Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Day Tour – Apollo Cruise, Jacuzzi, Buffet

Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Day Tour – Apollo Cruise, Jacuzzi, Buffet
Location: Dong Bac, Vietnam
Country: Vietnam
Rating: 4.8/5 (9 reviews)
Price: $65 per person
Supplier: Halong Excursion
Similar Experiences: [Links to comparable tours]

Quick Overview: What This Tour Offers

If you’re looking to explore the iconic Halong Bay in style, this full-day trip on the luxurious Apollo Cruise may be just what you need. For about $65, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours soaking in the scenery, visiting Sung Sot Cave, paddling through Luon Cave, relaxing on Titop Island, and enjoying a buffet lunch onboard a 5-star vessel launched in July 2024.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances guided sightseeing with free time for swimming or relaxing on the beach — it’s a good way to experience Halong Bay’s natural beauty without feeling rushed. Plus, the luxury cruise with Jacuzzi options ensures comfort throughout the day, and kayaking gives a hands-on experience of the bay’s limestone tunnels and lagoons.

One potential consideration is the long drive from Hanoi—about three hours each way—which could feel tiresome if you prefer shorter travel times. But, for those eager for a full immersion in Halong Bay’s stunning scenery, the value and comfort make it worthwhile. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate well-organized excursions with authentic scenic experiences and luxurious touches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: Modern, well-appointed cruise with Jacuzzi and buffet lunch
• Unmissable Sightseeing: Sung Sot Cave, kayaking through Luon Cave, and relaxing on Titop Island
• Comfortable Transportation: Limousine bus pickup and return from Hanoi’s Old Quarter
• Active and Relaxing Balance: Covering sightseeing, beach time, and optional kayaking
• Value for Money: All-inclusive price with lunch, guide, and transport included
• Ideal for: First-timers, those wanting a hassle-free day, and travelers seeking scenic luxury

Discovering Halong Bay: A Complete Experience

Starting the Day: Comfortable Pickup and Scenic Drive

We begin early in the morning, with pickup options from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Opera House, or Hoàn Kim. The three-hour coach ride to Tuan Chau Marina is surprisingly comfortable, with a short 30-minute stop along the way to stretch and take in the rural scenery. The drive is a good opportunity to start relaxing and get excited about what’s ahead.

The coach is part of the seamless logistics that makes this tour appealing, especially if you prefer not to organize transport yourself. The journey itself offers glimpses of Vietnam’s countryside, setting a calm tone before the day’s adventure.

Boarding the Apollo Cruise: Comfort and Style

Once at Tuan Chau Harbor, the luxury Apollo Cruise welcomes us with warm smiles and a chilled welcome drink. Launched in July 2024, this 5-star vessel is equipped with modern interiors and features such as a Jacuzzi, which adds a touch of indulgence. The boat’s design and cleanliness immediately set a tone of comfort and class.

The crew’s friendly attitude and smooth boarding process help us settle into our day. The onboard ambiance combines elegance with casual ease, perfect for enjoying the stunning views that surround us on all sides.

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Midday: Savoring a Vietnamese Buffet with a View

As we glide through the bay, a delicious buffet lunch is served. During the meal, we pass by spectacular limestone formations rising from the water, making the dining experience feel like part of the scenery. The buffet is well-reviewed, offering a variety of Vietnamese dishes that cater to different tastes, though drinks at lunch are an extra cost.

Having a hearty meal while cruising past the karst peaks is a highlight, especially if you love enjoying local flavors in a scenic setting. It’s a restful break that also keeps you energized for the afternoon excursions.

Key Stop 1: Sung Sot Cave

Our first major stop is the Sung Sot Cave, often called the “Surprise Cave” because of its vast size and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It’s about an hour here, and the guided walk is quite accessible, with pathways allowing for easy exploration.

We loved the way the cave’s natural formations create a kind of underground cathedral, with dramatic lighting enhancing the stalactites’ shapes. One reviewer described it as “the most beautiful cave in Halong Bay,” and we agree it’s an awe-inspiring sight that highlights the bay’s geological wonder.

Key Stop 2: Kayaking and Luon Cave

Next, we head to Luon Cave, where kayaking or bamboo boat rides are available. Paddling through the tunnel cave into the serene lagoon is a highlight, giving you a close-up view of the limestone cliffs and tranquil waters.

Most visitors find kayaking to be a rewarding addition, providing a sense of adventure and intimacy with the landscape. One guest shared, “We loved the way kayaking through the tunnel cave made us feel like explorers” — it’s a memorable way to connect with the scenery.

Relaxing on Titop Island

After the kayaking, we visit Titop Island, famous for its sandy beach and panoramic viewpoint. You can swim, sunbathe, or hike up to the top for sweeping views of Halong Bay’s limestone formations.

The island’s inviting beach is perfect for a relaxed break, and the trek offers a rewarding vista. Travelers often mention how refreshing it is to enjoy the clean beaches and scenic lookout. However, be prepared for some steps if you choose to hike up!

Sunset Cruise and Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat sets a course back towards the harbor, cruising during sunset. The cruise’s sunset party features wine, tea, fruits, and biscuits—ideal for unwinding while soaking in the breathtaking colors of the sky over limestone peaks.

The return trip is about an hour, giving ample time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The coach then takes us back to Hanoi, arriving around 9 pm, tired but full of memories.

Practical Details and What It Means for Travelers

Transportation and Timing

The three-hour coach ride each way is the only significant time investment and can be tiring for some. However, the comfort of the limousine bus and the flexibility of pickup options are appreciated. The tour generally starts early around 8 am, with some variations, so planning accordingly is wise.

Activities and Flexibility

The itinerary includes both guided visits—like Sung Sot Cave—and free time on Titop Island and during the cruise. Kayaking is optional but highly recommended if you want a hands-on experience of the bay’s limestone tunnels.

Price and Value

At $65, this tour offers good value, considering the luxury cruise, lunch, entrance fees, and guided activities. The all-inclusive nature means less hassle, especially for first-timers. The luxury amenities like the Jacuzzi and spacious deck make it feel like a special treat without a steep price tag.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

travelers praise the stunning views and the well-organized itinerary. One review said, “The scenery is truly breathtaking — you’ll love the views at Titop and Sung Sot Cave.” Others appreciate the professional guide and the comfortable boat, noting that it “feels like a VIP experience.”

A common mention is how well the tour balances sightseeing with relaxation, making it suitable for those wanting a bit of everything — adventure, scenic beauty, and comfort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Halong Bay who want a comprehensive, guided day that covers the main sights with a touch of luxury. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate comfortable transport and luxury amenities like a Jacuzzi and buffet lunch.

Those who prefer shorter travel times might find the three-hour drive each way a bit long, but most find the scenic journey worth the effort. Adventure-seekers will love the kayaking and cave explorations, while those seeking a more relaxing day will enjoy the beaches and sunset cruise.

This tour is a great value for a luxury day trip—combining natural beauty, comfort, and authentic scenery in one package. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights of Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

FAQ

How long is the trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
The journey takes about three hours each way, using a comfortable limousine bus.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the luxury cruise, transportation, guide, buffet lunch, and outdoor activities such as cave visits and kayaking.

Are drinks at lunch included?
No, drinks at lunch are available for purchase onboard.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible, with easy walks through caves and optional kayaking.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, change of clothes, camera, and cash for extras.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour mentions wheelchair accessibility, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for planning.

To sum it up, this Hanoi to Halong Bay day tour offers a luxurious, well-organized way to experience one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders. With stunning limestone scenery, engaging outdoor activities, and comfortable amenities, it suits travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. If you’re after a day that combines scenic beauty with ease, this tour is a reliable choice that delivers on its promise of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: