Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and captivating limestone karsts. However, what many travelers may not know is that a Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the hidden gems of this stunning destination.
From the picturesque Titop Island, where one can indulge in swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing, to the awe-inspiring Surprise Cave with its mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites, this day trip promises an unforgettable adventure.
But what exactly does this excursion entail? What are the meeting and pickup points? How long does it last? And what can travelers expect in terms of safety measures and cancellation policies?
Join this discussion to uncover all the answers and discover why this tour should be on your travel bucket list.
Good To Know

- There are multiple meeting and pickup points for the Halong Bay cruise, including a free shuttle bus option from Hanoi old quarter at 9.00 AM and a pickup option at the harbor at 12.00 PM.
- Customers need to bring various items such as umbrella/hat, shirts, shoes/sandals/flip flops, swimming suits, towels, small money, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, small water bottles, snacks, raincoats, insect spray, and jackets (depending on the season).
- Customers must confirm their pick-up information before going on the tour.
- The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, but no refund or changes are accepted if canceled less than 24 hours before the start time. Poor weather conditions and not meeting the minimum number of travelers may also result in alternative dates or a full refund.
Meeting and Pickup Points

When planning a Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip, it’s important to carefully consider the meeting and pickup points to ensure a smooth and convenient start to your adventure.
For those departing from Hanoi old quarter, there’s a 9.00 AM option that includes a FREE shuttle bus service. This is a great option for travelers who are staying in that area.
However, if you don’t stay in Hanoi old quarter, don’t worry. There are alternative pickup locations available. Another option is the 12.00 PM pickup from the harbor, which doesn’t have any additional fee. This provides flexibility for travelers who may prefer a later departure time.
With these shuttle bus options and alternative pickup locations, you can easily choose the most convenient option for your Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip.
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Start and End Time
If you’ve already sorted out your meeting and pickup point for your Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip, now let’s talk about the start and end time of this exciting adventure. The cruise starts at 8:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point. The duration and itinerary of the trip are as follows:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Departure from port |
| 9:30 AM | Arrival at Titop Island for swimming and kayaking |
| 11:00 AM | Visit Surprise Cave |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch on the boat |
| 2:30 PM | Return to the harbor |
During the trip, safety measures are taken seriously, with the provision of safety equipment such as life jackets and kayaking gear. The tour is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for everyone. So get ready to embark on a day filled with adventure and breathtaking views of Halong Bay.
Preparation and Information

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip, it’s essential to be well-prepared and informed about the necessary details and items to bring along for the adventure.
When packing for the trip, it’s advisable to bring:
- An umbrella or hat
- Shirts
- Shoes or sandals
- Swimming suits
- Towels
- Small money
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A camera
- Small water bottles
- Snacks
- Raincoats
- Insect spray
- Jackets depending on the season.
It’s important to note that Ha Long Bay may experience overcrowding and sometimes have issues with garbage due to changes in water flow and tides. However, by cooperating with other travelers, respecting the culture and timetable, and following common principles, visitors can still have a memorable experience.
It’s also worth mentioning that the maximum number of travelers for this tour/activity is 30.
Cancellation Policy

As visitors prepare for their Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip, it’s important to familiarize themselves with the Cancellation Policy to ensure a worry-free experience.
The Cancellation Policy for this tour states that customers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance. However, if the cancellation is made less than 24 hours before the start time, no refund will be given. It’s worth noting that changes to the booking are also not accepted within 24 hours of the start time.
Plus, since the experience is weather-dependent, if the tour needs to be canceled due to poor weather conditions, customers will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Lastly, if the minimum number of travelers required for the tour isn’t met, customers will also have the option of choosing an alternative date or receiving a full refund.
Reviews and Pricing

With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 4 reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor, the Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip promises to be an exceptional experience for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
According to Viator travelers, the tour guide was highly praised for being organized and knowledgeable, while the bus driver was commended for his excellent skills.
The food served on the boat was described as delicious, adding to the overall enjoyment of the trip.
In terms of pricing, the Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip starts from £53.06, offering a competitive rate compared to other tours in the area.
Travelers can trust the reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor to make an informed decision and choose a memorable cruise experience in Halong Bay.
More tours and activities we've covered in Hanoi
- Ha Noi: 1 Day Ha Long Bay Cruise / Cave, Titop Island, Kayak
- Halong Bay: 2-Day 5-Star Cruise With Kayak
- CozyBay Boutique 2D1N Kayak Swim,Titop,Cave, Expressway Transfer
- Hanoi: Ha Long Bay All-Inclusive Cruise With Kayaking
- Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour – Best Selling: Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking & Lunch
- Hanoi: 3-Day Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay, Cave, Kayak, Swimming
Directions

After learning about the exceptional experience and positive reviews of the Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip, it’s now time to guide you on how to get there.
To reach Halong Bay, there are several driving routes available from Hanoi. One popular route is to take the AH1 Highway, which will lead you directly to the bay. Another option is to take the AH14 Highway, which provides a scenic drive through the countryside.
To make navigation easier, you can use navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze, which will guide you along the best route based on real-time traffic conditions. These apps also provide turn-by-turn directions, ensuring that you reach your destination smoothly.
Common Questions

Are There Any Additional Fees for the Shuttle Bus if I Am Not Staying in Hanoi Old Quarter?
There are no additional fees for the shuttle bus if the guest is not staying in Hanoi old quarter. There are shuttle bus options available for non old quarter guests, with a 12.00 PM departure from the harbor.
Is There a Specific Dress Code for the Cruise Day Trip?
There is no specific dress code for the cruise day trip. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and activities on the trip.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, picnic options are available for the Halong Bay cruise. However, bringing your own food and drinks on the boat is not allowed. The tour provides alternatives to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
What Is the Maximum Number of Travelers Allowed on the Tour?
The maximum number of travelers allowed on the tour is 30. There are tour restrictions to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety. It’s important to follow the guidelines and cooperate with other travelers.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Activities on the Cruise?
There are no age restrictions for participating in the activities on the cruise. People of all ages can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and exploring Surprise Cave. It’s a family-friendly experience for everyone to enjoy.
The Sum Up

Experience the wonders of Halong Bay on a thrilling day trip that takes you to Titop Island, Surprise Cave, and more. Swim, kayak, and sunbathe on pristine beaches, and marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites in Surprise Cave.
With professional tour guides and delicious food on board, this adventure is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on exploring the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay and all the exciting activities it has to offer.
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