If you’re dreaming of seeing Halong Bay’s iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters, but hesitant about dedicating multiple days to the trip, the Halong Apollo 5 Cruise Day Trip might just be your ideal solution. The tour promises a full day of adventure, comfort, and stunning scenery—all packed into approximately 12 hours.
What’s particularly appealing? First, the luxury of traveling on a brand-new, 2024 5-star cruise with a Jacuzzi onboard. Second, the value for money with included activities like cave visits, kayaking, and a generous buffet lunch. And third, the impeccable reviews—not a single one below five stars from 27 travelers—highlighting friendly guides and smooth logistics.
The only consideration? It’s a day trip, so if you’re after an in-depth exploration of Halong Bay’s lesser-known spots or prefer overnights, this might not satisfy your needs. But for those wanting a luxurious, all-inclusive taste of the bay in a single day, this cruise hits the mark.
Perfect for first-timers, couples, or solo travelers eager for a hassle-free experience with strong reviews, the Apollo Cruise offers a blend of comfort, activities, and breathtaking views.
- Good To Know
- The Experience in Detail
- Starting from Hanoi: Comfort and Convenience
- Tuan Chau Island: Gateway to Halong Bay
- The 5-Star Cruise Experience
- Cave and Island Stopovers
- Sunset and Return
- What Makes This Tour Stand Out
- The Luxury of a 2024 Cruise with Jacuzzi
- Authentic and Well-Organized Activities
- Excellent Guides and Service
- Great Value for Money
- Drawbacks or Considerations
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- More Lunch Experiences in Hanoi
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- More Tour Reviews in Hanoi
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Good To Know

- All-in-one day trip that covers main highlights of Halong Bay without needing overnight stays
- Luxury onboard experience with a new 2024 cruise, Jacuzzi, and full services
- Balanced itinerary including caves, islands, kayaking, swimming, and sunset parties
- Excellent guides praised for friendliness and knowledge, especially guide Mr. Tommy
- Affordable pricing around $60 per person for a full day of activities and comfort
- Convenient pickup from Hanoi hotels, ensuring a stress-free start and end to your day
The Experience in Detail

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Starting from Hanoi: Comfort and Convenience
The journey begins with hotel pickups from various Hanoi locations, typically about 45 minutes before departure. The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle makes the 2.5-hour drive to Tuan Chau Island, setting the stage for a relaxed day. The fact that admission tickets for the drive and initial stops are free is a bonus—saving a bit of extra expense.
Traveler reviews repeatedly mention punctuality and ease of transfer, emphasizing how important this is when you’re on a tight schedule. The comfort of the minibus, described as a “luxury,” keeps the mood upbeat before embarking on the scenic part of the trip.
Tuan Chau Island: Gateway to Halong Bay
Arriving at Tuan Chau, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to stretch, grab a quick snack, or browse the facilities before boarding the cruise. The port is described as an international hub, and the vibe is lively but organized. The process of waiting for your guide to purchase tickets and board the boat is seamless, with many travelers noting that the staff handles everything efficiently.
The 5-Star Cruise Experience
Once onboard, the real magic begins. The new 2024 cruise boasts modern amenities, a stylish design, and a spacious layout. The highlight for many is the Jacuzzi—a rare treat on a day trip that adds serious luxury to the experience. Imagine relaxing in warm bubbles as you drift past stunning rock formations and lush islands.
The buffet lunch is varied, offering both Asian and European dishes, catering to different tastes. Reviewers have remarked on the good quality and generous portions, making the meal a highlight rather than a rushed snack. Drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or purchase beverages onboard.
Cave and Island Stopovers
Hang Luon Cave is the first major stop, where you can kayak or take a bamboo boat through the narrow entrance into a tranquil lagoon. The activity lasts about 30 minutes, enough to get a feel for the water and enjoy the scenery. Many reviews praise the kayak option, noting the calm waters and impressive cliffs surrounding the cave, with one traveler sharing that it was “fun and scenic.”
Next is Sung Sot Cave, renowned as the most impressive on the bay, filled with stalagmites and stalactites. One hour is enough for most travelers to explore and marvel at nature’s stalagmite sculptures. Guides typically provide interesting facts and help visitors navigate the expansive caverns, making it accessible even for first-timers.
Ti Top Island offers a sandy beach perfect for swimming or a trek up to panoramic viewpoints. The short hour on the island is a favorite for many; the chance to swim or climb for stunning views adds variety to the day.
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Sunset and Return
After the island visit, the boat heads back to Tuan Chau, where an authentic sunset party awaits. Light snacks, wine, and fruit are served, giving everyone a chance to unwind and soak in the last moments of the day. Reviewers consistently praise the spectacular sunset views, describing them as “breathtaking” and “a perfect end to a beautiful tour.”
The return to Hanoi is smooth, with a 3-hour drive back to your hotel, giving you time to relax or review your photos. Many travelers mention the punctual pickup and the comfort of the transfer as a highlight, especially after a full day of sightseeing.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Luxury of a 2024 Cruise with Jacuzzi
Traveling on a new, upscale vessel with modern facilities elevates this day trip above many others. The Jacuzzi is a rare feature on day cruises, and reviewers love the chance to unwind in warm bubbles while viewing Halong’s iconic limestone formations.
Authentic and Well-Organized Activities
From kayaking through caves to hiking up Ti Top Island, the itinerary offers a good mix of adventure and relaxation. The inclusion of cave visits, swimming, and a sunset party ensures the day feels full without feeling rushed.
Excellent Guides and Service
Tour guides, especially Mr. Tommy, receive glowing reviews for their friendliness and professionalism. Travelers appreciate guides who are fluent in English, attentive, and eager to share local insights—making the trip informative and fun.
Great Value for Money
At $60 per person, this experience provides a lot of value. The combination of transportation, a luxury cruise, meals, activities, and entrance fees makes it a more economical choice for a comprehensive day out. Reviewers repeatedly mention how much they felt they got for the price, especially considering the quality of the boat and inclusions.
Drawbacks or Considerations
While this tour is highly praised, it’s important to remember it’s a day trip. If you’re craving a deeper exploration or wish to spend more time on less-visited parts of Halong Bay, this might feel somewhat rushed. Also, the tour is scheduled for good weather—cancellation due to poor weather is possible, and refunds are offered if that occurs.
Another point to consider is the group size—maximum 19 travelers—which keeps the experience intimate but still bustling enough to feel lively. If you prefer more privacy or a smaller group, this could be a factor.
Final Thoughts

The Halong Apollo 5 Cruise Day Trip strikes an impressive balance of luxury, activity, and value. You’ll love the modern boat, the inclusion of kayaking and cave visits, and the friendly guides who make the journey memorable. The scenic views, especially during sunset and from Ti Top Island’s lookout, are truly special.
For travelers seeking a comfortable, comprehensive, and hassle-free way to enjoy Halong Bay in a day, this tour offers a strong package. It’s especially suited for those who want to indulge in a bit of luxury while exploring the highlights without the commitment of multiple days away.
If you’re after a well-organized, fun, and scenic adventure with top-rated guides, the Apollo Cruise day trip deserves serious consideration.
FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup from Hanoi is offered, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.
How long is the entire trip?
The full experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and return to Hanoi.
What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, a new 2024 luxury cruise, buffet lunch, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
Are drinks at lunch included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring some water or purchase beverages onboard.
Can I kayak during the tour?
Yes, kayaking is included at Hang Luon Cave, allowing you to explore the lagoon at your own pace.
Is there free time on Ti Top Island?
Yes, you can swim or trek to the viewpoint, with about an hour allocated for this stop.
What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers enjoy the social atmosphere and the care taken by guides like Mr. Tommy.
How do reviews describe the guide?
Guides like Mr. Tommy are praised for their friendliness, fluency in English, and helpfulness, making the experience enjoyable and informative.
To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, luxurious taste of Halong Bay that’s perfect for travelers who want to see the sights without sacrificing comfort or value. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable day out, the Apollo Cruise day trip could be your best choice for experiencing Vietnam’s famous bay.
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