BEST SELLER Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay (2D1N)

Cruising through the legendary waters of Vietnam’s Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers. While we haven’t personally experienced this exact tour, we’ve gathered detailed insights from travelers and the tour’s features to give you an honest, practical overview. If you’re after a blend of beautiful scenery, engaging activities, and comfortable accommodations, this cruise ticks many boxes — but like all experiences, it has its nuances.

What we love about this tour is its emphasis on less touristy Lan Ha Bay, offering a more authentic feel, the luxury onboard amenities, and the variety of activities that keep both relaxation and adventure front and center. The potential downside? The price point at nearly $200 per person might seem steep for some, especially when factoring in optional extras like drinks and transfers. However, for those craving a comprehensive experience that combines comfort, scenery, and cultural activities, it’s a solid choice.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a well-rounded overnight escape with a focus on scenic beauty and local experiences. It works well for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Comfort and luxury are prioritized with en-suite cabins and private balconies.
• The itinerary includes less crowded areas like Lan Ha Bay, offering peaceful scenery.
• Activities such as kayaking, bamboo boat rides, cooking classes, and Tai Chi provide a well-rounded experience.
• The tour offers meals included, combining Vietnamese and seafood dishes, and free seasonal Jacuzzi use.
• Pickup service from Hanoi makes logistics easier, but transfers are optional.
• The experience is capped at 50 travelers, maintaining a personal atmosphere while allowing for socializing.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting your journey: Convenient pickup and travel

The tour begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 8:00 or 8:45 am, depending on your hotel location. The shuttle limousine offers a comfortable 2.5-hour ride, which is a nice way to relax after a busy morning of travel. For those booking independently, it’s important to note that admission tickets for the transfer are not included if you don’t use the tour’s transport, so plan accordingly.

Day 1: Cruising and exploring Halong and Lan Ha Bays

Welcome aboard in the early afternoon at Tuan Chau Marina. The check-in process is smooth, with a brief orientation over a welcome drink while you get your first glimpse of the cruise’s sleek design.

Lunch onboard is served in a luxurious dining room, giving you an early taste of the tour’s focus on comfort. The menu features a fusion of Vietnamese and seafood dishes, curated to satisfy even discerning palates. One guest mentioned, “the food was delicious… a great way to fuel up for the afternoon activities.”

The highlight of the first day is the cruise itself, gliding through H Long Bay — a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic limestone formations. The cruise’s slow pace allows you to take in the views, snap photos, and relax. This part of the journey is admission-free, emphasizing that the scenery is the star.

By mid-afternoon, the boat drops anchor in Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded and more pristine area than Halong Bay. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or explore with kayaking guided by crew members — a favorite among guests. “The kayaking experience was fantastic, and guides were very helpful,” said a traveler, highlighting the personalized assistance.

Evening: Relaxation and optional activities

As the day winds down, guests can enjoy bamboo boat rides, cooking classes, or night squid fishing. The tour emphasizes authentic experiences, allowing you to get a taste of local life and Vietnamese cuisine.

Guests appreciate the luxurious en-suite cabins with private balconies—the perfect setting for sunset views or a quiet morning coffee. One reviewer loved their VIP Suite, describing it as “extremely spacious, clean, and very luxurious, with a large balcony and bathtub.”

Day 2: Sunrise, Tai Chi, and returning to Hanoi

Early risers can wake up for sunrise views, followed by a Tai Chi session on the sundeck — a calming start reminiscent of traditional Vietnamese mornings. The light breakfast that follows is simple but satisfying, giving you energy for the day’s final adventures.

Before disembarking, a brunch served on board offers a hearty farewell meal, blending local flavors with fresh ingredients. The speedboat transfer back to Tuan Châu Marina is quick and smooth, allowing for a rush of photos and last-minute sightseeing.

Logistics and extra details

• The return to Hanoi is via a comfortable air-conditioned shuttle—a stress-free way to conclude your trip.
• The total duration is approximately 2 days, with most activities scheduled to maximize your experience without feeling rushed.
• The tour is limited to 50 travelers, maintaining a friendly atmosphere that balances social interaction with personal space.
• The price of $195 per person includes meals, activities, and accommodation, which offers good value given the level of comfort and variety of experiences.

What the Reviews Reveal

While one traveler called it “a very luxurious experience,” they also praised the “friendly staff” and “beautiful scenery.” They appreciated the guided kayaking and the delicious fusion meals. Another review specifically highlighted the large, clean VIP suite and the helpfulness of the crew.

However, some travelers pointed out that beverages are pricier onboard due to storage and service fees, and wifi connectivity can be spotty because of the bay’s geography. It’s worth keeping these factors in mind when planning your onboard spending and expecting connectivity.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• The pickup service is offered, simplifying your journey from Hanoi. If you prefer to go independently, be aware that admission tickets for the transfer are not included unless you book through the tour.
• Consider dietary needs — meals are a mix of Vietnamese and seafood, so inform the tour operator if you have allergies or preferences.
• Weather conditions can affect activities like swimming and kayaking, so flexibility might be needed if the weather turns poor.
• For the best experience, early risers will love the Tai Chi and sunrise sessions, but it’s optional if you prefer to sleep in.
• Expect additional costs for drinks and tips; these are not included but are customary for tips to the crew.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who value comfort and scenic beauty, but also want to engage in authentic activities like cooking and Tai Chi. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a moderate-paced itinerary with a mix of relaxation and exploration.

Couples will love the romantic views from private balconies, while small groups and solo travelers will appreciate the friendly, intimate atmosphere. If you’re after a less touristy experience with a focus on less crowded Lan Ha Bay, this tour offers that peace without sacrificing comfort or fun.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded way to experience the stunning waters of Halong and Lan Ha Bay without sacrificing comfort. The luxury cabins, diverse activities, and authentic scenery make it a good investment for travelers wanting more than just a boat ride. While it isn’t the cheapest option, the quality of the experience and inclusions justify the price for many.

If you’re after a hassle-free, scenic, and activity-rich overnight trip, this cruise promises a memorable Vietnamese adventure. Just bring your camera, a sense of curiosity, and maybe a few extra dongs for drinks on board!

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter is offered as part of the package, starting around 8:00 am, making logistics much easier. If you go independently, you’ll need to arrange your own transport.

What is included in the price?
The $195 fee covers meals, activities like kayaking and cooking classes, entrance fees for sightseeing, and your luxury en-suite cabin with a sea-view balcony. Beverages and personal expenses are extra.

How many people typically join the tour?
The tour caps at 50 travelers, ensuring a nice balance of social atmosphere and personal space.

Can I participate in all activities?
Most activities are included, such as kayaking, bamboo boat rides, cooking, and squid fishing. However, weather can affect some, and you are free to relax instead.

What are the cabin amenities?
Cabins are air-conditioned, en-suite, and equipped with a private bathroom and sea-view balcony. Some guests, like one reviewer, found their VIP suite to be especially spacious and luxurious.

Is WiFi available onboard?
The WiFi signal is not always strong due to the bay’s geography, so don’t rely on high-speed internet during your cruise.

What dietary options are available?
Meals are a fusion of Vietnamese and seafood, with the tour accommodating special food preferences or allergies if notified in advance.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Activities like swimming and kayaking might be canceled or modified depending on weather conditions. The cruise schedule is subject to change for safety reasons.

This cruise offers a balanced blend of comfort, scenery, and activities — perfect for travelers wanting a meaningful, relaxing Vietnamese adventure.