3 Day/2 Night Halong-Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise with Balcony Cabin

Travelers dreaming of exploring Vietnam’s stunning islands and emerald waters will find this luxurious 3-day cruise a compelling option. From elegant balcony cabins to engaging activities, this trip promises a blend of comfort and authentic exploration. With a perfect 5-star rating based on hundreds of reviews, it’s clear that many guests find this experience truly worthwhile.

What we love most about this cruise? First, the deluxe ocean-view and balcony cabins offer a real sense of space and privacy, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking vistas. Second, the well-organized itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and fun activities like kayaking and cycling. Lastly, the delicious onboard cuisine earns praise for its quality and variety, turning meals into a highlight of the trip.

One thing to consider is that drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or beverages along. This cruise is best suited for those who value comfort, enjoy scenic outdoor activities, and are happy to spend a couple of days in a relaxed, upscale setting. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a memorable getaway with a touch of luxury.

Good To Know

• Luxurious accommodations with ocean views and private balconies make for a restful stay.
• All meals and excursions are included, providing great value for the price.
• Multiple activities like kayaking, cycling, and cave exploration create an engaging experience.
• Attentive staff and knowledgeable guides enhance the overall quality and authenticity.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for travelers who appreciate comfort, good organization, and natural beauty.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Hanoi to the Bay

Your journey begins early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Hanoi, followed by a scenic drive to Ha Long City. The transfer includes a stop for refreshments — an opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the countryside. Upon reaching Tuan Chau wharf around 11:30 am, you’ll check in and get a warm welcome onboard.

The cruise itinerary offers two options for the first day: a visit to Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay. Both are treasures, but Lan Ha Bay is often described as quieter and less crowded, which many reviewers appreciate. Expect to cruise past striking limestone karsts, with opportunities for a swim or cave exploration depending on your chosen route.

Day 2: Exploring by Day Boat and Activities

The second day is packed with activities designed to maximize your time in the bay. You’ll wake to a light breakfast before heading out on a day boat. Expect to kayak through the calm waters, exploring caves like Ho Dong Tien or Dark and Light Cave (depending on the route). Reviewers mention that kayaking here is an absolute highlight, with some saying it’s a chance to witness the bay’s tranquil side.

In addition, many guests enjoy cycling in Viet Hai Village or visiting local attractions like Viet Hai Village or Vung Vieng Fishing Village. The latter offers a real peek into traditional fishing life. The day ends with a sunset party onboard, providing a relaxing setting to unwind and take in the views.

Day 3: Farewell and Scenic Highlights

The final day begins with a sunrise view and breakfast. You might visit the Pearl Farm, where the process of pearl cultivation is explained — a fun and educational stop. Following that, excursions include visiting Luon Cave or Dark & Bright Cave by boat, and exploring Thien Canh Son Cave on Hon Co Island. Reviewers note that the caves are full of impressive stalactites and stalagmites, making them well worth the visit.

Before heading back to Hanoi, there’s time for some last-minute kayaking and enjoying the peaceful bay scenery. The return trip is smooth, with drop-offs arranged for your convenience.

What Makes the Experience Stand Out?

Luxurious and Comfortable Cabins

Guests consistently praise the deluxe cabins with ocean views and private balconies. Many reviews mention the rooms being spacious, with comfortable beds and modern amenities. One traveler described their room as “gorgeous,” with a bathtub overlooking the water, making mornings especially delightful. The cabins are fully furnished, air-conditioned, and designed to provide a restful retreat after busy days of exploration.

The Food

Food is a huge part of the experience. Expect gourmet meals that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, often with seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes. Multiple reviews highlight the quality and variety of the food, describing it as “excellent,” “delicious,” and “surprisingly gourmet.” The cruise even offers a cooking class, which is a fun way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine.

Activities and Excursions

The itinerary balances sightseeing with engaging activities. Kayaking is repeatedly praised for its serene settings and beautiful caves. Many mention that kayaking through Ho Dong Tien or Luon Cave is a highlight — a chance to get close to the stunning limestone formations.

Cycling in Viet Hai Village is another favorite, offering an authentic glimpse into local life. The fishing village visits provide insight into traditional livelihoods, making the experience more meaningful.

Attentive Guides and Crew

Guests often commend the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff. One reviewer called their cruise manager “amazing,” noting that staff members went above and beyond to make sure everyone was comfortable and informed. Smaller group sizes (around 30 guests) seem to foster a more personalized experience, with many reviews mentioning how staff remembered their names and preferences.

Value for Money

Considering the included activities, meals, and comfortable accommodations, many guests agree that the $280 price offers excellent value. One reviewer highlighted that the cruise felt “well organized” and the activities were “worth every penny.” The inclusion of entrance fees and excursions means you won’t have surprise costs cropping up.

Addressing Common Concerns

Is this cruise suitable if I don’t want to participate in all activities?

Absolutely. While kayaking, cycling, and cave exploring are available, they’re optional. If you prefer relaxing on deck or enjoying your balcony, you can do so while soaking in the scenery.

What about drinks and extras?

Drinks are not included in the package, so you’ll want to bring some water or beverages if you’re thirsty. The reviews suggest that drinks on board are somewhat expensive compared to local prices, so planning ahead is smart.

How about the quality of the ships?

The cruise ships are described as luxurious and modern, especially the Signature Cruise vessel. Some older ships may not meet the same standards, so it’s worth choosing a reputable operator — as this tour does, based on reviews.

Is the tour flexible if weather conditions change?

Yes, the itinerary can change due to weather or tides. If your cruise is canceled because of bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This flexibility makes the trip less stressful.

Practical Details That Matter

Duration and Group Size

Spanning 3 days and 2 nights, this cruise strikes a nice balance between exploration and relaxation. The group size is capped at 40 guests, but reviews suggest it often feels more intimate, especially with around 30 guests onboard.

Price and What’s Included

At $280 per person, the package covers private balcony cabins, meals, excursions, kayaking, caving, cycling, sunset party, and squid fishing. Extra costs include drinks, government VAT ($25), optional limousine transport ($25 round-trip), and tips.

Transportation from Hanoi

The pickup is arranged from your Hanoi hotel, with stops for refreshments. For an additional fee, a limousine bus service is available, which many reviewers found convenient and comfortable.

Who Should Book This Cruise?

If you’re after a luxurious experience that combines sightseeing with comfort, this cruise suits you. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups seeking quality time, or anyone wanting to see the bay’s highlights in style.

Travelers who appreciate delicious food, attentive service, and scenic outdoor activities will find this experience fulfilling. Keep in mind that drinks aren’t included, so bring some along if you want to sip while soaking up the views.

This trip is less ideal if you’re expecting a lively entertainment scene in the evenings — the focus is on relaxation and natural beauty. If you’re okay with a quieter, more curated experience, this cruise will meet your expectations.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel is included, with a stopover for refreshments on the way to Ha Long Bay.

Are all meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are covered, with many guests praising the quality and variety of the onboard cuisine.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking and cycling?
Yes, these activities are part of the itinerary, but they are optional. You can choose to relax if preferred.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather causes cancellations, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring some water or beverages, as drinks onboard are described as somewhat pricey.

Is the cruise suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the activities and natural scenery appeal to travelers of all ages. Just note that children under 4 can share a cabin free of charge if sharing with parents.

Final Thoughts

This 5-star cruise experience offers a well-crafted mix of comfort, adventure, and authentic sights. The highlight remains the spacious cabins with private balconies and the chance to explore stunning caves, floating villages, and scenic viewpoints. The crew’s attentiveness and quality meals elevate the experience, making it a great value at $280.

If you’re someone who loves a combination of natural beauty, culinary delights, and relaxed luxury, this cruise fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suitable for those wanting to avoid the crowds, thanks to the quieter Lan Ha Bay and small group atmosphere.

While there’s some room for personal flexibility, this trip is a wonderful way to see the best of Halong, Bai Tu Long, and Lan Ha Bay — all from the comfort of a high-end vessel. Prepare to make lifelong memories amid some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking scenery.

In summary, if you’re looking for a comfortable, scenic, and activity-rich way to explore Vietnam’s iconic bay systems, this cruise provides a superb balance of luxury and local flavor. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, it’s a trip that will leave you with stories to tell and views to cherish.