Cycad Cruise – NEW 6 star cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay 2days/1night

Traveling through Vietnam’s stunning waters, especially Bai Tu Long Bay, offers some of the most serene and breathtaking scenery in Southeast Asia. The Cycad Cruise, a brand-new 6-star vessel, is making waves as the first of its kind in this UNESCO-listed region. While we haven’t personally taken the journey, our close examination reveals a thoughtfully curated experience that promises both understated luxury and authentic encounters, far from the crowded tourist spots.

What immediately catches the eye are the luxurious Indochine style design, the extended itinerary allowing deeper exploration, and the value packed into the price of $280 per person. The only thing to keep in mind is that some travelers might prefer a more active or adventurous schedule — this cruise emphasizes comfort, culture, and natural beauty at a relaxed pace. It’s perfectly suited for those who crave tranquility, meaningful experiences, and a touch of elegance during their time in Vietnam.

Good To Know

• Luxury Experience: The only 6-star cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay, focusing on comfort and style.
• Authentic Encounters: Visits to cave systems and fishing villages that highlight local life.
• Value for Money: Includes meals, entrance fees, guided tours, and activities for a competitive price.
• Extended Itinerary: Deeper exploration of Bai Tu Long Bay’s natural and cultural highlights.
• Peaceful Setting: Far from crowds, ideal for relaxation and reflection.
• Group Size: Max 52 travelers, maintaining a comfortable, intimate atmosphere.

Why Consider the Cycad Cruise?

The Cycad Cruise offers a fresh take on exploring Bai Tu Long Bay — a quieter, less commercialized alternative to Ha Long Bay. Its luxurious design and carefully thought-out itinerary ensure that travelers experience the best of this UNESCO site without feeling rushed or crowded. This cruise is especially appealing for those seeking a relaxed pace, lovely scenery, and authentic cultural insights.

You’ll love the comfort of the spacious deluxe rooms with large sea-view windows, which make waking up to the bay’s dawn or watching sunsets from the deck a daily pleasure. The well-planned activities—such as visiting Thien Canh Son Cave and Vung Vieng Fishing Village—offer genuine glimpses into local life and natural beauty, making this cruise more meaningful than just a sightseeing tour.

That said, the price of $280 per person includes all major highlights, meals, and guided tours, which provides excellent value considering the level of comfort and exclusivity. However, note that beverages, tips, and personal expenses are extra, and the round-trip transfer from Hanoi costs an additional $35 per person.

This experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize luxury, cultural engagement, and scenic tranquility over high-energy activities or nightlife. It’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, or those celebrating special occasions.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Halong to Bai Tu Long Bay

Your adventure begins at the Halong International Cruise Port, where you’ll check in and prepare for your journey. The check-in time is before 11:30 am, which means arriving a bit earlier might give you time to relax and soak in the bustling port scene. Once aboard the Cycad Cruiser, you’ll be welcomed with warm drinks and a chance to settle into your deluxe room, featuring sweeping sea views that set a tranquil tone.

The first major stop is Bai Tu Long Bay, a pristine section of the UNESCO world heritage site. As the boat glides through the calm waters, you’ll enjoy the sight of karst limestone formations rising dramatically from the sea. The short transfer to the bay is straightforward, and the scenery is, quite honestly, picture-perfect. Most reviews praise the peacefulness of Bai Tu Long compared to the more crowded parts of Ha Long Bay.

Next, your afternoon involves exploring Thien Canh Son Cave, perched atop a mountain. The cave is known for its geological significance and natural beauty. Expect a hiking route requiring comfortable shoes, as the cave is situated on higher ground, offering panoramic views of the surrounding bay. Reviewers have mentioned the “great photo opportunities” and appreciate the chance to combine a scenic hike with cultural exploration.

Returning to the boat, you’ll have some time to shower and relax before enjoying the happy hour on the sundeck. From 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm, the deck becomes a social hub for drinks and good company, while the boat cruises toward the Cong Do anchoring spot for the night. This idyllic setting is perfect for unwinding after a day of discovery.

Day 2: Morning Activities and Village Visit

The next day begins early at 6:30 am with a peaceful Tai Chi session, a wonderful way to embrace the serenity of the surroundings. A light international breakfast follows at 7:00 am, providing nourishing fuel without feeling heavy.

Most of the morning is spent cruising back towards the harbor, giving you more scenic views and a chance to reflect on your experience. Before checkout at 9:30 am, there’s another opportunity to explore Bai Tu Long Bay from a different perspective, making your journey feel more comprehensive.

The highlight of the morning is a tender transfer to Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into local life, with a rowboat ride led by fishermen, showcasing traditional methods still in use today. Numerous reviews mention the authenticity of this experience and the chance to learn about the fishing community’s daily routines. It’s a slow-paced but meaningful excursion that enriches your understanding of the region.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers meals (breakfast, two lunches, dinner), entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide. The deluxe room with an expansive sea-view window adds a layer of comfort, while activities like kayaking or bamboo boat rides are included to help you explore the bay at your own pace.

However, beverages, tips, and personal expenses are extra, which is typical for cruises of this level. The roundtrip transfer from Hanoi is available at an additional cost, making it essential to factor this into your overall budget.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early at Halong International Cruise Port to ensure smooth boarding.
• Bring comfortable shoes for the cave hike and village exploration.
• Pack sun protection—hat, sunscreen, sunglasses—especially for outdoor activities.
• If you’re a photographer, bring a good camera—the views from the cave and the boat deck are stunning.
• Consider bringing some cash for extra drinks or tips, as not all extras are included.
• If you have dietary restrictions, inform the tour operator in advance; vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Worth It?

The Cycad Cruise offers a distinctive blend of luxury, natural beauty, and cultural exposure at a reasonable price point, especially given its 6-star status. The thoughtful itinerary ensures you’ll see some of Bai Tu Long Bay’s most stunning sights without feeling overwhelmed, making it ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful escape.

The quality of accommodation, combined with authentic experiences like fishing village visits and cave exploration, makes it stand out. The value is significant considering the included meals, guided tours, and activities — you’re effectively paying for a well-rounded, comfortable experience rather than just transportation and a bed.

This cruise would suit those who value relaxation, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity over adrenaline or nightlife. It’s a good choice for couples, honeymooners, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who wants a touch of elegance amid nature.

FAQs

What is the duration of the Cycad Cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 days and 1 night, with scheduled activities and sightseeing included within this time frame.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Halong International Cruise Port in the morning and returns to the same point after the cruise concludes.

How much does the roundtrip transfer from Hanoi cost?
The transfer is an additional $35 per person and needs to be booked separately.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, two lunches, and dinner, with options available for special dietary needs if communicated in advance.

What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy kayaking or bamboo boat rides, visits to Thien Canh Son Cave, and the fishing village tour.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour accommodates a maximum of 52 travelers, maintaining an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
Most activities are included in the tour package, but bringing a camera, sun protection, and comfortable shoes is recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, with later cancellations receiving a partial refund or none, depending on timing.

To sum it up, the Cycad Cruise offers a luxurious, relaxed way to experience Bai Tu Long Bay’s breathtaking scenery and authentic local culture. Its combination of comfort, thoughtful itinerary, and value makes it especially attractive for travelers seeking a peaceful, high-quality escape into nature. If you’re after a well-rounded, indulgent journey that avoids the crowds and delivers genuine moments, this cruise could be just the ticket.