Swan Cruises Ha Long & Bai Tu Long Bay 3D2N – Vung Vieng Village

Traveling in Vietnam often means exploring its famous Ha Long Bay, but if you’re looking for a slightly quieter, more relaxed experience, a trip to Bai Tu Long Bay might be just what you need. Swan Cruises offers a 3-day, 2-night adventure that promises not only stunning scenery but also comfort and culture. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve been on this cruise to give you a balanced, honest look at what to expect.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances relaxation with adventure. The private cabins are a highlight, offering a cozy retreat after a day of sightseeing. The all-inclusive meals mean you can indulge without surprises, and the guided activities like kayaking and exploring caves make the trip both fun and informative. However, a possible downside is the crowded nature of some destinations, which might affect those seeking true solitude. This tour suits travelers who want to see Bai Tu Long Bay comfortably, with some cultural highlights and water-based fun thrown in.

Good To Know

• Comfortable accommodation in private cabins enhances the experience.
• All-inclusive meals make dining worry-free, with delicious options.
• Cultural and natural sights provide a good mix of exploration and relaxation.
• Guided tours like cave visits and kayaking offer engaging activities.
• Early booking is recommended, with most travelers reserving their spot about two months in advance.
• Crowded spots can occur, but Swan Cruises tries to get you there first, as noted by reviewers.

Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay with Swan Cruises

The Itinerary: What to Expect Day-by-Day

Day 1: From Hanoi to Cong Do and Cap La Island
Your adventure kicks off early with a pickup around 8:00 am from Hanoi, making it easy to leave the hustle behind. The bus ride is approximately four hours, with a stop at the port around noon. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink, setting a friendly tone. The first day involves cruising toward Cong Do and Cap La Island, known for their quieter, less commercialized atmosphere compared to central Ha Long Bay.

Travelers have praised Swan Cruises’ efforts to avoid the crowds, with some noting the crew’s skill in arriving early at popular sites. The journey offers ample time for photos, relaxing on deck, or enjoying your private cabin. The first day immerses you in the peaceful beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay’s limestone karsts and calm waters.

Day 2: Vung Vieng Village, Cong Dam, and Bai Tu Long Geology Park
The second day is packed with unique activities. Start with morning Tai Chi on the deck, a favorite among guests for its calming effect and beautiful sunrise views. After breakfast, the day features a stop at Vung Vieng Floating Village, where you get a glimpse of local fishing life. Here, you can choose to kayak or simply explore the floating houses from the boat.

Reviewer Cole H highlights the spectacular views and enjoyable day activities, emphasizing how the less crowded environment allows for a more authentic experience. The afternoon takes you to Cong Dam, a scenic spot with impressive limestone cliffs, and then on to the Bai Tu Long Geology Park, a highlight for nature lovers keen to see the bay’s geological formations.

Day 3: Thien Canh Son Cave and Return to Ha Long
The final day starts with another Tai Chi session at sunrise for those wanting a peaceful start. After breakfast, you’ll visit Thien Canh Son Cave, a stunning limestone cave filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave features are accessible and provide a good mix of natural beauty and manageable walking.

The cruise concludes with a return to Ha Long Harbor around noon. Some travelers, like Sophie J, have praised the hardworking staff and the value for the cost, noting that the overall experience exceeded expectations. Others, like Dora P, pointed out that the first day was incredible but felt rushed, especially for those on the 3D2N tour.

What’s Included and What to Consider

What’s Included

• Two nights in private cabins—a major plus for comfort and privacy.
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), allowing you to indulge without extra costs.
• Kayaking and entrance fees, giving you active ways to explore.
• Local taxes and professional guides to enrich your experience.

What’s Not Included

• Drinks outside the included meals or personal expenses.
• Transfers to and from the port—though the tour offers pickup, some travelers may choose private transportation.
• Surcharges during special holidays, like New Year or Tet, which can increase costs.

Price and Value

At $310 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the all-inclusive meals and private accommodation. The reviews reflect that many guests see it as worth the price, citing delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery as key benefits.

Group Size and Logistics

With a maximum of 35 travelers, the tour feels intimate enough for a comfortable social experience but lively enough to meet fellow travelers. Most bookings are made around 62 days in advance, which suggests it’s a popular choice for those planning ahead.

The Real Traveler Insights

Many reviewers highlight the friendly and attentive staff, often mentioning guides like Sunday, who go out of their way to make the trip enjoyable. The views and scenery consistently receive high praise; even those who felt some spots were crowded appreciated that Swan Cruises tries to beat the crowds by arriving early.

A common sentiment is that the tour balances sightseeing with relaxation. Kayaking, cave visits, and village explorations keep things engaging without feeling rushed. Some guests, however, noted that certain destinations get crowded later in the day, but Swan Cruises’ strategy of early arrival helps mitigate this.

The food quality is frequently mentioned as a pleasant surprise, with reviewers describing delicious, well-prepared meals that include local flavors. Vegetarian options are available if requested at booking, which appeals to travelers with dietary preferences.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early to secure your spot, especially if you want a private cabin.
• Bring your own snacks or drinks if you have specific preferences, as these aren’t included.
• Prepare for some walking at caves and villages, comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Be ready for some crowding at popular sites, but trust that the crew aims to start early.
• Bring a waterproof camera or phone case—the scenery is stunning and worth capturing.
• Consider a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for daytime activities on deck.
• Notify the tour provider in advance if you want vegetarian meals.
• Arrive promptly at the meeting point to avoid missing the departure.
• Check the weather forecast before you go, to pack appropriate clothing.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a comfortable, well-organized tour with plenty of natural beauty, this cruise fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to relax in private cabins, enjoy delicious food, and explore key sights at a gentle pace. The inclusion of activities like kayaking and cave visits appeals to those who enjoy a mix of leisure and adventure.

However, if you’re a traveler craving complete solitude, some moments might be affected by crowded sites later in the day, despite efforts from Swan Cruises to avoid this. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate value for money, as the all-inclusive nature offers a streamlined experience without hidden costs.

Final Thoughts

Swan Cruises’ 3D2N Bai Tu Long Bay tour provides a wonderful blend of comfort, culture, and scenery. The private cabins and all-inclusive meals make it a stress-free way to experience this quieter side of Vietnam’s famous bay. The guides and staff are highlighted for their attentiveness, and many guests leave feeling they’ve enjoyed authentic, scenic, and well-organized days.

This tour is best suited for those who want to combine relaxation with gentle exploration. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who value good food, friendly service, and beautiful landscapes, all within a well-managed, moderately sized group.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The $310 fee covers two nights in private cabins, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), kayaking, entrance fees, and local taxes.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers reserve their spot about 62 days before the trip, as it’s quite popular.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals are offered—just be sure to specify this when booking.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at the Victory Star Cruise main meeting point in Bãi Cháy, Ha Long at 8:00 am and ends back there after the cruise.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Hanoi hotel, making logistics straightforward.

What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, cave visits, and exploring floating villages. The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation.

Are there any holiday surcharges?
Surcharges apply during New Year Eve, Christmas Eve, and Lunar Tet Holidays, so check with Swan Cruises if traveling during these dates.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a waterproof camera, and your passport. Consider bringing some snacks if you have dietary preferences—though meals are provided.

What is the crowd level at sites?
Some sites can get crowded later in the day, but the company aims to arrive early to beat the crowds, especially at popular spots like Thien Canh Son Cave.

To sum it up, for those wanting an authentic, scenic, and comfortable cruise experience in Bai Tu Long Bay, Swan Cruises offers a well-rounded package. It combines value, good service, and stunning views—perfect for travelers eager to explore with a bit of leisure thrown in.