LEADING: All inclusive 3D/2N on cruises in HALONG – many options

A 3-day all-inclusive cruise in Halong Bay offers a mix of stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and relaxing activities at a reasonable price. Starting at $319 per person, this trip takes you on a journey through Vietnam’s famed limestone karsts, picturesque islands, and peaceful waters. The tour includes comfortable private cabins with en-suite bathrooms and balconies, delicious all-you-can-eat meals, and a variety of excursions like kayaking, biking, and cave exploring.

What gets us excited about this experience? First, the private en-suite cabins with balconies give you your own slice of paradise—perfect for unwinding after a day of adventures. Second, the range of activities, from kayaking through caves to learning Vietnamese cooking on board, adds authentic local flavor to your journey. The only caveat? The tour’s popularity means it’s best to book well in advance—on average 42 days ahead—to secure your spot at this value price.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a blend of comfort, adventure, and local immersion. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to tick off iconic sights or a seasoned sailor looking for a well-rounded experience, this tour delivers a satisfying mix of both.

Key Points

• Comfortable private cabins with private balconies and en-suite bathrooms provide a cozy retreat.
• All-inclusive meals and activities ensure a hassle-free experience, with plenty of local flavor.
• Multiple stops—such as Titov Island, Luon Cave, and Lan Ha Bay—offer a variety of scenic and cultural sights.
• Diverse optional activities like kayaking, biking, and Vietnamese cooking classes enrich your journey.
• Flexible options such as seaplane experiences or exploring different bays (Lan Ha, Bai Tu Long) make this tour adaptable.
• Booking early is essential as the tour is popular, with an average booking window of over a month.

An In-Depth Look at Your Halong Bay Cruise Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day

This 3-day, 2-night cruise is designed to maximize your time on the water while offering a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration. Starting from Hanoi, you’ll be picked up early in the morning and transferred to Halong Bay. The journey itself, about 3-4 hours, is a scenic drive through Vietnam’s countryside, giving you a glimpse of rural life before hitting the water.

Day 1 kicks off with a welcome at the cruise dock, followed by check-in and a delicious lunch as the boat begins its cruise southeastward. The highlights include visits to Fighting-Cock and Finger Islet, and an excursion to Luon Cave, accessible by bamboo boat or kayaking. This allows you to paddle through caves, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and appreciate the natural formations close up.

In the afternoon, you visit Titov Island—a favorite for many travelers—where you can swim or hike to the summit for panoramic views. As the sun sets, there’s a happy hour at the bar, and you might join a Vietnamese cooking demo—a chance to learn a local recipe.

Day 2 begins early with Tai Chi on the deck, followed by a light breakfast. The cruise then takes you to Me Cung Cave for more cave exploration or to Lan Ha Bay, where kayaking, swimming, and exploring floating villages await. For those on the Lan Ha Bay route, biking on Cat Ba Island is an exciting option, taking you through quiet villages and lush landscapes.

The afternoon is filled with more water activities or relaxation. Some guests mention enjoying the outdoor jacuzzi or spa treatments, which are available options on the boat.

Day 3 is about wrapping up the adventure. You’ll start with Tai Chi again, then visit Sung Sot Cave, the largest in the bay, known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The tour concludes with a brunch as the boat returns to Tuan Chau Marina, and you transfer back to Hanoi.

What Makes the Stops Special?

Fighting Cock and Finger Islet: These iconic formations are often captured in photos, and their unique shapes make them memorable. Their proximity to the cruise route means you get great views and photo ops.

Luon Cave: Accessible via bamboo boat or kayak, this narrow cave is a peaceful spot to paddle through, surrounded by towering cliffs and clear waters. It’s a favorite for many travelers who love a bit of paddling and close-up nature.

Titov Island: The hike here is manageable and offers breathtaking panoramic views. We loved the way the island’s beach invites you to swim and relax after a short walk.

Lan Ha Bay: Often less crowded than Halong Bay itself, Lan Ha Bay offers pristine waters, dramatic limestone formations, and opportunities for kayaking and swimming that feel more secluded.

Viet Hai Village and Cat Ba Island: For those opting for biking and exploring, these stops provide a glimpse into local life away from the tourist crowds. Biking through rainforest tunnels and visiting local homes add an authentic touch to the experience.

What Do Travelers Say?

Multiple reviews rave about the friendly staff and the delicious food. One guest, Helen, called the cruise “amazing,” praising the “great activities” like kayaking and cave exploring, and the staff for their attentiveness. Another highlighted the beautiful meals, noting that the food quality exceeded expectations.

However, some reviews warn about booking through middle agents. One reviewer advised to book directly with the cruise line to avoid potential scams or miscommunications, which is worth considering to ensure a smooth experience.

A few travelers mentioned loud music during the evening party detracting from the serenity, so if you prefer quiet nights, this is something to keep in mind.

Comfort, Activities, and Value

The private cabins with balconies are a big plus, providing a peaceful spot to unwind. The all-inclusive meals mean you won’t have to worry about extra costs for food, which is great given the variety and quality reported. The activities—kayaking, biking, cave exploring, and cooking classes—are well-organized and add a lot of value, especially compared to less engaging tours.

The price point of $319 is quite reasonable considering the inclusions, especially since it covers transportation, most meals, activities, and some optional excursions. The tour’s popularity also speaks to its value, but booking early is essential to secure your preferred dates and cabin type.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience without sacrificing adventure. It suits those who value authentic cultural experiences, like Vietnamese cooking, and appreciate stunning scenery with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re someone who enjoys a balance of guided activities and free time to relax, this cruise fits the bill.

However, if you’re looking for a very quiet, family-only environment or are sensitive to loud music during evening parties, you might want to inquire about the ambiance beforehand.

The Sum Up

This all-inclusive 3D/2N cruise in Halong Bay offers a solid combination of comfortable private cabins, delicious local food, and engaging activities. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to experience Vietnam’s iconic limestone karsts without the hassle of planning every detail, thanks to the organized excursions and inclusive meals.

The stunning scenery, from caves to islands, combined with friendly guides and well-organized routes, makes it a great value. The key is to book early and be prepared for lively evenings if you opt for the party vibe.

This cruise balances comfort, adventure, and cultural discovery, making it a memorable way to see one of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural wonders.

FAQs

Is pickup offered from Hanoi?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter area between 8am and 8:30am, making your journey to Halong Bay straightforward.

What meals are included?
All meals—three lunches, two dinners, and two breakfasts—are included and are all you-can-eat, featuring Vietnamese dishes and fresh ingredients.

Can I choose different routes or bays?
Yes, the tour offers options like Lan Ha Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, or combining with biking on Cat Ba Island, allowing you to customize your experience.

Are activities like kayaking and biking included?
Most activities like kayaking in caves and biking on Cat Ba Island are included, but some optional activities (e.g., spa treatments, certain seaplane experiences) may cost extra.

What is the booking window?
Most travelers book about 42 days in advance, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

Are cabins private and comfortable?
Absolutely. Each cabin has an en-suite bathroom and a private balcony, providing a cozy retreat after busy days exploring.

This cruise in Halong Bay strikes a good balance between value, comfort, and authentic experience. It’s perfect for those seeking an immersive adventure in one of Vietnam’s most scenic spots, delivered with professional guides and tasty local cuisine.