Era Cruise 3-day Explore Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi

Traveling through Vietnam is about more than just the bustling cities—it’s about discovering its famous waterways, scenic islands, and peaceful bays. The Era Cruise 3-day Explore Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi promises an opportunity to see some of the country’s most iconic sights while enjoying comfort and convenience. While we haven’t personally set sail, we’ve gathered all the details to help you decide whether this experience matches your travel style.

What we love about this trip is the seamless balance of sightseeing and relaxation, the high-quality accommodations, and the variety of activities—from kayaking to tai chi. It’s clear that the tour offers a well-crafted itinerary designed to maximize natural beauty while providing comfort.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cost, at $603 per person, is a significant investment, but one that includes many amenities like meals, entrance fees, and guided activities. Travelers should also note that the tour requires moderate physical fitness, especially for activities like biking and kayaking.

This cruise is ideally suited for those seeking a combination of scenic exploration, cultural insight, and laid-back luxury—the perfect escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a hassle-free way to experience Vietnam’s waters.

Good To Know

• Luxury and Comfort: The tour includes air-conditioned en-suite cabins and thoughtful amenities like fruits in the cabin and a bottle of wine.
• Diverse Activities: Expect kayaking, tai chi, bamboo boat rides, cooking demos, and squid fishing.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: Stops include floating villages, caves, islands, and a village visit, offering a blend of natural beauty and local life.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Most entrance fees, meals, and activities are covered, making it easier to relax without extra expenses.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Precise timings and a thoughtfully designed route ensure you see the best without feeling rushed.
• Group Size & Guides: A maximum of 56 travelers with an in-house English-speaking guide provide a balance between intimacy and social atmosphere.

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Entails

The 3-day cruise is designed to show off the best of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, two of Vietnam’s most celebrated natural attractions. The journey starts early in Hanoi, with a transfer that takes you to Hai Phong, setting the tone for a well-organized trip. You’ll travel by support vessel before boarding the luxurious cruise, greeted with a drink and a safety briefing that ensures everyone’s comfortable with the boat’s features and activities.

Day 1: First Impressions and Floating Villages

Your first stop, Cua Van Floating Village, offers a glimpse into the lives of locals living on the water. The scene of limestone islands and pristine beaches creates a stunning backdrop, and the tour includes a peaceful visit here, with options for exploring the area on kayaks. The white sands and calm waters are a highlight for many travelers, with some noting how “stunning” and “unspoiled” the scenery remains.

Later, the cruise takes you to Ba Trai Dao, perfect for a quick swim or kayaking session. The transparent waters and white sand beaches offer a relaxing escape after a busy day of travel. As the boat resumes its journey, happy hour is a popular feature—offering drinks and a lively atmosphere as you settle into your floating hotel.

Day 2: Active Exploration and Village Life

Early risers can enjoy Tai Chi at sunrise, a calming start with stunning views of the bay. The morning tranquility is something many guests find soothing—“a perfect way to wake up,” as some reviewers mention.

Next, the tour heads to Viet Hai Village, accessible via the Era Day Boat. Here, you’ll take a bicycle ride around rice paddies, through rainforests, and even through a dark tunnel, combining gentle adventure with scenic views. The village visit offers insight into local life, with some reviewers commenting that “it’s fascinating to see how people live in harmony with nature.”

In the afternoon, you’re free to kayak or swim at Ba Ham Lake, enclosed by towering cliffs. This spot receives praise for its dramatic setting and clear waters—ideal for a quick splash or a peaceful paddle.

Day 3: The Morning Calm and Return

The early morning on Lan Ha Bay often features Tai Chi sessions, with many guests appreciating the peaceful start to the day. After breakfast, the boat cruise continues with more breathtaking views, giving you one last chance to soak in the scenery before returning to Hanoi.

The journey concludes with a comfortable transfer back to the capital, concluding a trip filled with natural beauty, relaxing activities, and cultural insights.

What Sets This Tour Apart

High-Quality Accommodation and Service: The luxurious en-suite cabins are a notable feature, with many reviews mentioning the comfort and thoughtful touches like fruits and wine. The staff’s professionalism and friendliness—“likeable and attentive”—enhance the overall experience.

Activities for All Interests: Whether you’re into kayaking, relaxing with a drink during happy hour, or learning to cook local dishes, there’s something for all. The inclusion of squid fishing, bamboo boat rides, and a cooking demonstration keeps the days varied and engaging.

Well-Paced Itinerary: The schedule balances sightseeing with downtime, ensuring travelers aren’t overwhelmed. The precise timing, such as the early morning Tai Chi or afternoon kayaking, helps maximize the experience without feeling hurried.

Authentic Natural Encounters: Stops like the floating villages and caves provide genuine interactions with Vietnam’s water-based communities and scenic landscapes. Reviewers pointed out the “stunning views” and the “peaceful, unspoiled environment,” which is increasingly rare in popular tourist destinations.

All-Inclusive Feel with Transparency: The tour covers most costs—meals, entrance fees, activities—so you can relax without constantly reaching for your wallet. However, extras like spa services, personal expenses, and tips are not included, which is typical but worth noting.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $603 per person, which, when considering the included meals, activities, and accommodations, offers good value for a comprehensive, all-in-one experience. For travelers craving convenience and comfort, this price tag reflects a higher-end experience with premium touches, like wine in your cabin and in-depth guided commentary.

Timing-wise, the tour starts early, with a pickup around 8:30 am, so being prepared for an active schedule is wise. The maximum group size of 56 keeps the experience lively without being crowded, but solo travelers and couples may find the social aspect quite appealing.

The tour requires moderate physical fitness, especially for activities like biking, kayaking, and swimming. Reviewers have noted that most stops are suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but some activities may demand a bit of stamina.

Weather Dependency

Since the tour involves outdoor activities and scenic boat rides, good weather is crucial. The tour provider states that if canceled due to poor weather, travelers will be given a new date or full refund, which offers some reassurance.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

This 3-day cruise delivers a blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxing luxury. The stops at floating villages, caves, and islands provide a well-rounded perspective of Vietnam’s water landscapes, while the onboard amenities keep you comfortable and entertained.

If your idea of a perfect getaway includes scenic views, active pursuits like kayaking and biking, and a touch of local life, this tour has a lot to offer. The inclusion of quality meals, guided excursions, and cozy cabins makes it a compelling choice for those seeking hassle-free exploration.

However, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and looking for a more upscale experience. The price point reflects its premium nature, but the overall value for the variety of included activities and comfort is solid.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Hanoi?
Yes, a transfer vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and take you to Hai Phong, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the entire cruise each day?
The itinerary includes several stops with activities like kayaking, village visits, and cave explorations, plus cruising times that vary but generally allow plenty of time to enjoy each site.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides three lunches, two breakfasts, and two dinners, with special touches like fruits in the cabin and wine in certain suites.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking and tai chi?
Absolutely. These activities are included and designed to suit most fitness levels, with some reviewers calling the tai chi sessions “exhilarating” and “peaceful.”

What’s the accommodation like?
Guests stay in luxurious, air-conditioned en-suite cabins. Many reviewers mention the comfort and thoughtful touches such as fruits and wine.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any extra costs not included?
Additional expenses could include spa services, beverages outside what’s provided, tips, and personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, activities like kayaking and bike riding are generally suitable for families with children of moderate fitness, but check with the provider regarding age restrictions.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 56 travelers, balancing social interaction with comfort.

In essence, this cruise is tailored for those craving a scenic, activity-rich, and comfortable escape on Vietnam’s waters. With thoughtful planning and high-quality amenities, it’s a strong pick for curious explorers who appreciate a balance of adventure and relaxation.