If you’re dreaming of experiencing Halong Bay’s legendary scenery without the hefty price tag, this best deal day cruise by Aurora Halong Cruises might just be your perfect match. Promising a 5-star experience for only $38 per person, this tour combines scenic exploration, fun activities, and gourmet dining into a well-rounded day — all curated to highlight the bay’s most captivating sights.
What makes this cruise stand out? First, the carefully crafted itinerary includes visits to iconic caves and islands, plus opportunities for kayaking and relaxing in a luxury Jacuzzi onboard. Second, the sunset party with music on the sundeck sounds like the perfect way to end a memorable day, especially with drinks, fruits, and pastries in hand. Third, the professional crew and top chefs ensure a smooth, comfortable experience that feels both exclusive and authentic.
Of course, the tour’s main consideration is the absence of included transportation from Hanoi, which might mean extra planning or costs for some travelers. But for those eager to explore in comfort, with plenty of activities and excellent reviews, this cruise offers outstanding value.
Ideal for solo travelers, families, or couples seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed day in Halong Bay, this cruise balances adventure, comfort, and good vibes without breaking the bank.
- Good To Know
- An In-Depth Look at the Halong Bay Day Cruise Experience
- The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop
- Gourmet Cuisine and Onboard Comfort
- The Sunset Party and Celebrations
- The Crew and Service
- The Overall Experience: Value and Authenticity
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
- FAQs
- In Summary
- More Lunch Experiences in Hanoi
- More Boat Tours in Hanoi
- More Tour Reviews in Hanoi
- Looking for something different? Other Hanoi activities we've written about
Good To Know

- Great value for money: At only $38, it offers a full day of activities, gourmet food, and stunning scenery.
- Well-curated itinerary: Visits to Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave kayaking, and Titop Island are highlights.
- Luxurious onboard amenities: Jacuzzi, panoramic restaurant, and sunset party enrich the experience.
- Expert guides and friendly crew: Known for attentive, professional service.
- Authentic experiences: Includes cave exploration, kayaking, and the chance to see monkeys.
- Limited included transportation: You’ll need to arrange your travel to and from Hanoi separately.
An In-Depth Look at the Halong Bay Day Cruise Experience

Enjoy boat trips? More Hanoi water tours we've written about
The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop
Sung Sot Cave is the first stop aboard this cruise, and it’s a real showstopper. Known as one of the largest and most spectacular caves in Halong Bay, it’s filled with glittering stalactites and impressive natural formations. Visitors often mention the sheer scale and beauty of the cave — “everything was timely and clean,” as one reviewer noted, and the experience of wandering through the caves is both awe-inspiring and photo-worthy. The 45-minute visit allows ample time to explore, take photos, and marvel at the natural artistry.
Next, the Hang Luon Cave offers a fun, interactive experience. You’ll have the option to kayak yourself or hop into a bamboo boat guided by a local rower. The calm lagoon behind the limestone tunnel is a peaceful spot, often accompanied by the sight of monkeys swinging nearby — a detail many travelers appreciated. The 45-minute kayaking session allows you to enjoy the tranquil waters and get up close with the bay’s natural scenery, making this part of the trip both active and relaxing.
The highlight for many is Titop Island, where you can hike to the top for panoramic views or simply relax in the onboard Jacuzzi while soaking in the vistas. The island is a favorite for its stunning outlook and the opportunity to swim in the clear waters. Multiple reviews highlight how enjoyable and well-spaced the activities are, so you don’t feel rushed. One traveler said, “The excursions were nicely spaced out, and kayaking and monkeys were especially enjoyable.”
Gourmet Cuisine and Onboard Comfort
This cruise prides itself on offering premium Asian-European buffet and set menus, prepared by top chefs. Reviewers have consistently praised the delicious food, describing it as “beautiful,” “delicious,” and suitable for all tastes. The panoramic restaurant, capable of seating 100 guests, provides a refined setting with modern lighting and sound — perfect for a relaxed meal or celebrating special occasions.
For those wanting extra relaxation, the jacuzzi on the sundeck is a real treat, especially when combined with sunset views. Guests frequently mention how the onboard amenities like towels and the jacuzzi add a touch of luxury that elevates the experience beyond a typical day trip.
The Sunset Party and Celebrations
One of the most memorable aspects of this cruise is the complimentary sunset party. Music, drinks, and pastries come together as the sun dips behind the limestone karsts. It’s a lively, fun way to unwind after a day of exploring. The cruise also offers free celebration setups for birthdays or anniversaries, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
The Crew and Service
Reviewers repeatedly mention the dedicated, professional, and friendly crew, including guides like Justin, who is praised for his hospitality and attentiveness. The crew’s passion for guest satisfaction is evident, and many travelers comment on how well they handled the logistics, making the day smooth and enjoyable.
More tours and activities we've covered in Hanoi
- Full-Day Halong Bay 5 Stars Luxury Cruise Tour With Buffet Lunch
- From Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Full-Day Guided Tour With Lunch
- Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour – Best Selling: Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking & Lunch
- Hanoi City Tour Full Day With Lunch
- Halong Luxury Day Cruise: 4* Experience With Lunch &Kayaking
- Hanoi: Roundtrip Halong Bay Islands, Caves, Kayaking & Lunch
The Overall Experience: Value and Authenticity
At just $38, this cruise offers exceptional value for money, especially considering the inclusions like cave visits, kayaking, gourmet meals, and the sunset party. It’s a luxury experience in terms of comfort and activities, but without the luxury price tag.
However, it’s important to note the excluded transportation from Hanoi. Travelers should factor in extra costs or arrange their own transfers in advance. The tour is designed for groups of up to 80 guests, which balances a lively atmosphere with enough space to relax and enjoy.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for adventurers who appreciate scenic beauty and want a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation. It’s equally suited for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a memorable day in Halong Bay. The focus on authentic activities like cave exploring and kayaking, combined with good food and friendly service, makes it appealing for those seeking a genuine experience.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This cruise expertly combines value, comfort, and authentic experiences. You’ll enjoy a well-paced itinerary with plenty of opportunities to see the natural marvels of Halong Bay, from glittering caves to tranquil lagoons. The onboard amenities, such as the Jacuzzi and panoramic restaurant, add a touch of luxury that feels surprising at this price point.
The thoughtful touches — like the sunset party and celebration setups — make this cruise feel special. The consistent positive reviews regarding the guides, food, and overall atmosphere confirm it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a memorable day without overspending.
If you’re after a full-day adventure with a mix of sightseeing, good food, and lively ambiance, this cruise ticks all the boxes. Just remember to plan your transport to the meeting point in Halong City to maximize your experience.
FAQs

What is included in this cruise?
The cruise includes cave visits (Sung Sot and Luon Cave), kayaking or bamboo boat rides, Titop Island activities, a gourmet buffet and set menu, a sunset party, and onboard amenities like a Jacuzzi and towel service.
Is transportation from Hanoi included?
No, transportation from Hanoi or Ninh Binh to the cruise is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer or consider additional costs for travel.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, with a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing and leisure.
What is the price, and is it good value?
At $38 per person, this is considered an excellent value for a full-day, luxury experience, especially given the inclusions and positive reviews.
Can I celebrate a special occasion onboard?
Yes, the cruise offers free celebration setups for birthdays or anniversaries, making it a lovely choice for memorable milestones.
What activities can I expect?
Expect cave exploration, kayaking, relaxing in the Jacuzzi, hiking for panoramic views, and enjoying a lively sunset party.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The activities are family-friendly, and the cruise’s comfort and amenities make it a good option for travelers with children or elderly family members.
In Summary

This Halong Bay day cruise by Aurora Cruises offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines spectacular scenery, engaging activities, and gourmet dining at a very reasonable price. It’s perfect for travelers who value authentic, well-organized adventures with the comfort of a luxury cruise. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply seeking a memorable day in Vietnam’s most famous bay, this tour delivers on all fronts — with the added bonus of lively sunset celebrations and friendly guides making your journey even more enjoyable.
More Lunch Experiences in Hanoi
- Vintage Motorbike Tour | Historic City Tour with Lunch Included
- Hanoi: Chuong Village Hat Making, Incense Village with Lunch
- Signature Ha Long Bay day cruise with buffet lunch
- Halong Newest 5 Star Day Cruise with Buffet Lunch and Jacuzzi
- Hanoi: 5-Star Sea Lion Luxury Day Cruise in Halong, Buffet Lunch
- Halong Bay Day Cruise: Discover Thien Cung Cave, Kayaking & Lunch
More Boat Tours in Hanoi
- Half Day Guided Bike and Boat Tour in Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
- All-Inclusive 2D1N Halong & Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise from Hanoi
- From Hanoi: 2-Day Rosy Cruise Explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay
- 3 Days 2 Nights Luxury Halong Bay Cruise Tour from Hanoi
- From Hanoi: 2-Day Luxury Halong Cruise Explore Caves & Island
- Sea Octopus Cruise – 07 Hours Explore Stunning of Halong Bay
More Tour Reviews in Hanoi
- Half Day Guided Bike and Boat Tour in Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh
- Sapa and Bac Ha Market Exclusive 3 Days 2 Nights in Luxury hotel
- All-Inclusive 2D1N Halong & Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise from Hanoi
- Discovering Mai Chau Private Tour from Hanoi
- From Hanoi: 2-Day Rosy Cruise Explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay
- Hanoi: Perfume Workshop – Creates your personal scent
Looking for something different? Other Hanoi activities we've written about
- All-Inclusive 2D1N Halong & Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise from Hanoi
- Discovering Mai Chau Private Tour from Hanoi
- From Hanoi: 2-Day Rosy Cruise Explore the beauty of Lan Ha Bay
- Hanoi: Perfume Workshop – Creates your personal scent
- Exploring Vespa Tour Through Little Red River Delta
- Hoang Su Phi Loop 4 Day Motorbike and Hiking Tour
- 3 Days 2 Nights Luxury Halong Bay Cruise Tour from Hanoi
- 16 Days Vietnam and Thailand Tour
- From Hanoi: 2-Day Luxury Halong Cruise Explore Caves & Island
- Best deal -Halong Day Cruise – lunch buffet, kayak, sunset party
- Vintage Motorbike Tour | Historic City Tour with Lunch Included
- Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour Hidden Gems and Local Stories
