3-day V’Spirit Cruise of Halong Bay-Lan Ha Bay

We’ve taken a close look at the V’Spirit Cruise offering a 3-day journey through Vietnam’s iconic Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. This trip promises more than just a day on the water; it’s a chance to see some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes, enjoy local life, and indulge in fresh, tasty meals. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone craving a tranquil escape, this cruise aims to deliver a well-rounded adventure.

What we particularly like about this experience are its stunning panoramic views, the opportunity to visit Cua Van floating village, and the included meals on board that earn praise for quality and variety. One thing to consider, however, is that the tour’s pricing includes some surcharges during peak holiday periods, which is worth planning for. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate scenic beauty combined with cultural and local experiences, and those who prefer a hassle-free package that takes care of transportation and logistics.

Good To Know

• Beautiful viewpoints and photo ops around Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
• Authentic local experiences in Cua Van Floating Village.
• Two nights on a comfortable boat with full-board meals included.
• Convenient round-trip transfers from Hanoi, making logistics easy.
• Activities like kayaking and swimming add interactive fun.
• Guided excursions with knowledgeable staff help maximize your experience.

The Overall Experience: What Makes It Stand Out

The 3-day V’Spirit Cruise offers a comprehensive way to enjoy Halong Bay beyond a quick day trip. It provides enough time to appreciate the scenery, enjoy a variety of activities, and absorb the peaceful vibe that makes this UNESCO World Heritage site so special. The combination of stunning natural vistas, engaging excursions, and good food creates a balanced package that appeals to many travelers.

What We Love About It

1. Magnificent Views & Photo Opportunities
From the moment you begin your journey, you’ll be greeted with some of the most photogenic vistas in Vietnam. The cruise takes you around sung sot cave, Dog Islet, Mans Head Islet, and others, offering postcard-perfect scenes. The early morning sunrise Tai Chi sessions on the deck, as described in reviews, are a calming highlight, perfect for capturing those magical moments when the light hits the bay.

2. Authentic Local Life – Cua Van Floating Village
One of the most appreciated elements is the visit to Cua Van floating village, where you get a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen. Reviewers mention that the guides make these visits informative and engaging, allowing travelers to see a different side of Vietnam beyond the usual tourist spots.

3. Delicious Meals on Board
Food quality on the cruise receives consistent praise, with reviews noting the variety and freshness of the included lunches and dinners. Some reviewers mention that the meals are generous, and the staff are friendly and attentive, although water and beverages are an extra charge, so packing your own might be wise if you’re thirsty.

4. Activities & Flexibility
The itinerary is packed with options like kayaking, swimming, and trekking on Titov Island. The kayaking around Cua Van is a favorite for many, offering a chance to get closer to the scenery and enjoy some quiet moments. Reviewers also appreciate the timing of sunrise Tai Chi, which sets a peaceful tone for the day.

The Itinerary in Depth: What to Expect

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome

Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, usually between 8:15 and 8:45 am, making it easy to start your day without stress. Once you arrive at Tuan Chau International Harbor, you’ll check in with V’Spirit Cruises around noon, where you’ll be welcomed with a drink and a briefing. After boarding, you’ll start soaking in the views, with some time to relax before the afternoon’s activities.

Day 2: Exploration & Local Life

Early risers can enjoy the sunrise Tai Chi session, a calming start that many reviews describe as a highlight. After breakfast, you’ll take a speedboat transfer to Viet Hai Pier, where the local life is laid out before you. Here, the opportunity to explore the village, perhaps by bike or foot, offers an authentic taste of rural Vietnam, away from the tourist-heavy areas.

In the afternoon, the cruise continues to Lan Ha Bay, with chances to swim, kayak, or just lounge on the deck. The floating village visits and natural sights, such as caves and rocky islets, will keep you engaged.

Day 3: Adventure & Reflection

The final day begins with another Tai Chi session at dawn, giving you a fresh perspective on the bay’s peaceful mornings. You might explore Tra Bau area by kayak, getting up close to the karst formations and rocky islands. The day wraps up with free time for swimming or relaxing on the deck, soaking in the last views before heading back to Hanoi.

What You’ll Value (and What to Watch For)

Value for Money
At $279 per person, the cruise offers two nights of accommodation, all meals, guided excursions, and transfers—quite a package. Reviewers mention that the quality of food and the comfort of the boat justify the price, especially considering the convenience of round-trip transfers from Hanoi. However, extra charges apply for drinks, and some moments, like peak holiday surcharges, could add to the cost.

Comfort & Convenience
The boat’s beds are described as comfortable, and the group size is moderate, with a maximum of 40 travelers, which maintains a good balance between socializing and privacy. The hotel pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter makes travel seamless, saving you from the hassle of arranging your own transport.

Guides & Staff
One reviewer notes the friendly and knowledgeable staff, with guides who are keen to share insights about the scenery and local culture. This adds depth to the experience, especially during the floating village visits and cave explorations.

Timing & Flexibility
While arrivals and departures are scheduled, some reviews mention slight variations in activity times, depending on weather or other unforeseen factors. The itinerary is subject to change, so flexibility is key.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

Weather Dependency
Like all outdoor activities, weather can impact your experience. Foggy mornings might affect views, and some reviews mention that the sights can be affected by weather conditions, so flexible planning is advisable.

Additional Costs
Beverages and tips are not included, and during peak seasons like Christmas or New Year, there is a surcharge of USD 40 per person, which could increase the overall expense.

Limited Free Time
While the cruise packs in activities, some travelers might find the schedule slightly busy, especially those who prefer more leisure or spontaneous exploration.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities for activities like kayaking and trekking. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of local life and stunning natural beauty without the stress of planning transfers and accommodations themselves. The inclusion of multiple meals and guided excursions makes it appealing for those who value convenience and comfort.

It also suits travelers who appreciate photo opportunities — whether snapping the sunrise Tai Chi or capturing the limestone karsts. But if your priority is complete flexibility or a very budget-conscious trip, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for extra costs.

Final Thoughts

The V’Spirit Cruise offers a solid choice for those looking to experience Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay in style and comfort. It balances awe-inspiring scenery, cultural encounters, and good food, all while taking care of the logistics so you can relax and enjoy. The inclusion of activities like kayaking and visits to floating villages ensure you’ll leave with a mix of memorable sights and authentic experiences.

While weather can sometimes influence the experience, the overall value coupled with positive reviews about guides, food, and views make it a strong contender for a Vietnam bucket list trip. This cruise is particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring, enjoy natural beauty, and prefer a guided, all-in-one package.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with timings typically between 8:15 and 8:45 am.

What are the main activities on this cruise?
You’ll enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, exploring caves like Sung Sot, visiting floating villages, and doing morning Tai Chi sessions on deck.

How many nights do I stay on the boat?
You’ll spend two nights onboard, providing ample time to relax and fully experience the bay.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on the boat, with the food generally praised for quality and freshness.

Are there any extra charges?
Beverages, tips, and personal expenses are not included. During peak periods like December 24 and 31 or Lunar New Year, a USD 40 surcharge per person applies.

What should I bring?
Packing swimming suits, sun glasses, insect repellent, and possibly a hat is recommended. Be sure to bring your passport for check-in.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations fewer than 6 days before will not be refunded, so plan accordingly.

In exploring this cruise, you’re likely to find a perfect balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the combination of scenic vistas and relaxed activities makes this a worthwhile way to experience the magic of Halong Bay.