All-Inclusive 2 Day/1 Night Halong Luxury Cruise, Meals, Cave, Kayaking,Swimming

Introduction: What to Expect from This Halong Bay Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a luxurious escape into one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes, this all-inclusive 2-day, 1-night cruise around Halong Bay might just be what you’re looking for. From stunning limestone formations to peaceful waters, this trips promises a blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic scenic beauty — all in a small group setting.

What we love about this experience? First, the inclusive nature of activities means you can choose to relax or explore without extra costs. Second, the small group size of no more than 20 travelers ensures a more intimate, personalized vibe. Lastly, the delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and scenic stops make it a well-rounded journey.

One potential consideration is the timing and transportation — early mornings and long transfers are part of the package, which might be tiring but also part of the adventure. This cruise suits travelers who want comfort, a touch of luxury, and a taste of local life without sacrificing an authentic experience.

Good To Know

• All activities are included: from cave visits to kayaking, so you can tailor your day.
• Small group size: ensures a more personal and relaxed experience.
• Comfortable, well-appointed cabins: with private balconies and modern amenities.
• Expert guides: highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Multiple scenic stops: Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, Dark & Light Cave, and more.
• Great value for money: with premium meals, activities, and accommodation included.

The Overall Experience: Why This Cruise Stands Out

This cruise offers a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration. For just $50 per person, you’re getting a surprisingly rich itinerary that covers the highlights of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, with the added bonus of a luxury cruise setting.

The reviews consistently praise the friendly, professional staff, with some mentioning guides like “Sunny” or “Dylan” who bring vibrant energy and local insights. The rooms are spacious and modern, offering cozy retreats after busy days of sightseeing, with big windows that frame the stunning views.

The meals onboard are another major plus — expect plentiful, well-prepared dishes that cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian options if informed in advance. Guests compliment the delicious food, with some describing the onboard dining as “great” or “excellent,” which is impressive given the remote setting.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The journey begins early, with hotel pickups in Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 8 am. The drive to the port takes approximately 3 hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy scenic views or a quick refreshment stop along the way.

Upon arrival around noon, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and a comprehensive cruise briefing. The first stop is Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter, less crowded part of the area, which offers peaceful vistas and fewer travelers.

Next, the cruise heads to Sung Sot Cave — often called the “Surprise Cave” — which is one of the largest and most stunning caves in Halong Bay. The cave is filled with incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations, and reviewers mention that it’s beautifully lit, creating almost a fairy-tale atmosphere. Expect about an hour here, walking through expansive chambers that will leave you in awe.

After the cave exploration, the cruise visits Titop Island, famous for its pristine crescent-shaped sand beach. Here, you can indulge in swimming, sunbathing, or climbing up to the viewpoint, which offers sweeping views of the bay — a favorite among guests, some describing the climb as “well worth it.” Reviewers highlight that the beach can get busy, but the scenery makes up for it.

The afternoon includes a visit to the Dark & Light Cave, accessible via kayak or bamboo boat. Guests love this activity for its close-up experience of nature, with some mentioning that exploring by kayak provides a better sense of the bay’s tranquility and beauty compared to the more crowded boat trips.

In the evening, a seafood or Vietnamese dinner is served onboard, with many describing the meals as plentiful and tasty. The cruise’s small group size fosters a cozy, friendly environment, perfect for mingling or relaxing quietly.

Day 2: Sunrise, More Exploration, and Return

The next morning kicks off with an early Tai Chi session overlooking the sunrise, a calming way to start the day. After breakfast, the cruise visits Thien Canh Son Cave — a less crowded spot with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, praised for its serenity.

Other stops include Luon Cave, accessible only by kayak or bamboo boat, which guests describe as peaceful and beautiful. If you’re into active pursuits, kayaking here provides a sense of freedom and close contact with nature.

The final part of the trip involves more cave visits, including Hang Luon Cave, and a gentle exploration of Bai Tu Long Bay. By midday, the cruise starts heading back to port, with most guests feeling satisfied and refreshed from the experience.

Why This Cruise Offers Great Value

At $50 per person, this tour delivers much more than a basic sightseeing trip. The all-inclusive price covers meals, activities, entrance fees, and accommodation, making it straightforward and hassle-free. Guests rave about the quality of the rooms, which feature large windows and private balconies, offering unbeatable views of the bay. The deluxe cabins are described as spacious, clean, and well-equipped, making the overnight stay a true highlight.

The meals are consistently praised, with reviewers emphasizing the abundance and quality of food. Expect local flavors, fresh ingredients, and options for vegetarians if you notify ahead. The activities — from cave visits to kayaking and fishing — are thoughtfully included, giving you a well-rounded experience without hidden costs.

The small group size (max 20 travelers) ensures you never feel rushed or like just another face in the crowd. Instead, you get a more personalized, relaxed vibe, which many reviewers appreciated.

The Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation from Hanoi is by comfortable bus, with approximately a 3-hour drive. Some reviews mention the early start (around 8 am) and the long journey, but this is typical for tours covering such distances. The group size of 20 or fewer travelers enhances intimacy, allowing guides to attend to individual needs and keep the atmosphere lively yet relaxed.

Check-in for the cruise is between 12:00 and 12:30 pm, with a check-out around 9:00 am. The early check-out is necessary for cleaning and preparing for new guests, so plan your travel accordingly.

The tour offers pickup options, and some reviews mention group discounts and mobile ticketing, adding convenience for travelers with different needs.

Authentic Insights from Guest Reviews

Multiple guests mention that the staff is warm and attentive, with guides like Sunny and Dylan receiving special praise for their friendliness, humor, and extensive knowledge. One reviewer described their guide Sunny as a “lifesaver,” especially when dealing with a tight schedule, highlighting the attentive service.

Guests love the scenery — the views of the limestone karsts, the caves, and islands — often describing the experience as “breathtaking” or “magical.” Many appreciate the less crowded areas like Bai Tu Long Bay and the Dark & Light Cave, which offer a more tranquil escape compared to the busy main sites.

On the downside, some mention that the boat could feel tired or basic compared to high-end expectations, with one reviewer rating it as a “3-star” experience despite the luxury price tag. Others found the long bus transfer a bit exhausting, especially for families with young children or those seeking a more leisurely pace.

A recurring theme is the value for money — guests feel they get a lot of activity, excellent food, and good accommodations for the price. However, a few reviews caution about extra charges for transfers or drinks, so it’s worth clarifying these details beforehand.

Who This Cruise Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for travellers who want a balance of comfort and adventure. If you enjoy exploring caves, kayaking, and scenic beaches in a cozy, intimate setting, you’ll feel right at home. It’s also suited to those who appreciate good food and well-maintained cabins without breaking the bank.

Couples, families, or small groups looking for a luxury experience with the flexibility to choose activities will find this tour offers great value. However, travelers sensitive to early mornings or long transfers might want to prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive Halong Bay cruise offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and comfort at an accessible price point. The small group size, excellent guides, and variety of activities make it an appealing option for those seeking an authentic yet luxurious experience.

If you’re after a relaxing yet engaging trip with plenty of photo opportunities, delicious meals, and friendly service, this cruise will likely meet and even exceed your expectations. Just be prepared for early starts and some long travel days — but in return, you’ll wake up to stunning views, explore caves, and enjoy Vietnam’s iconic limestone seascape in style.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is offered, with the drive lasting about 3 hours to the port.

What activities are included in the tour?
All activities onboard are included, such as cave visits, kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, fishing, and a cooking class demonstration.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if informed at the time of booking.

How big is the group on this cruise?
The maximum number of travelers is 20, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

What’s the accommodation like?
Guests stay in full-furnished, ocean-view cabins with private balconies, air conditioning, hot water, and modern bathrooms.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children under 4 can share a cabin for free, and the tour welcomes families. However, note that kids under 5 do not get their own bus seat, so plan accordingly.

Can I customize my experience?
While the itinerary is generally fixed, guests can choose to partake in as many or as few activities as they like. Special requests like honeymoon setup or birthday celebrations can be arranged with prior notice.

This 2-day Halong Bay cruise promises a blend of authentic natural beauty and small-group luxury — perfect for travelers craving memorable scenery, good food, and a comfortable base to explore Vietnam’s iconic seascape.