From Hanoi: Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay 2-Day Cruise with Meals

When it comes to Vietnam’s stunning coastline, few places rival the sheer beauty of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. This 2-day cruise from Hanoi, priced at around $152 per person, offers an immersive experience of limestone karsts, serene waters, and traditional village life. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, and cycling in Cat Ba National Park—all while savoring authentic Vietnamese meals.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how thoughtfully it balances active exploration and moments of relaxation. The sunset from the sundeck is breathtaking, offering a perfect pause to take in the stunning scenery. On top of that, the included meals are said to be delicious, making this a good value for those who want more than just sightseeing but a taste of local life.

A possible consideration is the timing and transportation. The transfer from Hanoi takes around 4 hours round trip, which might feel long if you prefer short travel times. Still, many reviews highlight that the scenic drive is part of the journey’s charm. This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insights, and who are happy to spend time on a boat with a small group.

If you’re someone who loves boat trips with a variety of activities, appreciates local cuisine, and wants to avoid overly crowded tourist spots, this tour could be just right. It’s especially ideal for those who value authentic experiences and a chance to see less touristy parts of the bay.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines kayaking, swimming, and cycling for a hands-on adventure.
• Value for Money: All meals, activities, and transfers included; many reviews highlight the quality and quantity of food.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Enhances intimacy and personalized attention from guides.
• Uncrowded Beauty: Lan Ha Bay offers a quieter alternative to the often-visited Ha Long Bay.
• Excellent Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides like Tony and Tom for their knowledge and humor.
• Balanced Schedule: Enjoy a mix of relaxing sunset views, active excursions, and local cultural visits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: The journey begins early, with pick-up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The trip is approximately a 4-hour drive to Cai Beo Harbour, followed by a tender boat transfer to the cruise ship. Once onboard, you’ll be welcomed with a drink and a briefing, setting the tone for an enjoyable two days.

Lunch is served shortly after boarding, giving you a chance to fuel up before heading into the bay’s eye-catching limestone formations. Unlike many routes that stick to the heavily trafficked areas near Ha Long, this cruise explores the untouched waters of Lan Ha Bay, passing through islets like Coc Ngoi and Ba Trai Dao. Here, the scenery is dramatic: towering cliffs, quiet coves, and crystal-clear waters.

Afternoon activities include kayaking and swimming in the Bay’s tranquil waters. Multiple reviews praise the kayaking experience—some as a highlight—due to how peaceful and beautiful the waters are, often without many other boats around. As one reviewer noted, “The kayaking and swimming in the bay were great,” and many mention how special it feels to be on waters mostly free of crowds.

Sunset from the sundeck is a quiet, almost meditative moment, with many guests capturing stunning photos as the sun dips over the Gulf of Tonkin. The evening is lively with activities like squid fishing—a relaxing yet exciting experience—and a cooking class where you’ll learn to make Vietnamese spring rolls. Many guests appreciate the quality of the food, highlighting that it’s both delicious and generous in portion.

Nighttime on the boat includes karaoke and drinks from the bar, with some guests mentioning how the small group size makes the whole experience more intimate and relaxed. An important note from reviews is the attentive staff, with one guest mentioning that their guide Steven went out of his way to ensure safety and fun.

Day 2: A Mix of Nature and Culture

Starting early, you’ll see the Bay at dawn or enjoy the sunrise from your cabin or the sun-deck—many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this moment is. Breakfast is served in the calm morning light, setting you up for the day ahead.

The second day’s highlight is the visit to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island. Here, you’ll hop on either a bicycle or electric car to explore the lush rainforest and local life. Guests love this part for the chance to meet local residents, see traditional houses, and learn about their daily routines. One reviewer said, “Biking through the Viet Hai village was the highlight,” emphasizing how genuine and unspoiled this experience feels.

After returning to the cruise for lunch, you’ll disembark at Cai Beo Harbour and head back to Hanoi. The entire tour wraps up around mid-afternoon, leaving you with memories of incredible scenery and authentic encounters.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Lan Ha Bay, often overshadowed by its neighbor Ha Long, offers a quieter, less touristy experience. Many reviews mention how the area’s peaceful waters and less crowded islets make for a more relaxed, authentic voyage. As one guest pointed out, “Lan Ha Bay is much less touristic than Ha Long, which makes it even nicer,” offering a more genuine escape.

Guides like Tony and Tom are frequently praised for their knowledge and humor, adding a layer of enjoyment to the activities. The inclusion of a cooking class and happy hour makes the evenings lively yet relaxed, providing a well-rounded experience.

The cabins are described as deluxe with air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms, which means comfort is not sacrificed on this trip. The meals are consistently highlighted for their delicious local flavors, served in a cozy setting onboard.

Activities such as kayaking, swimming, and cycling are thoughtfully scheduled, giving you a well-rounded look at the bay’s natural beauty and local culture. Guests appreciate the small group size, which fosters a more personal and peaceful atmosphere, making the trip feel less like a tourist herd and more like a shared adventure.

Drawbacks or Considerations

While the experience is largely praised, some reviews mention long transportation times from Hanoi—about four hours each way. If you’re someone who prefers shorter travel times, this might feel like a bit of a chore. Also, timing and logistics can be a little tight, especially if you’re sensitive to early mornings or long days.

Another point is that certain activities like cycling or kayaking may be limited by weather or physical ability. Guests with mobility issues, for example, might prefer to skip the cycling part. You should also note that drinks from the bar are not included in the price, and single supplements apply if traveling alone.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of activities and cultural encounters, but also appreciate moments of calm. It’s perfect for those who value delicious local food and authentic experiences away from the crowds. If you’re traveling with family or friends, the small group atmosphere enhances the experience, making it more intimate.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a balanced itinerary that offers both natural beauty and cultural insights without feeling rushed. It’s also a great pick for those who love stunning sunsets, kayaking, and local village visits—many reviews highlight these as the true highlights.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from Hanoi to the cruise?
Approximately four hours round trip, including the highway drive to Cai Beo Harbour and the tender boat transfer.

What’s included in the price?
The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, deluxe cabins, all meals onboard, bottled water, kayaking, cooking class, happy hour, squid fishing, and all cruise tickets.

Are drinks in the bar included?
No, drinks from the menu bar are not included. You can purchase drinks during happy hour or at the bar.

Can I do this tour as a solo traveler?
Yes. The tour offers a single cabin at an extra cost ($35 USD), and it’s a good option if you prefer privacy but still want the group experience.

What activities are available on board?
Kayaking, swimming, cooking demonstrations, squid fishing, karaoke, and enjoying sunset views from the sundeck.

Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind the physical activities like cycling. The cabins and general comfort are suitable for most ages.

What if I want to stay longer in the area?
While this tour ends in Hanoi, the provider can arrange transfers to Ninh Binh or stay on Cat Ba Island without extra charges. There’s also a longer day tour option in Ninh Binh.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, change of clothes, camera, credit card, beachwear, clothes that can get dirty, passport or ID.

Are meals suitable for vegetarians?
Many reviews mention good food options, including vegetarian choices, with plenty of variety and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay 2-Day Cruise offers a taste of Vietnam’s incredible natural scenery paired with authentic, engaging activities. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a memorable, personalized journey. The delicious local cuisine and stunning sunsets add to its appeal, making it a well-rounded experience for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike.

If you’re looking for a less crowded, relaxing yet adventurous way to see this iconic part of Vietnam, this tour hits a sweet spot. It’s especially suited for those who want to balance active exploration with moments of peace and enjoy discovering local life and scenery at a gentle pace.

In summary, this cruise from Hanoi is a great value, providing a well-organized, authentic glimpse of Lan Ha Bay’s tranquil waters and Viet Hai Village’s genuine charm. It’s a trip that many travelers find enriching and fun, leaving you with stories and photos to cherish long after you return home.

You can check availability for your dates here: