2 Days Tour of Halong Bay by Hera Cruise from Hanoi

If you’re dreaming of limestone karsts rising dramatically from the sea, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful islands, this 2-day tour of Halong Bay with Hera Cruise offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic Vietnamese hospitality. For roughly $304 per person, you’ll spend around 20 hours exploring some of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders, including Gia Luan, Ba Trai Dao island, Tuan Chau Island, and the Dark and Light Cave. What makes this trip stand out are the personalized touches—like the friendly guides, delicious food, and well-planned itinerary—that turn a simple boat ride into a memorable experience.

Two things we really appreciate are the culture of a Vietnamese seafood lunch while cruising through iconic islets—and the chance to kayak or swim in secluded lagoons. These activities add a sense of adventure and authenticity that many tours overlook. On the flip side, the cancellation policy is strict, so if weather turns bad, be prepared for rescheduling or a refund, which could be inconvenient if your plans are tight. This tour suits those who value well-organized, engaging experiences and are eager to explore both the iconic sights and hidden corners of Halong Bay.

If you’re someone who enjoys delivering a good balance of sightseeing and leisure, values excellent food and service, and doesn’t mind a packed schedule, this tour will hit the right notes. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling solo, as the group is limited to 38 people, making it intimate enough for meaningful conversations but lively enough for fun.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to major sites like Gia Luan, Ba Trai Dao, and Dark & Light Cave.
• Authentic experiences: Kayaking, swimming, cave exploring, and local bamboo boat rides.
• High praise for guides: Friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging guides enhance the journey.
• Delicious food: Vietnamese seafood, vegetarian options, and optional Western dishes.
• Well-organized schedule: Smooth transitions between sightseeing, meals, and activities.
• Value for money: Includes meals, activities, transfers, and accommodation on the boat.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

This 2-day expedition takes you through some of the most remarkable parts of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, with a carefully curated mix of sightseeing, activities, and relaxation. The price of $304 per person includes a lot of value—meals, activities like kayaking, entrance fees, and transfers—making it a hassle-free way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

You’ll start bright and early with a hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, setting the stage for a smooth journey. The first leg involves a drive to Tuan Chau harbor, where the adventure truly begins. Once aboard the Hera Cruise, a warm welcome awaits, along with a drink and briefing by the crew, setting a friendly tone for the trip ahead.

Day 1: A Full Day of Exploration and Adventure

The first stop is Tuan Chau Island, a popular gateway to the bay. This is where the scenic cruising begins, allowing you to enjoy the vistas of towering limestone formations while sipping on a welcome drink. The highlight here is the lunch—a Vietnamese seafood or vegetarian set menu that many travelers describe as delicious, with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.

After lunch, the cruise continues through Con Vit Islet, Thumb Islet, and Gia Luan Harbor, with a focus on photo-worthy scenery. The real fun starts at Ba Trai Dao Islet, where you can swim, sunbathe, or kayak in quiet lagoons away from the crowds. The reviews consistently highlight the freedom of swimming in pristine waters and the peaceful atmosphere as a major plus.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll enjoy a sunset party with fruit, cake, and wine — a relaxing way to unwind and soak in the breathtaking views of the bay. Later in the evening, the cruise offers entertainment options like card games, chess, or squid fishing, giving plenty of opportunities for fun and socializing.

Day 2: Cave Exploration and Return

The morning kicks off with Tai Chi on the sundeck, a gentle way to wake up and connect with the natural surroundings. After breakfast, the highlight is a visit to the Dark & Light Cave. Here, you’ll transfer by tender boat to a floating house and then explore the caves on a traditional bamboo boat, rowed by local guides—an authentic experience praised by many for its peaceful, scenic nature.

Following the cave visit, you’ll enjoy a second meal onboard before heading back to Tuan Chau Harbor and Hanoi. The return journey is smooth, with plenty of time to reflect on the sights and stories shared by your guide.

Why This Tour Works: The Highlights

Guides and Service: The reviews mention guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, making the experience more enriching. Whether explaining the geology of the limestone formations or sharing local legends, they add a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

Cuisine: The food receives high praise, with many noting the delicious seafood and vegetarian options. The cooking demonstration is an added bonus, giving travelers insight into Vietnamese culinary traditions.

Activities: The combination of kayaking, swimming, cave exploration, and sunbathing caters to different preferences, whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation. Many reviews highlight how these activities enhance the trip’s authenticity and enjoyment.

Scenic Beauty: The view of sunset from the deck is a recurrent highlight, with travelers describing it as breathtaking. The caves and lagoons offer a chance to witness the bay’s natural grandeur up close.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is well-reviewed, it’s worth noting that the cancellation policy is strict—no refunds or changes are allowed once booked. If bad weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, but this could be inconvenient if your schedule is tight.

The itinerary is quite full, with long cruising hours, so if you prefer a very relaxed pace or have mobility issues, some parts of the trip might feel rushed. The group size is limited to 38, which generally enhances intimacy, but it also means that during peak season, you might encounter a slightly crowded feel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who love combining sightseeing with active pursuits like kayaking and cave exploring. It’s also perfect for those who want delicious local cuisine and friendly guides to enrich their experience. If you’re looking for a well-organized, lively trip with a mix of stunning scenery and cultural authenticity, you’ll find this tour satisfying.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, slow pace or have specific needs related to mobility or dietary restrictions that require custom arrangements, you might want to explore other options or communicate your needs in advance.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 20 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 12:00 PM the next day.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), activities like kayaking, cave visits, transfers, and insurance. It also includes welcome drinks, a cooking demonstration, and entrance fees for sites like Lan Ha Bay.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarians are well catered for, with specific set menus available that are fresh and flavorful, according to many reviews.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Kids and families who enjoy active adventures and scenic cruising will find it appealing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a rescheduled date or a full refund.

Can I do kayaking during the trip?
Absolutely. Kayaking is included and a favorite activity for many, providing a chance to paddle in tranquil lagoons and get close to the scenery.

How many people are on the cruise?
The cruise caps at 38 travelers, making it intimate enough to meet others but still maintaining a cozy atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, swimwear, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof camera for capturing the caves and lagoons. A light jacket might be handy in the evening.

Final Thoughts

The 2-day Hera Cruise tour of Halong Bay offers a well-rounded adventure that combines spectacular scenery, engaging activities, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. It’s clear from reviews that the guides’ friendliness, delicious food, and beautiful sights make this a memorable trip for many.

For travelers who want a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation without the fuss, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate small group experiences, quality food, and the opportunity to actively participate in the fun—whether paddling a kayak or exploring caves. If your goal is to see the iconic limestone formations and hidden lagoons of Halong Bay while enjoying outstanding service and delicious meals, this tour will serve you well.

In essence, this is a carefully curated, visitor-friendly experience that captures the essence of Halong Bay—its stunning landscapes, peaceful waters, and vibrant marine life—delivered with genuine Vietnamese warmth. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’re likely to find plenty to love here.