From Hanoi: 2-Day Halong Sapphire Cruise with Balcony Cabin

From Hanoi: 2-Day Halong Sapphire Cruise with Balcony Cabin
Location: Northern Vietnam, Vietnam
Country: Vietnam
Rating: 4.8/5 (based on 1447 reviews)
Supplier: VIETNAM OPENTOUR CO LTD

Quick Overview and First Impressions

Picture this: you start your journey from the bustling streets of Hanoi, heading to Halong Bay for a two-day escape aboard the Sapphire Cruise. Priced reasonably for such a comprehensive experience, the tour includes luxurious cabins with balconies, all meals, and plenty of activities like kayaking, swimming, and even a cooking class on deck.

What we love about this trip are two things in particular: first, the personalized service and friendly guides—reviewers frequently mention guides like Luc or Power, who make the experience both informative and fun. Second, the stunning scenery—thousands of islands, limestone karsts, and tranquil waters—are a feast for the eyes and truly unforgettable.

One potential consideration is the itinerary flexibility—the schedule can change depending on weather or operational needs, so be prepared for a bit of unpredictability. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, active pursuits, and culture, especially those who appreciate good food and friendly service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Luxury Cabins: Spacious, air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms and balconies to enjoy the views.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes a Vietnamese cooking demo, Tai Chi sessions, and kayaking for hands-on fun.
• Stunning Scenery: Sail past thousands of islands, stopping for swimming or photos on tranquil waters.
• Excellent Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable hosts (notably Luc and Power) who enhance the trip with humor and local insights.
• Great Value: All meals, activities, and transfers included, with reviewers raving about the quality and variety of food.
• Flexible Itinerary: The schedule may shift due to weather, so some spontaneity is possible but generally well-organized.

A Deep Dive into the Halong Sapphire Cruise

Setting Out from Hanoi

Starting from Hanoi, the pick-up service makes life easier, especially if you’ve opted for the transfer from the Old Quarter. The journey to Halong Bay takes roughly 2-3 hours, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited about the scenery ahead. The guide will meet you at Tuan Chau harbour, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience.

Boarding and First Impressions

Once at the harbour, you’ll hop onto a tender boat to reach the Sapphire Cruise, a sleek vessel equipped with deluxe cabins. These rooms are praised for being comfortable and spacious, with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms—a real winner after a day of travel. Our reviews highlight the upgraded cabins and beautiful views, with one guest saying, “the view from the window next to the bed was breathtaking.”

The crew conducts a safety briefing, so you’re well-prepared from the start. You’ll be greeted with a welcome drink—a small but friendly gesture that makes you feel instantly at home.

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The First Day: Cruising and Activities

Lunch is served shortly after boarding—a highlight for many reviewers—featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine prepared by talented chefs. The quality of the food consistently gets rave reviews, with guests noting that they felt full and satisfied throughout. One comment from a traveler: “Food was ample, and the chef’s skill really showed.”

After lunch, the boat begins to glide through the tranquil waters of Lan Ha and Halong Bays, passing thousands of islands and islets. The scenery is not just beautiful but extraordinary—towering limestone formations and emerald waters that look like they’ve been painted on a postcard.

A favorite activity is stopping in the middle of the bay for swimming or even trying somersaults into the water, with reviewers describing the experience as relaxing and refreshing. Notably, the boat avoids crowded beaches, opting for more serene spots, which many consider a better choice for enjoying the natural beauty without the crowds.

On Deck and Cultural Experiences

In the late afternoon, you’ll enjoy photo sessions on the sundeck, capturing the sweeping vistas, and maybe even trying your hand at kayaking—a favorite among guests. The cooking class on the deck, where a guide teaches you how to make spring rolls, is another highlight, offering a chance to learn some Vietnamese culinary secrets while soaking in the views.

Later, the sunset party features fresh fruit, karaoke, squid fishing, and soft music—perfect for making new friends or simply relaxing with a drink. Reviewers like Katia and Harriet mention how much they enjoyed these lively, authentic moments.

The Second Day: Dawn and Cave Exploration

Early risers will love the Tai Chi session at dawn, offering peaceful moments with miraculous scenery as the backdrop. After a light breakfast, the boat heads toward the Dark & Bright Caves, where you can kayak or take local rowing boats into the mysterious chambers—something reviewers like Rachel say is “the best part of the trip,” thanks to the amazing views and adventure.

The cruise winds down with a brunch as the boat makes its way back toward the main harbor. The transfer back to Hanoi is smooth, with the entire trip usually wrapping up around midday.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll find that the package includes everything you need—deluxe cabins, all meals, kayaking, a cooking class, and transfers. The guides, notably Luc and Power, are praised for their enthusiasm and attention to detail. One guest wrote, “Luc made sure everyone had a great time, with jokes and useful information,” while others mention how guides adapted to their needs.

Extras like spa services, drinks during meals, and a $18 surcharge during holidays are not included but are easy to arrange or avoid, depending on your preferences. For a small upgrade fee, you can choose the limousine transfer, which might be worth it for some travelers seeking extra comfort.

Review Highlights & Authentic Perspectives

Multiple reviews state that guides like Luc or Power make the trip genuinely memorable, thanks to their friendly, energetic approach. One traveler said, “Luc was amazing, funny, and informative—he truly made the experience special.”

Guests also love the quality of food, with many noting that the meals were plentiful and delicious, often describing them as a highlight of their stay. The scenery, featuring towering limestone peaks and emerald waters, leaves visitors in awe, with some saying it’s “something you’ll never forget.”

On the other hand, some mention that the sea can be a bit dirty, and the itinerary’s dependence on weather means you should be flexible. The balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exposure seems to hit the sweet spot for most travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who value friendly service and authentic experiences—especially if you’re seeking beautiful scenery and active pursuits like kayaking or swimming. It’s ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends wanting a comfortable, well-organized adventure in Halong Bay.

Travelers who appreciate delicious food and informative guides will find this trip rewarding—reviewers consistently mention the high quality of meals and guide personalities. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet engaging way to explore this UNESCO-listed wonder, this cruise ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This 2-day Sapphire Cruise offers excellent value for the price, combining luxury cabins, delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and authentic cultural activities with the awe-inspiring scenery of Halong Bay. The friendly guides and well-maintained boat make for a smooth, enjoyable trip that many travelers say exceeds expectations.

The experience is perfect for those who want a balance of relaxation and adventure, with enough flexibility to enjoy the natural wonders at your own pace. The scenery alone makes the trip memorable; add in the good food, friendly crew, and interesting activities, and it’s a solid choice for an authentic Vietnamese getaway.

In summary, if you’re after a comfortable, well-organized cruise with stunning vistas and top-notch service, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to Halong Bay or travelers who want a tasteful blend of active pursuits, culture, and relaxing scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the Old Quarter if you select that option, making your trip hassle-free.

How long is the cruise?
The tour spans two days and one night, with most activities scheduled from the afternoon of the first day until late morning on the second day.

What activities are available onboard?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming, participating in a cooking class, Tai Chi sessions, and karaoke during the sunset party.

Are meals provided?
Yes, all meals are included—fresh seafood, Vietnamese dishes, and delicious buffet-style dinners are highlights for many.

Can children participate?
Children sharing with parents are allowed, with infant rates applying if they don’t occupy a seat. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or disabled guests due to water sport activities.

What’s the scenery like?
Prepare to be wowed by thousands of limestone islands, emerald waters, and hidden caves like Dark & Bright, which are accessible during the cruise.

Are guides friendly and knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers frequently mention guides like Luc or Power, who make the trip entertaining and informative, often going beyond expectations.

What should I pack?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and camera for capturing the views. Don’t forget to advise any dietary needs in advance.

Is the cruise flexible if weather turns bad?
Schedules can change depending on weather and operational conditions, so some activities or routes might be adjusted for safety and comfort.

This tour offers an excellent way to experience the iconic beauty of Halong Bay without feeling rushed or overlooked. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural insight, the Sapphire Cruise helps you enjoy it all in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: