Hanoi: 3D2N Ha Long, Lan Ha Bay by Hera Grand Luxury Cruise

Hanoi: 3D2N Ha Long, Lan Ha Bay by Hera Grand Luxury Cruise offers an inviting balance of comfort, adventure, and authentic scenery. For just $315 per person, you’ll spend three days exploring some of Vietnam’s most picturesque waters, including Lan Ha Bay, Dark and Bright Cave, and the charming Pearl Village. Expect to enjoy a mix of guided activities like kayaking, hiking, and cooking, along with plenty of time to soak in the views from your boat’s sundeck.

What we really love about this trip is how well it blends relaxation with adventure. The all-inclusive meals, from breakfast to dinner, ensure you’re well-fed with local flavors, and the sunset happy hour is a perfect way to unwind. Plus, the opportunity to paddle around Lan Ha Bay or explore local villages provides a genuine taste of the region’s natural beauty and local life.

One thing to keep in mind is that the schedule can be quite packed, especially on the second day, which some travelers found a little rushed. If you prefer a very leisurely pace, you might want to consider how much activity you want each day.

This cruise suits travelers who want an active, authentic experience with plenty of scenic photo opportunities, excellent guides, and good value. It’s perfect if you like a mix of scheduled activities and free time, especially for nature lovers and those eager to learn about local culture.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, activities, and tickets included make planning straightforward.
• Variety of Activities: Kayaking, swimming, hiking, and cooking classes cater to different interests.
• Beautiful Scenery: Visit iconic spots like Lan Ha Bay, Dark Bright Cave, and Pearl Village.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to see local monkeys, visit floating villages, and learn pearl-making.
• Balanced Schedule: Mix of guided tours, free time, and social activities like happy hour and karaoke.
• Good Value: With food, activities, and transfers included, the price offers a lot for what you get.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Booking and Price

At $315 per person, this cruise represents a solid value for a 3-day, all-inclusive adventure in Vietnam. The price covers most essentials—meals, activity tickets, and transfers from Hanoi—making it a hassle-free option. While there is a surcharge during holidays like Chinese New Year or Christmas, overall, the cost aligns well with similar multi-day tours with comparable activities.

Transportation and Starting Point

Most travelers will be picked up from their Hanoi Old Quarter hotel, ensuring a smooth transfer to Tuan Chau port. If you’re already in Halong, you can head directly to the port at No. 12 Tuan Chau Harbor. The trip to the cruise starts early, around 8:00 AM, giving you ample time to settle in once on board.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay kicks off with a transfer, followed by a warm welcome aboard Hera Cruise. The first afternoon is packed with exploration—Dark and Bright Cave, a site famed for its natural beauty, is a highlight. Here, you’ll have options for bamboo boat rides or kayaking, which some reviews praise for their tranquility and scenic views.

Later, a hike up Titop Island offers panoramic vistas of the bay, perfect for photos. As the sun sets, the cruise hosts a sunset party and a cooking class—an unexpectedly fun way to learn some Vietnamese culinary secrets. Dinner on the sundeck, when weather permits, creates a memorable dining experience with views of the twilight sky.

Day 2 starts early with breakfast before transferring to a smaller boat for Lan Ha Bay exploration. The Dark and Bright Cave remains a favorite, with its serene environment ideal for photography and solitude. Kayaking and swimming at Tra Bau or Ba Trai Dao island are highly recommended, with reviews mentioning the chance to see playful monkeys if you’re lucky.

Later, you’ll visit a floating Pearl Farm Village—a unique chance to see pearl cultivation firsthand—and enjoy the sunset back on the boat. Dinner and social activities keep the evening lively.

Day 3 offers a relaxed start with breakfast, then kayaking around Pearl Village, where local monkeys often make an appearance, according to some visitors. After checkout, you’ll enjoy a final early lunch before returning to Tuan Chau Marina, arriving back in Hanoi in the late afternoon.

More Great Tours Nearby

What We Love

First, the variety of activities keeps the experience lively—kayaking, hiking, swimming, and a cooking class mean you’re not just sitting around. Reviews highlight how guides like Alex are helpful and informative, adding depth to every stop.

Second, the scenery is genuinely stunning. The limestone karsts, tranquil waters, and caves offer perfect photo ops and a sense of genuine escapism. We also appreciate the opportunity to visit local villages and learn about pearl farming, providing some cultural context missing from many typical tours.

What Could Be Better

The schedule can feel a tad cramped, especially on the second day, where time for relaxing or exploring independently is limited. Some travelers mention that activities like breakfast cutoff at 7:30 or the return to the main ship at 15:20 might leave less room for leisure. Also, cabins with older windows could be a concern if you’re sensitive to drafts or noise.

The Accommodation and Food

The cruise offers comfortable rooms with walk-in showers and private bathrooms—some suites even have bathtubs. The included meals are praised for being delicious, with many reviews emphasizing the quality and variety of local dishes served during the trip. A highlight for many is the sunset happy hour, offering good drinks at reasonable prices, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re seeking a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to see Vietnam’s iconic landscapes and learn about local culture (like pearl farming and monkey sightings), this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy active travel—kayaking, hiking, and swimming—paired with comfortable, all-in-one logistics.

However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or have mobility issues, some parts of this trip might feel hurried. Likewise, budget travelers should weigh the value of included meals and activities against their personal preferences, but most reviews praise the overall experience for the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, the cruise offers roundtrip transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter, making the journey hassle-free.

What is the duration of the cruise?
It’s a 3-day, 2-night experience, with check-in starting around noon on Day 1 and checkout on Day 3 in the late morning or early afternoon.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, along with bottled water and some drinks during happy hour.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking and swimming?
Absolutely. These activities are part of the itinerary, with kayak rentals and swim stops scheduled around the caves and islands.

What about the accommodation on the cruise?
The cabins are described as comfortable and spacious, with private bathrooms and walk-in showers. Suites may include bathtubs.

Is there Wi-Fi on board?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in the cruise’s public areas and office, so you can share your scenic photos or check messages.

What is the best time to book this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, booking ahead is recommended, especially during holidays where surcharges apply.

Are there any additional costs not included?
Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks are extra. Also, certain holiday surcharges may apply, adding USD 10-20 per person.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a well-rounded experience of Vietnam’s famed waters and islands, especially suited for travelers eager to combine natural beauty with cultural insights. The blend of guided activities, scenic stops, and comfortable accommodations offers good value, while the reviews reflect a consistent appreciation for knowledgeable guides and delicious food.

It’s ideal for those who want to keep busy with activities but also enjoy relaxing moments on deck with stunning views. If you’re looking for an adventure that balances fun, comfort, and authenticity, this cruise on Lan Ha Bay is a solid choice.

For travelers prioritizing authentic sights, engaging activities, and good food, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just bear in mind the schedule can be a bit busy, and cabins may be a tad older—so plan accordingly for your preferred pace and comfort level.

You can check availability for your dates here: