Doris Cruise: 2-Day Luxury Escape to Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay

Traveling through Vietnam’s legendary waters is something most travelers dream of, and Doris Cruise offers a refined way to experience this iconic region. While we haven’t been on this cruise personally, the detailed itineraries, guest reviews, and thoughtful features paint a compelling picture of what you can expect from this 2-day adventure.

What immediately catches the eye is the luxury onboard experience — a cruise that combines opulent cabins with ocean views, plus a first-of-its-kind swimming pool in Ha Long Bay. Add to that a carefully curated itinerary with activities like kayaking, swimming, and exploring caves, and you’re looking at a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration. Just keep in mind, this is a non-refundable tour, so planning ahead is key if you decide to book.

This trip is perfect for travelers craving a luxurious, all-inclusive experience that’s both about comfort and discovering hidden gems in Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay. It suits those who appreciate quality dining, scenic cruising, and the chance to try activities like kayaking or squid fishing. However, if you prefer a more flexible or budget-friendly option, this might seem a little on the pricier side, especially given the all-inclusive style.

Good To Know

• Luxury cabins with private balconies and unique features like an onboard pool.
• Full-day activities including swimming, kayaking, and cave explorations.
• Gourmet onboard meals with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and special events like sunset parties.
• Convenient roundtrip transfer from Hanoi, saving hassle and travel time.
• Authentic experiences such as Tai Chi, cooking classes, and squid fishing.
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention.

An In-Depth Look at Doris Cruise’s 2-Day Itinerary

Departure from Hanoi & Transfer

Starting bright and early, the tour kicks off with a limousine pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 8:00 AM. The comfort of a private transfer is a big plus, especially after a night in Hanoi or if you’re traveling with family — no need to haggle for taxis or figure out public transport. The 2.5-hour drive to Hai Duong is quite straightforward, with a quick 20-minute stop to stretch your legs and grab a snack.

First Stop: Tuan Chau Harbor & Boarding

Arriving at Tuan Chau Harbor around midday, guests are transferred by speedboat directly onto Doris Cruise. From here, it’s a warm welcome with drinks and introductions to the crew, including the captain. The onboard atmosphere promises to be both comfortable and intimate, perfect for settling in for the days ahead.

Cruising Through Lan Ha Bay & Exploring Con Vit Islet

The cruise then begins to glide through Lan Ha Bay, passing iconic landmarks like Con Vit (Duck Islet), Thumb Islet, and Gia Luan Harbor, part of the Cat Ba area. This stretch offers fantastic views of towering limestone formations and lush islands, and is ideal for snapping photos.

A highlight here is the chance to drop anchor at Ba Trai Dao Islet, where you can swim or go kayaking in the calm lagoon. Guests from reviews mention how peaceful these spots are, with many appreciating the opportunity for a gentle swim after a morning of travel.

The Evening: Scenic Views & Gourmet Dining

As the sun sets, expect a sunset party on board, accompanied by spectacular vistas and a chance to unwind with fellow travelers. The onboard dinner is designed to be both delicious and elegant, with full-service meals served in a refined setting, making it clear that comfort is a priority.

Day 2: Sunrises, Activities & Return

Early Morning Tai Chi & Scenic Breakfast

Waking early, you can join a Tai Chi class on the sundeck, a peaceful way to start the day while soaking in the sunrise over the bay. Following that, a hearty breakfast with views of the shimmering waters prepares you for the day’s activities.

Continued Exploration of Lan Ha Bay

The schedule offers more time to enjoy Lan Ha Bay’s natural beauty, with options like kayaking or taking a traditional bamboo boat. Guests have enjoyed the chance to get close to the scenery without the crowds, thanks to the exclusive itinerary.

The Last Lunch & Return to Hanoi

By late morning, the cruise offers a buffet lunch before heading back to Tuan Chau Harbor around noon. The transfer back to Hanoi concludes a well-paced journey that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

What Makes Doris Cruise Stand Out?

Unique Features & Comfort

The private balconies in every cabin let you enjoy uninterrupted views of the bay, which many guests find invaluable — especially during sunrise or sunset. We also love the fact that Doris Cruise boasts the first onboard swimming pool in Ha Long Bay, giving travelers a rare opportunity to cool off without leaving the ship.

Activities & Experiences

The inclusion of cooking classes, squid fishing, Tai Chi, kayaking, and swimming transforms this from a simple cruise into an engaging, hands-on experience. Reviewers mention how these activities add a fun, authentic touch to the trip, making it more than just sightseeing.

Dining & Cuisine

Guests rave about the full-board cuisine, often describing the meals as “delicious” and “gourmet,” with some noting the variety and presentation exceeded expectations. Such quality food enhances the overall value, especially considering the all-inclusive nature.

Ease & Convenience

The roundtrip limousine transfer simplifies logistics, removing the stress of traveling from Hanoi to Ha Long. The tour also manages all entrance fees and provides an English-speaking guide, ensuring smooth communication throughout.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

While the experience is quite comprehensive, some might find the non-refundable policy restrictive, especially if plans change suddenly. The price point of $240 per person may be a consideration for budget travelers, but when factoring in inclusions such as meals, transfers, and activities, many will see it as a worthwhile investment.

Plus, the group size is capped at 48 travelers, which generally fosters a more personalized vibe but might still be a bit crowded for those seeking complete solitude.

Final Thoughts: Is Doris Cruise Right for You?

This cruise offers a luxurious, well-rounded exploration of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay, perfect for travelers who seek comfort and adventure in one package. The private cabins, gourmet meals, and activities like kayaking and squid fishing make it a comprehensive experience — especially if you want to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

It’s ideal for couples, families, or groups who value quality over budget, and who appreciate a blend of relaxation and active exploration. The onboard amenities, combined with carefully curated itineraries, deliver a memorable trip, but do remember the non-refundable policy and the higher price.

If you’re looking to indulge in a scenic, activity-rich tour with a touch of luxury, Doris Cruise makes a compelling choice. Just be sure to book in advance and prepare for a thoughtfully curated journey through Vietnam’s spectacular waters.

FAQ

Is pickup from Hanoi included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes a limousine pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, making the journey hassle-free.

How long is the transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?
The transfer takes approximately 2.5 hours, giving you a comfortable ride with a brief stop to stretch.

What meals are included on the cruise?
Guests enjoy full main meals onboard: two lunches, one dinner, and a breakfast, all served in a scenic, comfortable setting.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking and squid fishing?
Yes, the tour offers opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and night squid fishing, as part of the onboard experiences.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs if specified during booking.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 48, which balances a lively atmosphere with some personal space.

Is there a swimming pool onboard?
Yes, Doris Cruise features a swimming pool, a rare feature in Ha Long Bay, perfect for relaxing after activities.

How do I get back to Hanoi?
The cruise concludes at Tuan Chau Harbor around noon, with the return transfer included in the package.

Are there any hidden costs?
Most costs are included; however, personal expenses and beverages outside the provided meals are not covered.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan carefully.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, check with the provider about specific age restrictions if you’re traveling with young children.

This Doris Cruise adventure blends comfort, scenic beauty, and engaging activities into one package, offering a memorable way to explore Vietnam’s stunning waters. Whether you’re after a romantic escape or a family-friendly adventure, it’s a well-rounded choice for making the most of your time in Ha Long Bay.