splurge on a night under the stars or prefer a breezy day affair, stick around, we've got more tips to make your best Halong Bay cruise journey one for the books!

Factors to Choose a Halong Bay Day Trip Or Overnight

Your time budget on halong bay.

Day Cruise: Tailored for those on a tight schedule from 6-8 hours, the Halong Bay day trip provides a succinct yet captivating glimpse of Halong's beauty within a limited timeframe.

Overnight Cruise: Unlocks the luxury of time, Halong Bay cruise overnight allows travelers a more unhurried and immersive experience, embracing the bay's wonders at a leisurely pace.

SCENIC SPLENDOR VS. PEACEFUL EVENINGS

Day Trip: Revel in the breathtaking landscapes illuminated by the brilliance of the sun, passengers can capture the bay in its daytime splendor.

Overnight Cruise: Transcend into a different realm as the sun sets, transforming the bay into a tranquil canvas of colors. Visitors wake up to the ethereal calm of dawn, a unique experience only an overnight stay can offer.

BUDGET CONSIDERATION

Day Trip: Halong Bay cruise price of a day trip is generally more budget-friendly, catering to travelers seeking an economical yet fulfilling experience.

Overnight Cruise: While a bit heavier on the wallet, the added value of an extended stay often justifies the investment for those seeking a more comprehensive and immersive encounter with Halong Bay.

HALONG BAY ITINERARY DEPTH

Day Trip: The Halong Bay 1-day tour is tailored for a taste of Halong, focusing on popular spots and activities that can be squeezed into a shorter timeframe.

Overnight Cruise: Unveils a more extensive itinerary, reaching beyond the tourist hotspots to explore hidden gems and allowing deeper, tourists can get more meaningful engagement with the bay's wonders.

NEW FRIENDS CONNECTIONS

Day Trip: Offers a vibrant, communal experience with fellow day-trippers, it is ideal for those who thrive on shared moments and group dynamics.

Overnight Cruise: Cultivates a more intimate setting, Halong Bay cruise overnight fosters connections with a smaller group and provides opportunities for quieter, reflective moments amidst the awe-inspiring surroundings.

As you navigate these considerations, reflect on the kind of Halong Bay adventure that resonates with your preferences and travel aspirations. Whether you choose the fleeting charm of a day trip or the unhurried enchantment of an overnight cruise, the Halong Bay boat cruise stands ready to captivate and reveal its wonders in a way that suits your unique journey.

Highlights of Halong Bay Day Trip

Visitors can enjoy a typical day tour of Halong Bay that lasts between six and eight hours. The tours offer a variety of activities such as watching the beautiful sunset, savoring delectable cuisine, and exploring famous places in the bay. 

Visiting caves in Halong Bay

This activity is an essential part of the Halong itinerary, as they are truly magnificent and magical. However, due to time constraints, a day tour often only takes you to one of the renowned caves of Halong Bay such as Sung Sot Cave , Thien Cung Cave , Trong Cave,... 

Watching the sunset on Halong Bay day trips 

It is a breathtaking experience, with the colorful lights from the Halong Bay cruises reflecting on the sea, creating a shimmering scene with a variety of fanciful colors.

Experience kayaking and swimming

A day cruise to Halong allows you to kayak and swim on the pristine beaches, with an hour provided to paddle slowly between the emerald waters and the steep rock formations. Although the time is short, it is still enough for visitors to experience one of the world's seven natural beauty wonders. 

Time efficiency with Halong Bay day cruises

The Halong Bay day trip is a beacon for those with tight schedules. It condenses the breathtaking beauty of the bay into a single day, ensuring you make the most of your limited time. It’s suited for the on-the-go traveler who craves a quick yet fulfilling encounter with the wonders of Halong Bay. If the allure of a Halong Bay Day Trip beckons, you can consider setting sail with the Orchid Cruise Halong Bay - one of Halong Bay luxury cruises for a seamless and unforgettable adventure.

Halong Bay day cruise is budget-friendly

If you're mindful of your expenses, a day trip is a more economical choice. It allows you to experience the beauty of the area without breaking the bank. La Regina Day Cruise is a great choice for those on a budget, offering reasonable prices and special deals through Halong Bay Cruise Deals. Book now to secure your spot and enjoy a captivating experience without overspending!

There are both benefits and drawbacks to taking a day trip to Halong Bay. While you can enjoy some of the sights and activities offered on a day trip, there are also some limitations to keep in mind. 

Halong Bay day cruises offer limited exploration

The time constraints of a day trip might limit your exploration of popular spots, potentially missing out on some hidden gems.

Daytime crowds 

Higher foot traffic during daylight hours could impact the serene ambiance of certain sites.

Therefore, if you're planning a trip to Halong Bay, you must contact Halong Bay Cruise Deals for expert advice and unbeatable deals. Don't leave your trip to chance - let us help you plan an experience that you'll never forget!

Highlights of Halong Bay Overnight Trip

For an overnight trip, you have several options to choose from, including Halong Bay deluxe cruises and budget cruises . Generally, the more extended the cruise, the more activities it offers. Here are some of the activities included in the Halong Bay cruise 2 days 1 night or 3-day itinerary.

Watching the sunrise on Halong Bay overnight cruises

If you want to witness the beautiful sunrise in Halong Bay, you must opt for Halong Bay 2-night cruise which will provide you with the opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery in the early morning. 

Tai Chi Class to start the day

You can also participate in a Tai Chi session, a Chinese practice, at dawn, and meditate while surrounded by the calm waters of Halong Bay. The fresh air in the early morning will give you a perfect retreat for your mental and physical well-being. 

Halong Bay overnight tours offer more cooking classes

Tourists can learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese foods by joining a cooking class that will be included in the first afternoon’s itinerary. The class will teach you step-by-step about the ingredients and cooking procedures and is especially great for food enthusiasts who love Vietnamese cuisine.

Night squid fishing on Halong Bay overnight trips

Night squid fishing is a must-do activity during an overnight trip to Halong Bay. You can experience squid fishing on a boat and follow the locals’ instructions at night.

Compared to a rushed one-day tour, an overnight cruise program offers numerous opportunities for travelers who have sufficient time to experience all the fascinating and thrilling activities that Halong Bay has to offer. Passengers can benefit from:

Extended exploration with Halong Bay overnight cruises 

The overnight trip provides the luxury of time, allowing for a more profound exploration of both iconic and lesser-known attractions such as Tra Bau Area , Vung Vieng Fishing Village , and Tien Ong Cave . Tailored for travelers seeking a comprehensive Halong Bay adventure with a more relaxed pace, allowing for deeper immersion into the bay's wonders. Visitors can witness the magical transformation of Halong at sunset and dawn, moments uniquely embraced during an overnight stay. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary moment!

More cozy setting on Halong Bay overnight cruises

With smaller group sizes, overnight cruises create a more intimate and personalized experience, perfect for those seeking a quieter, reflective journey. Nostalgia Cruise is an excellent option for couples or individuals who desire a quieter and more contemplative exploration while discovering Vietnamese culture in an intimate setting. 

And then, are you trying to decide between a 2-night or 3-night cruise in Halong Bay? Let us help you understand the differences. A 2-night cruise is a great option if you want to strike a balance between time investment and an enriched experience. You'll have enough time to explore the bay and its attractions, but won't feel rushed. On the other hand, a 3-night cruise is tailored for dedicated explorers who want to immerse themselves even deeper into Halong Bay's wonders. You'll have more time to discover hidden treasures and enjoy the scenery at a more leisurely pace. 

As above mentioned, when you embark on the decision-making journey, envision your perfect Halong Bay adventure – whether it's the spirited rhythm of a day trip or the unhurried cadence of an overnight cruise, there's a voyage waiting to unfold uniquely for you. Get in touch with Halong Bay Cruise Deals to get the best offers!

Choosing Between a Halong Bay Day Trip and Overnight: Tips to decide 

If you're still unsure about how to choose between a Halong Bay day trip or an overnight, let us give you some assertive tips:

• Define your priorities: Be clear about your travel aspirations and decide whether you want a thrilling day trip or a more relaxed overnight adventure. Then, you can choose a cruise that aligns with your travel philosophy and resonates with your deepest desires.
• Budget allocation: Halong Bay offers a variety of cruise options at various price ranges. Assess your budget, taking into consideration not just the cost, but also the value each cruise brings to your experience. Your budget is your compass, so ensure that the cruise you choose is affordable and offers enriching experiences.
• Group dynamics: Consider your social preferences. Do you want to be part of a vibrant group during a day trip or a smaller, more intimate group during an overnight cruise? Reflect on your desire for social interactions or quiet moments. Your chosen cruise should complement your preferred group setting.
• Explore comprehensive guides: Dive into our detailed guide How to Choose a Halong Bay Cruise: Tips to Plan Your Halong Bay Cruise for a deeper understanding of the factors that influence your cruise decision. Equipping yourself with knowledge by exploring comprehensive guides will pave the way for an informed cruise choice.
• Tap into expert advice: Connect with Halong Bay Cruise Deals, our insights can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to contact us now!

Deciding between a Halong Bay Day Trip or an Overnight cruise is a bit like choosing your adventure soundtrack – each has its own vibe, and it's all about finding your rhythm. Dive into the options, feel the beats, and make a call that suits your style. 

If you wanna make sure you're making the right decision, contact to get advice from Halong Bay Cruise Deals. Don't be afraid to ask for local wisdom, as it can often provide the most vivid and accurate picture of what to expect. Take the lead in your decision-making, ensuring every wave tells a story and every moment becomes a stroke on the canvas of your travel memories. So go ahead and create a symphony of well-chosen experiences that you'll cherish for a lifetime! 

For any further helpful information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We're here for you, 24/7. Thank you for taking the time to read our travel guide and please feel free to share your thoughts with us!  

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Halong Bay: Day Trip or Overnight Cruise?

Halong Bay is one of the most visited places in Vietnam. It’s such an incredible place on earth where you sail in-between a maze of towering limestone cliffs while taking in the extraordinary scenery.

However, it can be difficult to decide exactly how you should visit Halong Bay. Is it worth it to pay the extra amount of money and do an overnight cruise or is a day trip to Halong Bay enough?

That’s the question we’ll address in this travel guide.

We’ve been lucky enough to visit Halong Bay twice – once on an overnight cruise and once on a day trip. So in this blog post, we’ll dive into the two different ways to visit Halong Bay and discuss itinerary, pros and cons, and prices.

Afterwards, you can hopefully make an informed decision on whether you should spend the extra money on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay or if you should just visit on a day tour.

Either way, we really hope that you get to experience this fantastic place in Vietnam!

AFFILIATE LINKS DISCLOSURE: Dear Reader, this blog post contains affiliate links. If you click on them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here .

About Halong Bay in Vietnam

Before we begin this blog post about how to visit Halong Bay, we want to share a little bit of information about this incredible place in Vietnam, and what you can do to be a better visitor.

Halong Bay is situated in the North of Vietnam. It’s about 170 kilometers away from Hanoi, and the drive takes between 2-3 hours, which is why you can easily do a day tour.

Halong Bay is a true natural wonder.

Since 1994 it has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

It’s a large area in the ocean that consists of a seascape made from 1600 islands. It’s truly an incredibly beautiful place, but it’s also highly touristed.

Sustainable tourism in Halong Bay

Every year, millions of tourists are visiting Halong Bay, which makes it one of the biggest tourist attractions in not just Vietnam, but all of Southeast Asia.

And if there’s one thing we’ve learned from traveling the world, then it is that with mass tourism comes destruction.

On both our day tour around Halong Bay and on the overnight luxury cruise, we saw disgusting garbage streams in the ocean. It was really sad to see. So, please don’t throw any garbage in the bay!

While we recommend everyone to go and experience Halong Bay in this blog post, we don’t find the high numbers of visitors sustainable in the long run. Hopefully Vietnam will limit the numbers of visitors in the future, so the bay gets less polluted.

We’ve also tried to research (latest in 2023) whether there are any electric boats or cruises in the bay that offer tours, but with no luck. If we ever find any eco-friendly options, we’ll make sure to recommend them in this guide.

Now, let’s get to the main essence of this blog post: How to visit Halong bay – on a day tour or luxury cruise?

Day trip in Halong Bay – The cheap option

If you’re staying in Hanoi, then you can easily book a full day tour to Halong Bay . This day tour picks you up at your hotel in Hanoi in the morning, takes you on a cruise in Halong Bay with Vietnamese lunch included and has several sightseeing stops on the way, and then drops you back off at your hotel in the evening.

We also recommend you to go to Cat Ba island and do a day tour from here. Cat Ba island is situated right in the middle of the beautiful bay. Since most tourists head straight to Halong Bay, it’s a quiet tourist destination.

On top of that, Cat Ba island is a national park! it’s beautiful, green, and lush – so grab a scooter and go explore the wilderness. If you are not into exploring the jungle, then you can also head off to the beach, grab a cold beer and just relax.

There are several daily buses going to Cat Ba island and Halong Bay from Hanoi. You can easily get your bus ticket online at 12go.asia .

Halong Bay day tour price

The Halong Bay day trip from Hanoi that we mentioned earlier will set you back $55 per person (notice prices are always subject to change). we can see most day tours on Viator range between $55-$65 per person, unless you go directly from Ha long City or Cat Ba island, then the day trip will be much cheaper.

We ended up paying 540.000 VND per person for a day tour around Lan Ha and Halong Bay from Cat Ba in 2019 (prices may have gone slightly up). This is just to show that going to Cat Ba first is a super cheap option. However, we understand not everyone have the time to go here first.

Our Halong Bay day tour itinerary

• Pick-up at Cat Ba city center in the morning
• Sail around Lan Ha Bay
• Visit a fisherman’s house, learn about their culture, and see their 100 kilo big fish
• Lunch time!
• Swim in the bay
• Sail around Ha Long Bay
• Kayak in the bay
• Swim to a secluded beach
• Return to Cat Ba through a fishermen village

Pros & Cons about the Halong Bay day trip

The best thing about the day tour was to kayak around Halong Bay because it was fun, and it made you feel even closer to the beautiful nature.

We even got to jump into the ocean from the kayak! Although, I’m not sure our guide had planned on this because he didn’t look super content about all of his guests suddenly jumping in the ocean – but we did have a lot of fun getting up into the kayaks again.

The worst thing about the tour was the social atmosphere on the boat.

Glenn had a few beers and tried to socialize, but most of the people on the boat chose to read a book or acted uninterested in us when we tried to engage in conversation. This is one of the problems with booking tours – you never know who you get to spend the day with.

But in the end, we both agreed that the day trip in Halong Bay was really nice – now we just had to experience the overnight cruise and see the different.

Overnight cruise in Halong Bay – the luxurious option

A few months after our day tour, we decided to return to Halong Bay and do an overnight cruise this time. Glenn’s best friend was visiting from Belgium and it was his first time in Vietnam, so of course a trip to the limestone pillars in the ocean was inevitable.

We completely blew our budget by booking this overnight cruise, but we got a lot in return. At first, we were a bit confused about which cruise to book and how to book it. But it turned out to be very easy. We actually just made our booking through Booking.com .

The hard part was to choose between the millions of overnight cruises (okay, maybe a bit exaggerated, but you’ll see if you try and book a luxury cruise in Halong Bay). Eventually, we just picked one.

The cruise crew picked us up in Hanoi, and from that moment on, we didn’t have to do anything for the next 24 hours. We just had to relax and be completely pampered. As budget travelers, we are not used to this… but it was a nice change from some of the lousy hostels we’ve often stayed in.

Halong Bay overnight cruise price

We had a big double room with a bathroom and balcony to ourselves, we were served 4 meals during our time on the cruise, and all activities were already planned and paid for. The only thing that wasn’t included was drinks.

All of this cost us 6.093.000 VND for two people for just one night stay on a luxurious overnight cruise in Halong Bay, which is around $250 depending on the currency rate.

Halong Bay overnight cruise itinerary

• Pick-up in Hanoi
• Check in to our rooms on the cruise
• Kayaking and swimming in the bay
• Sunset and Cooking Class
• Dinner time!
• Squid fishing
• Sunrise and Tai Chi
• Breakfast time!
• Row boat tour

Best and worst things about the overnight cruise

The best thing was to see Halong Bay at night.

And we absolutely loved watching the sunset from the cruise! When it got pitch-black, you could see a ton of lights from the other cruises that were also anchored for the night. It was a really calm and beautiful sight.

The next best things was the food on the cruise, which was really good!

The worst thing about the cruise was that the beers was super overpriced. I know, it sounds a bit silly to complain about drink prices. But seriously, everything on the cruise that wasn’t already paid for was super expensive.

The last thing on the itinerary, the row boat tour, was also very disappointing. We literally went 20 meters into a “cave” to just get out to the other side and row back. Seemed pretty pointless.

Conclusion: Day trip or overnight cruise in Halong Bay

All in all, both experiences were great. But if we were to do it again, we would definitely go back to Cat Ba island for another day tour around Halong Bay! Cat Ba island has so much to offer and we would like to go explore it some more.

We prefer the cheaper and alternative way of visiting Halong Bay because a cruise is just a bit too formal for us.

On the day tour in Halong Bay we got a cultural experience. We felt like we got a lot closer to understand the Vietnamese people living at sea than we did on the overnight cruise. On the cruise it was more about pleasing us guests than learning about Halong Bay.

We also assume that a small day trip boat pollutes Halong Bay less than a big overnight cruise. That might be something to consider if you want to be more eco-friendly. However, we would be hypocrites to tell you not to do the overnight cruise since we did it ourselves and actually had a pretty good time.

One of the absolute highlights of both trips was definitely kayaking around the bay! But we must admit the kayaking in the day tour was way more fun because we even got to kayak through two caves.

That being said, we do not regret doing the cruise in any way. It was a great experience that we’ll cherish. I guess it’s all personal preference. You should ask yourself what you want out of your trip to Halong Bay, and then decide whether you want to do a day tour or an overnight cruise.

Here is the price difference of our two visits to Halong Bay:

Day Tour from Cat Ba: 1.080.000 VND/2 people

Luxury Overnight Night Cruise from Hanoi: 6.093.000 VND/2 people

All we can say is, whether you want to go on a budget day tour or spend a lot of money on an overnight luxury cruise, then you should definitely pay Halong Bay a visit. It’s such a wonderful place on earth!

So what’s it gonna be? Do you want to visit Halong Bay on a day tour or an overnight cruise? We hope this blog post got you a little closer to deciding.

Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below if you have any questions about this blog post. Thanks for reading and happy travels!

Other blog posts from wonderful Vietnam:

• Trang An Boat Tour
• Visiting Mua Caves
• Things to do in Tam Coc

Hi, I'm Cecilie! And I'm the writer behind our travel blog. I only write about places that we've personally been to and want to recommend to you. I'm passionate about creating truthful travel guides, which can help you plan your own trip. When I'm not traveling or writing, you'll find me on a hiking trail, in a coffee shop, or in a shoe store around Copenhagen.

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10 Comments

I was supposed to travel to Vietnam in April but that unfortunately didn‘t happen due to the Virus. Your blog just really makes me look forward to finally going on that trip once everything has somewhat calmed down! Thank you for your tips, they will be very helpful.

Oh I’m sorry to hear that Denise. Vietnam is definitely one of my favorite countries. I hope you get to go soon! 😊

Umm yes please to the luxury cruise in Halong Bay lol. I feel like that would be well worth the money. This is an amazing guide!

Thanks Alexandra! 😊

Awesome tips and info comparing the two experiences! I can definitely see benefits to both but like how you get more of the cultural part with the day excursion. Or if it’s in my budget maybe do both too! I’ve never been to Vietnam but would love to!

Exactly, I did the day tour and a few months later I was back in Vietnam and thought… what the heck, I’ll spend the money and do the cruise. Both of them were amazing! 😊 I hope you get to go Vanessa!

I like what you said about not over paying for simple things! We’ll have to remember this post for our trip to Vietnam.

Thanks Rachel! Enjoy Vietnam 😊

First trip to Cambodia and Vietnam cancelled due to lockdown. in process of planning trip for Feb/Mar 2023. It is a minefield deciding where to to and what to do. Got main itinerary sorted…I think !! Came across you blog this morning and it is going to be my ‘go to’ page for both Cambodia and Vietnam. Will undoubtably spend hours reading of your adventures..just wish we were as young and fit as you two(in 60’s) !!. Robert not looking forward to living out of a suitcase for 3 weeks as potentially staying in 6 places plus hopefully Ha Long cruise. Thankyou for all your information and wish you many more happy adventures. Linda xox

Dear Linda, thank you so much for your lovely message. I’m so very glad you found my blog helpful! And I’m sure you’re going to have an amazing trip – there is so much to see, taste, and experience in both Cambodia and Vietnam. However, it can also be some exhausting countries to travel in, so I understand Robert’s concern. For example, if Google Maps says it takes 3 hours to get somewhere with a car in Cambodia, it’s often double the time because of poor infrastructure. So make sure to count in extra time for overland travel in your itinerary. I’d love to hear your main itinerary if you don’t mind sharing. Enjoy your trip – I hope the long wait you had will only make it better 🙂 Best, Cecilie

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How to Choose the Best Halong Bay Overnight Cruises + 5 Hand-Picked Tours!

May 3, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you’re planning that dream trip to Vietnam, and you’re having a hard time choosing the best option for your Halong Bay cruises overnight , you’re in the perfect place! I have been there and spent hours (if not, days) researching before deciding to choose the best option!

Let me start by saying that a cruise in Halong Bay is part of most Vietnam Itineraries , and certainly one of the bucket lists and highlights of your trip to the country. Halong Bay is a lovely bay in Northern Vietnam, where 1,900 islands and islets rise up from the stunning turquoise waters of the South China Sea .  

Your experience will vary tremendously based on the areas you visit, the time of the year you go, the number of days you visit, and the type of tour you book.

I am here now to share the best activities you will have during your Halong Bay overnight cruise, plus make expert recommendations on what are the best overnight cruises for you! So, without any further ado, let’s dive into this very helpful guide!

You may also want to read:

• 15 Essential Tips Before You Go Cruise in Halong Bay
• Top 10 Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• Ultimate 2-week Vietnam Itinerary

Tips to Choose a Perfect Halong Bay Overnight Cruise:

8. activities on the cruise boat.

Read More: The Most Amazing Halong Bay Luxury Cruises

Best Halong Bay Cruises Overnight Overview

There are hundreds of boats available to choose from, each with a different route, activities, and prices and it can drive us crazy! In this detailed guide, you will find everything you need to know to help you to choose the best Halong Bay cruises overnight, so let’s review some important information first. I also recommend you read the 15 essential tips you should know before you go cruise in Halong Bay .

If you’re looking for even more comfort or perhaps you’re celebrating a special occasion, I recommend you choose one of the incredible Halong Bay luxury cruises .

5 Best Halong Bay Cruises Overnight

You can choose from over 500 licensed junk boats to cruise , and there are options for every taste and pocket. The junk boats can be very simple to super luxurious, and don’t forget the simple rule just like anything else:  you get what you pay for ! The higher the price, the better quality and experience you will have. 

1 . La Pinta In Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay (3-Day & 1-Night)

I did extensive research before I decided on which cruise to choose, and I booked the Le Journey Cruise . I made my choice by reading a lot of reviews and looking at photos of the rooms. Also as it’s a smaller boat with only 16 cabins, I didn’t have to deal with the crowds.

Plus, they are a reputable and ethical tour. The staff does a phenomenal job caring for the hosts, as they are fun and extremely helpful. Cruising at Halong Bay was certainly the highlight of my trip to Vietnam . I chose the 3 days 2 nights overnight cruise , which allowed me to see more of the magnificent bay.

Le Journey Cruise – Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay 3 Days, 2 Nights

The Le Journey Cruise was my choice for an overnight cruise in Halong Bay, and I highly recommend it. The boat is great, the accommodations are very comfortable, and the service and food are outstanding. Besides exploring the best of Halong Bay, you will also sail on Lan Ha Bay, with a jaw-dropping landscape of towering karst, and it’s less crowded.

2. Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi ( 2-Day & 1-Night)

• DAY 1: Tuan Chau Habor – Dog Head Islet – Swan Islet – Ba Hang Floating Village – Luon Cave – Ti Top Island
• DAY 2: Surprise Cave – Fighting Cock Island – Incense Burner Island – Stone Dogs Island – Tuan Chau Habor

Why Take This Tour:

This 2-day & 1-night Halong Bay Overnight Cruise is excellent if you’re short on time as you’ll still get to see plenty of the area’s highlights. Run by Phoenix Cruise, this cruise includes all entrance fees, all your meals, a double/twin cabin, and hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hanoi.

There are also other activities included with your cruises like a cooking class, squid fishing, kayaking, or a bamboo boat tour. If you’re still not convinced then you’ll get to visit a variety of beautiful islets, islands, and caves. This includes Surprise Cave which is the largest cave in Halong Bay!

This 2D/1N cruise will also take you to Ba Hang Floating Village and Ti Top Island so the itinerary is rather jam-packed. However, you’ll still have ample time to relax on the top deck, swim in the emerald waters, and enjoy the epic views.

3. Halong Bay Luxury Cruise (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Hon Gai Wharf – Thien Canh Son Cave –  Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Sung Sot Cave – Ti Top Island

Day 3:  Da Chong Islet – Con Vit Islet – Gia Luan –  Lan Ha Bay – Ba Trai Dao Beach/Tra Bau Area of Lan Ha Bay

This All-Inclusive 3-day & 2-night Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay route tour are one of the most amazing options out there! Not only will you get to visit a variety of destinations, but this cruise puts more of an emphasis on onboard activities and socializing.

The itinerary suggests that each night is full of activities such as cooking classes, karaoke, leisure time at the bar with your fellow passengers, and plenty of board games! Another great thing about this cruise is that you’re guaranteed an ocean-view cabin which is a huge bonus.

As well as the usual places, you’ll get to visit some more hidden gems as you’re staying on board an extra night. This includes caves, beaches, and stunning islets so what are you waiting for? Better yet, you’ll get to explore Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay as well.

4. Halong Bay and Ca Bat Island Cruise (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay – Cua Van Floating Village – Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Cat Ba Island/Pearl Farm – Viet Hai Village – Lan Ha Bay

Day 3: Kayaking/Bamboo Raft Trip – Dark & Bright Cave area/Ti Top Island

*This is a sample itinerary and can change based on which specific itinerary you choose when you go to purchase!

If you’re looking for a romantic time in Halong Bay, this 2-Nights on Best Balcony Cruise is the perfect option. Ran by Halong Bay Cruise Hunters, you know you’re in for a fantastic time as this company has thousands of reviews on Tripadvisor.

For starters, this 3D/2N cruise takes you to some of the most beautiful bays in the area including Halong, Lan Ha, and Bai Tu Long. You’ll also get to choose between some other popular locations depending on your itinerary. This includes the spectacular Cat Ba Island which you’ll be able to explore by bicycle.

All meals are included with this cruise as well as a cooking class, Tai Chi lesson, and kayaking. Just keep in mind that there’s a surcharge per person if you’re cruising during the Christmas season, Chinese New Year, or New Year’s Eve. You’ll also have to pay extra if you’re fancying a massage.

5. Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Halong International Cruise Port – Thien Canh Son Cave – Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Bai Tu Long Bay – Kayaking, Tai Chi, Swimming, & sightseeing

Day 3: Vung Vieng Fishing Village

This 3-day Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay overnight cruise is a great off-the-beaten-path option. Although many of the cruises simply stay in Halong Bay, this ship will take you on a more hidden path so you’ll have a quieter experience.

All meals are included with this cruise, as well as all entrance fees and activities such as the Tai Chi lesson, cooking class, and pre-dinner cocktail party.

The one thing to note with this cruise is that there doesn’t seem to be as much included on the itinerary. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing as you’ll have plenty of time to relax, admire the views, and get involved with the onboard activities. However, if you’d prefer an action-packed itinerary where you’ll get to see a lot within a short amount of time, you might want to go for one of the other options in this guide.

Top Activities To Do In Halong Bay

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Halong Bay. Whether you’re looking to explore by kayak, spend some time swimming, or take a trip on a bamboo boat, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also get to visit a variety of incredible places so let’s take a look at what you’ll be getting up to…

1. Sailing among the majestic limestone kasks

I spent a good amount of time on the boat, sailing, taking pictures, flying the drone or just relaxing on the roof deck while enjoying some very yummy (high alcohol content) cocktails. I felt that I was really on vacation and sometimes it’s so important to slow down and enjoy the magical view, especially if you’re in Halong Bay!

2. Boating on the floating Villages

The cruise line took us to a harbor near some small floating fishing villages. We got picked up by locals with their row boats and they took us along the bay. Each boat held 6-8 people.

We could see the beauty of the mountains very close up. It was intriguing to see the floating villages and be able to observe the families with their dogs living their normal lives in the same way, for so many generations. It was nice and relaxing, and I took many beautiful photos during the tour.

3. Visit a Pearl Farm

Halong Bay Cruises often include a visit to the area’s thriving Pearl Farm. This farm was originally opened in 1995 and owned by a Japanese company until it was sold to locals. Covering around 74 acres and home to around 3,000 cages, it’s rather impressive.

During your visit here, you’ll get to learn all about how pearl cultivation is done as it’s not a simple process. Throughout the tour, you’ll get to see the floating rafts where the pearls are grown, the processing rooms, and the showroom where you’ll see the final product.

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Halong so try to look for a company that includes it in their itinerary. As the Peal Farm is around 15 miles (24 km) from Halong City, you’ll need to be on a 2D/1N or 3D/2N package to visit this destination.

4. Visit Caves during your Halong Bay Tour

Depending on the cruise company you choose, most likely you will visit one of several natural caves on an island (weather permitting). It’s just amazing to think that some islands are hollow and there are lovely formations inside.

If you’re lucky to have a good tour guide, they will also give you an explanation of the history of the cave and an overview of the formations. The view from the top of the cliffside was outstanding, as we could overlook the whole bay and the junk boats.

5. Visit other islands in Halong Bay

Some overnight cruises in Halong Bay offer to visit other islands during the tour. If you want to experience more of the bays in this area, I’d recommend choosing a 3D/2N cruise as this allows you to travel a further distance.

To give you a rough idea, here are some of the other bays that are often included:

• Cat Ba Island : Cat Ba is the largest island in Halong Bay and is famous for its wild and rugged beauty. Half of the island is located within Cat Ba National Park and other areas are relatively untouched. Although not as popular as Halong Bay, tourism is starting to increase here and many tours now include a visit to this island in the package!
• Lan Ha Bay : This bay is located in the Gulf of Tonkin and is much less touristy compared to Halong Bay. However, it’s just as beautiful and if you can you’ll want to visit. Boasting undisturbed beaches, awesome hiking trails, and a unique ecosystem, Lan Ha Bay has a lot to offer. Some tours include a visit to both bays so I’d recommend choosing that option if possible.
• Bai To Long : Lastly we have Bai To Long – one of the largest bays in the area. Although relatively undeveloped compared to other bays in the area, the beauty here is breathtaking. Add that to the fact that you won’t have to share this place with hordes of tourists and you’ve got a sure-fire winner. The pollution here is very low too compared to other bays in the area which is another reason to visit!

6. Kayaking & swimming in Halong Bay

The Halong Bay cruise overnight tour I chose, offers kayaks and it was a highlight of my cruise, so I recommend taking advantage of it. They anchored the junk boat while we had the chance to explore the nearby area at our own pace. It’s an opportunity to see the limestone cliffs close up.

In some instances, you will be able to explore caves, which unfortunately didn’t happen for me in the area where our boat left us. I was able to go to different beaches and just admire the formations.

But please, make sure you are safe and that you have a good conditional kayak, you are offered a life vest, and that you are paddling your kayak in a safe area far from the big fish boats.

7. Taking a trip on a Bamboo Boat

There are plenty of kayaking opportunities on Halong Bay overnight cruises but this experience is something special. Many companies also offer you the chance to explore parts of Halong Bay via bamboo boat – a mode of transport that is often used by local fishermen.

Each bamboo boat can carry between 4-6 people and you’ll be maneuvered around the limestone caves by an expert. Although you can learn to do it yourself, it takes a lot of skill to avoid endless rock formations! As you cruise along Halong Bay you’ll also get to listen to the fisherman’s stories and connect with the locals on another level.

This may be a more suitable option for older individuals or families with small children who aren’t up for kayaking.

Aside from having an action-packed itinerary off the cruise, you’ll also have a variety of awesome activities onboard. No matter your hobbies or interests, you’re guaranteed to find something to your liking.

Here are some of the activities you can expect to find on Halong cruises:

Cooking Class: The cruise line offered a “cooking class” that was basically making summer rolls. It was entertaining, but I never really used my new expertise in my own kitchen.

Fishing Squid: Every night after dinner, if you’re interested, they will provide you with fishing poles and you can catch squid. I passed on the fishing but it’s a unique experience to have and the little ones tend to love it!

Sunrise Tai Chi on the Deck: This is one thing I can definitely get behind. Not only will you get to appreciate the beauty of Halong at sunrise but this martial art has a ton of benefits. It not only helps you physically but it’s thought to have emotional and mental benefits too.

Sunroof Bar: This is something you just have to do whilst on a cruise. There’s no better place to relax than at the Sunroof Bar as you can treat yourself to a cheeky cocktail or beer whilst admiring the epic views.

Spa Massages: This activity is an extra charge but it’s a great way to wind down after the day. The Halong Bay overnight cruises can be pretty taxing as there’s so much to do, so this is a great way to relax and recharge.

Local Wine Experience: Not all cruises will offer these so it will depend on your company. If your company does offer this then fantastic as you’ll get a better understanding of the local alcohol.

Vietnamese Cultural Films: Watching these types of films may not be to everyone’s taste but they’re a great way to learn about the country’s culture.

Music Entertainment: Lastly, many cruises will play music throughout the evening which only adds to the ambiance and location. I have done a Halong Bay overnight cruise during New Year, and we had a DJ with a dancing floor. Even the boat crew joined us, and boy, these guys can dance! We had a blast!

Halong Bay Cruise Overnight Conclusion

Halong Bay is the most frequented place in Vietnam and every year millions of people visit, and for a good reason. The opportunity to sail on a junk ship through hundreds of dramatic limestone mountains sticking up from a deep turquoise sea is like nothing else!

There are so many  karst islands  and rocks rising from the water in every direction that it looks mystic. There are caves, secret lagoons, and sea gypsies so you’ll have endless places to explore.

Not only is Halong Bay beautiful, but there are plenty of awesome activities waiting for you if you opt for an overnight cruise. These will give you a chance to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s culture so the cruises really do offer a bit of everything!

Hopefully, this guide has given you a good idea of what the most popular cruise options are, and what you can expect from your trip.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure you check out my other posts:

• Vietnam Travel Tips: Everything you need to know before your trip
• Best Hoi An itinerary
• Best Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
• Best Hanoi Itinerary
• Best Da Nang itinerary
• Incredible things to do in Mui Ne
• 10 Most Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• 15 Essential tips before you go on a cruise in Halong Bay
• Complete Guide to visit Marble Mountain
• Complete Guide to visit My Son Sanctuary
• 3-day in Sapa Itinerary + Authentic Homestay
• All you need to know before you go to Sapa Homestay with a Black Hmong family
• Sapa Ethical Travel: Why you should book with an independent guide

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2 thoughts on “how to choose the best halong bay overnight cruises + 5 hand-picked tours”.

Good evening. Many thanks 🙂 Excellent article. Myanh Hoang

Right here is the right blog for everyone who wants to understand this topic. You realize so much its almost tough to argue with you (not that I actually would want to?HaHa). You certainly put a new spin on a subject that has been written about for many years. Excellent stuff, just great!

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Visiting Halong Bay: tips to plan your cruise

Apr 18, 2019 • 7 min read

Dotted with jagged limestone pinnacles,  Halong Bay  is one of Vietnam’s biggest attractions. The vast majority of its 10 million visitors a year arrive aboard day and overnight cruises.

The multitude of trips on offer can be overwhelming: here’s the skinny on Halong Bay to get you started.

Make the most of your visit

Halong Bay retains much of the otherworldly magic conjured up by 1969 jungle-clad islands and islets rising from deep emerald waters. Getting there is increasingly straightforward, thanks to the 2018 building of an expressway connecting Halong City and Hanoi , and the opening of Van Don International Airport (with flights to Ho Chi Minh City , and international flights coming soon) a mere 50km from Halong Bay.

But the bay's popularity has taken its toll. Concerned about overcrowding, water pollution and litter, the Vietnamese government has imposed strict regulations.

Today, boats must follow one of five prescribed routes through the bay, meaning overnight cruises leaving roughly from the same place at the same time play follow-the-leader as they hit the major highlights of the bay almost in frustrating concert. In addition, swimming is only allowed at a few designated beaches, with drones surveilling the skies to make sure boat captains comply.

Especially with these rules in place, your choice of cruise can make or break your Halong Bay experience.

Luxury cruises

Want to spoil yourself? Halong Bay has some sumptuous cruise options that are basically luxury hotels on water. You’re paying for the experience of five-star amenities here – not for any particular divergence from the typical cruise itinerary – but if you want to live it up from a swanky sun-lounger while watching the sun set over a vista of craggy jungle-topped islands, you can’t really go wrong.

For a luxury cruise, bank on spending around US$300–350 for a cabin.

Pros:  It’s a serious treat. While the cost may seem high, it typically includes higher quality meals and amenities on board, such as a spa or gym, as well as entry to Halong Bay.

Cons: Those who are after good value should probably look at midrange options. Overnight trips (marketed as two-day/one-night trips) usually involve 24 hours or less on the actual boat, which can rankle given what you pay for the experience.

Budget and midrange cruises

Most Halong Bay visitors go for midrange or budget cruises, but there is a huge range when it comes to price and value for money. At one end of the scale are some ultra-budget boats where conditions are rustic at best; at the other are some excellent midrange options offering cosy hotel-style cabins, knowledgeable on-board tour guides and kayaking stops. If purse strings are tight, for facilities, comfort and safety considerations, it’s sometimes better to choose a day cruise with a midrange operator rather than a bargain-basement overnight trip.

Budget cruise prices start from US$60 per person for a day trip. Paying between US$110 and US$130 should get you a worthwhile overnight midrange cruise.

Pros: Competition is fierce, which means plenty of operators add freebies into the itinerary, such as kayaking and private minibus transfers from Hanoi.

Cons: You have to wade through a lot of options, which can be confusing. It’s worth doing your pre-trip research.

Day cruises

If you’re pressed for time, do as many locals do and see Halong Bay on a day cruise from Tuan Chau Marina in Halong City . Cruise boats can be rented by the hour (around US$30 per hour for a boat that accommodates up to 20 passengers) or you can join other passengers aboard a four- to six-hour cruise for about US$50 per person. Options vary greatly, so check whether the price includes lunch.

Pros: Day cruises are cheap and easily organised tours right on the spot in Halong City, plus there’s free entertainment on board provided by karaoke.

Cons: Can be crowded and noisy, with only time enough for a few stops. Did we mention the karaoke?

Most decent midrange Halong Bay cruises will offer an hour or so of kayaking (some charging an extra fee). Paddling around the karsts allows you to experience the limestone towers from a completely different angle: up close and without the constant thrum of an engine in the background.

For more experienced kayakers, there are also kayak-only trips. These trips are run by a handful of operators based in nearby Lan Ha Bay (off Cat Ba Island ) rather than Halong Bay itself, though Lan Ha’s islet-scattered sea has as much wow factor as Halong Bay and is much less visited.

Full-day kayaking trips from Cat Ba Island cost between US$25 and US$30 per person.

Pros: In one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destinations, a kayak trip is a way of escaping the crowds.

Cons: On a full kayaking tour, you’re only going to see a sliver of the area. To see more, it’s a better idea to take a cruise that includes a kayaking stop.

One of the most important reasons to steer away from the ultra-budget cruises is safety. After a boat sinking (and the loss of 12 lives) in 2011, new safety regulations were brought in for Halong Bay cruise boats, but scrimping on safety does still go on with some fly-by-night operators.

In particular, check that any kayaking stops are accompanied by a guide. Because of the variable and surprisingly strong currents close to the karst islands, a safety-conscious operator won’t allow kayakers to paddle off from the boat by themselves.

Booking tips

Most trips leave from Hanoi, but you can also base yourself in Halong City. When you're booking, bear these tips in mind:

• The Halong Bay entry fee is US$13 per person for a day cruise and US$25 for an overnight cruise. This is generally included in your ticket, though it's worth double-checking for the cheapest cruises. Activities like kayaking and island bike rides may cost extra.
• When comparing prices, check whether a transfers between Hanoi and Halong Bay are included, and if so, whether it’s one-way or round-trip, and if it uses the new expressway or not.
• While the Ha Long–Hai Phong Expressway has cut travel time between Hanoi and Halong Bay to 2½ hours, that really only applies to private vehicles which don’t stop to pick up any other passengers and which don’t make the usual 30-minute comfort stop halfway through the journey. Aboard a shuttle bus, plan for a three to 3½-hour ride.
• Check closely to see whether overnight cruise rates are priced by cabin or by person. Single travellers should expect to pay 70-80% of the full cabin price.
• The itinerary on a one-night cruise can be very packed, with shore excursions, kayaking, swimming and hiking all included, leaving little time to actually just sit and watch the amazing scenery during daylight hours. If you have the time, a two-night itinerary is much more leisurely, with the bonus of visiting sights with fewer people around.

Arranging a tour

Some recommended operators:

• Vega Travel offers good-value overnight and two-night tours with comfortable cabins, and kayaking included. Highly recommended by travellers.
• Cat Ba Ventures runs tours out of Cat Ba Island, taking in both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
• Indochina Sails has a traditional Chinese junk that’s been fully fitted out with all mod cons.
• Handspan Adventure Travel has a proper sailing ship, so you don’t have to put up with that pesky engine hum. Handspan also runs full kayaking tours in nearby Lan Ha Bay.
• Hai Au Aviation offers Vietnam’s only seaplane flights, including a 25-minute scenic flight over Halong Bay which presents a completely different perspective. From the air, the islands truly do resemble the undulating body of a dragon, the meaning of 'Halong'.
• L’Azalée Private Premium Cruise has the bay’s only single-cabin cruiser for an ultra-luxe experience, but expect to pay dearly for the privilege.

One of the best times to visit Halong Bay is November – there are blue skies aplenty, temperatures are moderate and there’s a good chance of calm seas. From May to September, tropical storms can whip up without much warning. This is also high season in Halong, particularly from June to mid-August when domestic tourism peaks.

February to April is often cool and drizzly, and the fog can make visibility low, though also adds an ethereal atmosphere. Year-round, cruises and tourist boats sometimes need to alter their itineraries, or trips can be cancelled with little warning depending on the weather and sea conditions. If you’re booking a cruise, check the fine print for the refund procedures.

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Is It Worth Taking A Halong Bay Day Trip? | 2023 Travel Guide

March 4, 2024 June 11, 2023

When it comes to experiencing Halong Bay , visitors sometimes face a dilemma: should they go for a day trip or remain for a longer period of time? Many people prefer to spend a few nights on a cruise ship or in a nearby hotel to completely immerse themselves in the bay’s stunning scenery. While others are constrained by time or money.

In this article, we delve into the question of whether it is worthwhile to take a Halong Bay day trip. Especially, the trips designed for foreign visitors wishing to make the most of their stay!

Best Budget Halong Bay Cruises For You!

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A day cruise is a fascinating option for those looking for an amazing journey when it comes to witnessing the majestic beauty of Halong Bay. In this part, we will discuss why taking a Halong Bay cruise is an excellent decision for you.

Convenience For Time-Limited Travelers

A day excursion to Halong Bay is ideal for those who have limited time in their schedule. It allows people to enjoy the spectacular grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site without having to remain for a lengthy period of time.

Travelers with limited time may easily incorporate a day excursion into their hectic itinerary, making the most of their stay in the region. The availability of planned excursions is one of the primary benefits of a day trip. These itineraries eliminate the need for passengers to organize their own transportation from Hanoi to Halong .

Furthermore, the schedule is meticulously prepared to ensure that passengers see the key sights of Halong Bay in a limited amount of time.

Cost-Effectiveness

Day trips to Halong Bay are a more affordable option than overnight cruises or extended stays. Travelers on a tight budget can still enjoy nature’s marvels without breaking the bank. Visitors may save a lot of money on lodging by taking a day excursion. They can return to Hanoi the following day, with more affordable choices. Day tours sometimes include meals, lowering the cost of eating in Halong Bay.

Witness The Main Highlights Of Halong Bay

Day trips generally include visits to notable locations such as Titop Island, Sung Sot Cave, and Luon Cave. Travelers may observe the magnificence of these prominent spots and take great photographs. Even if time is limited, day tours provide an opportunity to visit the aesthetically beautiful areas that have made Halong Bay famous worldwide.

Tips For Choosing Halong Bay Day Tours

When planning a day trip to Halong Bay, selecting the right cruise could enhance your experience. Here are some valuable tips to help you make an informed decision.

Find The Trip That Fits Your Interest

It’s critical to have realistic expectations before embarking on a Halong Bay day tour. The gorgeous sails featured on travel blogs may have captured your mind. Yet, it’s crucial to realize that stepping on such sails may not be achievable on a one-day tour. Day cruises in Halong Bay are often conducted aboard double-decker junks that can accommodate up to 46 persons. Furthermore, due to time limits, most day tours will not allow you to engage in activities such as swimming, kayaking, and exploring caverns on a bamboo boat at the same time.

When finding a Halong Bay cruise at the Bai Chay pier, don’t rely completely on chance. First, at the beginning of January 2016, junks no longer depart from there. Second, going down without a strategy might lead to fraud or untrustworthy services. Instead, use the power of the Internet to find credible tour operators with outstanding ratings. Prior to booking, contact them directly to get all relevant information, such as the tour’s cost, duration, and inclusions. Taking these steps will result in a more secure and enjoyable experience.

Choose To Be Picked Up Outside The Pier Area

You will be charged $30 per person if you request to be picked up at the pier parking lot, as that is the price charged by the ports for guides. To avoid this additional charge, simply inform the booking agent that you are willing to meet outside.

Consider Your Suitable Time Length

Normally there are 4-hour, 6-hour and 8-hour tours, you should consider them carefully as each of them will offer different activities. In our opinion, the 6-hour one is highly recommended.

Best One-Day Cruises In Halong Bay!

A one-day cruise is an ideal approach for those with little time to explore the spectacular majesty of Halong Bay. In this section, we will look at some of the best one-day cruise options, highlighting their unique qualities and why they stand out from the crowd.

La Casta Daily Cruise

La Casta Daily Cruise is ideal for people looking for a memorable day vacation in Halong Bay. This trip is ideal for time-constrained tourists such as friends, couples, and families. since it offers a complete program packed with engaging activities.

La Casta Daily Cruise guarantees that every moment matters with a duration of up to 7.5 hours. It transports you across the most breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour includes stops at popular locations such as Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Titov Island. These places are usually included on lengthier two-day cruise itineraries. These gorgeous locations guarantee remarkable experiences that will stay with you for years.

Book the La Casta Daily Cruise with our partner – Vietnam Is Awesome!

Wonderbay Cruise

With Wonderbay Cruise, you may see the finest of Halong Bay in a single day. This remarkable Halong Bay day trip sails for more than 5 hours to the most compelling places often visited on lengthier 2-day excursions.

Wonderbay Cruise offers a fun and adventurous tour through one of the world’s most beautiful bays. Swim in the emerald green and blue pools while enjoying a buffet meal, afternoon tea, and a welcome cocktail. Discover prominent sights such as Surprise Cave, Titop Island, Luon Cave, and Sung Sot Grotto. Trekking Titop Island for panoramic bay views, then you could enjoy a bamboo boat ride or kayaking.

Wonderbay Cruise provides private limousine transportation options. Through that, it assures comfort and convenience for a superb day seeing Halong Bay’s natural wonders.

Book the Wonderbay Cruise with our partner – Vietnam Is Awesome!

Wego Cruise

Wego cruise, an outstanding day cruise that offers almost 5 hours of sailing around the bay’s most mesmerizing places. Thus, it allows you to see the delights of Halong Bay.

Wego cruise offers an immersive experience, enabling you to bathe in the beautiful emerald green and blue waters. You could also take part in activities like discovering the magnificent Surprise Cave, walking to the gorgeous Titov Peak, and paddling in a local bamboo boat or kayaking.

Wego cruise promises a thrilling and hassle-free excursion around one of the world’s most stunning bays, with a handy shuttle bus service and a lovely set seafood lunch meal.

Book the Wego Cruise with our partner – Vietnam Is Awesome!

La Casta Cruise – Explore Lan Ha Bay & Ha Long Bay In 1 Day!

La Casta Cruise provides a magnificent day cruise experience that combines the finest of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay . It includes transfers and sailing on a contemporary cruise ship with a classic style. Thus, passengers may enjoy the finest comfort while viewing the enormous grandeur of these two UNESCO World Heritage sites. This premium cruise is ideal for people looking for a high-quality experience in a short period of time.

Guests on the La Casta Cruise may enjoy a variety of attractions and activities. Every moment is planned for utmost relaxation and enjoyment. You could join a cooking class, a sunset party, kayaking or rowing through stunning stalagmite caverns in the Dark and Light grotto archipelago, and many more. Guests may also see the floating villages of local fisherman, which adds a cultural touch to this unique luxury cruise experience.

Book the La Casta Cruise with our partner – Vietnam Is Awesome!

Ready For Your Dreamy Halong Bay Trip?

Finally, the decision to take a Halong Bay day cruise is ultimately determined by your tastes, time limits, and trip objectives. While day tours are a handy way to explore the splendor of Halong Bay in a short amount of time, they do have certain limits. As a result, for those interested in experiencing this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its stunning vistas, a well-planned multi-day cruise should be a preferable option.

If you’re interested in discovering unique cruise experiences suited to your tastes, we urge you to visit our About Us page . You may also request a quote through our website to get specific advice and help in selecting the best Halong Bay cruise for your interests and budget.

With Halong Hub, you can maximize the value of your Halong Bay experience and embark on an adventure that exceeds your expectations. So, if you want to go on a longer trip, let Halong Hub be your trusted partner in making experiences that will last a lifetime.

Ready To Book With Our Halong Experts?

With over 20 years of experience in tourism and customer services, combined with authentic local insights we know how to help you make the best of Halong Bay. Come with us on the cruise of your lifetime.

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| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Asia , Vietnam · March 23, 2020

Is Halong Bay worth it? An honest Halong Bay cruise review

Real talk: Not all destinations are as they seem on Instagram. I don’t want to burst any bubbles or ruin any bucket lists here but I’m all about sharing the misadventures as well as the adventures, so I wanted to give you an honest Halong Bay cruise review and give you some Halong Bay alternatives too. Read on to find out, is Halong Bay worth it ?

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But first, a disclaimer!

Let me prefix this by saying that everyone has different experiences when they travel somewhere. Weather can impact your enjoyment of a place, expectations can affect how you feel when you’re faced with the reality, and the people around you can make or break it.

I had many people tell me that Halong Bay was one of their life highlights, and with perfect weather and a great group of travel buddies on your boat I can totally see how this could be true.

But in the interest of showing the reality of travel rather than just the highlights, I think it’s important to share honest experiences even when they might not look like what you would normally post on social media. Sometimes there’s rubbish, sometimes it rains, sometimes a place doesn’t live up to what you were hoping for, and that’s totally okay.

Let’s all commit to sharing authentic travel experiences truthfully, rather than just the infinity pools and the cocktails, and then other travellers have a more realistic idea of what to expect when they visit for themselves.

ALSO my three weeks in Vietnam were one of my top trip highlights and it’s definitely one of my favourite countries, so one unsatisfying experience doesn’t taint a whole destination.

What is Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Vietnam, and it’s probably graced your Instagram feed multiple times in the past. It’s famous for bright emerald water, an infinite number of jagged limestone karsts protruding from the ocean, and white wooden junk boats sailing around the islands. It is, in a word, otherworldly.

This tourist hot spot quickly became Vietnam’s most recognisable icon when it was picked out by UNESCO in 2000, and it sees over six million tourists a year.

How do you get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

Most Halong Bay cruises offer a pick up and drop off service from your Hanoi hotel. If your tour doesn’t offer this service or if you want to spend extra time in Halong Bay before or after your cruise, you can choose a private driver , shared bus transfer , shared minibus or a train.

The distance between Hanoi and Halong Bay is about 170km, and a private driver will get you from A to B in three hours (not accounting for any stops). You can book a Halong Bay private transfe r on Klook from £56 for up to three people.

The best value option for getting from Hanoi to Halong Bay and back is a shared transfer, you can jump on a tourist bus from £4 or ride in style in an air-conditioned minibus from £8 .

There’s a Hanoi to Halong Bay train too and prices start at £2.50, but it’s a six or seven hour journey so I don’t think it’s worth it.

About my Halong Bay cruise

There are day trips from Hanoi to Halong Bay, or overnight cruises for two, three or more days.

I opted for the three-day two-night cruise, as I liked the idea of having one full boat day without hours on a bus. This meant we managed to explore deeper into the bay on a day boat, where there were far fewer people, which made a big difference.

I booked this two-night deluxe cruise on Klook for £193 for a single room (vs £295 for two people in a double room). All of the cruises I saw have a single supplement, except for a couple which will pair you with another traveller, not necessarily the same age or gender as you.

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The boat company my trip was with was Phoenix Cruises, who have 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Overall the Phoenix team were brilliant! Hotel pick-up and drop-off were smooth and easy, our guide was hilarious and super friendly, and the staff were always eager to help.

If you’re looking for a bit of a boat party kind of vibe then consider booking a trip to Castaways Island , the private island that is run by Vietnam Backpackers Hostel.

Or if you’re feeling fancy, check out this five star luxury cruise with President Cruises.

About the Halong Bay boat

Our boat was pretty decent, there’s a huge deck with seating upstairs as well as a dining room inside. My cabin was big enough for me but two people and luggage would be a bit of a squeeze, but that’s boats for you! The boat is meant to have free WiFi but unfortunately ours was broken.

You can’t get hungry on the boat, the meals were HUGE. All meals are included while you’re in the bay, and they bring out 8-10 dishes per table for you to choose from so there’s plenty there.

The food was a mix of both Vietnamese and Western food, and they can cater for dietary requirements too. Drinks are separate and cost around £1 for a soft drink, £2 for a local beer and £3-4 for a cocktail.

Our boat had 14 cabins and there was a huge variety of passengers from different countries, different backgrounds and different ages.

Unfortunately one of these passengers was racist, sexist and smoked like a chimney and hacked his lungs out publicly, despite the prevalent worries about coronavirus (this was mid-February 2020). I can normally ignore rude people but unfortunately when you’re stuck on a boat for 48 hours with someone that can be tough!

Luckily I had some pretty awesome other boatmates too. On the first night there was a bunch of five American university students who were part-way through a Semester at Sea study abroad programme, and we spent hours chatting about how to tie travel into their lives when they go back home. I’m sure one of them is reading this, so thought I better give them a shout out ????

Why my Halong Bay experience wasn’t ideal

Unfortunately, our experience at Halong Bay was hampered a bit by some angry weather, and pollution and tourists behaving badly didn’t help.

Don’t get me wrong, the bay was still beautiful, but the fog, rain, cold weather, crowds and rubbish did mean it didn’t quite meet my expectations and I want to be completely honest about that so you know what to expect.

The weather

Obviously no one can do anything about this, but the rain, fog and cold did really impact our time on the boat. Northern Vietnam gets cold in January and February (Halong Bay’s average high in winter is only 20°C with a low of 8°C), but the rain was somewhat unusual for that time of the year.

The best time to visit Halong Bay according to locals is October to December in terms of weather, but those months also bring the biggest crowds.

The fog did look beautifully eerie, but not being able to see the vastness of the never-ending limestone islands did somewhat ruin the magic that I was expecting.

Getting wet was the real kicker though, especially on the day boat where we had no warm and dry cabins and no change of clothes. Six hours of sitting in clothes wet from kayaking and I was a shivering mess!

Halong Bay overtourism

The Halong Bay cruise (and most cruises) include a number of activities like island visits, kayaking, seeing caves and visiting oyster farms. These activities are incredibly touristy, with hoards of other travellers arriving moments after you, all lining up to climb a mountain or explore a cave with camera flashes constantly going off in your face. Boomers, am I right?

Overtourism is something I’m passionate about and it’s a topic I want to try and focus on more in my travels, so I’ll admit I’m disappointed in myself for adding to the Halong Bay problem. Not only does overtourism affect the authenticity of a destination, natural landscapes and ecosystems, it actually negatively affects tourists’ enjoyment of the destination too. So it’s literally a lose-lose situation!

Day two of the cruise, the full boat day, meant that we could take a day boat further into the bay away from the one day and overnight trips, and even the reprieve from that alone made a big difference and definitely made the two-night trip worth it.

It’s also worth noting two things…

1) I am aware I, too, am a tourist. I’m totally a part of this problem too, and I wish I had read up more about the unfortunate Halong Bay overtourism before I went, which is why I’m sharing this with you guys.

And 2) My visit was mid-February at the height* of the coronavirus panic in Asia and when travel restrictions were in place, which meant what I experienced was probably 30-40% less busy than usual. I can’t imagine what a fully populated Halong Bay would be like.

*Editor’s note: I wrote this at the start of March where it seemed like mid-Feb was the height of the corona hysteria, now I’m editing this in my childhood bedroom at the end of March because I had to pause my trip and come home and self-quarantine as international borders close. The world has changed so much in three weeks!

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Tourists behaving badly

What’s worse than way too many tourists? Way too many irresponsible tourists.

The most frustrating instance of this was on one of the kayaking trips where a boat of visitors started throwing plastic-wrapped food, like packets of chips and chocolate bars, at the monkeys on the shore and laughing when they tried to eat them.

Not only is it harmful to feed wild animals, but what do they expect the monkeys to do with the rubbish? Put it in the bin? Sigh.

There were also pockets of floating rubbish all through the bay from where boats were obviously anchored the night before.

Halong Bay seems to have a ban on single use plastic that’s enforced on the boats (no plastic water bottles or snacks) but there are still plenty of local row boats who come around with bags of chips, lollies and soft drinks, plus I’m sure many people bring their own food on board and discard the rubbish overboard without thinking.

The final verdict of my Halong Bay cruise review

Halong Bay is undeniably beautiful, and I don’t blame anyone for having it at the top of their bucket list. If you managed to see it with less people (a two or more night cruise is best for that) or if you had brilliant weather then I imagine I don’t doubt it would be a Vietnam highlight, and if you managed to get both a quiet spot and brilliant weather then you win!

But for me, taking into account the drizzly cold, the litter pockets and the hoardes of tourists, I wouldn’t say I regret Halong Bay, but I also wouldn’t say I’ve added it to my ‘best things I’ve ever seen’ list.

Alternatives to Halong Bay

But wait, it’s not all doom and gloom (or rain and litter in this case)! There are a few options of places to visit to get a Halong Bay-esque experience without the crowds.

Cat Ba Island

Cat Ba Island was one destination that people raved about to me while I was planning my trip, and I wish I had the strength to overcome the Halong Bay FOMO and visit Cat Ba instead. Bad Alexx!

Cat Ba Island is actually the biggest island in Halong Bay, but it’s a destination worth visiting in its own right. From sleepy fishing villages (most in Halong Bay have been shut down by local government to ‘protect the ecosystem’ i.e. make way for more tourist boats), to thick jungle, to secluded grottoes hidden amongst the towering cliffs, Cat Ba and its own Lan Ha Bay are a brilliant escape from the Halong madness.

The good news is you can actually do a trip to both Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island if you really do want to see both. This two night adventure spends a night on the boat in Halong Bay and a night in a hotel or resort on Cat Ba Island, the best of both worlds.

Bai Tu Long Bay

A couple of people recommended Bai Tu Long Bay too, which is slightly north of Halong Bay but seemingly far from the well-trodden tourist trail. The cruises in Bai Tu Long Bay are more expensive but have smaller boats than in Halong Bay, so they’re a bit more private and exclusive. Guaranteed you’ll have less crowds and rubbish up here.

Tam Coc and Ninh Binh

Known as the ‘Halong Bay on land’, the mind-blowing landscapes of the Ninh Binh province, a couple of hours’ drive inland from Hanoi, are another of Vietnam’s hidden gems. With a similar silhouette of giant limestone karsts but with emerald rice paddies in place of turquoise waters, the views in Ninh Binh and nearby Tam Coc were definitely a trip highlight for me.

There are no junk boats but there are row boats, bicycle routes, caves to explore and mountains to climb.

If you’re planning on going, do you think you’ll keep it in your itinerary or consider one of the Halong Bay alternatives? And if you’ve been before, do you think Halong Bay is worth it or do you agree with me? Tell me in the comments!

Looking for Halong Bay cruises or Halong Bay alternatives? Check out all the day trips and overnight cruises right here on Klook .

Like this blog? Pin it!

Read more about my 52 in 52 adventure here , see all of my blog posts from the trip here , or check out my Instagram @findingalexx to see all of my travel photos.

All the basic details from my big 52 in 52 trip:

How do you find your flights? Skyscanner ! I use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest place to fly to each Tuesday Do you fly every week? Not every week no, once I have the destination I check trains and buses to see if there’s any other transport options aside from flying. If so, I usually book these using the Trainline app. How do you book your accommodation? I book all my hotels, hostels and apartments on either booking.com or Hostelworld . Do you have travel insurance? YES, I always travel with travel insurance and you should too. I’m insured for an annual policy with Worldcare NZ . Do you offset your carbon credits? I sure do! I always offset when I book if the airline gives me the option (Ryanair does), and I also offset all my flights using Co2nsensus.com . What luggage do you travel with? I travel with a 75cm Samsonite Cosmolite suitcase , a matching Samsonite Cosmolite 55cm cabin luggage hardcase , and a cheap laptop backpack . What camera do you use? You can see the full list of what’s in my camera bag right here . What laptop do you use? I have a super portable HP Spectre x360 13.3″ laptop, which is an absolute dream to travel with. For more FAQs about my 52 in 52 trip, see this post .

I travelled on the Halong Bay two night cruise as a guest thanks to my ongoing partnership with Klook. As always, all opinions are my own and are based on my own personal experience.

You’ll Also Love

June 27, 2022 at 4:59 pm

Hi, thank you for this detailed, authentic article. We’re planning to go to Northern Vietnam mid to late December and have decided to skip Halong Bay because it seems very similar to the Phi Phi islands. And with limited time, we’ve decided it would be better to visit other destinations. That said, Tam Coc is a place we are considering but I’ve read a few accounts of how over touristy it is and tourists getting inundated by vendors pushing their wares to the point of ruining the experience- did that happen to you at all?

June 28, 2022 at 2:19 am

I didn’t have that experience in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh was a bit more intense in terms of the commercial aspect, but for me Tam Coc was quite calm and peaceful. However I was there in Feb 2020 when borders had already shut to some countries so I definitely didn’t see it at its busiest, my experience might have been more positive than if I had visited in a normal time!

August 18, 2022 at 2:13 am

I had plans to visit bali but my flight was through Vietnam and had some layover. I got tempted and kept a four days gap and got my Vietnam VISAs to explore some of Vietnam. I also underestimated the distance between Ha Noi and HCM and hence within these four days, I planned to travel from HA Noi to Ho Chi Minh. I will enter Vietnam at HaNoi and my flight to Bali will be from HCM. So, booked a flight after spending two days in HAnoi to HCM. Sorry for boring you with a lot of info.

I have only two days in Hanoi and hence booking one night two days trip will mean zero time for exploring Hanoi. So, I will have to settle with just one day, day trip to Hanoi. That means, I will be part of the ‘Problem’ and will be able to explore only one of the crowded areas of the Hay Long bay.

I am travelling with parents and in fact, the trip is for them to visit an international location for the first time. I have been to places but they haven’t and I am joining to make them feel comfortable. They are in their 70s.

Do you think we should still include a day trip to Halong bay or are there any alternatives that you have in mind?

Can you suggest the two days itinerary? We will reach early in the morning and will have two full days with us before our flight in the morning of the third day from Hanoi to HoChiMinh city. PArents are healthy but can only walk 200-300 meters and would not want to make extreme for them as they have total 12 days trip to Vietnam and Bali.

Our budget is medium and not very luxurious!

Thank you in advance!

August 18, 2022 at 6:30 am

Hanoi is a really cool city with lots to do, but if your parents aren’t very mobile then it might be tricky as the city is definitely made for walking or motorbiking, cars are limited on where they can go.

I would suggest doing a day trip to Halong Bay like this one: https://www.klook.com/activity/44865-hana-premium-cruise-halong-bay-high-way/?aid=5164

And you can read my Vietnam itinerary for more suggestions on what to do in Hanoi for two days: https://findingalexx.com/3-week-vietnam-itinerary

HOoe this helps!

September 23, 2022 at 5:34 pm

Just wondering how you got from Ha Long Bay to Nihn Bihn? What is the quickest and cost effective way to get there 🙂

September 24, 2022 at 12:53 pm

My Halong Bay cruise included transport to and from Hanoi, so I caught that back to Hanoi and then booked a bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh 🙂

January 23, 2023 at 8:05 pm

Hi there: Thank you for your detailed description of the Halong Bay. We are at the point of adding to the over tourism problem. We have a specific question, namely we get into Hanoi midmorning and we have that night and the next day and night at most to spare before moving on to Da Nang. Within those time constraints, would you recommend exploring Ha Noi over a day and a half or try to forego the city in favor of the cruise. We will be traveling in late May and none of us have any mobility restrictions. Thanks in advance for your opinion

March 23, 2023 at 11:05 am

Hey! I’m so sorry for the late reply, you might have already booked but I will give you my thoughts anyway. Honestly it is totally up to your preferences, Hanoi is an amazing city with plenty to see and do in 1.5 days, and if you’re a foodie then I’d say you should do a food tour which will take up half a day of that time so then you’d want the next day to see more of the city. If you are more keen on natural landscapes and don’t mind a very hectic day of bus/boat/bus with (probably) lots and lots of other tourists then you could still do the Halong Bay day trip, I’d just suggest not having super high expectations as the chaos/amount of tourists/rushed nature might not give you the best experience if that makes sense!

September 29, 2023 at 5:13 am

Very much appreciate your candid and detailed descriptions of your travel experiences. So helpful.

December 29, 2023 at 1:41 pm

Hi Alex, Thank you so much for your honest assessment of Ha Long Bay. We are seriously thinking of going to Vietnam ( have been to Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos several years back) I am 68, hubby is 73 in good shape, minus the aches and pains. We will work with a high end tour operator who has an excellent reputation. You were there for three weeks and since we are coming from the east coast of the US want your opinion if not only 3 night cruise is worth it in Halong Bay or the other places you mentioned, but Vietnam in general (ie Hoi Ann, Hue, etc). We would like to combine two weeks in Vietnam with a week of a beach vacation somewhere else like southern Thailand -maybe even Palawan islands in the Philippines if not to far. Thoughts on Vietnam would be much appreciated!

January 3, 2024 at 12:34 pm

Hi Sandra! With two weeks in Vietnam you could do a few nights in Halong Bay or one of the alternatives (Bai Tu Long, Cat Ba, Lan Ha) + spend some time in Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City. I’d recommend keeping your visit to 3/4 destinations in those two weeks though otherwise you’ll be spending a tonne of time on buses/in cars/planes getting from A to B. Thailand would be an easy option, just check the season to avoid heading to the wrong side during the wet season. Palawan is a little trickier because I don’t think there are direct flights from Vietnam to Puerto Princesa at the moment so I thiiiink you’d need to go via Manila which would make it a long trip. I’m not totally sure though so best to check your options on Skyscanner!

January 21, 2024 at 5:37 pm

I’ve got lots of great ideas from your various reviews and articles. Thank you. We are pushed for time and I had initially planned 2 nights Hanoi, 1 night Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise, 1 night Tam Coc. Private transfer between places so we go point to point. I’m wondering if we slow down the pace and just go to Hanoi and Ninh Binh. I visited Halong Bay on a boat cruise over 20 years ago and found the diesel fumes and water pollution startling – and that was way back then. Was hoping Bai Tu Long might be different but I’m not sure.

We travel a lot, travel light and move around well (family with kids) but are definitely not boat/tour/group kinda people – we like to travel independently and hang with locals.

January 22, 2024 at 11:42 am

Hey Kate, based on your travel preferences I would say perhaps skip Bai Tu Long Bay and spend more time in Ninh Binh instead, you’ll be more likely to find authentic local experiences there. If you or the kids are particularly keen to see the limestone karst landscapes then Bai Tu Long would definitely be better than Halong Bay, but if you aren’t into boats/sightseeing then there’s probably no need to make the trip and waste a day/night.

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What to expect on an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, Vietnam

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use these links, with no extra cost to you.

Halong Bay is one of the most popular and well known sites in Vietnam. It is considered a spectacle of natural beauty and has been awarded Unesco world heritage status due to its dramatic scenery and biological importance. The area consists of over 1600 small islands and inlets, most of which are uninhabited.

As soon as I started planning our month-long trip to Vietnam, Halong Bay was at the top of my list of places I wanted to visit. It is one of those ‘Bucket list’ places to see in Vietnam. The best way to see Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise, but there are so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming.

If you’re thinking of booking an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, you might be wondering exactly what that entails. I know I did! Let’s be honest, the cruises are not cheap and if you’re like me, who was on a backpacking budget, you’ll want to know what you are getting for your money.

In this post I’ll be sharing all the details of my overnight cruise in Halong Bay, including my honest review and opinion of the whole experience.

1. How to pick the best Halong bay cruise for you? 2. What is the Athena cruise ship like? 3. What is the itinerary for a 1 night / 2 day Halong bay cruise? > Itinerary Overview > Detailed Itinerary 4. My review of the 1 night, 2 day Halong bay cruise with Athena 5. Was it worth the price we paid? 6. Final thoughts of our Halong bay cruise

How to pick the best Halong bay cruise for you?

There are three main options available for cruising Halong Bay: a day cruise, a 1 night / 2 day cruise and a 2 night / 3 day cruise. Most of the cruises offer a hotel transfer from Hanoi (either included in the price or as an extra cost). You can easily reach Hanoi from many places in Vietnam, by train, plane or bus . The time allowed for the journey from Hanoi to Halong bay is around 2 hours and so if you chose a day trip, you would spend half of your time in the coach, rather than on the boat.

There are also lots of places to stay in Halong Bay , so you can also take a cruise directly from there.

There are many different cruise companies operating in Halong bay , each of them have slightly different itineraries – they may also change their itinerary slightly throughout the year. Therefore, if you want to see a specific attraction in Halong Bay, make sure you read the itinerary before booking.

There are also some budget cruises, so if you are travelling or backpacking on a budget in Vietnam, there are still some great options available for you.

The cruise I selected was a 1 night, 2 day cruise on the Athena cruise ship, which I booked via Azotour. I travelled to Vietnam in May 2022, which was not long after the country re-opened to tourists. This meant that not all of the cruise companies were back up and running yet, so Azotour helped to find me a cruise that fitted my dates and requirements.

(Disclaimer: the Athena cruise itinerary may have changed slightly since I took this cruise, so again, check before booking, but hopefully this post will still give you a good idea of what to expect when cruising in Halong bay).

What is the Athena cruise ship like?

The ship I was on was the Athena. It has 21 bedrooms, most of which are standard bedrooms, but there are also some suites too. All of the rooms have balconies and en-suite bathrooms, as well as a kettle and fridge. The bedrooms are small but very luxurious and the beds were so comfortable! It was definitely a nice change to the firm mattresses we had been used to in our budget hotels! We were lucky enough to be upgraded to a Premium Suite, located at the back of the ship. The suite was only a little bigger than the standard sized rooms, but it didn’t matter as we weren’t in the room that often. The main advantage of the Premium Suite was that it had a much larger balcony off the back of the boat, perfect for watching the sunset and sunrise.

Most of the rooms are located on the ground floor and the first floor. The ground floor is also where you also get on and off the ship. The dining room is located on the first floor, with floor to ceiling glass windows on three sides and on the third floor you will find the sundeck, with a bar, seating and a small hot tub in the centre (there are also two further suites on this level).

Everything about the cruise ship felt plush, new and well looked after and maintained. The staff were incredibly friendly and professional and the cruise manager kept us updated with the activities and made sure we had everything we needed.

Our Premium Suite and balcony on the Athena cruise ship

What is the itinerary for a 1 night / 2 day Halong bay cruise?

As I mentioned previously, each company has different itineraries, however this was our itinerary on the Athena at the time of cruising.

Itinerary overview:

08.30 Transfer from Hanoi

12.00 Welcome at cruise port

12.30 Transfer to cruise ship via tender boat and check in

13.00 Depart Halong bay harbour and enjoy buffet lunch in the restaurant

14.45 Transfer by tender to Sung Sot Cave (surprising cave)

15.45 Transfer to Titov Island – option to climb to viewpoint and swim

17.15 Return to cruise ship

17.30 Option to take part in Vietnamese cooking demonstration

18.00 Happy hour on sundeck

19.00 Dinner in the restaurant

20.30 After dinner, option to try squid fishing

06.15 Option to take part in Tai Chi on sundeck

06.45 Light breakfast in the restaurant

07.30 Transfer by tender to Luon Cave for kayaking or trip in bamboo boat

09.00 Return to cruise ship

09.30 Check out of rooms and enjoy buffet brunch in restaurant

10.45 Transfer by tender back to Halong bay port

12.00 Board bus back to Hanoi

Detailed itinerary

Below I’ve shared the full details of my 1 night / 2 day cruise of Halong Bay so you know what to expect before booking your trip:

Day 1 on board the Athena Halong bay cruise

Day 1 on board the Athena cruise was a busy day, jam packed with delicious food and great activities.

Checking in and setting sail

The luxury bus picked us up from our hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter at 8.30am. We stopped to pick some more people up, then we were on our way. The journey from Hanoi to Halong bay cruise port is just under 2.5 hours, but we stopped three times on the way there for a rest break / toilet break! It did feel a bit like the driver was trying to stall a little bit to slow down and stick to the schedule.

Once we were at the cruise port, we were greeted by the cruise manager who checked dietary requirements with us, then we waited for about 30 minutes in the cruise terminal before boarding the tender boat which would take us to the cruise ship.

We left our bags on the tender and made our way to the dining room for a welcome drink – a refreshing watermelon juice – and a safety briefing. After the short welcome, we collected our bags and checked into our rooms.

After checking into our rooms, we set sail to Halong bay and it was time to head back to the dining room to check out the buffet lunch! The lunch was really nice. Options included fried rice, chicken wings, fried sweet potatoes, spring rolls, salad, steamed fish, stir fried vegetables and chicken soup. There was also a selection of fresh fruit and desserts such as sweet coconut rice, profiteroles, and a little coconut cream sponge cake. Tea, coffee and water were also available. If you wanted any other soft or alcoholic drinks you just ordered them with the waiter and charged it back to your room.

The ship stopped and anchored up in Halong bay around 13.45, but we weren’t due to start the first afternoon activity until 14.45, so we weren’t sure what to do with ourselves at first! But we spent the time just relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the view of being surrounded by beautiful limestone island mountains.

Excursion 1: Sung Sot Cave

At 14.45 (they were very punctual throughout our trip!), we boarded the tender boat and went to the first stop which was Sung Sot cave (known as ‘Amazing’ or ‘Surprising’ cave). The cave is one of the biggest attractions in Halong bay. It consists of 3 chambers with the last one being quite large. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much after seeing the Marble Mountains in Da Nang, and the Paradise cave in Phong Nha but it was quite impressive and much bigger than I had anticipated.

There’s 118 stairs to walk up to reach the entrance of the cave and once you’re at the top you’ll be greeted with gorgeous views across the bay. You follow the path around the cave in a big U shape. At times we felt a bit herded through by other people. We like to take our time to really look around and stop to take photos, but it seemed some people just weren’t as interested and marched through. We just let them pass so we could enjoy looking around. The path through the cave is quite smooth and you can easily wear flip flops. It won’t take long to visit the cave and soon we arrived at the tender pick up point, where we were taken to our next stop – Titov Island.

Excursion 2: Titov Island

Titov Island is a small island with a beach and a viewpoint. The walk to the viewpoint is 400m up a set of stairs. It is a steep, but short climb, and there is a handrail to help. Again, wearing flip flops is fine. At the top of the viewpoint you will be rewarded with almost 360 degree views of the bay.

Although the view was impressive, I was a bit disappointed by the number of boats I could see. Not just cruise ships and day trip boats but also huge freight boats and oil tankers. It was a shame really because it kind of ruined the scenery. You could also see the outline of the buildings in the city on the mainland, which was when I realised that we were not actually as far out as I had thought.

The small beach on Titov island was rough sand and the water was murky and not that clean, it was possibly quite polluted from all the boats and oil tankers around the bay. Titov Island is very much there for tourists. There are toilets, showers and several snack bars as well as beach chairs which you can rent. It’s so hard not to make comparisons when you are travelling but I was expecting it to be similar to Nang Yuan Island, off the shores of Koh Tao in Thailand, which although had amenities, felt cleaner, more natural and less commercialised. Despite the boats, the view was really the highlight of this island. I was a bit disappointed with the beach itself if i’m honest.

Back to the ship

After our afternoon visiting Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, we arrived back on the ship at around 5pm, where we had some free time until dinner. There was an option to take part in a Vietnamese cooking lesson to make fresh spring rolls but we decided to skip that and enjoy relaxing in our room and on our balcony. We surfaced from our room at 6pm, in time for happy hour (of course!). All the drinks were buy one, get one free, except for wine. We were lucky enough to have gorgeous weather during our trip and sitting on the sundeck watching the sunset over Halong bay was just perfect.

Evening meal

The evening meal was a 5 course set menu and was pretty much all seafood! Luckily, at the start of the day, the cruise manager checked with us if there was anything we didn’t eat because my husband, Lee, doesn’t eat seafood! We didn’t think to tell them when we made the booking as normally there’s always a couple of options to choose from and there’s almost always a chicken or vegetarian dish! Luckily they swapped the seafood elements for beef or chicken for him.

Our dinner menu

Course 1: Seafood soup (chicken soup for Lee)

Course 2: Papaya salad with squid cake (breaded chicken for Lee)

Course 3: Beef noodles

Course 4: Seabass with 2 large shrimps, 2 oysters and rice (Lee had chicken, beef and vegetables with rice)

Course 4: Melon and dragon fruit (unless it’s covered in pastry or sat on top of a cheesecake, fruit is not a dessert!)

Course 5: Tea and Coffee (not really a ‘course’)

Apart from the disappointing ‘desert’, the evening meal was nice. The presentation was lovely, as you would expect from a luxury cruise, and it tasted good. However, I think I preferred some of the buffet food we had at lunch!

After dinner there was an option to do squid fishing, which to be honest, I forgot about because we were enjoying ourselves chatting to other people we had met on the ship. Some of the Vietnamese guests did karaoke on the sundeck after dinner too (you’re never far away from a karaoke machine in Vietnam, even on a luxury cruise in the middle of the sea it seems!).

The odd thing on our ship was that half of the guests were foreigners and half were Vietnamese and they pretty much kept us apart the whole time. I suppose on the tender boats it made sense so that the cruise manager could give instructions to them in Vietnamese and to us in English. But for the evening meal, instead of being given individual plates of food like we were, they had everything served to them as big sharing portions. Perhaps it was because they were in big groups, and most of the foreigners were in couples, or maybe it’s just because that is how Vietnamese food is often served. I’m not sure, but it felt weird that there was this segregation.

Day 2 on board the Athena Halong bay cruise

Day 2 started with an option to do Tai chi at 6.15am on the sundeck, although I skipped it, deciding to enjoy the comfortable bed for just a bit longer! A buffet breakfast was served at 6.45am and was a selection of cereals, pancakes, pastries, toast and fruit.

Excursion 3 – Kayaking

At 7.30am we got on the tender to Luon cave to do some kayaking (if you didn’t want to kayak, there were some bamboo rowing boats you could take instead. You would need to pay for the driver to take you, but I think it was only 30k vnd pp). The cave is actually only 35m long so more of an arch to be honest! You go under the arch and you are in a small circular lagoon in the bay. Although the bay is very pretty with limestone cliffs covered in trees and calm, green-blue water it was quite small and once you’d seen it there wasn’t much else to do or see.

We were given 45 minutes for kayaking, which was more than enough given the size of the lagoon. Back on the ship, we had 1 hour of free time before check out. It was weird that we had to get up so early for kayaking when we then had an hour of free time before checking out. We sort of felt like we were just hanging out, but it was nice to sit on the balcony as the sun started warming up.

Kayaking in the small but pretty Luon cave

Time to check out

At 9.30am we had to check out of the room leaving our bags outside of our door. We had a buffet brunch, which was a selection of bacon, sausage, fried chicken, bread dumplings, noodles, salad, fried rice and fruit with juice and tea and coffee.

After brunch we relaxed on the sundeck as we sailed back to the port. We had to wait for the tender boat and then once we were in the cruise terminal we waited another 30 mins for the bus.

The bus took about 3 hours and stopped halfway for a rest. It felt like a long day since we got up at 6am and left the boat at 10.45!

My review of the 1 night, 2 day Halong bay cruise with Athena

Staying on the Athena ship did feel like a real treat, particularly for us as we had spent the previous 5 months backpacking on a budget. It was really luxurious and the staff and service was really good.

The food we had was delicious, particularly the buffet lunch and the two breakfasts. The additional drinks we ordered were more expensive than what you might pay in a typical bar on land, but this wasn’t a typical bar and I didn’t think the drinks were as expensive as I had anticipated.

The excursions were really good. We managed to fit a lot into the 2 days (or 2 half-days if you think about it!) and the itinerary and organisation of everything was really smooth and professional.

It did feel like there was a lot of waiting around, which is a shame because I would rather be on the boat for longer, after all that’s what I’d paid for! It would have been better if we hadn’t had so many rest stops on the way to Halong bay. This would have meant we could have boarded sooner and also not have to get up so early on the second day to fit everything in before having to check out.

However, I do understand that they need to do this in order to have back to back bookings. As soon as we checked out of our rooms at 9.30am, housekeeping were straight in turning it around for the next guests to board.

Was it worth the price we paid?

We paid £270 for our 1 night, 2 day cruise with Athena for two people. The actual cost was £250 but we ended up having to pay a bit more as we didn’t want to pay by bank transfer (we prefer to pay with credit card so that we have added protection). The only way to pay by credit card was via paypal, which meant we were charged a credit card fee and also had to deal with paypal’s rubbish exchange rate!)

If you break down what we got for our £270, we had one night of luxury accommodation, 4 meals for two people, 3 excursions on the ship, transfers to and from Hanoi in a luxury bus, plus the experience of cruising around Halong bay. So although it blew our £60 per day backpacking budget, I think it was actually good value for what we got and the experience we had.

Final thoughts of our Halong bay cruise

Although Halong bay is beautiful, it is nowhere near as beautiful and untouched as Phang Nga Bay in Phuket , or Ang Thong Marine park near Koh Samui, Thailand (in my opinion). To be honest, I think it will be hard to beat the Phang Nga bay tour we did, it is one of my personal favourites from our travels in Asia!

All that being said, I did have a great time on our Halong Bay cruise. It was one of the things I really wanted to do when visiting Vietnam and I’m so glad we did. It was a great experience and I really enjoyed it. We saw some beautiful scenery, enjoyed some delicious food and were spoiled with a bit of luxury and great service – what more could you want from a little trip?!

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Overnight Cruise Halong Bay – Is it Worth It?

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Our honest review about the Halong Bay cruise we have done. Including how many days to cruise Halong Ba and how to find the best overnight cruise in Halong Bay for you!

When looking for the best Halong Bay overnight cruises, we stumbled across BEST SELLER- 2 Day/1 Night Cruise with All-Inclusive in Halong by Halong Bay Cruise Hunters who have amazing reviews.

There are plenty of options and we are going to explain how you can find the best Halong Bay cruise for you. We have chosen a 2 day/1 night 5* cruise in Lan Ha Bay.

Read on and find out whether we think our overnight cruise in Halong Bay was worth it.

Is a Halong Bay Cruise Worth it?

What to expect on halong bay overnight cruises, what kind of food can you expect on an overnight cruise in halong bay, what other travellers say about 1 night cruise halong bay, what does the halong bay overnight cruise include, how much does the overnight halong bay cruise cost, how long do you need to cruise halong bay, how to choose the best halong bay cruise, what is the best month for a halong bay cruise, conclusion: should you book the halong bay boat cruise overnight, overnight cruise halong bay – our honest review.

Let’s be honest: We loved our Halong Bay cruise. But we must say that we were also incredibly lucky. We did get one of the best rooms on the ship (nobody knew we were travel bloggers. It was either luck or kindness because we had borrowed our tour guide a pen). Our cabin was glorious with a spacious balcony and a private jacuzzi.

We liked most parts of our cruise:

• Halong Bay itself is a must-visit!
• Transfers ran smoothly.
• Our tour guide, boat captain, and the rest of the personnel were lovely.
• We LOVED our cabin.
• The food was plenty and delicious.
• The activities we did (beach time and kayaking) were great fun.

The only thing we didn’t like was the bar. The music was too loud and drinks were too expensive. But we didn’t mind. We just hopped in our jacuzzi and spent the evening on our balcony.

We absolutely think a Halong Bay cruise is worth it. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason! Yes, we are geology nerds, but cruising through these limestone islets is just such a cool and unique experience.

Whether you go on a day cruise or an overnight cruise, Halong Bay Vietnam is absolutely worth a visit.

Disclaimer: We’re going to talk about the Lan Ha Bay tour because that’s the one we took. The other options are described here .

Our tour started with a pickup in Hanoi.

Once we arrived on the boat, we were served lunch. Afterwards, we could move into our room and the cruising started.

In the afternoon, we were brought to an islet where we could enjoy some beach time and swim in the sea.

The buffet-style dinner was the fanciest meal of the trip. Afterwards, there was the possibility to buy drinks at the bar. Drink prices were pretty high by Vietnamese standards.

The morning started with a light breakfast. After that, it was time for our favourite activity of the trip: Kayaking. We were given thorough directions and headed off to explore the limestone islets, caves, and cliffs on our own.

We were served a rich brunch before leaving the boat.

The transfer back was smooth again.

All meals on board were buffet style so there was something for everyone – from traditional Vietnamese cuisine to French fries. The vegetarian guests seemed to be happy as well.

The Halong Bay cruise reviews are amazing:

⭐ Rating: 5.0 / 5 (2474 reviews)

A must do in Vietnam The whole experience was amazing from start to finish. After being collected from our hotel in Hanoi we were taken to our transfer boat which then took us out to the main boat. There we were greeted by all the members of staff who were charming throughout! Our room was incredible and extremely comfortable, we also loved the views from the balcony. Everything was really well organised and punctual, and the food on board was great. In terms of activities, all of them were fun but we particularly loved the kayaking and swimming in Lan Ha Bay.

– Sophie (see more  reviews )

• Round trip transfer from Hanoi to cruise dock (2-3 hours).
• Fully furnished cabin with A/C.
• Private bathroom, hot water, walk-in shower.
• Kayaking or bamboo boat trip, beach time, swimming.
• Tai chi, cooking class, fishing equipment (not on all cruises).
• Tour guide.
• Happy hour with free juice.

Check the Halong Bay overnight cruise price :

Cruise Halong Bay Tips

Personally, we think 2 days / 1 night is the sweet spot to cruise Halong Bay Vietnam. It’s amazing to see Halong Bay during sunset, at night and in the quiet morning hours.

If you have less time, a day cruise is a great option to see the highlights. If you really want to go in depth, there are also 3 days / 2 nights cruises available.

Finding the best cruise in Halong Bay can seem like a challenge so let us break it down for you:

You have three basic route options for the best cruises in Halong Bay:

• Halong Bay – The UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most crowded.
• Lan Ha Bay – To the Northeast of Halong Bay, similar landscapes but much quieter.
• Bai Tu Long Bay – to the South of Halong Bay, similar landscapes but much quieter.

Concerning the best cruise ship for Halong Bay, you have again three options:

• Budget cruise Halong Bay – 3*
• Deluxe cruise Halong Bay – 4*
• Luxury cruise Halong Bay – 5*

We personally chose a 5 star cruise in Lan Ha Bay as the best Halong Bay overnight cruise for us.

The peak season with cooler temperatures is from November to March. Off-season with higher temperatures and humidity is from April to October. In August and September, storms may lead to tour cancellations.

Yes! We thoroughly enjoyed our Halong Bay cruise. Personally, we think it’s well worth staying overnight in Halong Bay. We loved seeing the sunset, the sunrise, and Halong Bay at night.

We also enjoyed interspering our Vietnam backpacking trip with a more luxurious experience and a stay in a more luxurious room.

• Quick overview over the most important destinations in Vietnam.
• Decide which ones to visit and which ones to skip!

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More Vietnam resources:

North Vietnam Itinerary – 7 to 10 Days Vietnam Itinerary

Our Vietnam 7 day itinerary covers Hanoi, Halong Bay, Tam Coc, and Sapa. If you’re looking for a 10 days in Vietnam itinerary, just add the Ha Giang Motorbike loop to your route.

Travel Planing

How to Find your Perfect Vietnam Homestay

Homestay Vietnam Guide - including the best places to stay!

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Customisable Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos itinerary. 1 - 3 months, including all highlights and public transport options.

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Halong Bay Day Tour: Which Is Best For You? 2024

by Jade Mortimer

Choosing a Halong Bay day tour can be a little overwhelming when you have so many boat options. We’ve picked out the top 10 trips so you can find your favourite to book in just a few minutes!

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Ha Long Bay & Ti Top Island Cruise

We chose this exact Halong Bay day tour because of the great reviews! The trip was great – we enjoyed kayaking, hiking and exploring a cave, plus the boat journey was relaxing and comfortable. The food was decent and we highly recommend that you check it out!

Halong Bay is one of the most popular places to visit when travelling to Vietnam. There are stunning islets to view, caves to explore and hiking trails too – and don’t forget the incredible sunset views here!

Read More: Stay On An Overnight Luxury Cruise in Halong Bay

Taking a day tour to Halong Bay is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to visit this picture-perfect UNESCO World Heritage site, so take your time reading our top tips, recommendations and opinions!

Disclosure: We were guests of Go Asia Travel for this Halong bay day tour, but all opinions are our own!

Our Halong Bay Day Tour With Go Asia Travel Review

Our Halong Bay day tour began with a bus pickup at 8.45 am. We were originally told to be ready at 9:15 am but the bus arrived earlier than this, so do give yourself a bit of extra time to be ready just in case. Luckily we decided against going out for breakfast before our tour and were sat in the hotel lobby anyway when the bus arrived.

It took around another 45 minutes to drive around the Old Quarter collecting all of the other guests, and then we were on our way!

The bus was very comfortable and we had plenty of legroom – yep, even us Daddy Long Legs! Our guide Ivan was fantastic – he gave us lots of information about Vietnam and managed to make us laugh the whole time he was talking.

I think it makes a difference when you feel comfortable asking your tour guide anything, and Ivan really did make everyone feel welcome and was open to all of our questions.

Read More: All Of The Best TWO Night Halong Bay Cruises

After only 20 minutes, we stopped for a toilet/coffee break. We didn’t really think it was necessary as we already knew we’d be stopping again in about an hour. However, it made more sense when we stopped the second time as we realised that the point of this next stop wasn’t to use the bathroom, but to buy pearls from the pearl farm.

We were told that everybody HAD to get off the bus so that the bus driver could drive round to the pickup point. There is no need to stop twice in a 3-hour journey, so I think this was just a way of getting everyone closer to the shop – and I wish that the staff were transparent about this!

Saying that though, we weren’t pressured to buy anything and there were bathroom and toilet facilities to use if you needed them.

Once we arrived at the port, we were taken to our boat and shortly after arriving, we were on our way!

Read More: The Full Guide To Taking The Phu Quoc Cable Car

Lunch was served as we sailed to Halong Bay, and we enjoyed a decent selection of Vietnamese cuisine. I asked for a vegetarian meal, and I was given a whole plate of tofu bits and pieces, noodles, eggs, bread and nuts! I was impressed with the amount of food I had been given, plus there was seafood, rice and vegetables on the table for everyone to share.

Read More: The Best Street Food In Hanoi!

One thing I would say is that although plenty of food is included in the price, drinks are not – even water – and I don’t think that’s fair. We did receive free water on the bus but we’d finished that by the time we arrived to Tuan Chau harbour.

You should have to pay for beer and soft drinks on the cruise, of course, but I think that water should be handed out freely, especially as it can get so hot! A small bottle of water cost 20,000VND which won’t break the bank, but you’ll definitely need more than one so that costs can add up.

Bring a few large bottles but make sure that you keep them on the boat – you won’t be allowed to take plastic bottles onto the island (and rightly so!)

Cruising around Halong Bay was brilliant – it’s such a beautiful place so don’t forget your camera ! Ivan talked to us about some of the different rock formations and showed us the rocks that you can see on a 200,000 VND bank note!

The first stop on our Halong Bay day tour was Ti Top Island (or Titov Island). We had 45 minutes to spend there, with the choice of hiking up to the top of the hill to see the incredible views, cooling off in the sea or relaxing on the beach.

Read More: The BEST Tours on Phu Quoc Island

We chose to climb the hill and the views were stunning from the top, but in hindsight, we wished we had jumped into the sea because it was so insanely hot.

Plus, whilst on the boat, you can look at the rock formations all day, so I think swimming is a better choice because it’s something a little different. We did feel a little rushed as we had to get to the top, enjoy the view and then climb back down again all in 45 minutes, but we managed it!

Read More: How To Get Incredible Tailored Clothes Made In Hoi An

Next was the kayaking or bamboo boat trip. We decided to kayak as that sounded much more fun! We actually did have a great time and I would highly recommend at least getting off the boat (some people chose to stay on rather than taking part in the activity) because the views here are literally mindblowing!

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide To Backpacking Vietnam

You paddle through a cave and out into a bay and I have never seen anything like it! Honestly, we were just taken aback by the beauty of the place, despite the bright little kayaks all floating around nearby.

Again, we only had 45 minutes and this time we felt like we missed out a bit because of the time it took to get everyone onto a kayak or bamboo boat.

Check Availability Of This Exact Tour Here – With Possible Deals!

This actually isn’t something that was in Go Asia Travel’s hands – the problem here is that all of the boats arrived at a similar time (this is to do with the tide) and there just weren’t enough people to manage everyone who wanted to get in the water.

This would be an issue regardless of the boat trip company you chose – it’s just something to be aware of when booking a Halong Bay day tour. Make sure you’re ready to get off the boat quickly, grab a life jacket + paddle, and get to the jetty as quickly as you can!

Even if you don’t want to kayak (or if you have young children) then I’d still highly recommend getting on a bamboo boat to explore the area!

The final stop was to the caves – and we were actually so impressed! We thought that we’d pop into a little cave, look around and leave, but they are HUGE and so fascinating! It’s also much cooler inside the caves so we had a little respite from the heat which was very welcome.

This activity didn’t feel rushed at all – we had a pleasant walk through the caves, stopping to look closer every now and then, and to take photos, and we timed it perfectly to be back on the boat with everyone else.

The cruise back to the port was lovely as we were able to watch the sunset through the rocks – it was such a peaceful and beautiful time to reflect on the day.

Overall, we had a great time on this Halong Bay day tour and would recommend it if you only have one day free for a cruise. There is plenty to squeeze in, but to be honest I think that is to be expected when you have to drive so far to even begin the tour.

My favourite part of our Halong Bay day tour was the kayaking – definitely choose this option if you can! We really enjoyed our day and won’t forget the outstanding beauty of Halong Bay in a hurry!

Read More: Check Out The Best Beaches In Hoi An!

How To Choose The Best Halong Bay Day Tour

Most of the Halong Bay day tours have a similar itinerary, but there are some small differences in what you get for your money, as well as the quality of the boat.

Things like hotel pickup, kayaking and the bamboo boat are sometimes optional extras, which is good if you would prefer not to do them so you don’t pay for something you’re not experiencing.

Most people stay in Hanoi before their Halong Bay day, but if you’re actually staying in the Halong Bay area (Tuan Chau Island for example) then book a tour that doesn’t include pickup to save yourself some money. When you are booking on GetYourGuide or Viator, choose your dates and then you will see the different options to include pickup or not.

Here is a list of the best highly rated Halong Bay day tour types for you to choose from:

Key Information

• Pickup Included: Yes
• Kayaking Included: No
• Need To Take: Water, cash
• Extra Info: Kayak/Bamboo boat $3 pp

Click here to check availability and prices

• Kayaking Included: Yes
• Extra Info: Tour ends 9pm
• Pickup Included: No
• Extra Info: Private tour options

Read More: Try These Awesome Vietnamese Cooking Classes!

Where is Ha Long Bay?

Halong Bay isn’t particularly close to any other tourist destination in Vietnam. It’s in the northeast of the country, about 170km east of Hanoi. It takes around 2.5 hours to drive straight from the Old Quarter to the port – however, the tour buses will stop at least twice for toilet breaks (and Pearl Farm visits!).

Read More: How To Spend 24 Hours In Hanoi

The average journey time for a Halong Bay day cruise from Hanoi is 3 hours. It’s a decent drive – the recent opening of the expressway has cut the time on the road almost in half!

Read More: 9 Fun Things To Do In Vietnam On A Budget

How To Get To Halong Bay

Most Halong Bay day tours offer free pick-up from the Old Quarter of Hanoi as it’s a popular area with travellers. However, if you’d rather make your own way to the harbour instead, or your tour doesn’t offer pickup, there are a few ways to get there.

I’ve listed these in order of ease, but obviously, price is a factor for most people too so I’ve given an approximate cost for each method.

There are public buses but to be honest, it’s not too much cheaper to get a shuttle bus and it’s much simpler!

Read More: How To Check Out The Hanoi Night Market

Shuttle Bus

Speak to your tour company to see if they can pick you up for a fee (if they aren’t including it in your Halong Bay day tour). This applies especially if you’re not staying in the Old Quarter of Hanoi!

If they don’t offer a shuttle bus from where you’re staying, check the form below for a good deal on your journey, or click this link .

Taxi/Private Car

Download Grab as soon as you arrive in Vietnam – it will make your life much easier! You can book a taxi to pick you up in Hanoi and take you all the way to Halong Bay, and you can book one for our return too.

If you’d prefer you can always ask your hotel and they’ll find you a driver. Keep the price above in mind so that you aren’t ripped off!

This is a slow way to visit Halong Bay, and I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it unless you have all the time in the world!

Just turn up to the train station to buy your tickets, and enjoy the pretty views on the way.

Read More: How To Get To Hoi An From Hanoi

What Does A Halong Bay Day Tour Include?

As I mentioned before, most of the Halong Bay day tour trips are similar but be careful that you’re booking a tour that includes everything you need it to.

On a standard day tour to Halong Bay, you can expect:

• Pick up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter
• Water on the shuttle bus
• Lunch (vegetarian options too)
• Island visit
• Kayaking or Bamboo option (pre-paid or not)
• Return to Hanoi’s Old Quarter

If your Halong Bay day tour doesn’t include one or more of these items then I’d recommend finding a different one. Don’t forget that the pickup and kayaking might be optional, but having the choice is a good thing!

Read More: The Gorgeous Hoi An Night Market

What To Pack For A Halong Bay Day Tour

Here are the things that think are most important to bring on your day tour! Plan ahead and check our whole recommended packing list for anything else to bring to Vietnam too!

Jade has used this backpack throughout the world on our travels and we have both been very impressed with the design. It comfortably holds a 3L water reservoir in the specifically designed pouch and contours very nicely over your back to distribute the weight well. I have always had a full camera bag so Jade usually has to take enough for two people which it can do. It's a very reasonable price for a very good day pack.

The Go Pro Hero 12 takes the world-renowned Go Pro formula and hits even greater heights. The best of these has to be the Emmy award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 for incredibly stable video during your wildest of travel adventures, and the front-facing screen for easy selfie and video capture! Find out even more by clicking through!

If you have a GoPro, you probably love a little bit of adventure! This head strap is perfect for capturing the fun but hands-free! It's waterproof too. You can use it on your head or a helmet if you're wearing one, and is adjustable. This head strap is compatible with all GoPros and even other action cameras!

We have been using Anker portable chargers for years and highly recommend their easy design and reasonable size. This super cool 10,000mAh battery pack has magnetic wireless charging capability to help minimise wires and hassle even further. This makes it extremely versatile and helpful for those long periods away from a socket. A must-buy for any backpacking traveller.

Looking for a stylish, flattering, complimenting swimsuit that shows off all of your best features whilst also being great for swimming and having fun? Then check out all of the incredible styles and colours these tummy control swimsuits come in.

Do not let a brilliant experience be ruined by pesky insects biting you all over your body. Insect repellant is not expensive but not having it can affect much more expensive activities. Pick up a bottle of this Picaridin bug spray and enjoy your travel.

A decent pair of polarised sunglasses is difficult to get at a decent price, especially if you want them to look good. These from WOWSUN have lots of different styles (male/female) and colours to choose from and they are very affordable. Click through to see all of your options.

Walking boots are good for some situations but sometimes you don't need heavy, warm, and waterproof shoes to get the job done. These walking shoes by Akk will keep your feet a nice temperature and comfortable for those long days sightseeing and partying in the sun!

This will probably be the last selfie stick you ever buy! It has a sturdy aluminum telescopic 40" range, a tripod for propping your phone up in better locations, a detachable wireless shutter button so you can control when all pictures are taken, and extends down to a brilliantly compact size making it perfect for any type of travel.

This relaxed fit, strapback hat from Adidas is a classic that will keep the sun from your eyes and look decent whilst doing it. There's nothing special to see here, just a well made hat that gets the job done.

Need to change on a crowded beach? No more cowering behind a normal towel whilst someone holds it up! Need a compact towel that fits in your day bag? It's got that covered too. These have genuinely been a lifesaver over the years and there are literally no downsides!

We all know what sunscreen is and we all know how important it is but why go with Sun Bum? They are cruelty-free and are compliant with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act meaning that you will be helping decrease the amount of damage sunscreens have to the environment that you are swimming in. If that hasn't convinced you then click through to find out even more.

This very affordable waterproof fanny pack is perfect for water excursions like kayaking and snorkeling but also for beach days when you don't feel comfortable getting into the water with all your valuables chilling on the sand. This one is a no-frills, 'does the job' pouch that we highly recommend to keep your valuables safe.

If you're into hiking, walking or general outdoor activities, then you need to grab this water reservoir for your backpack. It holds p to 3L of liquid and slides easily into the pouch in the Osprey backpacks. There's a bite valve on the straw part and has a wide opening for easy filling and cleaning.

How Long is a Halong Bay Day Tour?

A typical Halong Bay day tour will last for around 12 hours. It sounds like a long time but you won’t really notice it as there is a good balance of travel time, activities and time to enjoy the views.

Most tours pick you up between 8:30 and 9:30 am depending on where you’re staying. Be ready a little earlier than planned just in case – you don’t want to hold up the bus and the earlier you arrive at the harbour, the better!

You’ll return to the harbour between 5 – 6 pm, and the bus will begin its journey back to Hanoi. There is usually only one stop on the way home, but the time it takes to get back mostly depends on the traffic. Weekdays will take longer, but you’ll usually be back in Hanoi by 9 pm. Don’t book a flight or onward travel for after your Halong Bay day tour though, just in case the travel time changes.

The Best Time To Visit

Vietnam is a great holiday destination all year round, but the best time to visit Halong Bay depends on what you’re looking for!

Our Halong Bay day tour was in June which is the school holiday time! It was fairly busy on Ti Top Island and at the kayaking place, but we were able to enjoy ourselves still. If you want to avoid crowds, go later on in the summer BUT it will be the rainy season!

December – March: Busy time for foreign tourists, cooler weather

April/May – Low rainfall, quiet season

June – August: Rainy season, low season for foreigners, domestic tourists are on their holidays

September – November: Mild weather, still quite busy

Try to avoid national holidays like Tet (Lunar New Year) and the weekends as it gets much busier then.

Tips For Your Halong Bay Day Tour

Before you book your Halong Bay day tour, read my top tips to help you enjoy the day!

• Book in advance. The Halong Bay day tours do really fill up – we travelled during a relatively quiet time compared to other years as foreign tourists aren’t fully back in Vietnam yet, and our boat was at full capacity.
• If you bring any plastic bottles for water, keep them in your bag whilst you visit the islands/caves. You’re not allowed plastic here to protect the environment, but you can buy canned water and snacks on land. The boats serve water in plastic bottles so you should be ok to drink your own whist cruising – just dispose of them in the bin, not the water!
• There are around 60 people on each boat. Even though your tour might only have 25 people on it, you’ll share the boat with another group so it’s just something to keep in mind if you’re only expecting a small group Halong Bay day tour.
• Bring swimwear and a towel for the swimming and kayaking. I would also bring water shoes because the kayaking jetty can get boiling hot and you might be waiting for a while.

Where to stay in Halong Bay

If you’ve decided to stay in a hotel close to the harbour to avoid lots of travel before your Halong Bay day tour, then here are some great options. You can also read our post for more information about where to stay!

Domo Tuan Chau Hotel

More budget-friendly rooms right next to the marina

Golden Palm Halong Hotel

Newly opened with breakfast included and a bar on-site.

Paradise Suites

A bit of luxury in Halong Bay with an outdoor swimming pool and posh whisky bar

Where to stay in Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi is full to the brim of cute places to stay, and I’d recommend staying in the Old Quarter before your Halong Bay day tour. It’s a fantastic place to explore, plus it’s easiest to be picked up from there:

Dream Central Hotel

Low-budget, comfortable rooms with excellent customer service

Leah Silk Hotel

Breakfast included, good massages offered

The Oriental Jade Hotel

Rooftop pool, great location, fitness centre

Frequently Asked Questions About A Halong Bay Day Tour

Is a halong bay day tour enough.

If you only have one day then yes, it’s enough time to enjoy Halong Bay and its beauty. It’s a good way to spend a day and the prices are good. However, if you do have a few more days (and pennies!) to spare, then it’s better to stay overnight!

Is a Halong Bay day tour too touristy?

It’s quite a touristy tour but unless you want to fork out for a private tour (where you would still see other tourists because they’d be visiting the same places) then I wouldn’t worry too much! Places are touristy for good reason sometimes – Halong Bay is just beautiful and everyone wants to go there!

How do I get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

Th easiest way is to ask your tour company for pickup in their shuttle bus. You can get a taxi or take the train too, but I’d recommend getting the bus.

When is the best time to enjoy a Halong Bay day tour?

April and May are relatively quiet times with mild weather, and September – November are lovely too. December to March has the best weather but will be the busiest! June – August will have fewer tourists but more thunderstorms!

How long does a Halong Bay day tour last?

The whole day tour to Halong Bay will last for about 12 hours, including the transfers to and from Hanoi.

Enjoy your Halong Bay day tour and let us know in the comments if you found this post helpful!

Very insightful article, thank you!

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Halong Bay Cruise Overnight Itinerary: Top Tips and Must-See Sights

Halong Bay boasts a spectacular tableau of towering limestone formations and tranquil green waters, and an overnight cruise is one of the best ways to truly revel in the splendor of this UNESCO-protected haven. This guide offers a curated Halong Bay cruise overnight itinerary packed with expert recommendations and essential stops so you can capture the essence of this natural wonder. \

Experience the best Halong Bay overnight cruises in 2024

Paradise sails cruise - exquisite views of halong bay overnight cruise.

This overnight cruise is meticulously designed, echoing the charm of traditional Vietnamese junks yet infused with modern luxury at every turn. From the outset, guests are greeted by interiors adorned with rich sophisticated fabrics and wood, creating an atmosphere that’s both elegant and intimate.

With 16 cabins for 32 guests, it promises tailored services and an exceptional personal touch. Those aboard can indulge in a diverse fusion menu at the upscale onboard restaurant or immerse in authentic relaxation at the Le Parfum Spa, which provides a dedicated treatment room for holistic therapies.

With Paradise Sails, voyagers are treated to immersive excursions — from the royal-style dinner events reminiscent of Vietnam's regal past to insightful journeys uncovering Halong Bay's natural wonders.

A rejuvenating spa treatment during our overnight Halong Bay cruise with Paradise Sails

Paradise Peak Cruise - Enchanting Halong Bay cruise experience

This boutique vessel artfully combines Vietnam's timeless traditional aesthetics with avant-garde facilities, setting the gold standard for cruising in Halong Bay. 

Step aboard, and you'll quickly discern what sets Paradise Peak apart. With only 8 cabins, each boasting top-tier amenities like personal jacuzzis, dedicated dining areas, and bespoke butler service, you are guaranteed a premier voyage. Every cabin, from the Junior Suite to the Superior Suite or Premium Suite, exudes sophistication, offering a haven of relaxation amidst Halong's ethereal landscapes.

But Paradise Peak's luxury goes beyond its cabins. The ship boasts an array of facilities that cater to every whim and desire. You can maintain your fitness regimen while at sea with its state-of-the-art gym. If you fancy a tranquil evening with a book or a cocktail, the outdoor bar and library are at your service. And for those seeking holistic rejuvenation, the Le Parfum Spa offers three massage rooms, a sauna, and a jacuzzi.

An enticing feature of this Halong overnight cruise is its free-flow service. You can indulge in unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring that their culinary journey is as mesmerizing as the scenic one. Options abound at night, including engaging in a game of cards, or trying your hand at squid fishing.

Halong bay boat trip overnight - Paradise Peak Cruise

End your Halong bay cruise overnight by watching movies in our onboard lounge

Paradise Elegance Cruise - Tranquil charm of Halong Bay cruise

While the Paradise Sails and Paradise Peak offer intimate and boutique experiences, the Paradise Elegance takes luxury cruising to a grander scale. As one of the larger vessels in the Paradise Vietnam fleet, Paradise Elegance combines size with sophistication, presenting an all-inclusive luxury cruise that's undeniably among the world's best.

The Paradise Elegance showcases a masterclass in neo-classical design. The ship's expansive sundeck is graced with a contemporary jacuzzi, allowing guests to soak up the mesmerizing beauty of the bay.

Beyond its luxurious interiors, the Halong overnight cruise is dedicated to holistic wellness. The Le Parfum Spa is home to four treatment rooms, promising a tranquil haven where you can indulge in therapies crafted to rejuvenate both body and spirit. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in Halong Bay’s natural beauty by utilizing kayaking equipment or simply engaging in tranquil activities like squid fishing.

Read More:  Experience Halong Bay Cruise 2 days 1 night   with Paradise Elegance 

Image of Paradise Elegance Cruise - One of the Halong Bay Overnight Cruises

Spend an evening listening to live piano in our cozy onboard lounge

Trip highlights for Halong bay boat trip overnight

Despite the limited period of time, the best overnight cruise Halong Bay options offer an opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating splendor of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder. Here are some of the Halong bay tour highlights to anticipate during your journey.

Discover the renowned attractions of Halong Bay

An overnight cruise in Halong Bay promises awe-inspiring vistas of the bay's signature limestone peaks, karst outcrops, and scenic beauty.

Meanwhile, getting on a Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, or Paradise Peak walks you through the stunning charm of Titov Island, Tien Ong Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, the Trong Mai (Fighting Cock) Islet, and many others. 

Immerse yourself in the local culture with these overnight cruise itineraries, visiting Luon Cave and Cua Van fishing village. Here, you can learn about their work and kayak in the pristine waters. These waterborne communities provide an invaluable glimpse into the indigenous fishermen's daily lives, their quaint aquatic homes, and their water-centric livelihoods.

Halong bay boat trip overnight is the optimal way to explore Halong Bay's natural beauty

Sleep onboard the ship

Most cruises boast a selection of cabin choices, from standard rooms to lavish suites, ensuring every traveler finds their sanctuary with a range of cruise amenities. Here at Paradise Vietnam, you have various cabin choices, like Paradise Peak cruise with 8 cabins, Paradise Sails cruise with 16 cabins, and Paradise Elegance cruise with 31 cabins, with each cabin accommodating 2 cruisers.

Their rooms are designed for utmost comfort with air-conditioning, plush bedding, en-suite facilities, and a private balcony, making for an idyllic choice for you to stay at a Halong Bay junk boat overnight . The 5-star Paradise Peak cruise, for instance, also treats you to the relaxing Jacuzzis, a well-equipped fitness room, butler service, and michelin-quality meals at a private dining area.

Read more:  Experience Paradise Vietnam Cruise On Halong Bay Day Cruise Adventure Travel

Sleeping onboard the Halong Bay cruise accommodation boat trip overnight

A variety of cabin and suite options for an unforgettable Halong Bay overnight cruise

Savor flavorsome marine cuisine

With fresh catches made by the bay's dedicated fishermen, the onboard menu invariably takes you on a delectable voyage. It features dishes like succulent grilled prawns, aromatic steamed crabs, and exquisite fish preparations.

Many cruise itineraries enhance this dining experience by organizing alfresco seafood feasts. The silhouettes of limestone formations and emerald waters form the perfect backdrop, enhancing your meal experience manifold.

Feasting on delicious seafood

Savor high-quality dishes at the restaurants on overnight cruise

Kayaking and swimming

Halong Bay's exploration takes on a new dimension when experienced from a kayak. Offering you the chance to navigate its clear waters, kayaking is your ticket to the hidden gems of the bay.

During your cruise activities, you can venture into untouched caves like Sung Sot Cave, Dark and Bright Cave, and the enchanting Luon Cave. Each stroke of your paddle brings you closer to nature, allowing the sheer cliffs, vast lagoons, and iconic limestone pillars to paint a mesmerizing picture around you.

You can also step into the soothing embrace of the bay's waters for a swim. Surrounded by green islands and tall, shadow-casting karsts, you'll truly understand why Halong Bay remains a top destination.

Read More:  Halong Luxury Cruise - Experience the Ultimate in Lavish Comfort

Kayaking is one of the most breathtaking ways to explore Halong Bay

Visit fishing villages

Deep within Halong Bay's stunning confines lies Viet Hai village, a beacon of simplicity and tradition in an ever-changing world. When stepping into this enclave, you'll explore homes crafted from palm and bamboo, each telling stories of generations that have lived there.

The emerald rice fields stretch endlessly, a testament to the village's agrarian roots, while the towering limestone mountains stand as ancient guardians.

Beyond its scenic allure, Viet Hai floating village calls out to the adventurer in you. Guided treks into the dense jungles, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna, promise exhilaration. Meanwhile, boat rides to the serene Lan Ha Bay offer a different, equally stunning scenery.

Explore caves

Explore caves in Halong Bay boat trip overnight

The subterranean world of Halong Bay presents an opportunity to witness the geologic marvels that have, over time, earned this region its esteemed recognition.

Here, within the intricate labyrinth of limestone, each of these caves echoes its own tale of time and nature:

• Sung Sot Cave : The cave unfolds into vast chambers with gigantic hanging and rising mineral formations mimicking a stony forest. The gentle illumination within the chambers accentuates the details, casting ethereal shadows and presenting an almost dreamlike ambiance.
• Dark and Bright Cave : The journey, whether by boat or kayak, introduces travelers to a world of natural wonders. Here, light playfully dances upon stone, and stalagmites and stalactites gleam under the gentle sunlight piercing through the cave's mouth.
• Thien Canh Son Cave : The cavern, bathed in a soft luminescence, displays rock formations so intricately formed they appear to echo tales of mythical beasts and ancient legends. Every corner of this cave evokes a feeling of stepping into pages of a legendary tome, rich with lore and enchantment.
• Luon Cave : A trip to Luon Cave is not merely an exploration but an adventure. The entrance is snug and demanding, but what lies beyond is breathtaking - a verdant amphitheater encased by looming limestone walls, cradling crystal-clear waters that reflect the vibrant greenery overhead.

Discovering Halong Bay's magnificent caves is a highlight of many cruises in the area

Squid fishing

Amid the serene stillness of Halong Bay's overnight stay, a unique experience awaits the eager traveler—squid fishing.

The vast expanse of the dark sky, peppered with stars, stretches endlessly above, casting a shimmering reflection upon the gentle waves below. The blend of this celestial spectacle with the rhythmic motion of the fishing rod creates an atmosphere of tranquility, punctuated by bursts of excitement with every catch.

Read More:  Experience Unmatched Luxury - The Most Luxurious Halong Bay Cruise

Experience local squid fishing first-hand on your Halong Bay overnight cruise

Cooking class

The Paradise Vietnam cooking classes on cruises as part of a travel package will give you an immersive dive into the rich tapestry of Vietnam's culinary heritage. Guided by seasoned chefs, you'll uncover the secrets behind the country's iconic dishes, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the delicate art of presentation.

Once the class concludes, you'll have a piece of Vietnam that you can recreate in your kitchen, sharing its flavors with loved ones and reliving the memories of your Halong Bay tour adventure.

Master traditional Vietnamese dishes yourself through an immersive cooking class

Paradise Vietnam’s Halong Bay overnight cruise itinerary

Experience luxury, entertainment, and breathtaking nature all in one package with our luxury Halong Bay overnight cruise options.

2-Day-1-Night Trip

Day 1: The Halong cruise adventure kickstarts at Tuan Chau Island , where guests embark on the cruise.

The first day unfolds with an immersive visit to Titov Island. The island offers two exhilarating choices: ascend its peak to marvel at the panoramic vistas of the sprawling Halong Bay or enjoy the pristine beach's crystalline waters. The journey then navigates through the Halong Bay's iconic landmark - Luon Cave. 

As evening descends, the luxury cruise anchors in a serene bay, setting the scene for a night of leisure and luxury.

Day 2 : The second day on the Halong cruise begins with an invigorating session of Tai Chi  on the L’Odyssée Sundeck. As the sun's first rays paint the bay, guests are invited to embrace tranquility and harmony through this ancient martial art form.

Following a light breakfast, the journey sails towards its final exploration point – the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave.

Upon returning to the cruise, guests are treated to a sumptuous breakfast buffet at Le Marin restaurant. Concluding the memorable journey, by late morning, the cruise docks back at Tuan Chau Island.

Ease into the day on Halong bay cruise with an invigorating Tai Chi session 

3-Day-2-Night Trip

Day 1 : With itinerary planning in mind, Day 1 follows the same schedule as Day 1 in our 2-Day-1-Night trip

Day 2 : The day begins with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck, welcoming the first rays of the sun and embracing the tranquility that the morning offers.

Following this calming routine, you can relish a luxurious buffet breakfast at the Le Marin restaurant. The next phase of exploration entails boarding the Paradise Explorer. The vessel steers towards the most picturesque hotspots of Halong Bay, including Dong Tien Lake, Trong Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, and various other captivating sights.

The journey takes them to the mesmerizing Tien Ong Cave, renowned for its intricate stalactites and stalagmites. Within the cave, there's an archaeological exhibit showcasing relics from prehistoric times, evidence of life existing thousands of years ago.

By noon, the luxury cruise anchors in the scenic Deu Cave area. Here, you are treated to a lavish lunch amidst the unparalleled serenity that only Halong Bay can offer. The afternoon beckons with a visit to Cua Van floating village. You have the choice to navigate the waters using kayaks or to tour the village in traditional bamboo boats.

As the day progresses, everyone returns to the main cruise to continue their journey through the enchanting Halong Bay. Late afternoon, the vessel anchors once more, presenting you with the opportunity to witness the bay's mesmerizing sunset.

The evening offers another unique culinary lesson with the head chef–a splendid time to enjoy a live band performance and indulge in the gourmet dinner.

An overnight Halong Bay cruise allows you to get up close to the islands scattered 

Day 3 : As dawn breaks, you are greeted with another invigorating Tai Chi session on the L’Odyssée Sundeck, allowing them to feel connected with the serene environment of Halong Bay.

A light breakfast is then served to energize you for the upcoming exploration. The highlight of the morning is to visit Sung Sot Cave, the largest and arguably the most magnificent cave in Halong Bay.

Returning to the cruise, a lavish buffet breakfast awaits at the Le Marin restaurant. The journey then continues with the cruise once again passing by iconic landmarks such as Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, and Fighting Cock Islet.

As the voyage nears its end, guests proceed with the checkout formalities at the reception desk, settling any bills and preparing for disembarkation. By mid-morning, the cruise ship docks at Tuan Chau Island, marking the end of an unforgettable Halong Bay boat trip overnight .

Departure time and location for Halong bay boat trip overnight

Multi-day Halong Bay cruises typically set sail around noon

Your chosen cruise option dictates both the time and place of departure. The primary point of embarkation is Tuan Chau Wharf, found just 8 kilometers outside of Halong City. Cruise operators may also alternatively depart from other locations in Hai Phong or Quang Ninh.  It is highly advisable to confirm your cruise's precise departure time and location directly with the provider well in advance.

Most of these Halong cruises have their boarding times set for early afternoon, usually around noon. Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, and Paradise Peak all depart at 12 p.m., and you can check in at their Paradise Suites Hotel.

Make transportation plans to arrive comfortably ahead of schedule, accounting for traffic or other potential delays. Arriving early eliminates any risk of missing your scheduled departure.

Costs of Halong Bay cruise overnight

The cost of an overnight cruise in Halong Bay can vary significantly based on several factors, including the cruise operator, the level of luxury, the duration of the cruise, the type of cabin. It's essential to research and compare options to find one that fits your budget and preferences.

Cost of Paradise Peak 2 days 1 night for single or double and children

Table price of Paradise Elegance 2 days 1 night

Table price of Paradise Sails 2 days 1 night 

Typically, costs may vary between $100 to $300 each person. There are cruises tailored to provide a comprehensive Halong Bay experience without the premium price tag. These budget-friendly options prioritize essential amenities, often featuring shared accommodations.

For those seeking a more opulent experience, there are premium cruises available. They offer enhanced amenities like private balconies, specialized spa treatments, and gourmet dining experiences. These luxury options can command prices of up to more than $500 per person.

Be aware that even with the established price, some cruises might levy additional charges for specific activities or premium services.

Read More:  Escape to Paradise: Halong Bay Cruise 3 days 2 nights Experience

Ready for your Halong Bay overnight cruise?

Weather and the best time for an overnight halong bay boat trip.

Best time for Halong Bay cruise overnight

The weather patterns here can be broadly divided into a cooler, drier period from October to April and a warmer, rainier summer spanning the months of May through September. This split is attributed to monsoon seasons, a phenomenon common to tropical regions.

When planning a trip to Ha Long Bay, the optimal time to visit is from October to April. During this period, visitors can enjoy comfortable outdoor sightseeing, as the clear blue skies tend to be brighter and rainfall is minimal, with the exception of occasional light drizzle.

For those keen on trekking, cycling, or exploring rural villages, this period presents ideal conditions. The main drawback is that some water-based activities, like kayaking, may be limited during the colder period.

Is it worth staying on a cruise in Halong Bay?

Absolutely, it is worth staying on a cruise in Halong Bay. The pristine beauty of Halong Bay, with its towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, is best experienced from the deck of a cruise ship.

With a Halong Bay boat trip overnight, you will get the chance to witness the bay's splendor up close, navigate through its islets, and discover hidden lagoons and caves that are otherwise inaccessible. Staying overnight on the calm water also lets you soak in the breathtaking sunset and sunrise and make the experience truly unforgettable.

Sundecks on Halong bay cruise overnight provide vantage points Halong Bay's scenery

How many nights do you need in Halong Bay?

Two or three nights should give you enough time to capture the essence of Halong Bay tourist experience. This duration ensures that guests can explore significant landmarks, partake in enjoyable activities, and still have moments of relaxation amidst the bay's serene setting.

Which option is preferable: an overnight cruise or a day cruise in Halong Bay? Whichever kind of immersion you like, an overnight or day cruise in Halong Bay is what you should do. Halong bay boat trip overnight offers a more tranquil experience with activities like night squid fishing, allowing you to take in the beauty of the bay between dusk and dawn. A day cruise gives you a peek but not enough time to explore. If you have the time, staying overnight offers a more in-depth, relaxed experience of the breathtaking scenery.

What should first-timers keep in mind when choose overnight cruise in Halong Bay? When embarking on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay for the first time, it's critical to take into account the cruise operator's reputation, the itinerary, cabin comfort, and included activities. Make sure the trip suits your interests for leisure and activities, and keep an eye out for any hidden fees.

Do all overnight cruises in Halong Bay provide meals as part of the package? Yes, meals are included in the price of most overnight cruises in Halong Bay. They usually serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on regional Vietnamese cuisines and fresh seafood.

Paradise Vietnam specializes in offering world-class Halong Bay overnight cruises that epitomize luxury and comfort. Tourist reviews rave about the enchanting Halong Bay cruise overnight with Paradise, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes and impeccable services that make it an unforgettable experience. For those interested in immersing themselves in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we would be delighted if you could contact us for further details or to make a booking.

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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.

COMBO PARADISE SUITES HOTEL & PARADISE DELIGHT DINNING CRUISE

Providing the most complete amenities and experiences both on land and during a cruise in the heart of Ha Long Bay. A 2 days 1 night combo at the first and only boutique hotel in Tuan Chau Island - Paradise Suite Hotel and enjoy the 4-hour itinerary on 5-star super-dining cruise.

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Choosing the Best Halong Bay Cruise Route for Day Trips and Overnight Package.

Cruising on Halong Bay for an overnight cruise or day cruise, you must know the cruise route that aligns with your travel plan and preference. For an overnight cruise, you have 3 cruising route and a day cruise provides you 5 routes to choose from. Get to know these Halong Bay cruise routes in this article. For the Halong Bay overnight cruise, there are 3 different routes:

Halong Bay – The Journey Through the Heart of the Bay

The central Halong Bay route delivers a comprehensive tour of the area’s most iconic sights. This itinerary provides you with the best highlights of Halong Bay, the area that was twice recognized by UNESCO. You can find the best natural landscape of Halong Bay here. The visiting sites in this itinerary include:

• Limestone Karsts: Set sail on a captivating journey across Halong Bay’s enchanting waters, surrounded by a spectacular array of limestone karsts and islets. These magnificent geological formations create a scenic panorama that has earned global recognition.
• Fighting Cocks Islets: These uniquely shaped islets are among the most photographed in Halong Bay, resembling two cocks poised for battle and adding to the mystique of the landscape.
• Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): Explore the vast and impressive Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest caves in Halong Bay. Inside, you’ll find yourself surrounded by intricate stalactite and stalagmite formations, each adding to the cave’s awe-inspiring atmosphere.
• Tito Island: Make your way to Titov Island, named after Russian astronaut Gherman Titov. A climb to its peak offers panoramic views that encompass the entirety of Halong Bay’s stunning karst terrain and sparkling waters.

Bai Tho Junks offers you the best itinerary to explore the center of Halong Bay, check out the details itinerary here:

• 2-day 1-night cruise
• 3-day 2-night cruise

Lan Ha Bay – The Serene Southern Extension of Halong Bay

Situated to the south of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay in Hai Phong province is a tranquil retreat from the well-trodden paths of its northern counterpart.

• Serene Seascapes: Experience the calm waters of Lan Ha Bay, where the landscape of limestone mountains and lush islets seems lifted from a fairy tale. Here, tranquility is more than a feature; it’s a companion.
• Pristine Beaches: Venture to the secluded beaches and hidden coves of Lan Ha Bay. These untouched spots offer a peaceful respite where you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and serene solitude.
• Kayaking and Enchanted Lagoons: Explore the mystical lagoons and shadowy caves of Lan Ha Bay by kayak. Navigate through narrow passages and marvel at the stunning geological formations.
• Cai Beo Fishing Villages: Discover the floating fishing villages where life flows with the tide. Engage with local fishermen, learn about their traditional lifestyles, and capture the essence of their water-bound existence.
• Rowing to Bright Cave: Take a leisurely row to Bright Cave, passing through an 80-meter cave to a picturesque lagoon framed by limestone karsts

Bai Tu Long Bay – The Undiscovered Gem

Bai Tu Long Bay is an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature. This lesser-known area offers a peaceful, pristine setting, perfect for escaping the crowded tourist hotspots. Begin your journey by cruising through the crystal-clear waters, encircled by majestic limestone karsts and lush, green islets that epitomize the untouched beauty of the region.

• Thien Canh Son Cave: Delve into the enchanting Thien Canh Son Cave, a natural gallery showcasing exquisite stalactite and stalagmite formations that highlight the artistic mastery of nature.
• Vung Vieng Floating Village: Take time to immerse yourself in the local culture at Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Here, friendly fishermen share insights into their life and unique relationship with the sea.
• Pristine & Wild Beaches: Unwind on untouched beaches or enjoy a serene cruise through quiet bays, soaking in the pristine beauty all around you.
• Kayaking Adventure: For the more adventurous, hidden lagoons, caves, and secluded coves await exploration in the remote corners of Cong Dam and Cong Do.

Check out the 2-day 1-night cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay: https://baithojunks.com/bai-tu-long-bay-2-day-1-night-cruise/

Halong Bay Cruise Routes for Day Trips:

Route 1: habour – thien cung cave – ba hang.

• Port → Thien Cung Cave → Dau Go Cave → Stone Dog Islet, Ba Hang area, Dinh Huong Islet, Fighting Cock Islet
• Duration: 4-hour cruise

Detailed Itinerary:

• Departure : Guests will depart from Tuan Chau International Port or Halong Port and settle into their seats to begin the tour.
• First Stop : The tour boat will take you to Dau Go Island to visit the two famous caves, Thien Cung Cave and Dau Go Cave.
• Next Stops : After exploring Dau Go Island, the boat will move to the Stone Dog Islet and Ba Hang area where you can enjoy kayaking or local bamboo boat riding.
• Final Stops : The tour will continue to a spot near Dinh Huong Islet and Fighting Cock Islet, where guests can check in and take photos at these iconic landmarks.

Route 2: Habour – Titop Island – Sung Sot cave

• Port → Soi Sim Island → Ti Top Island → Sung Sot Cave → Luon Cave → Me Cung Cave
• Duration: 6-hour cruise, 7-hour cruise, 8-hour cruise ( Day cruise), 2 days 1-night cruise
• Departure : Guests will board the cruise at Halong Port or Tuan Chau International Port. The first stops will be at Soi Sim Island or Ti Top Island.
• Island Visits : After exploring and taking photos on these islands, the journey continues with views of Bo Nau Cave, Drum Cave, and Virgin Cave.
• Main Attraction : The majority of the tour will be spent visiting Bo Hon Island, where you will experience the unique beauty of Sung Sot Cave and Luon Cave (kayaking and local bamboo boat riding)

Route 3: Habour → Cua Van Fishing Village → Ba Ham Lake

• Habour → Cua Van Fishing Village → Ha Long Floating Cultural Center → Tien Ong Cave → Ba Ham Lake → Ba Men Temple
• Tour duration: 6-8 hours
• Departure : The journey starts at Tuan Chau International Port, heading first to the Hang Trai Island cluster and the Cua Van Floating Cultural Center. This area features many unique artifacts from Ha Long’s fishermen and rich cultural and historical documentation of the fishing community living in Ha Long Bay.
• Cultural Sites : The tour continues with visits to notable sites such as Bamboo Forest, Tien Ong Cave, Ang Du, and Ba Ham Lake.
• Final Stop : The tour concludes at Ba Men Temple, a place of spiritual significance for the fishermen of Ha Long Bay.

Route 4: Habour – Bai Tu Long Bay

• Habour → Bai Tu Long Bay → Cong Do Island → Tung Ang Ecological Area → Vung Vieng Fishing Village
• Tour duration: 6 – 8 hours (Day cruise), 2 day 1 night cruise
• Departure : Guests will be picked up at Halong Port and the first stops will be Thien Canh Son cave
• Main Attractions : The tour continues with visits to Bai Tu Long Bay, go kayaking in Cong Do area then visit Thien Canh Son cave and take the local bamboo boat to explore  Vung Vieng Fishing Village.

Route 5: Port – Gia Luan Dock (Cat Ba – Hai Phong)

Itinerary for Route 5:

• Port → Ha Long Bay → Lan Ha Bay → Dau Go Cave → Dinh Huong Islet → Fighting Cock Islet → Viet Hai Village
• Departure : Guests will board the cruise at Tuan Chau International Port and head to the first stop at Dau Go Island. Here, you can admire the beauty of Thien Cung Cave and Dau Go Cave.
• Scenic Stops : The tour continues with visits to Stone Dog Islet, Ba Hang Cave, Dinh Huong Islet, and Fighting Cock Islet.
• Exploration : The journey becomes even more fascinating as you navigate through various islands and caves with diverse shapes and formations.
• Final Destination : The tour concludes with an immersive experience at Viet Hai Village.

Route Comparison – Which Halong Bay Route Suits You Best?

Selecting the ideal route for your Halong Bay cruise depends on your personal preferences and the experiences you wish to have. Each route has its own unique appeal and highlights. Here’s a guide to help you make a well-informed choice:

• Halong Bay – The Most Popular and Iconic Route: This route is famous for its breathtaking limestone formations and includes visits to Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, along with various water activities. It’s the quintessential choice for travelers eager to explore the renowned beauty and charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Bai Tu Long Bay – The Serene and Untouched Area: For those looking for tranquility, this route offers a secluded escape with serene waters and hidden spots that provide a glimpse into the local way of life. It’s ideal for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in a pristine and peaceful natural setting.
• Lan Ha Bay: Explore tranquil waters, hidden coves, and kayaking adventures on this route. It’s perfect for those wanting to disconnect and enjoy serene, untouched landscapes. The key attractions include the gentle sway of calm waters and the pristine beauty of the area.

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All Inclusive: Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night – Overnight Cruise

Exploring the enchanting Ha Long Bay has become a must-do experience for many travelers to Vietnam. With an all-inclusive 2-day, 1-night overnight cruise package , visitors can enjoy the captivating limestone karsts , serene waters, and vibrant local culture. From round-trip transfers and guided activities to delectable dining and comfortable accommodations, this curated itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure . Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas, thrilling outdoor pursuits, or simply a chance to unwind and recharge, this comprehensive cruise offers a seamless way to discover the allure of this UNESCO World Heritage site . With flexibility and value in mind, the journey awaits those ready to…

• The 2-day 1-night All Inclusive Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise is priced from $195.72 per person with round-trip limousine transfers from Hanoi included.
• The cruise features a 2-hour boat tour, kayaking, swimming, meals, and an English-speaking guide, with highlights like Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and Lan Ha Bay.
• The itinerary includes a 3-hour limousine transfer to Ha Long Bay, a 2-hour boat cruise with lunch, 1-hour kayaking and swimming, dinner at Sung Sot Cave, and a 3-hour return transfer.
• The package includes air-conditioned cabin accommodation, meals, activities, and transfers, while excluding alcohol, soft drinks, massages, and personal expenses.
• Guests are advised to bring swimwear and waterproof bags, and the cruise is not suitable for individuals prone to altitude sickness or over 95 years old.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• From Hanoi: 5-Day Sapa, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay Cruise 4stars
• Ha Long – Ninh Binh – Ha Long Daily Limousine Bus
• From Hanoi: Halong Bay Full Day 5-star Cruise
• From Hanoi: Overnight Halong Bay Luxury Cruise With Meals

All Inclusive: Ha Long Bay 2 days 1 night – Overnight Cruise offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay.

Priced from $195.72 per person, this 1-day tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and includes round-trip limousine transfers from Hanoi.

The package features a 2-hour boat cruise, activities like kayaking and swimming, meals, and an English-speaking guide.

Highlights include visiting iconic sites like Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and Lan Ha Bay.

Travelers will enjoy comfortable air-conditioned cabins, happy hour, fishing equipment, and more.

This all-inclusive cruise is a great way to discover the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay.

The itinerary for this All Inclusive: Ha Long Bay 2 days 1 night – Overnight Cruise starts at 187 P. Hàng Bông with a 3-hour limousine transfer to Ha Long Bay.

Guests will then embark on a 2-hour boat cruise, followed by a 1-hour lunch.

The activities include:

• 1-hour kayaking at Ti Top Island
• 1-hour swimming in Lan Ha Bay
• 1-hour dinner at Sung Sot Cave
• 1-hour breakfast
• 1-hour cooking class

After the activities, there’s a 3-hour return limousine transfer back to 187 P. Hàng Bông.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights & Activities

This all-inclusive cruise offers the opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Ha Long Bay , Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay.

Key attractions include the Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Cat Ba Island, Dark and Bright Cave, Thien Cahn Son Cave, and the Vung Vien Floating Village.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as kayaking , bamboo boat trips, swimming, cooking demonstrations, and tai chi.

The cruise provides a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of this UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Inclusions & Exclusions

The cruise package includes accommodation in air-conditioned cabins with private bathrooms , as well as meals consisting of dinner, two lunches, and breakfast.

Plus, the package covers round-trip transfers from Hanoi, a range of activities like kayaking, bamboo boat trips, swimming, and cooking demonstrations, along with tour guides and fishing equipment.

However, the package excludes alcohol, cocktails, soft drinks, and water on request, as well as massage, spa services, and laundry.

There’s also a 3% surcharge for credit card payments on the boat and potential extra fees for peak seasons.

Personal expenses aren’t covered either.

Important Information

This cruise is not suitable for individuals prone to altitude sickness or those over the age of 95 years. Guests should bring swimwear and a waterproof bag. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and infants must sit on laps. Check-in is from 12:30-13:00, and check-out is from 09:30-11:00. It’s important to note that these are cruises, not hotels, so the check-out process is quicker. If traveling as a group but prefer a single cabin, guests should book separately.

Transfer and Cruise

The tour begins with a comfortable 3-hour limousine transfer from the starting location at 187 P. Hàng Bông.

Upon arrival, guests embark on a 2-hour Ha Long Bay boat cruise , taking in the stunning limestone karsts and serene waters.

The itinerary includes:

• Lunch served on board
• Exploring Ti Top Island via kayaking
• Swimming in the tranquil Lan Ha Bay
• Dinner at the majestic Sung Sot Cave
• Waking up to a delightful breakfast and a cooking class

The seamless transfer and expertly curated cruise program ensure a comprehensive and immersive experience in the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay.

Dining and Onboard Amenities

As part of the all-inclusive experience , guests can indulge in a delectable array of dining options throughout the cruise. Meals include a hearty lunch , a sumptuous dinner at the Sung Sot Cave, and a satisfying breakfast the following morning.

The onboard cuisine features a mix of local Vietnamese specialties and international favorites, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. Guests can also participate in a hands-on cooking demonstration , learning to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Beyond dining, the cruise offers complimentary happy hour with free juices, as well as fishing equipment for those keen to try their hand at catching the day’s catch.

Booking and Policies

Guests can book the "All Inclusive: Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise" package online or through a travel agent. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Key booking information includes:

• Price starts from $195.72 per person
• Package is valid for 1 day
• Live English-speaking tour guide included
• Confirmation received at time of booking
• Infants must sit on laps

Check-in time is 12:30-13:00, and check-out is 09:30-11:00.

Guests should note these are cruises, not hotels, so the check-out process is quicker. For those traveling as a group but preferring single cabins, they should book separately.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• La Regina 5 Star Cruise – 2 Days Visiting Ha Long Bay
• CatBa: 2 Nights 1 Day Lan Ha Bay on Cruise
• 1 Day 5 Stars Cruise : Swimming, Hiking and Kayaking
• Best Seller – 2D1N Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Bay
• Ninh Binh Small Group Of 9 From Hanoi Via Incense Village
• From Hanoi: 1-Day Ha Long Bay Luxury Cruise With Jacuzzi

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring my own food and drinks on the cruise.

The cruise package includes meals, so passengers generally shouldn’t bring their own food and drinks. However, they can request water or purchase additional beverages and snacks on board if needed. Travelers should check with the cruise provider about any restrictions on outside items.

Is There Wifi Available on the Cruise?

The cruise does not offer complimentary Wi-Fi access. Guests can purchase a Wi-Fi package from the cruise operator if they need internet connectivity during the trip. However, the remote location may result in limited or unreliable connectivity.

Can I Request a Specific Cabin Type or Location?

Passengers can request specific cabin types or locations, though availability may be limited. The cruise operator will make every effort to accommodate preferences, but exact cabin assignments are subject to availability at the time of booking.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Cruise?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can cancel their booking without penalty if they notify the provider within this timeframe.

Can I Book Additional Activities During the Cruise?

Guests can book additional activities during the cruise, such as spa treatments and massages, but these would be at an extra cost. The cruise package includes the core activities outlined in the itinerary.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• From Hanoi: Ha Long Bay 2D1N Tours With 5 Stars Cruise
• 13-Day Vietnam Itinerary | Discover the Best of Vietnam
• From Hanoi: Explore Ha Long Bay in 1 Day
• Private Tour Hanoi, Hue, HoiAn, HoChi Minh, Nha Trang Beach
• From Ha Noi: Explore Ha Long Bay For 2 Days 1 Night
• Halong Bay 3 Star Cruise 2 Day 1 Night
• Cat Ba: 2-Day Lan Ha Bay Cruise With Plankton Excursion
• Jade Sails- the Most Luxurious Day Cruise Explore Lan Ha Bay
• Ha Noi: Ninh Binh/ Ha Long Bay 2 Days/ Small Group/Free Kaya
• From Ha Noi: 2-Day Lan Ha & Ha Long Bay 5-Star Cruise
• From Hanoi: 2 Days Discovery Ha Long Bay – Daily Group Tour
• From Hanoi: 3-Day Motorbike Ha Giang Loop With Easy Rider
• Luxury Halong Catamaran Day Cruise Explore Halong-Lan Ha Bay
• From Hanoi: Explore Cat Ba Islands In 1 Day
• HANOI – HALONG BAY – NINH BINH 4 DAYS LUXURY TOUR

The Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night Overnight Cruise offers an immersive and unforgettable experience. Travelers can revel in the stunning natural beauty of the bay, enjoy a range of activities, and indulge in delectable meals, all while being guided by an English-speaking expert. With round-trip transfers and free cancellation, this all-inclusive package provides convenience and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for a memorable Vietnamese getaway.

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Halong bay cruise overnight.

100+ overnight cruise itineraries in Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay.

• All trip types
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• 2 days / 1 night
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Halong bay: 225 Cruise itineraries

There are at least 6 reasons why you should book Halong Bay cruise and tour on our website.

• Best Price Guaranteed Enjoy our lowest rate you can find online.
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• Easy change/cancellation Minimal fee for change/ Cancellation with great flexibility.
• Special promotions and deals We have what others have not.
• Cruise quality guaranteed We only select the best cruises for your best experience!

Peony Cruise 2 Days

• Best mid-range cruise in Lan Ha Bay
• Short transfer time on limousine bus
• Great rooms with balcony

Peony Cruise

• Taxes & Service Charges
• Welcome Cocktail
• Cruise Itinerary and Program
• Entrance and Sightseeing Fees
• In-house English-speaking Tour Guide
• Luxury Cabins and Suites with A/C
• Luxury en-suite Bathroom
• Meals on board during cruise program
• Tai Chi Session
• Cooking Class
• Transfer from Hanoi to Dinh Vu Port and back (transfer time approximately 2.5 hours)
• Airfares, and Hotel Accommodation
• Visa to Vietnam
• Beauty Spa Services and Massage
• Beverages and Tobacco
• Tax, tips and other Personal Expenses
• All other services not clearly mentioned above
• Surcharge for New Year, Christmas

Peony Cruise 3 Days

JadeSails Cruise 1 Day

• Contemporary luxury design
• Pool bar and large sundeck
• Visit untouched parts of Lan Ha Bay

JadeSails Cruise

• Shuttle bus Hanoi - Halong - Hanoi.
• 7.5 hours cruise 
• All entrance fees for sightseeing indicated 
• Vietnamese fusion lunch
• Sunset party and 2 bottles of mineral water on limousine 
• Kayaking or local rowing boat, life jacket and waterproof bag 
• English speaking guide 
• Holiday surcharge
• Sightseeing fees
• Other beverages, tips and personal expenses
• All other services not mentioned clearly in the program

Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise 2 Days

• Elegant Indochine-style
• Luxury decoration
• Spacious cabins all with private balcony

Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise

• Transfer round trip Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hanoi

Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise 3 Days

Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan 2 Days

• Spacious cabins with private balcony
• Swimming pool on sundeck
• Exclusive Arts Gallery

Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan

• Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Pier and back (transfer time approximately 2.5 hours)
• Surcharge for New Year, Christmas and Vietnam's Holiday

Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan 3 Days

Capella Cruise 3 Days

• Aesthetic Indochina architecture
• Elegant retro wooden interior
• Great itinerary with many activities

Capella Cruise

• Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Pier and back (transfer time approximately 3 hours)

Capella Cruise 2 Days

Orchid Classic Cruise 2 Days

• Exclusive departure port - only 2.5 hours from Hanoi
• Unique routing
• Extremely spacious cabin (36-72sqm)

Orchid Classic Cruise

• Transfer from Hanoi to Cruise Pier and back - can be booked online
• Drinks and other personal expenses

Questions & Answers (20)

Hi, I want to book the 2-night Lan Ha Bay cruise, but I have a flight back to my home country at 6 pm. Is it possible to reach the airport on time?

Dear Ahmed, Yes, the cruise will return to Hanoi Center at 2:30 - 3:00 pm at the latest so you will have ample time to reach the airport for your 6 pm flight. If you need assistance with your travel plans, please let us know. Sincerely, Helen

I will arrive in Hanoi on Sept. 14 at 1:30am early morning and intend to stay in a hotel near the airport to get at least 4-5 hours Sleep before transferring to Ha Long Bay. Is a shuttle bus or limo service pickup towards Halong Bay possible from any hotel near the airport ?

Dear Holger Petersen, I am sorry that the shuttle bus does not pick up from the airport or outside the Hanoi Old Quarter Area. Should you need further assistance, feel free to contact us. Regards, Mary

Do any cruises go back to the pier to collect other passengers in the middle of a cruise?

Dear Boris, All cruise boats will not return to the pier to collect other passengers during the cruise. Once the cruise begins, the boat typically stays within the bay area only, allowing guests to join in various activities without any interruptions. If you have any concerns, please contact us. Tearis

We booked transfer service from Hanoi but are planning to stay in Halong 1 more night. Can we postpone returning 1 day after the cruise ends or have to go back to Hanoi right after?

Dear Miyu, Yes, you can postpone your return to Hanoi by 1 day after the cruise ends. We can adjust your transfer service accordingly. Please get ready at the waiting lounge of the cruise at the same check out time and no later than 11:30 am on that day to have a smooth transfer. If you need additional information, feel free to ask us. Regards, Mary

Hello, Is there any cruise from Ha Long Bay to another city like Da Nang? or vice versa? so we could explore both the places and also the cruise. How many days do we need to explore Ha Long bay and Da Nang?

Dear Rajani, I am sorry that the cruises tour in Halong Bay is to visit around the bay only, it is not for transfer to any other destinations. For Halong bay tours, normally they offer 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights trip. Please let me know if you are interested in them. I hope to hear from you soon and please let me know if you have any other inquiries. Best regards, Annie (Ms.)

We plan to go to Halong Bay on Sep 17. How many nights is enough to explore? Halong seems to be a beautiful part of the world with a lot of things to do. Any recommendation is helpful.

Dear Inga, We highly recommend staying for 2 nights on Halong Bay which allows you to fully enjoy experiences. Halong Bay offers a wide range of activities such as visiting caves, kayaking, swimming, squid fishing, cooking demonstrations, Tai Chi sessions, and so on. If you need any specific information, don’t hesitate to let us know. Regards, Tearis

Hi. Can you show me the difference between the shuttle bus and the limousine bus? Also, the air-conditioning works in both of them, right? I look forward to your response.  

Dear Mr. Hiroshi, The shuttle bus, also known as a sharing bus, is a bus that picks up passengers from various locations and takes them to the same destination. Sharing buses come in different sizes, including 9 seats, 16 seats, 29 seats, or more. Meanwhile, the Limousine bus is a specific type of shuttle bus, equipped with about 9 seats, providing each passenger with their own seat. Both of them have air-conditioning and pick up/drop off in the Hanoi Old Quarter area. We hope the above information may be helpful to you. Regards,

Is everything included in the whole price or there will be any extra fees?

Dear Eri, The price does not include everything. It normally includes accommodation, meals onboard, entrance and sightseeing tickets, activities in the program, inhouse English-speaking tour guide, bottled water in the room (1 bottle/person/night). Personal expenses such as beverages, spa & massage service, hotel accommodation, visa,... are not included. For better information, please provide us with the cruise you are considering so we can send you the details.

can a private transfer be arranged to get to Hanoi airport after the cruise for 1430/1500?

Dear Barry, Thank you for reaching out! We have private car from Halong to Noi Bai airport and it costs 120usd/car/ way. Please let us know if you want to proceed the booking. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Regards, Phoebe  

Hello Does the three day/two night cruise include Halong Bay?

Dear Helen Kerr, Thank you for your email. My name is Annie from Halong Bay Tours department and I am very glad to assist you with your trip.

If you want to visit Halongbay, please kindly consider some cruise options: Essence Grand Cruise, Indochine Premium, Paradise Elegance, Hermes, Athena, Indochina Sails, Mila Cruise, Amanda Cruise. Please let me know if you have any other inquiries. Best regards, Annie (Ms.)

When is the best time to travel on a Halong cruise?

The best time for pleasant weather is from October to November and March to April. October to November is Autumn when the weather is cool, sunny, and has a low chance of storms. March to April is Spring with low rainfall, blue sky, and light sunshine. However, Halong in each season has its own beauty and both advantages and disadvantages. Just check the weather forecast and plan your trip well, you can join a Halong cruise at any time.

Do cruise tours include a transfer from Hanoi?

No. Transportation is not included in the tour price. You can ask for a bus service or a private car from Hanoi for an extra fee.

Which cruise visits a fishing village?

Many cruises include a trip to a fishing village such as Paradise Elegance, Athena Luxury, Indochina Sails, Bhaya, Glory Legend, etc. However, this trip is usually added to the 3 day 2 night itinerary.

Is kayaking included in the cruise price?

Most Halong Bay cruises include kayaking in the tour price. However, some cruises do not include kayaking such as Paradise Elegance, Ambassador, Heritage Line Violet, Heritage Line Ginger, etc. You can contact our travel consultant to have more details of inclusions and exclusions.

We are a group of 10 adults, can we stay in all cabins next to each other?

Yes. You surely can stay in all cabins next to or close to each other if you book early and inform the travel consultant in advance.

Is there an elevator on the cruise?

You can refer to some cruises with an elevator including Ambassador, Capella, Elite of the Seas, Era, and Indochine cruise.

We are a family of 5 (2 adults and 3 children). Can we stay in one cabin?

Yes. There are some family cabins that include a king bed with 2 - 3 single beds, suitable for your family. Capella cruise is a suggestion for your reference.

Are meals onboard set menu or buffet?

Meals onboard could be set menu, buffet, or a-la-carte depending on each cruise. You can contact the travel consultant for detailed menus of a specific cruise.

Which cruises are suitable for families with children?

Cruises with large cabins, spacious public areas, swimming pools, and other entertainment activities are suitable for families with children. You can refer to Capella, Mon Cheri, Stellar of the Seas, Heritage Binh Chuan, Orchid Classic, etc.

Can I bring food and drinks onboard?

You can bring some onboard. However, there will be a service charge if you bring food/drinks during meals. All cruises have a bar with a variety of drinks such as beer, coke, juice, smoothies, wine, cocktails, etc. You’d better order food/drinks on the cruise.

More About Overnight Cruises

As one of the hotspots in the Northern region of Vietnam, Halong Bay always welcomes a large number of visitors every year. Although visitors can view the bay from many locations in the city, Halong bay cruises will bring a very different experience with plenty of interesting activities.

Cruises in Halong bay are diverse in duration, itineraries, facilities & services, as well as prices. No matter if you have just a few hours or days for the cruise, no matter if you love hiking to the top of the limestone island to get the panoramic view or just simply lazing on the isolated beach for hours, no matter if you love a traditional small junk or a giant modern ship with a bunch of recreational activities, Halong Bay Cruise promises to serve you at its best.

Cruise duration

Although some cruises offer up to 4-night durations, the three most popular durations are day cruises, 1-night, and 2-night cruises.

• Day cruises are most economical and suitable for travelers having limited time and a low budget. A day trip lasts for 4 to 8 hours on the bay but the program covers the most signature attractions that give travelers the best glimpse of the Heritage Site. 
• 1-night cruises are the choices of the majority of visitors due to the reasonable price and time. If day cruises are not enough and 2-night ones are a bit too much and expensive, 1-night cruises provide enough activities and a less-rushed program for a relaxing trip.
• A 2-night cruise is ideal for those who have a loosen budget and generous time. This is the most costly duration of the three. However, travelers have a chance to visit the deeper parts of Halong Bay which are untouched, pristine, and less touristy.

While searching for cruises, you will see not only Halong bay but also Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. You may know that Halong Bay has been recognized as World’s Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO twice in 1994 and 2000. That makes Ha Long Bay more renowned, visited by a lot of travelers worldwide, and somehow gradually commercialized a bit.

Neighboring the heritage bay, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are two smaller bays that are later discovered and well-known thanks to their similar karst islands and poetic landscapes.

A cruise itinerary will usually attach to one of three bays. Based on your preference, if you are after an active program with spectacular and bustling hotspots, Halong Bay is a must. If you are looking for more relaxation and a less crowded itinerary, or you want to have a new experience, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay would never let you down.

• Attractions: Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Tung Sau Pearl Farm, Titop Island, Me Cung Cave, Heaven Palace Grotto, Cua Van Village, Trinh Nu Cave, etc.
• Cruises: Paradise Elegance, Ambassador, Pelican, Athena, Signature, Paradise Sails, Adela Boutique, Stellar, etc.
• Attractions: Dark-Bright Cave, Tra Bau, Ao Ech, Viet Hai Village, 
• Cruises: Elite of the Seas, Orchid Trendy, Heritage Binh Chuan, Scarlet Pearl, Mon Cheri, Stellar of the Seas, Capella, La Casta Regal, Rosy, Sena, etc.

Bai Tu Long Bay

• Attractions: Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Cong Do, Cap La, Cong Dam, Hon Co Island, etc.
• Cruises: Dragon Legend, Swan, Paloma, Dragon Pearl, etc.

Facilities & services

If Halong Bay day cruises have a spacious public area of sundeck or dining room for sightseeing and relaxing, overnight cruises provide no shortage of facilities and services like a floating hotel.

You will stay in well-equipped cabins which come with a large window or balcony. Not only comfy bed and bathroom amenities, but the cabin also has Satellite TV, minibar, air-con, safe box, bathtub or jacuzzi, etc. After joining a bunch of activities, cabins onboard bring you the utmost comfort and convenience like home.

Food and drinks are served on the cruise. Unlike all meals included in the tour price, drinks could be ordered and charged based on usage. Apart from sitting in an intimate restaurant to enjoy meals, you can request room service or order drinks into your room to spend time with your loved ones from the private balcony.

Besides, Halong Bay cruises more and more focus on varied entertainment activities onboard. Therefore, you can find cruises with mini golf, swimming pool, jacuzzi pool, spa, modern gym, art gallery, club, etc. The more luxurious the cruise is, the more facilities and services it provides.

Experiences on Halong Bay cruises

There is much more than just watching the bay from a cruise. Halong Bay Cruises offer plenty of on-board and off-board activities. On-board activities are often the same while off-board ones can be changed on different days in a tour. All the activities are optional, thus you can feel free to enjoy your trip with the utmost relaxation.

Onboard activities

Watch Halong Bay from top deck

All Halong Bay cruises have a spacious sundeck where you can kick back on the sun loungers and witness the stunning scenery of Halong bay. It can be the serenity in the early morning, the splendor of the sunset, or the shimmer when all the ships are lit at night. Every moment on the cruise gives you a special view of Ha Long Bay. 

• Join Sunset party

What could be better than watching the sunset, chatting, and sipping some drinks together? Sunset parties usually include Happy Hour - Buy 1 get 1 free promotion for drinks and some complementary finger food on the top deck.

Learn how to make a Vietnamese traditional dish

Get to know about Vietnamese cuisine with local ingredients and interesting recipes. Make the dish on your own and enjoy it, you will definitely enjoy the food much more.

Fish squid at night

Simple technique but patience is needed for catching squid like a local. This is one of the interesting experiences you should not miss on a Halong Bay cruise. 

Experience Taichi

Early birds would love to follow the gentle movements of the crew in the Taichi session in the morning. Refreshing your body and mind with a quick exercise in the middle of the heritage bay should be on your bucket list.

Offboard activities

• Discover caves and grottoes

There are nearly 2,000 islands and islets in Halong Bay and plenty of them have a cave or grotto to visit. Some caves are giant and dry inside while some are small and can only be visited by kayak or sampan boat. Visitors have a chance to know the mysterious legend of Halong Bay and unique formation of the caves here.

Kayak on the bay

Kayaking on the vast ocean is a must. Gently paddle a kayak around rocky islands and feel the amazing tranquility of the bay, you will never regret it.

• Swim at the beach

Halong bay is perfect for swimming thanks to the very calm seawater. If you choose Halong itinerary, Titop and Soi Sim beaches are the two most beautiful and biggest beaches for swimming. If you choose Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay, you can swim in many untouched water areas or some smaller natural beaches.

• Climb to the mountain

If watching the bay from the top deck of the cruise is not enough, you may not want to miss the panoramic view of Halong Bay from the top of the mountain. This activity could be found in the excursion to Titop and Soi Sim islands.

Visit a fishing village

There used to be thousands of households living and fishing on Halong Bay for a living. Visiting a fishing village is a way to learn about their tough life on the ocean. Travelers can visit Cua Van, Ba Hang, Vung Vieng fishing village, etc.

Price range

Halong Bay Cruises could be divided into 3 main categories: Luxury (5*), Deluxe (4*), and Superior (3*). You need from US$100-130 per person for a 1-night trip on a Superior cruise. Deluxe cruises cost from US$130-160 per person per night. For Luxury category, Halong Bay cruise costs you from US$160 up to US$400 per person.

Price may change upon the regulation of Halong management board or vary in season. Low season is from May to September with more promotions. Price in the high season from October to April is often higher and cruises are more quickly occupied. Therefore, you should book early in the high season to ensure your favorite cruise is available.

Why book with us?

• Private Charter Cruises

• English (UK)
• Tiếng Việt (VN)

Tell us about your upcoming trip, and we'll help you create the perfect experience.

• We select only the finest and highest-quality cruises.
• Enjoy exclusive group discounts.
• Reputation, responsibility & competitive prices.

Heritage Cruises

Ambassador Cruise

Peony Cruise

Orchid Cruises

Stellar of the Seas

Best halong bay overnight cruises.

Embark on a journey of natural wonder and cultural discovery with our selection of the best overnight cruises in Halong bay area

• Choose Destination
• Cat Ba island
• Bai Tu Long Bay
• Sung Sot Cave
• Choose Prices
• Under 100 USD
• 100-150 USD
• 150-200 USD
• 200-300 USD
• Choose Option
• Free kayaking

Grand Pioneers Cruise (Formerly Essence Grand)

Catherine Cruise

Indochine Premium Cruise

Paradise Elegance Cruise

Emperor Cruise

Overview of halong bay.

The renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay embraces an irresistible charm that enchants tourists with its breathtaking natural beauty. With a sublime landscape of impressive limestone karsts, limitless islands and islets, dreamy caves, and the serene flows of emerald waters, this destination is a true haven for nature enthusiasts. Its lovely rustic fishing villages also adds a cultural touch of idyllic allure, making the bay a must-visit place for any travel bucket lists in Vietnam.

Undoubtedly, cruising is the best way for you to fully immerse in the ethereal charm of this remarkable wonder of nature and culture. From the traditional wooden boats to the elegant contemporary steel ships, each cruise grants you a unique experience, an unforgettable adventure filled with authentic discoveries.

Check out detailed information about this breathtaking destination in the following guide on cruising in Halong Bay!

Top attractions 

• Ti Top island

Bearing a golden sandy beach shaped like a crescent moon, a majestic mountain adorned with lush greenery, Ti Top Island creates a perfect setting for different water sports and captivating exploring activities. The island offers an exhilarating climbing adventure up a grand 450-step mountain, rewarding you with a breathtaking panoramic bay view. This awe-inspiring vista serves as the perfect backdrop for capturing timeless moments in this picturesque splendor.

• Mesmerizing caves

Halong Bay unveils a wide collection of dreamy and mysterious caves and grottoes, from the sparkling Luon cave and Sung Sot Cave to the timeless beauty of Trinh Nu cave, Thien Cung Cave , Me Cung cave, and so on. Each one boasts its own unique allure that is waiting to be discovered. Some caves can be accessed by boat or kayaking, making the exploration even more captivating and memorable

• Cua Van fishing village

The unique floating village of Cua Van comprises more than 170 peaceful rustic houses on rafts, accessible exclusively by boat. Set against a marvelous scenic background, this poetic village presents a glimpse into the serene fishing lives and rich local historical significance, ensuring tourists a meaningful trip.

• Tung Sau pearl farm

This lovely pearl farm is the place where you can admire the meticulous and sophisticated art of cultivating pearls. This intricate process depends on many different factors and requires immense time and effort, making pearls even more valuable. Exploring the pearl farm provides a rich educational experience, revealing the inner workings of pearl growing, whilst also presenting a showroom of dazzling pearls at the end of the process.

Best things to do

When cruising, one should not miss the exhilarating activity of kayaking, an opportunity to freely glide through the pristine crystal-clear waters and immerse in the marvelous nature surrounding. Kayaking is also the exclusive way to explore hidden caves and marvel at the sheer magnificence of nature. With the calm and serene seas here, the kayaking adventure becomes a truly delightful and unforgettable experience.

• Bamboo boat riding

One alternative to kayaking is bamboo boating, a serene experience adding a cultural touch to a meaningful journey. Carrying around 4 to 6 people, these Vietnamese traditional boats are perfect for families or groups of friends yearning to create cherished memories together. Bamboo boat tours offer a tranquil ambiance, allowing tourists to slow down, embrace the present moment, and escape from the daily pace of life.

• Mountain climbing

Many cruises also take passengers to TiTop island, where the mountain climbing is a truly rewarding experience with the panoramic view of the bay. The hiking and climbing expedition not only allows you to embark on a fascinating exploration but also provides an opportunity to marvel at the stunning surrounding landscapes.

• Onboard activities

Thoughtfully-crafted itineraries ensure an enriching voyage and unforgettable moments on board. From cultural activities like Tai Chi and exploring the insight of Vietnamese cuisines through cooking classes to indulging in soothing spa and massages, every cruise strives to provide guests with a beautiful journey.

A plethora of interesting things await you but options can be overwhelming. To make it easier, here are the 10 best cruises you should consider for your overnight stays.

Best overnight cruises in Halong bay

Two major options for overnight cruises are 2D1N and 3D2N cruises. Whether you spend one night or two nights on the bay, you will feel like you are staying in a floating hotel with full modern facilities. Besides sightseeing trips during the day, overnight cruises are full of the port's offerings in the nighttime. Savoring gourmet dining, indulging in spa massages and nightlife entertainment programs are great activities you can experience onboard.

• Paradise Elegance cruise

Overnight is considered a signature of the Paradise Elegance cruise. With a robust nightlife program lasting until late at night, you might not have even a dull moment. This contemporary-design steel vessel has a piano bar with live music show in the sunset, a premium European-style dinner in the dim light, and night activities like squid fishing or drinking cocktails on the deck.

Overnight activities: Sunset party with Happy Hour "buy one get one free" in the bar, live music performances from an international band, a European-style dinner, squid fishing, relaxing.

Room information: 31 cabins with private balconies overlooking the bay. The average room space is from 25sqm to 35sqm. Well-appointed rooms are divided into 4 categories: deluxe balcony cabin, executive balcony cabin, elegance balcony suite, and captain's view terrace suite.

Why we like it:

• Rooms are designed in luxurious contemporary style with superior facilities.
• The cruise offers exciting night entertainment.
• All-inclusive packages cover almost all attentive services and meals in the Vietnamese-European fusion menu.
• Stellar of the Seas cruise

For a really special and romantic nighttime onboard, look no further than the Stellar of Seas cruise. This 5-star cruise is chock-full of the finest modern comforts for evening entertainment such as a panoramic bar, a spa, a wine and cigars cellar, and a 60-seat restaurant with both indoor and outdoor spaces. You and your beloved one can enjoy romantic dining in the restaurant with different styles or a BBQ dinner in the swimming pool area.

Overnight activities: Early evening, you can join a short cooking class, play golf, relax in a footbath with lemon grass and salt, and listen to live music. In the evening, after a sumptuous dinner, you can choose to drink in the wine cellar, or join activities like squid fishing and watching movies.

Room information: There are 22 elegant rooms divided into the junior suite, senior suite, executive suite, and president suite. Accommodations are comfortable and convenient for an indulgent night's sleep. Each room has a private balcony or a sun terrace with an expansive bay view.

• It likes a 5-star floating hotel with top-of-the-range facilities.
• Multiple overnight experiences that suit different types of guests.
• Contemporary-style rooms with superior services and amenities.
• Dining options are plentiful with both romantic indoor and outdoor settings.
• Elite of the Seas cruise

The high-end, luxurious Elite of the Seas cruise is another top choice in the bucket overnight cruise list. The 6-star modern cruise has almost everything you can expect for a wonderful night on the bay. The indoor and outdoor bar is best for a night cocktail. You can also sip premium wines in the wine and cigars cellar, and relax with sauna and spa massages.

Overnight activities: Admiring sunset in the late afternoon, playing golf, relaxing in the seasonal swimming pool, having a BBQ or set menu dinner, drinking in the wine and cigars cellar, taking part in onboard activities like squid fishing, watching movies, and playing board games.

Room information: Elite of the Seas cruise consists of 35 elegant rooms ranging from 23sqm to 60sqm. All rooms have private balconies or terraces, high-quality facilities, and complimentary services such as tea & coffee, fresh fruit, flowers, a bottle of Chile wine, and a 30-minute foot massage.

• Different room categories with complimentary services, suiting various types of guests.
• Fun-filled entertainment programs during the day and at night.
• Authentic dining restaurant with an open kitchen serving BBQ, buffet, and a la carte menu.
• Scarlet Pearl cruise

Featuring a modern Catamaran-yacht style, Scarlet Pearl cruise offers a one-of-a-kind cruise experience on Lan Ha bay and Cat Ba island. It is a nightlife-friendly cruise that you will have plenty of time relaxing in the sleeping area.

In the evening, after the sunset party, you will savor a hearty dinner and enjoy entertainment. There are a pampering spa, a classic bar and bistro, and a Pearl museum.

Overnight activities: Watching the sunset on the deck, joining Happy Hour "buy one get one free", sipping cocktails, and eating a delicious meal in a classic Vietnamese and international fusion style.

Room information: The cruise has a total of 23 cabins categorized into 4 themed suites including silver pearl rooms, golden pearl rooms, onyx pearl rooms, and scarlet pearl rooms. The largest room measures up to 150sqm. You can admire stunning views over the bay from the spacious balcony in each room.

• Well-appointed and luxurious rooms are generous and full of top-notch amenities.
• The restaurant serves both classic Vietnamese and international specialties.
• Akoya spa uniquely uses pearl powder in its treatment services and products.
• Heritage Line - Ylang cruise

Heritage Line - Ylang cruise looks like a sparkling piece of art at night on a far-flung corner of Lan Ha Bay. In addition to an action-packed itinerary, the cruise has a great reputation for night services and activities. There are an enormous spa with a steam bath and sauna area, a refined restaurant, and a Jacuzzi pool open late at night.

Overnight activities: Joining a tea tasting lesson in the early evening, indulging in a massage session, and having a great, multiple-course dinner.

Room information: There are three types of suites: signature suites, regency suites, and regency suites (premium) with sizes ranging from 40sqm to 54sqm. Suites are designed in traditional Vietnamese style with Indochina touches. The bedroom faces a large balcony with mesmerizing bay views.

• Very large and convenient suites for an upscale overnight stay. The architecture combines Vietnamese and Indochina styles.
• High-quality spa services for you to unwind all day long.
• Orchid Premium cruise

The 5-star Orchid Premium cruise has some of the largest cabins on Halong Bay, making it a top priority for an overnight cruise vacation. The cruise boasts Indochine architecture in combination with French elegance. The upscale cruise makes your overnight stay memorable with elegantly-designed cabins, 24/7 private butler service, cooking demonstration, and night entertainment activities.

Overnight activities: Cooking class, sunset party with Happy Hour "buy one get one free", squid fishing, watching movies at night, playing chess.

Room information: Orchid Premium cruise has five types of cabins: orchid premium suite, family premium terrace suite, premium terrace suite, family terrace suite, and terrace suite. Rooms are very large, from at least 45sqm to 96sqm.

• Extremely spacious rooms with top-of-the-range amenities just like in 5* resort.
• Varied onboard entertainment programs keep you entertained all day.
• Cuisines in both Asian and European flavors are suitable for different taste buds.
• Capella cruise

If you are looking for an overnight cruise with a full range of entertainment activities, you should choose the Capella cruise. Capella is a luxurious 5-star cruise with fabulous architecture blending Indochina ambiance with modern yacht style. The cruise has a variety of amenities namely an inflatable water slide, an Oasis and Ocean pool, a mini golf course, a Cigar & Poker Club, and Karaoke. All bring exciting experiences onboard, especially at night.

Overnight activities: Relaxing in Oasis and Ocean pool, playing golf, joining Happy Hour and sunset party, sampling a gourmet dinner, playing in Cigar & Poker club, night squid fishing, watching movies, board games, and singing karaoke.

Room information: 30 cabins on the Capella cruise follow the contemporary luxury concept with supreme indulgence.  Each room has a private balcony or terrace to unwind and breathe sea breezes. Your choices vary from oasis suite, harmony suite, sky suite, sky terrace suite, la suite de Capella, owner suite, harmony family suite, and sky family suite.

• The cruise offers a number of entertainment facilities such as playing cards, board games, singing karaoke, and squid fishing.
• There is a unique inflatable water slide and you can enjoy snorkeling or diving.
• It also has a generous deck for meetings and events.
• Genesis Regal Cruise

An overnight cruise vacation on Genesis Regal Cruise allows you to discover lesser-known parts of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba island . The cruise anchors in the Tra Bau area, a very tranquil and beautiful sleeping location.

For nightlife entertainment, you can relax in the swimming pool and Jacuzzi, in the spa with massage services, eat fruits and cakes while listening to music, and take part in onboard activities.

Overnight activities: Relaxing in the swimming pool or in the spa, enjoying sunset party, having a delicious dinner in the French-Indochine neo-classic restaurant, joining evening entertainment activities like squid fishing, singing karaoke, and watching movies.

Room information: En-suite cabins divided into 7 categories on Genesis Regal cruise are fitted with 5-star services and facilities and have the same size of 32sqm. From the private balcony, you will be able to admire the sweeping views of the bay.

• Luxurious rooms and facilities with different choices (7 categories). You can get support 24/7.
• Night entertainment onboard has a lot of fun with typical activities like singing karaoke, watching movies, and squid fishing.
• You will explore pristine areas on Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba island in the same journey.
• Heritage cruises Binh Chuan

Heritage Binh Chuan is one of the most luxurious and renowned cruises sailing to Lan Ha Bay . The ship features the design style of the ancient cruise ship. When it comes to evening programs, Heritage cruises Binh Chuan offers wonderful culinary experiences in different spots such as L’Indochine restaurant & bar, indoor and outdoor lounges, a wine cellar, and a pool bar.

Overnight activities: Enjoying sunset party over the bay, joining afternoon tea and cooking demonstration, having a gourmet dinner, squid fishing.

Room information: Heritage cruises Binh Chuan is home to 20 air-conditioned suites that feature authentic French-Indochina classical charms and Vietnamese touches. Regal suites are the largest rooms with 46sqm. Each room has  a private balcony with two sun beds.

• Heritage cruises Binh Chuan is an upscale cruise with a sophisticated design that brings a sense of ancientness.
• There are many cutting-edge amenities and entertainment programs.
• This is among a few cruises with long cruise itineraries up to 4 days and 3 nights.
• Sena Cruises

Sena is a luxurious featurinf traditional style and blends with modern comforts. An overnight cruise trip on Sena cruises brings back a lot of fun-filled experiences. You will take time relaxing in the spa, drinking on the sundeck, or taking part in evening entertainment at the end of the day.

Overnight activities: Sunset party and Happy Hour "buy one get one free", cooking class, sipping cocktails, squid fishing, and singing karaoke.

Room information: A total of 16 cabins are designed in traditional style. They are categorized into Sena terrace suite cabins, balcony deluxe cabins, balcony deluxe connecting cabins, balcony executive cabins, and balcony executive connecting cabins. The average room size ranges from 25sqm to 50sqm.

• Sena cruises has optional itinerary to either visit Dark & Bright cave  or Three Peaches area on the first day.
• Onboard entertainment is plentiful and interesting.
• There are many room types that are suitable for different groups.

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Frequently asked questions

1. when is the best time to visit halong bay.

The bay is a year-round destination with magnificent attractions. However, it is best to visit this place from October to December or from March to May. During these periods, the weather is cool and enjoyable, avoiding the scorching heat of summer as well as the rainy and humid conditions in the early months of the year.

2. What time and where do cruises pick up from Hanoi?

The pick-up for cruises is normally around 8:00 - 8:45 AM at tourists’ hotels in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

3. Is a day cruise enough to visit the bay?

As there are many alluring attractions with different unique features, a day cruise will only showcase the most highlighting beauty of the bay but also an ideal option for those who have limited time.

However, to fully explore the natural and cultural wonders here and embark on an authentic journey, it is advisable to go on a 2-day or 3-day tour instead.

4. Do cruises have vegetarian meals?

Yes, all cruises can cater to vegetarians and other special food requirements (allergies, special diets, and so on) on requests.

5. Can I design my own cruise?

Yes, many cruises offer charter services that allow you to customize your own cruise experience. This option is normally popular for special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and so on.

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise with Water Activities

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Halong Bay Overnight Cruises is the perfect choice for clients who stay in Hanoi or in Halong City and would like to have a 2-day trip to explore all the hidden charms and beauties of Halong Bay, one of the 7 wonders of the world. By booking the Halong Bay Tour 2 Days 1 Night, you will have a great chance to discover the beaches, bays, islands around Halong Bay, set sail around the scenic bay, dive into swim at Ti Top island, or hike up for a panoramic view of the Gulf of Tonkin, especially, you can taste the best seafood of the world. HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISE 2 DAYS HIGHLIGHTS : *2 days cruising Halong Bay with Standard,Deluxe & Luxury Cruises. *Meals and activities included as kayaking, swimming or hiking. *See Surprise Cave and Titop Island, *En-suite cabins have both air-conditioning and hot water *Skip the stress with 2-way transfers direct from your Old Quarter Hotel

Ticket Options

6 Options Available

Deluxe Cruises + Shuttle Bus: $125

Deluxe Overnight Cruises: Deluxe Room with better quality & bathroom (Le Journey Cruises/Le Journey Premium Cruise or Similar)Halong Bay RouteShuttle Bus Transfer RoundtripPickup included

Standard Cruises + Shuttle Bus: $105

Standard Overnight Cruises: Classic Standard Room with private bathroom (Cozy Bay Cruises/Fantasea Cruises)Halong Bay Route: Sung Sot Cave & Titop Beach & Island Duration: 2 daysMeals on Boat as ProgramShuttle Bus RoundtripPickup included

Standard Cruise from HALONG: $95

Pick Up at TUAN CHAU HARBOR: We will meet you at No 27 in Tuan Chau Marina at 11h30 AM.Standard Overnight Cruises: Standard Quality Room with Private Bathroom (Cozy Bay Cruises/Fantasea Cruises)Halong Bay Route

Luxury Cruises + Limousine : $150

Luxury Overnight Cruises: Aquamarine Cruise or Similar. Larger Room with Seaview Balcony & Luxury En-suite Bathroom. Shared Limousine TransferHalong Bay RoutePickup included

Luxury Cruise from HALONG BAY: $130

Pick Up at TUAN CHAU HARBOR: We will meet you at No 15 Dock, Ngoc Chau Street, Tuan Chau Island, Ha Long at 11h30 AM Luxury Overnight Cruises: Larger Room with Private Seaview Balcony & Luxury En-suite bathroom (Aquamarine Cruise or Similar if unavailable)Halong Bay Route

Deluxe Cruise from HALONG BAY: $105

Pick Up at TUAN CHAU HARBOR: We will meet you at No 12 in Tuan Chau Marin at 11h30 AM (No later than or you will miss cruise)Deluxe Overnight Cruises: Deluxe Boutique Room with better quality & bathroom (Le Journey Cruises/Le Journey Premium Cruise)Halong Bay Route

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• Visit Sung Sot Cave
• Private Room on boat (Standard - Deluxe - Luxury Room)
• Kayaking or Local Rowing Boat,
• Entrance fees for sighrseeing as program
• Bus/Limousine Roundtrip Transfer Hanoi-Halong (Tour from HANOI)
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner).
• Pick Up at TUAN CHAU INTERNATIONAL MARINA (Tour from HALONG BAY)
• Swimming or Hiking up mountain at Titop Island
• Welcome drink onboard

What's not Included

• Drinks on boat, Personal Expenses,
• Tips for crews/guides/driver are appreciated
• Holiday Surcharge

Cancellation Policy

• If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Additional Info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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• Lan Ha Bay Overnight Cruise
• Halong Bay Overnight Cruise
• Halong Bay Day Cruise
• Halong Bay Dinner Cruise
• Plan Your Cruise
• Manage Trip

HALONG BAY - WORLD HERITAGE SITE

Ambassador day cruise.

Elegantly designed, the ship features spacious sundecks across two floors with a total area of 324 sqm and 250 sqm, affording 360-degree vistas of Halong Bay and its myriad limestone karsts. Two restaurants, two bars, an entertainment area for live music, and the large open-air Jacuzzi are among the 39-cabin vessel’s top-notch facilities. The five-metre glass bridge jutting from the vessel’s bow inspires compelling photographs.

The itinerary encompasses a visit to the stunning Sung Sot Cave, followed by a delightful buffet lunch as the vessel navigates through the enchanting Halong Bay, and kayaking amidst the emerald water of Luon Cave. The cruise then drops anchor near Titov Island, where guests can ascend its peak to savor panoramic vistas of the bay's splendor.

Embark on the Best of Halong Bay Day Cruise aboard Ambassador Day Cruise to discover the beauty of this UNESCO Heritage Wonder in just 8 hours. Enjoy breakfast, a sumptuous buffet lunch, and sunset entertainment while covering all top attractions.

Check-in & Transfer to Ambassador Day Cruise Ambassador’s Lounge (1st Floor, Terminal – Halong International Cruise Port, Bai Chay Ward, Halong City).

Light Breakfast Enjoy a light breakfast onboard while the Ambassador Cruise passes by thousands of majestic limestone islets in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay.

Visit Sung Sot Cave The largest cave in the bay featuring marvelous stalactites in a variety of unique forms.

Visit Titov Island Immerse yourself in the turquoise water and climb to the top of the Island beholding breathtaking views of the bay.

Lunch Buffet at the Restaurant Savor a premium lunch while Ambassador Cruise passes by famous beautiful landscapes in Halong Bay.

Visit Luon Cave Enjoy kayaking or a serene bamboo boat ride, both complimentary, to admire the cave's interior.

Cooking Class & Live Band Indulge in the enchanting live music performed by international band on the sundeck (except on Mondays) or you can opt to participate in a cooking class at the 4th-floor restaurant.

Disembarkation Disembark at Halong International Cruise Port.

INCLUSIONS Day cruise itinerary and program 1 light breakfast 1 premium lunch Onboard insurance, tax, and service charges Entrance and sightseeing fees

EXCLUSIONS Airfare & airport transfers Visa arrangements Accommodation Onboard cabins Transportation to and from Halong Beverages Kayaking and bamboo boat rowing Massage, spa treatments Tips and other expenses not mentioned in inclusions

IMPORTANT NOTES Depending on cruising conditions, itineraries may change without prior notice. Wi-Fi is available at the restaurant/Piano Lounge areas, however, Internet connectivity may be intermittently interrupted due to the geographical condition of the bay. Thank you for your understanding. * Additional charges

THE DESTINATIONS

Halong Bay, one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore this stunning destination with Ambassador Cruise and experience the best that the bay has to offer. Our luxury ship is the perfect way to discover the beauty of Halong Bay in comfort and style.

Halong Bay - The Ultimate Travel Guide 2024

Explore Sung Sot - The largest cave in Halong Bay

Kayaking in Luon Cave - A must-try experience

Panoramic views from Titov Island