3 Days 2 Nights Luxury Halong Bay Cruise Tour from Hanoi

Planning a trip to Vietnam and craving a blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural experiences, and comfortable luxury? This 3-day, 2-night Halong Bay cruise promises an unforgettable adventure aboard The Au Co, the largest cruise in the bay. While it’s not a budget option, the combination of premium accommodations, diverse excursions, and seamless logistics makes it a compelling choice for those wanting to indulge while truly experiencing the region.

What we love about this tour:

• The stunning vistas of Halong Bay’s limestone karsts that are best enjoyed from the spacious deck or kayak.
• The variety of activities like kayaking, squid fishing, and Tai Chi that keep the experience lively and engaging.
• The well-planned itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and relaxation without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration is that the tour is non-refundable and weather-dependent — so if you’re planning a trip during uncertain weather, keep this in mind.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate luxury, comfort, and a mix of adventure and culture. It’s ideal if you want a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience with plenty of authentic moments and gorgeous scenery.

Good To Know

• Luxury experience with spacious, en-suite cabins and onboard amenities
• Well-rounded itinerary covering iconic sites like Surprise Cave, Cua Van Village, and Luon Cave
• Activities like kayaking, Tai Chi, and squid fishing enhance the adventure
• All meals included with special demonstrations such as fruit carving and cooking shows
• Pickup and private transfer from Hanoi streamline your journey
• Weather policies ensure full refunds or rescheduling if conditions aren’t suitable

An in-depth look at the cruise experience

Starting from Hanoi

The tour kicks off early at around 8:00 am with a private limousine pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This door-to-door service is a real perk, making the transfer smooth and comfortable. We love that the group is capped at 66 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for more personalized attention from guides.

Once at the Bhaya Cruise Center on Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll be welcomed with a drink and check into your air-conditioned en-suite cabin. The cruise’s size means you get a spacious, well-equipped private space to relax after your explorations.

Day 1: Exploring Cat Ba Island and Culinary Delights

The first day involves a scenic cruise and a few stops that introduce you to the local vibe. Around 2:45 pm, you’ll arrive at Cat Ba Island, often called the gateway to Halong Bay. Here, you can opt to pedal a bicycle to Viet Hai Village, which is a fantastic way to experience traditional life amid lush scenery. Reviewers mention stopping at Bhaya Café for a drink, and hearing about the Viet Hai Community Farm adds a touch of authenticity.

Back on the boat by 5 pm, you’ll enjoy a cooking or fruit carving demonstration on the sun deck, depending on the weather. It’s a fun and tasty way to kick off your culinary journey. The fact that these activities are included makes the tour feel well thought out and engaging.

Day 2: Early Tai Chi and Water Adventures

The second morning begins with a gentle Tai Chi lesson at sunrise, complemented by complimentary coffee and tea — a peaceful way to start the day while soaking up the tranquility of Halong Bay.

The highlight here is the visit to Trinh Nu Beach and Cave at 9 am. The area is praised for its sunlit, expansive cave and clear waters perfect for swimming or kayaking. Reviewers mention that the sunlight streaming into Trinh Nu Cave creates stunning visuals, making it a favorite spot. Expect to spend about two hours exploring, swimming, or paddling, which offers a delightful break from the boat.

Later, you’ll get a tour of The Au Co’s engine room and bridge — a behind-the-scenes peek that’s surprisingly interesting for those curious about maritime tech. Around midday, the cruise heads towards Cua Van Floating Village, where you’ll paddle a kayak or row a traditional boat through a picturesque setting. One reviewer calls it “one of the most beautiful spots in the world,” emphasizing how peaceful and photogenic it is.

In the late afternoon, the boat anchors again, offering some leisure time, and the happy hour at Lan Ha bar is a great opportunity to unwind with discounted drinks.

Day 3: Sung Sot Cave and a Relaxed Farewell

The last day starts with a second Tai Chi session on the sun deck at dawn, followed by a light breakfast. Afterward, you’ll explore Sung Sot Cave, the largest in Halong Bay, filled with stalactites and stalagmites of fascinating shapes. Visiting early helps avoid the crowds — a tip from seasoned travelers — and makes for more serene photos.

Returning to the boat around 8:30 am, you’ll enjoy brunch as the cruise heads back towards the harbor. The disembarkation is smooth, with the tour ending around 3 pm, dropping you back in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

The value of this experience

Considering the price of $564 per person, this cruise offers good value for a luxury, all-inclusive package. The included meals, entrance fees, kayak use, and private transfers mean you’re covered for most expenses once onboard. The various activities, from kayaking to cultural demonstrations, add depth to the experience, making it more than just a scenic cruise.

What’s not included?

Beverages beyond the included drinks, spa treatments, and personal expenses are extra, so budget accordingly if you’re looking to indulge or purchase souvenirs.

Customer insights

Reviewers appreciated the professional guides and the well-organized itinerary. Some noted the delicious food, especially the local seafood and beautifully prepared fruit carvings. Others mentioned the comfort of the cabins and the peaceful atmosphere onboard, highlighting how relaxing the journey was after busy city days.

However, some pointed out that the tour is weather-dependent — if storms or heavy rains hit, the experience could be affected, or you might need to reschedule.

Who should consider this tour?

This cruise is perfect for luxury travelers who want a seamless, all-inclusive experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and comfortable amenities. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy organized activities and guided tours without sacrificing comfort.

It’s less ideal for budget travelers or those seeking a truly independent adventure — as the tour is structured and premium-priced, but the convenience and quality are often worth it.

Final thoughts

This 3-day Halong Bay cruise offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, cultural exploration, and onboard luxury. The well-thought-out itinerary ensures you see the top sights like Surprise Cave, Cua Van Village, and Luon Cave, while the included activities keep the experience lively. The spacious cabins, quality meals, and seamless transfers make it a relaxing yet engaging escape.

If you’re after a hassle-free way to see Halong Bay, enjoy authentic experiences, and unwind in style, this cruise suits you. Just remember to keep an eye on the weather forecast, as the experience relies heavily on good weather for optimal enjoyment.

FAQs

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers private limousine pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making your start smooth and stress-free.

Are meals included?
All meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — are covered, including special demonstrations like fruit carving and cooking shows.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking?
Absolutely. Kayak use is included in the tour, and you’ll have opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and even squid fishing.

What are the accommodation options?
You’ll stay in spacious, air-conditioned en-suite cabins onboard The Au Co, which are designed to provide comfort after your daily adventures.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with boat travel and moderate physical activity like biking and kayaking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be rescheduled or refunded in full.

This carefully curated experience combines the best of Halong Bay’s natural beauty and cultural charm with top-tier comfort — perfect for those wanting an authentic, memorable escape in northern Vietnam.