2-Days Ha Long Cruise from Hanoi with Luxury 5-Star Boat

Discover the Beauty of Ha Long Bay on a 2-Day Luxury Cruise
Imagine cruising through a landscape of towering limestone islands, emerald waters, and hidden caves—all aboard a luxury 5-star boat. For $256 per person, this 2-day Ha Long Bay experience from Hanoi offers a blend of comfort, adventure, and culture. Led by friendly guides (like Ms. Jenny), you’ll enjoy seamless transfers, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to explore some of Vietnam’s most iconic scenery.

Two details we particularly love are the kayaking session around Luon Cave—giving you a close-up view of the bay’s natural beauty—and the culinary demonstration onboard, which adds a flavorful local touch to your trip. The cruise’s well-organized itinerary balances sightseeing and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers wanting a taste of both adventure and comfort.

A possible consideration is the rigid schedule—timings are fairly packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, some moments might feel hurried. Yet, for those eager to see as much as possible in a short time, this cruise checks all the boxes.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate stunning views, authentic experiences, and a touch of luxury without sacrificing practicality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable escape, this cruise offers a balanced taste of Ha Long Bay’s natural wonders and Vietnamese hospitality.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: 5-star boat with comfortable amenities and attentive service.
• Scenic Highlights: Limestone caves, Titov Island with panoramic views, kayaking, and swimming.
• Cultural Activities: Vietnamese cooking demo and traditional woven boat rides.
• Well-Organized Schedule: From transfers to sightseeing, designed for a smooth experience.
• Authentic Adventure: Kayaking and swimming in emerald waters, plus visits to natural caves.
• Value for Price: Includes accommodations, most meals, sightseeing fees, and transfers—good value for a premium experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Setting Sail from Hanoi and Exploring the Caves

Your journey begins early, with a pickup from your Hanoi hotel between 8:00 and 8:30 am. The transfer to Tuan Chau Harbor is smooth, giving you a chance to relax and anticipate the scenery ahead. Once at the harbor, you’ll check in at the waiting lounge—here, the friendly team will help with luggage and provide a safety briefing.

By around 12:30 pm, you’ll transfer to the Athena Cruise via tender boat, a quick and comfortable ride that gets you straight into the heart of the bay. The onboard crew, led by the cheerful cruise manager, will welcome you with a signature drink before you settle in for your lunch, served in a cozy restaurant as the boat departs. The views are immediately stunning—towering limestone formations rising from the sea, a real visual feast.

After lunch, the cruise will stop at Bo Nau (Pelican) Cave—a key highlight of the UNESCO-listed site. Then, you’ll visit Sung Sot (Surprising) Cave, the largest and most impressive in Ha Long Bay. The cavern’s peaks and stalactites create a surreal landscape, perfect for photos and awe. Reviewers note that “the Surprising cave is the highlight with its grand size and formations,” making it a must-see.

Next, the boat moves to Titov Island, named after the Soviet cosmonaut Gherman Titov. Here, you can relax on the beach, swim in the clear waters, or climb a steep staircase to a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the bay. The ascent is worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping vista of limestone spires and islands—a favorite among travelers.

The late afternoon and evening bring opportunities to unwind. You might indulge in a spa treatment, soak in the outdoor jacuzzi, or simply sunbathe on the deck. From 18:00 to 19:00, take advantage of happy hour for buy-one-get-one-free drinks—a perfect way to toast the sunset.

At 6:30 pm, participate in a cooking class led by the cruise’s head chef, learning to make authentic Vietnamese dishes. Dinner follows—an elegant fusion set menu that warms you after an active day.

Evenings are flexible—many guests enjoy mini-games, film viewing, squid fishing, or relaxing with a massage. The crew, including the Cruise Manager, ensures everyone has a good time, making it a lively but laid-back atmosphere.

Day 2: Kayaking, Cave Visits, and Return to Hanoi

Early morning begins with a gentle Tai-Chi session on the deck—an ideal way to greet the day with calm and focus. After a light breakfast, you’ll head to Luon Cave, one of the most beautiful and accessible caves in the bay. Here, you can choose between kayaking or a bamboo boat ride—both options offer intimate views of the grotto’s vegetation and limestone formations. Reviewers say, “Kayaking around Luon Cave was a highlight, giving a real sense of discovery.”

As the cruise moves toward the harbor, you’ll relax and pack your luggage, leaving it outside your cabin for easy collection. A brunch buffet onboard provides a final taste of the ship’s culinary offerings, with scenic views as the boat cruises back to port.

Arriving at Halong International Harbour around 10:45 am, you’ll transfer back to Hanoi, ending your journey with a collection of unforgettable sights and experiences.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers one night aboard the Velar of the Seas cruise, with two meals—breakfast, two lunches, and one dinner—plus onboard mineral water, sightseeing fees, and all scheduled activities including kayaking. Transfers from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay and back are also included, making the logistics straightforward.

However, drinks outside of the provided mineral water, spa treatments, and personal expenses are extras. Surcharges apply if you’re traveling solo or during Vietnamese holidays, so it’s wise to check availability beforehand.

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The Value of a 5-Star Experience

At $256, this cruise offers a lot for the price—comfortable accommodations, well-planned activities, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Compared to budget options, the luxury boat elevates the experience with amenities like an outdoor jacuzzi, a spa, and a refined dining experience. The inclusion of kayaking, cave visits, and a cooking demo add layers of engagement, turning sightseeing into an immersive experience.

Travelers have praised the beautiful scenery and well-organized schedule, noting that “the views are truly breathtaking, and the activities are well-paced.” The cruise’s focus on comfort and authentic experiences makes it a smart choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Who This Tour is Best For

This tour suits first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of Ha Long Bay’s natural beauty, with the comforts of a 5-star boat. It’s also ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion, thanks to the luxurious amenities and intimate environment.

If you’re looking for a short escape from Hanoi that combines sightseeing, local culture, and pampering, this cruise delivers. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have specific dietary restrictions or mobility concerns, it might be worth exploring other options or confirming details in advance.

The Sum Up

Choosing this 2-day Ha Long Bay cruise means enjoying one of nature’s most striking landscapes, all while enjoying the comforts of a luxury vessel. The itinerary balances must-see sights—like Surprising Cave and Titov Island—with authentic activities like kayaking and Vietnamese cooking. It’s a great pick for those who want a visually stunning, well-organized experience without sacrificing quality or comfort.

While it’s packed with highlights, the cruise’s efficiency and thoughtful inclusions make it a hassle-free option, especially for travelers with limited time but big appetites for adventure. The value for money is clear when you consider the all-inclusive meals, accommodations, and activities, plus the chance to relax in style.

If stunning views, authentic cultural touches, and a touch of luxury appeal to you, this Ha Long Bay cruise is worth considering. It’s a chance to see extraordinary landscapes, sample local flavors, and create memories that’ll last long after you’ve left the bay.

FAQ

Is it necessary to text before booking? Yes, you need to contact Ms. Jenny at +84 817177745 via WhatsApp or phone to check the cruise’s availability before confirming your reservation.

What is included in the price? The price covers one night aboard the Velar of the Seas cruise, two meals (breakfast, two lunches, and one dinner), complimentary mineral water, sightseeing fees, onboard insurance, transfers from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, kayaking, and the services of an English-speaking guide.

Are there any additional costs? Beverages outside of mineral water, spa treatments, personal expenses, and surcharges for single travelers or holidays are not included.

Can I pay later? Yes, you can book now and pay later—booking is flexible, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What activities are available? You can enjoy kayaking, visit caves (like Surprising and Luon), swim, climb Titov Island for panoramic views, participate in a cooking demonstration, and enjoy evening entertainment onboard.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 2 days, with activities scheduled from early morning to late evening, providing a full experience of Ha Long Bay’s highlights.

Is vegetarian or special diet accommodated? The available information doesn’t specify dietary options, but the cruise’s focus on Vietnamese cuisine suggests some flexibility—best to confirm in advance.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable clothes for daytime activities, swimwear, sun protection, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: