Apolo Premium 5 Star Ha Long Bay Cruise With Jacuzzi, Kayaking

Planning a trip to Vietnam often involves exploring the iconic beauty of Ha Long Bay, but choosing the right cruise can be overwhelming. The Apolo Premium 5-Star Ha Long Bay Cruise offers a luxurious, all-inclusive experience that promises both comfort and adventure—all within a well-balanced, value-driven package. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, based on the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews, we can paint a vivid picture of what you might expect.

What immediately stands out are its luxury features like a Jacuzzi, the variety of activities such as kayaking and cave exploration, and the thoughtful inclusion of meals and entertainment. The overall emphasis on comfort and authentic exploration makes this tour particularly appealing for travelers wanting a blend of relaxation and discovery. That said, it’s worth considering the full-day commitment, including a roughly three-hour journey from Hanoi, and whether that suits your pace.

This cruise is ideal for those who enjoy luxury touches, stunning scenery, and active experiences—plus, it’s perfect if you’re traveling with family or groups who appreciate convenience and well-organized tours. However, if you prefer a more flexible or less structured day, some might find the itinerary a bit full. Nonetheless, for most, the value packed into this 13-hour adventure makes it a compelling choice.

Good To Know

• Luxury Comfort: The cruise offers a premium experience, including a Jacuzzi and a buffet lunch.
• Rich Activities: Kayaking, cave visits, and beach time at TiTop Island provide plenty of exploration options.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing, relaxation, and scenic cruising effectively.
• Value for Money: At $68 per person, including entrance fees, meals, and activities, this tour offers excellent value.
• Professional Guides & Easy Transfers: With an English-speaking guide and hotel pickup, the experience is smooth and accessible.
• Limited Group Size: Max 20 travelers, making for a more intimate and personalized experience.

The Full Experience: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting in Hanoi: Comfort from the Get-Go

The day kicks off early, with a pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House area, around 8:00 am. The transfer in a limousine or spacious coach ensures a comfortable ride, and the three-hour drive along the Hanoi-Haiphong-Tuan Chau Highway provides a chance to relax and enjoy the countryside scenery. The journey is well-timed, giving you plenty of anticipation without feeling rushed. We’ve seen reviews praising the ease of pickup and the comfort of the transport, which is a big plus for travelers wary of long drives.

Tuan Chau Harbor & Welcome Aboard

Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Harbor, your first impression will likely be the luxury cruise vessel, which sets a high standard from the start. The crew’s warm welcome and a refreshing drink make stepping on board feel special. You’ll notice that the boat’s design emphasizes elegance paired with practical space for sightseeing and lounging. This isn’t a basic boat—it’s a floating luxury hotel that promises comfort for the long day ahead.

Scenic Cruise & Vietnamese Lunch

As the boat begins to glide past the towering limestone formations—like Fighting Chicken and Incense Burner Islets—you’ll marvel at the scenery. The Vietnamese buffet lunch served onboard is highlighted by reviewers as “really tasty,” with some mentioning it as a delightful part of the experience. While you dine, the boat continues its scenic passage, offering plenty of photo opportunities and moments to soak in the unique landscape that makes Ha Long Bay so famous.

Sung Sot Cave: Nature’s Masterpiece

Arriving at Bo Hon Island, the highlight for many is the Sung Sot Cave—the largest and most stunning cave in the bay. Expect a walk through impressive stalagmites and stalactites, and some reviewers mention this as the “most beautiful” part of the tour. The cave’s vast chambers and natural formations are often described as awe-inspiring, making it a must-see. The guided commentary provides insights into the geology and formations, enriching your experience.

Luon Cave: Active & Unique

After exploring the cave, the focus shifts to fun and activity. The option to kayak or ride a bamboo boat through Luon Cave offers a close-up view of the lagoon’s crystal waters and dramatic cliffs. Reviewers note kayaking as a favorite activity, praising the opportunity to paddle through serene waters while surrounded by limestone cliffs. The included 30-minute session is often enough for a gentle exploration, but those keen to spend more time may wish they had extra.

TiTop Island & Beach Escape

Perhaps one of the most relaxing parts of the tour is a stop at TiTop Island, famous for its sandy beach and panoramic views from the top. You’ll have about two hours here to swim, sunbathe, or trek up for a spectacular vista of the bay. Reviewers often mention how the climb is manageable and provides a fantastic perspective of the bay’s sprawling limestone formations. It’s a great break from the boat’s hustle, perfect for unwinding and taking photos.

Sunset & Cruising Back

As the afternoon progresses, you’ll return to the boat for a sunset party featuring wine, fruits, and biscuits—an idyllic way to unwind as the boat cruises back toward Tuan Chau Harbour. The mood during this part of the day is often described as relaxed, with some reviews highlighting the “good vibes” and “beautiful views” during the sunset. The return journey lasts around two hours, giving you a tranquil end to a busy day.

Return to Hanoi

By 6:00 pm, the boat docks, and a comfortable bus ride takes you back to Hanoi, arriving around 9:00 pm. The full day’s effort is balanced by the smooth logistics and the high-quality experience throughout, making it a manageable yet memorable day trip.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $68 per person, you’re getting a comprehensive day that includes transportation, meals, entrance fees, kayaking, and entertainment—a significant package that minimizes extra costs and hassle. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to this value, removing the need to navigate Hanoi’s busy streets or arrange transportation independently.

The quality of the guide is often mentioned as a highlight, with knowledgeable staff enhancing your understanding of the sights. Plus, the small group size (max 20 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, which many travelers appreciate.

The Experience’s Strengths

• The luxury cruise with excellent amenities like a Jacuzzi elevates the experience beyond basic tours.
• The scenic journey through limestone formations, caves, and beaches is both beautiful and diverse.
• The active options like kayaking add an element of adventure that many travelers cherish.
• The well-organized itinerary ensures you see key highlights without feeling overly rushed.

Possible Considerations

• The long drive from Hanoi may be tiring for some, especially early in the morning.
• The schedule is packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or extra leisure time, this might feel a bit full.
• As drinks during lunch are not included, you might want to bring some extra cash or drinks for personal enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is a top pick for adventure seekers who love comfort, as well as those interested in sightseeing with a touch of luxury. It suits families, couples, or groups of friends who want a comprehensive, all-in-one day exploring Ha Long Bay’s stunning scenery. Travelers craving active pursuits like kayaking will find this especially appealing.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed experience with a sprinkle of pampering, this tour is likely to meet and exceed your expectations. However, if your ideal trip involves more flexibility or less structured activities, you might prefer a different approach.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The pickup begins at 8:00 am, with the entire day structured to maximize sightseeing and relaxation.

How long is the drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?
The journey takes about three hours along the Hanoi-Haiphong-Tuan Chau Highway.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House area.

What activities are available during the tour?
You can enjoy a Vietnamese buffet lunch, explore Sung Sot Cave, kayak or take a bamboo boat through Luon Cave, and relax at TiTop Island.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally, yes—it’s designed for most travelers, but the walking involved in caves and climbing TiTop Island should be considered.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the caves and activities are included in the price.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, guide, entrance fees, kayaking/bamboo boat, buffet lunch, sunset party, towels, and a bottle of water per person.

Are drinks during lunch included?
No, drinks during lunch are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Apolo Premium 5-Star Ha Long Bay Cruise offers a well-rounded, luxurious day out on one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes. From the comfort of a premium boat equipped with a Jacuzzi to the thrill of kayaking and exploring caves, it combines relaxation with adventure in a very accessible way. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed, thanks to the professional guides and small group sizes.

If you’re after a value-for-money package that balances sightseeing, comfort, and active fun, this cruise makes a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good food, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury—delivered in a well-organized, memorable experience. Just be prepared for a full day and a scenic drive from Hanoi, and you’re set for a truly special trip.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to tick Ha Long Bay off your bucket list with style, this tour is worth considering. It promises a day full of beautiful vistas, fun activities, and relaxing moments, leaving you with stories and photos that will last long after you’ve returned home.