Halong Bay 2D1N Amanda Luxury Cruise with Transfers from Hanoi

Planning a trip to Vietnam often means adding a visit to Ha Long Bay, known for its dramatic limestone karsts and stunning seascapes. The Amanda Luxury Cruise offers a 2-day, 1-night escape that combines comfort, adventure, and cultural moments, all within a well-organized package. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the detailed itinerary, guest reviews, and included features suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a taste of indulgence without sacrificing authenticity.

What excites us most about this experience are the luxury onboard cabins, the variety of activities like kayaking and Tai Chi, and the seamless transfer service from Hanoi. The inclusion of meals, entry fees, and guided tours makes it feel like great value — especially considering the 5-star standards of the ship. One thing to keep in mind is that you’re on a group tour, so it might not suit those seeking complete independence or a very quiet, private experience. This tour seems perfect for those wanting a balanced blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural exploration in a relatively short time.

Good To Know

• Comfort and luxury are front and center with ensuite cabins on a 5-star ship.
• All-inclusive meals, activities, and entry fees simplify planning and budgeting.
• Variety of activities like kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, and cave exploration enrich the trip.
• Convenient transfers from Hanoi make the trip seamless and stress-free.
• Group size up to 48 travelers keeps the experience lively but manageable.
• Limited flexibility due to non-refundable policy and scheduled activities.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

The journey begins early, with a pickup from the Hanoi Opera House or your hotel within Hanoi’s Old Quarter, around 8:00 to 8:30 AM. This transfer is included and offers a comfortable ride via expressway, shaving hours off what would otherwise be a long day of travel. This is convenient especially if you’re staying centrally in Hanoi, as it saves you from navigating local traffic or arranging your own transport.

The drive takes approximately 3 hours, during which you get to relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviews mention a smooth and comfortable transfer experience, with some travelers appreciating the prompt pickup and the comfortable coach. Once you reach Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll head straight to check in at the cruise port — a quick 30-minute process, with free admission that allows you to get a first glimpse of your floating hotel.

Embarking on the Amanda Cruise

Boarding the Amanda Cruise at Tuan Chau Marina is where the luxury begins. Guests are welcomed with a drink and a cool towel, a nice touch that sets a relaxed tone. The ships are described as 5-star, with ensuite cabins that look comfortable and well-appointed. You’ll find your space, settle in, and start the cruise around 12:30 PM.

The journey through Ha Long Bay is visually spectacular, with towering limestone formations and emerald waters. It’s a great chance to appreciate the UNESCO World Heritage site in style. Many reviews mention the stunning views and the peaceful atmosphere onboard, which makes the cruise feel like a floating luxury hotel.

Activities and Meals

The cruise includes a variety of activities designed to give you a well-rounded experience. You can enjoy kayaking, which allows you to get closer to the limestone formations and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Swimming is also available, and some guests have noted that the water is inviting and clean.

A highlight is the exploration of Sung Sot Cave, famous for its enormous stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is a must-see, and guests find the guided visit quite informative. One reviewer pointed out that the cave “felt like walking into a natural cathedral” — a description that captures its impressive scale and beauty.

The onboard meals are praised as good quality, with the inclusion of lunch, dinner, and breakfast. You’ll enjoy fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes, with special attention paid to dietary restrictions if communicated in advance. A cooking demonstration is included, adding a fun and interactive element to the experience.

Sunrise Tai Chi and Scenic Moments

Early risers can participate in Tai Chi at sunrise, a calming way to start the day while taking in incredible views of the bay bathed in morning light. At 6:00 AM, the deck fills with quiet activity, and many guests find this a memorable moment. The morning light and fresh air make the session peaceful and rejuvenating.

Day 2: From Bay to Hanoi

The next morning kicks off at 6:00 AM with another Tai Chi session, followed by breakfast at 7:00 AM. Afterward, you’ll visit Sung Sot Cave again or explore Trinh Nu Cave with options for swimming and kayaking — activities that guests find refreshing and fun.

Check-out occurs around 9:30 AM; luggage is handled efficiently, allowing you some free time to browse the onboard shop or enjoy the scenery before the departure. The cruise wraps up with a return transfer to Hanoi, arriving back in the Old Quarter between 3:00 and 3:30 PM, completing a smooth and hassle-free day.

The Value of the Experience

Considering the price of $202.50 per person, this tour provides a notable blend of comfort, activities, and convenience. The all-inclusive meals, guided activities, and transfers contribute to making this a stress-free and enjoyable experience. The luxury cabins and well-organized schedule mean you’ll spend more time enjoying the scenery than worrying about logistics.

Guests have appreciated the good value for money, especially given the high standards of the boat and the variety of included experiences. The seamless transfer service from Hanoi saves travelers both time and effort, which is especially valuable for those on a tight schedule. The inclusion of kayaking and swimming offers a personal touch, allowing you to explore Ha Long Bay more intimately.

What the Reviews Say

While there are few reviews, those available highlight stunning views and good onboard service. One reviewer noted that the staff was helpful and friendly, making the experience more enjoyable. Others appreciated the comfortable cabins and the fact that all activities, entry fees, and meals were included, removing the usual hassle of planning each part separately.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early for the transfer if you want to settle in comfortably; the pickup window is between 8:00 and 8:30 AM.
• Communicate dietary restrictions in advance to ensure your meals meet your needs.
• Bring a waterproof bag for kayaking or swimming gear.
• Dress in layers for Tai Chi and early morning activities; it can be cool at sunrise.
• Check the weather forecast ahead of time, as activities like kayaking are weather-dependent.
• Be mindful of the non-refundable policy — ensure your plans are firm before booking.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This Amanda Cruise experience suits travelers who want a luxurious, all-inclusive trip with a good mix of activities and cultural experiences. It’s ideal for those who prefer structured tours with guided excursions and onboard amenities, rather than independent travel. It appeals to couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and memorable scenery.

However, if you prefer a more private or flexible adventure, or are sensitive to non-refundable policies, you might want to consider alternative options. The tour’s group setting ensures camaraderie but may not be perfect for those seeking privacy.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers accommodations in ensuite cabins, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), kayaking, activities like Tai Chi and cooking demonstrations, entry fees, onboard insurance, sightseeing fees, and transfers from Hanoi.

Are transfers from Hanoi guaranteed?
Yes, pickup is offered from hotels or stays within Hanoi’s Old Quarter or at the Hanoi Opera House, between 8:00 and 8:30 AM. The return transfer is included as part of the package.

What should I pack for the cruise?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for activities like kayaking and swimming, a waterproof bag for gear, sun protection, and a hat. Also, pack any personal essentials and a camera to capture the scenery.

Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?
Activities follow a fixed schedule, and check-out is at 9:30 AM on the second day. However, the onboard shop may offer some free time for browsing before departure.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs if notified at the time of booking.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure of your plans before reserving.

Final Thoughts

The Halong Bay 2D1N Amanda Luxury Cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Vietnam’s iconic seascape, combining luxurious comfort with exciting activities and convenient logistics. The inclusion of meals, guided tours, and transfers makes it a highly manageable way to explore Ha Long Bay without the stress of planning every detail.

This tour is especially suited for travelers wanting to enjoy the scenery in style, with enough time for activities like kayaking and cave exploration. While the group setting and non-refundable policy may not appeal to everyone, these factors are balanced by the quality of the experience and the value for money.

If you’re looking for a balanced, comfortable cruise that allows you to appreciate Ha Long Bay’s beauty with guided ease, this experience deserves a serious look. It’s a chance to relax, explore, and create memories in one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking spots.