Luxury 5 Star Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay (2D/1N)

A Luxurious Escape into Vietnam’s Stunning Waterways

Getting away to Vietnam’s famed Ha Long Bay has long been a bucket list item for many travelers, but choosing to stay overnight on a cruise truly transforms the experience. This luxury 5-star overnight cruise offers a chance to see the bay’s dramatic limestone karsts, quiet caves, and pristine waters at a leisurely pace—without the rush of daytime tours.

What we love about this experience are the private en-suite cabins with balconies and hot tubs, the thoughtfully curated itinerary including kayaking and cooking classes, and the full onboard amenities like a spa, gym, and sundeck for relaxing after a day exploring.

A potential drawback? The price point of $225 per person might seem steep, but when you consider the all-inclusive meals, transfers, and luxury comforts, it’s a fair reflection of value for those seeking a high-end experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort, enjoy scenic sailing, and want to experience Vietnam’s bay in a more intimate, less crowded setting. If you’re after authentic views, gourmet food, and a bit of indulgence, this cruise could be just your thing.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Enjoy meals, drinks, and accommodations in a luxurious cabin, with optional activities like kayaking and cooking classes.
• Convenient Transfers: Includes pickups from Hanoi, making the journey seamless without hassle.
• Rich Experience: Visit hidden caves, lagoon areas, and scenic spots typically missed on day tours.
• Well-Equipped Ship: Features a sundeck, spa, gym, outdoor Jacuzzi, and a restaurant, ensuring relaxation and entertainment onboard.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Learn to cook Vietnamese cuisine, adding a personal touch to your trip.
• Flexible Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 6 days in advance, offering peace of mind.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Your Journey from Hanoi

Most travelers begin the adventure with a hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter—an area bustling with energy and history. The transfer is comfortable, usually via limousine, and takes around 2.5 hours to reach Tuan Chau Harbor, the gateway for the cruise. Reviewers note the smooth pickup service, making for an easy start to what promises to be a memorable trip.

The Onboard Welcome and First Impressions

Once aboard, you’re greeted with a welcome drink and warm tissues—small touches that set a friendly, luxurious tone. The ship’s cabins are well-appointed, featuring private balconies perfect for soaking in the views or enjoying a hot tub under the stars. Actual guests highlight the comfortable en-suite cabins and the ability to unwind in privacy after a day of sightseeing.

Cruising Through Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays

The cruise sets sail around noon, heading into the heart of the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, with a visit to Tuan Chau Harbor first. The boat then moves to Lan Ha Bay, a quieter part of the region known for its secluded lagoons and hidden caves, like Con Vit Islet and Gia Luan Harbor.

A standout for many guests is the opportunity to explore hidden caves and lagoons—these are places less crowded than the main tourist spots, offering a more authentic experience. The cruise’s itinerary notes chances to swim, kayak, or simply relax on deck, with some guests describing the views as “breathtaking” and “peaceful,” especially after the day-trippers have left.

Activities That Make the Trip Special

The lineup of activities is thoughtfully curated. For instance, kayaking and rowing boats allow you to glide through the calm waters, admiring the towering limestone formations close up. One reviewer appreciated their kayaking experience, saying, “It felt like I was discovering secret corners of the bay that most travelers miss.”

Cooking classes are also offered, where travelers learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. This adds a cultural layer to your trip, making it more than just sightseeing. Guests have praised the guides as “knowledgeable” and “friendly,” often sharing insights and local stories that enrich the experience.

Wellness and Relaxation: Spa, Jacuzzi, and Tai Chi

The ship boasts a spa room, outdoor Jacuzzi, and a sundeck. Guests love unwinding in the Jacuzzi after a day of exploration, with some noting that the outdoor hot tub provided an excellent opportunity to relax while taking in the sunset. Early risers can join a Tai Chi session on the deck at dawn, setting a peaceful tone for the day.

Culinary Delights

All meals are included, with guests describing the onboard cuisine as “delicious” and “authentic.” The two lunches and dinner feature Vietnamese flavors, with some reviewers mentioning that the food exceeded expectations, especially considering the quality and presentation. Beverages aren’t included, but guests often enjoy the welcome drinks and small bottles of water in their cabins.

The End of the Cruise

On the final morning, a leisurely breakfast is served, followed by a last cruise around Lan Ha Bay. Guests can participate in squid fishing or simply enjoy the scenery. Around 11:30 AM, the boat returns to Tuan Chau Harbor, and transfers are provided back to Hanoi between 2:45 PM and 3:00 PM.

The Value of a 2-Day Luxury Cruise

While $225 per person might seem like a splurge, the inclusive nature of the trip—meals, transfers, activities, and luxurious accommodations—makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting to experience Vietnam’s bays in style. Compared to day tours, this overnight cruise offers more time to relax, explore in depth, and genuinely soak in the scenery.

Guests often comment on the quality of the guides and cruise managers. One even shared that the local guides made the trip memorable with their stories and knowledge, highlighting the importance of insider insights for a truly enriching experience.

The Plus: Ease and Comfort

The organized transfers from Hanoi remove the stress of navigating public transport or hiring a private car, so you can start your trip stress-free. Plus, the ship’s amenities—gym, spa, sundeck—provide plenty of options to unwind.

The Consideration: Price and Timing

The main consideration is the cost, which may be on the higher side for budget travelers. Plus, this tour is best suited for those who appreciate comfort and luxury, rather than backpacker-style adventures. The booking window is usually quite far in advance (about 223 days), so securing a spot might require planning ahead.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, relaxing experience with plenty of activities and amenities. It’s suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone who values comfort and an intimate atmosphere. If you’re looking for a way to see Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays without the crowds and with plenty of added comforts, this cruise fits the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and return transfers from Hanoi, making the journey hassle-free.

What’s the accommodation like onboard?
You’ll stay in a full-equipped, luxurious en-suite cabin with a private sea-view balcony and hot tub, offering a private retreat after a day exploring.

Are meals included?
All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, with guests describing the food as tasty and authentic.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking or cooking?
Absolutely. Kayaking, rowing, cooking classes, and photo hunting are part of the experience, with many guests enjoying these hands-on activities.

What amenities are available onboard?
The ship features a sundeck, gym, spa room, outdoor Jacuzzi, and a restaurant, providing ample options to relax and enjoy your time.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 223 days ahead, given the popularity and limited spots on this luxury cruise.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the trip for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day, 1-night cruise through Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays presents a well-rounded, indulgent way to experience Vietnam’s most iconic waters. It combines comfort, authentic activities, and stunning scenery, making it ideal for those who want to explore in style without sacrificing authenticity.

While the price is on the higher side, the all-inclusive package, private cabins, and curated experiences deliver good value for anyone looking for a memorable, luxury escape. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a quiet, intimate setting over bustling day trips, and who want to unwind in comfort while soaking in some of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural sights.

Overall, if you seek a tranquil, luxurious adventure that balances scenic beauty with comfort and cultural insight, this cruise offers a compelling option worth considering.