2 Days and 1 Night Ha Long Bay Luxury Escape on Apple Cruise

Traveling to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without seeing the captivating beauty of Ha Long Bay. While many travelers opt for day trips, this luxury overnight cruise offers a more immersive and relaxing way to soak in the surreal limestone formations, emerald waters, and charming islands. Our review focuses on the Apple Cruise experience, renowned for its quality service, elegant accommodations, and memorable sightseeing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the comfortable private cabins with balconies allow you to wake up to stunning vistas. Second, the gourmet meals served onboard elevate the experience, turning dining into a highlight. Third, the variety of activities—from exploring caves to kayaking—delivers a healthy dose of adventure.

However, a potential consideration is that this tour does have a non-refundable policy, so it’s best booked when your plans are firm. It’s a trip designed for those who want a balance of luxury, exploration, and relaxation—ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone looking to indulge in Vietnam’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort.

Good To Know

• Comfortable private cabins with balconies for enjoying the scenery.
• Gourmet dining featuring buffet lunches, dinners, and cooking demos.
• Variety of activities, including kayaking, cave visits, and island hikes.
• Well-organized itinerary balancing sightseeing and leisure.
• All-inclusive fees cover entrance, sightseeing, and some amenities.
• Group size limit of 40 ensures a personal experience, but check for weather cancellations or minimum numbers.

An In-Depth Look at the Apple Cruise Experience

Setting the scene for this tour, the departure begins early from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with pickup between 8:15 and 8:45 am. The transfer to Tuan Chau wharf on the new highway is smooth, and the ride offers a glimpse of Hanoi’s outskirts before you switch to the serene waters of Halong Bay. The included transportation and group size make it accessible for most travelers, and the pickup at Hanoi Opera House is a convenient option if your hotel isn’t centrally located.

The Journey to Tuan Chau and Check-in

Once you arrive at Tuan Chau harbor around noon, the process of checking into your private cabin on the Apple Cruise ship is straightforward. The ship’s design emphasizes modern luxury, with spacious interiors and balconies that promise excellent views. The cruise’s reputation for flawless service reassures travelers that they’re in capable hands, and the free water, tea, and coffee in cabins help you settle in comfortably.

Cruising Through Halong Bay and First Stops

The highlight of the day begins with a buffet lunch as the cruise glides through the waters, offering a chance to admire the limestone formations from the deck. The delicious meals, often described as gourmet, are a welcome surprise, with some reviews highlighting how the food exceeds expectations for a boat-based experience.

The first major stop is Ti Top Island, where you can climb to the peak for panoramic views and relax on the beach. The focus here is on combining scenic beauty with physical activity, which many travelers appreciate. The cruise also takes you into Luon Cave, a narrow passage that’s perfect for kayaking—an activity mentioned frequently as a must-do and highly enjoyable. Multiple reviews underscore how kayaking in such a stunning setting makes the experience truly memorable.

Sunset and Evening Activities

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a Sunset party at the Hermes Sky Bar, complete with fruits and snacks. The happy hour deal—buy two drinks, get one free—is a nice touch for unwinding. The onboard cooking demonstration on Vietnamese spring rolls adds cultural flavor, making the experience more interactive and fun.

Massage services are available, allowing for some added relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The ship’s hospitality team ensures everyone feels pampered, and many reviewers note the friendly staff’s attentiveness.

Wake Up to the Calm of Halong Bay

The early morning hours are designed for calm reflection and gentle activity: a Tai Chi class at dawn, followed by a light breakfast. This peaceful start sets the tone for the second day’s adventures, including a visit to Sung Sot Cave, one of the most impressive on the bay. The cave’s expansive chambers and stalactites make it a highlight, and the guided visit offers insights into the geological wonders.

Final Day and Return to Hanoi

After the cave visit, you’ll enjoy a buffet brunch onboard while the cruise returns to Tuan Chau Wharf. The disembarkation process is smooth, with ample time to reflect on the trip as you head back to Hanoi, arriving around 3 pm.

Analyzing the Value

For $274 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of luxury, adventure, and cultural exposure. The inclusion of private cabins, gourmet meals, sightseeing, and activities like kayaking means you’re getting a lot for your money. The all-inclusive nature—covering entrance fees, sightseeing, and some amenities—ensures minimal hidden costs.

Compared to other options that may be cheaper or more rushed, this cruise emphasizes quality and comfort. Its group size limit fosters a more intimate atmosphere, adding to the overall value, especially considering the premium features like private balconies and spa options (though spa treatments cost extra).

What Travelers Say

Reviewers appreciate the stunning views and the delicious food, often noting that the experience exceeded their expectations. One reviewer mentioned the excellent hospitality of the staff and the beautiful sunset party, adding a special touch to their trip. The kayaking at Luon Cave is frequently highlighted as a favorite activity, allowing travelers to get up close to the limestone formations and enjoy the tranquility of the bay.

On the downside, some mention that the non-refundable policy requires certainty in your plans, and weather can occasionally impact the experience—though the tour provider offers alternative dates or refunds if cancellations occur due to poor weather.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for couples and honeymooners seeking a blend of luxury and adventure in a stunning natural setting. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort and gourmet meals while still wanting to explore caves and islands. The group size and organized schedule suit those who prefer a well-managed, hassle-free experience without sacrificing authenticity.

It’s also a good fit for those with specific dietary needs, as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and kosher options are available upon request. If you prefer flexibility and personalized attention, the organized nature of the tour delivers that balance of structure and leisure.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cruise 2-day/1-night Ha Long Bay experience combines elegant accommodations, scenic exploration, and engaging activities for a memorable journey through one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes. From the moment you’re greeted onboard to the peaceful sunrise Tai Chi, every element is designed to maximize comfort and enjoyment.

You’ll love waking up to breathtaking views from your private balcony, indulging in gourmet meals that rival some land-based restaurants, and feeling the thrill of kayaking in such a famous setting. The well-organized itinerary ensures you see key sights like Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island without feeling rushed, while the sunset party and cooking demonstration add delightful cultural touches.

While the policy on cancellations necessitates some certainty in your plans, the overall experience is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a blend of luxury, adventure, and serenity—all set against the dramatic backdrop of Halong Bay.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Wharf and back is included, making for a seamless journey.

What is the departure time?
The tour starts with hotel pickups between 8:15 am and 8:45 am, with the pickup location depending on your hotel or at Hanoi Opera House.

Are meals provided onboard?
Yes, the tour includes two buffet meals—lunch on the first day and brunch on the second. The food is described as gourmet and satisfying.

Can I participate in kayaking?
Absolutely. Kayaking service is included and is one of the highlights for many travelers, especially at Luon Cave.

Are there any optional extras?
Spa and massage services are available for an extra fee ($20), as well as additional beverages ($20). Tipping and personal expenses are not included.

What about accommodations?
Your private cabin is well appointed with free water, tea, and coffee. It offers a balcony for enjoying views and is part of the overall package.

What are the main sights?
Key stops include Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, Luon Cave, and the Sunset party on Hermes Sky Bar.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
Yes, dietary requirements like vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and kosher are accommodated with prior notice.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a luxurious gateway to one of Vietnam’s most scenic spots. It balances well-curated sightseeing with comfort, making it suitable for travelers who want to indulge without sacrificing authenticity. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful escape on the water, the Apple Cruise provides a memorable, picture-perfect experience of Halong Bay.