Hanoi: 2-Day Halong & Lan Ha Bay 5 Stars Cruise with Balcony

If you’re dreaming of floating amidst spectacular limestone karsts, sipping cocktails on a private balcony, and trying your hand at kayaking or cooking Vietnamese dishes, this 2-day cruise offers a smart blend of comfort and adventure. Priced at $162 per person, this luxury experience departs from Hanoi, taking you deep into the gorgeous waters of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. It’s a well-rounded trip that combines stunning scenery, engaging activities, and thoughtful amenities—ideal for those who want a taste of indulgence without sacrificing authenticity.

What we love most: First, the modern yet traditional design of the ships, which creates a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. Second, the diversity of activities, from kayaking through caves to relaxing spa treatments—something for every type of traveler. One thing to consider: because of the busy season surcharges and optional extras, the final cost can add up, so budgeting for extras like drinks or spa treatments is wise.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a combination of comfort, beautiful landscapes, and engaging experiences. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore Vietnam’s most famous bay with friendly guides and a welcoming atmosphere, this tour should be on your list.

Key Points

• Luxury comfort with modern and traditional design elements on a private balcony cabin.
• Variety of activities such as kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, and cooking classes.
• Stunning scenery including sunrise views, limestone formations, and tranquil lagoons.
• Well-organized itinerary with a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun.
• Excellent value considering the all-inclusive meals, guided tours, and activities.
• Authentic experience enhanced by attentive staff and knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Halong & Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Traveling to Vietnam and looking for an accessible way to see some of the world’s most iconic seascapes? This 2-day cruise offers an inside look at Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays, which are famous for their dramatic limestone formations, emerald waters, and quiet lagoons. Departing from Hanoi, it’s designed to be both indulgent and adventurous, making it suitable for couples, friends, or even solo travelers eager to explore this UNESCO-recognized wonder without the hassle of self-organized logistics.

Setting Off from Hanoi

The adventure begins early, around 8:00-8:30 am, with options for hotel pickup or meeting at Tuan Chau Wharf. We appreciated the convenience of the transfer service, which takes away the stress of navigating Hanoi’s busy streets combined with the anticipation of what’s ahead. Once at the wharf, you’ll board a transfer boat, which then zips you over to your cruise ship. It’s a quick but scenic ride that already hints at the beauty to come.

The Cruise Ship and Cabin Comfort

The ship itself strikes a balance between modern amenities and traditional design. We loved the junior suite, which features an air-conditioned ensuite with a private balcony—perfect for watching the sunrise or just relaxing with a drink. Most reviews praise the cleanliness, spaciousness, and beautiful decor, making it feel more like a boutique hotel on water than a standard tour boat.

Day 1: Exploring the Bay

Once onboard, a delicious lunch awaits, with scenic views of the waterways. The itinerary offers two main options: exploring the Dark and Bright Cave via kayaking or bamboo boat, or visiting the Ba Trai Dao area in Lan Ha Bay, known for its romantic beaches and islets resembling giant peaches.

The Dark and Bright Cave provides a chance to paddle through narrow passages and marvel at the formations, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. Swimming around the cruise or in the lagoons is another popular activity, with many travelers enjoying the crystal-clear waters. If kayaking isn’t your thing, the Ba Trai Dao area offers a tranquil escape with its calm waters and scenic surroundings.

As the day winds down, watch the spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin, with options to relax in the onboard pool, enjoy a sunset party, or even take a cooking class—a fun way to learn some Vietnamese culinary secrets. If you treat yourself to a massage onboard, it’s a lovely way to unwind after a day of activities.

Dinner is served on deck, with many noting the high-quality cuisine and generous servings. Afterward, the fun continues with squid fishing, movies, or drinks at the bar. The night’s tranquility, combined with the gentle rocking of the boat, makes for a restful sleep in your well-appointed cabin.

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Day 2: Sunrise, Tai Chi, and More Views

Early risers will love the opportunity for Tai Chi at dawn—watching the sunrise while doing gentle movements is surprisingly calming. After breakfast, the cruise explores Lan Ha Bay further, with options to kayak around limestone islets or visit Quan Y Cave on Cat Ba Island, which many reviews mention as a highlight for its natural beauty.

By mid-morning, it’s time to check out, but the experience doesn’t end there. The brunch onboard offers a relaxed meal as the boat heads back toward Tuan Chau Wharf. The entire journey is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, relaxing, or taking one last look at the landscape.

Practicalities and Optional Extras

The tour includes all meals, sightseeing fees, kayaking, a cooking class, and even night squid fishing, which many reviews say adds a fun, authentic touch. The guide (notably praised in reviews) enhances the experience by providing context and support throughout the trip.

Extras such as spa treatments, gala dinners for holidays, or upgraded rooms are available but come at additional costs. The round-trip transfer from Hanoi costs around $25 per person, which we think is reasonable considering the convenience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many travelers, according to reviews, love the friendly staff and well-organized itinerary. One reviewer raved about “the cruise being well maintained, food being great, and staff being exceptional,” which echoes what others found to be the biggest strength. The knowledgeable guides and attention to detail make all the difference, especially when visiting caves and islands.

The stunning scenery is the core draw—many mention how the views from the balcony or on deck are worth the trip alone. The diverse activities, from kayaking and swimming to cooking classes and sunrise Tai Chi, ensure you’re never just staring at the scenery but engaged with it.

However, some reviews point out the sea condition issues with garbage and oil patches, which is worth considering if environmental impact is important to you. Also, the busy season surcharges can bump up costs during peak times, so planning ahead is recommended.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who want a comfortable, all-inclusive package that emphasizes authentic scenery and engaging activities. It’s perfect if you value good food, friendly guides, and an authentic yet luxurious experience. Couples celebrating special occasions, like honeymoons or anniversaries, will find the honeymoon cabins and romantic ambiance appealing.

It also works well for first-time visitors to Ha Long Bay seeking a worry-free way to see the sights without the hassle of planning each detail. If you’re traveling solo, the friendly guides and organized structure help ensure a welcoming environment.

The Sum Up

This 2-day cruise on Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay offers a balanced mix of luxury, authentic activities, and stunning scenery. The private balcony rooms and delicious meals turn a trip into a genuine retreat, while the variety of activities keeps every traveler entertained. With numerous glowing reviews highlighting the friendly staff, smooth organization, and breathtaking views, it’s clear that many find this cruise to be worth the price.

While environmental concerns or extra costs for upgrades might give some pause, overall, this experience delivers good value for those who want to indulge a little while exploring Vietnam’s most iconic waters. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a memorable journey with friends, this cruise can make your trip to Vietnam truly unforgettable.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a 2-day cruise, guide, welcome drinks, water in your cabin, cold towels, all meals, sightseeing fees, kayaking, cooking class, swimming stops, and nighttime squid fishing.

Are transfers from Hanoi included?
Transfers from Hanoi are available for around $25 per person. You can also meet directly at Tuan Chau Wharf if preferred.

Can I choose different activities?
Most activities are optional. You can kayak, swim, join the cooking class, or relax—depending on your preferences.

Is there wifi onboard?
The provided information doesn’t specify wifi availability. It’s best to assume limited or no internet, so plan accordingly.

What kind of cabins are available?
You’ll stay in a Junior Suite with an air-conditioned ensuite and a private balcony. An upgrade to a senior suite is available for an extra $10 per person.

Are there any holiday surcharges?
Yes, during peak season (October to April), there’s an extra $10 per person surcharge. Holiday dinners like Christmas or New Year’s may have additional charges.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes for daytime activities, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the company offers some flexibility. If you wish to visit specific caves or islands, you’re encouraged to email them in advance.

Is this cruise suitable for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but it’s best to check if children or elderly family members are comfortable with the activities and boat environment.

This cruise offers a genuinely enjoyable and hassle-free way to experience one of Vietnam’s most famous sights. With a good mix of comfort, adventure, and authentic scenery, it’s an option that many travelers cherish—and one we’d happily recommend.

You can check availability for your dates here: