Mon Cheri Cruise Ha Long Bay Lan Ha Bay 2 days 1 night depart from Ha Noi

A Comfortable, Scenic Escape from Hanoi to Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays

Imagine floating past towering limestone karsts, kayaking around pristine beaches, and dining on exquisite Vietnamese cuisine—all within a well-organized, intimate cruise. For $384.62 per person, the Mon Cheri Cruise offers a 2-day, 1-night journey through Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay that balances comfort, natural beauty, and engaging activities.

What we love most about this trip is how they keep the travel time from Hanoi to the bay short—less time on the road means more hours soaking in the scenery and enjoying the activities. And the luxury onboard? It’s not just a boat, but a floating boutique hotel with spacious cabins and a dedicated crew that makes you feel like a guest, not just a passenger.

The second highlight? The carefully curated excursions, like kayaking in crystal-clear waters and visiting limestone caves, give you authentic, up-close encounters with the area’s natural wonders.

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite popular, so booking ahead is wise—especially if you want a specific cabin or activity. It’s perfect for travelers craving a mix of luxury and adventure, or those who want a relaxed yet active way to experience Vietnam’s iconic seascapes while enjoying excellent food and friendly service.

Key Points

• Stunning Views & Natural Beauty: The trip offers breathtaking scenery of limestone islands, caves, and emerald waters in Lan Ha and Ha Long Bays.
• Short Transit Time: Less time traveling from Hanoi means more quality time on the water and enjoying activities.
• Luxury Comfort: Spacious, clean cabins with private balconies and thoughtful onboard amenities create a relaxing atmosphere.
• Authentic Experiences: Kayaking, cave visits, and cooking demonstrations provide genuine local engagement.
• Excellent Food & Service: The crew, frequently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, serve delicious meals and ensure a smooth journey.
• Ideal for Relaxing & Exploring: Suitable for those wanting a leisurely pace combined with active options like swimming and water sports.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your adventure begins early as you’re picked up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 9:00-9:30 am. The drive to Cat Hai Port in Hai Phong is surprisingly quick—many travelers remark that this shorter transfer is a major plus, giving you more time on board than other cruises which often spend hours on the road.

Upon arriving at the port, a warm welcome from the crew sets a friendly tone. You’re greeted with a drink and a cold towel—small touches that signal the cruise’s focus on comfort and hospitality. After a quick safety briefing, you check into your cabin, which reviews highlight as spacious, clean, and well-appointed, often with private balconies.

As the boat sets sail around noon, you settle into a luxurious dining room to enjoy a buffet lunch while taking in the shifting scenery of waterways and limestone cliffs. You’ll love the way the boat glides smoothly through the canals, offering views that are hard to match from land or even other cruises.

The Highlight: Three Peach Beach and Water Activities

By mid-afternoon, the cruise anchors at Three Peach Beach in Lan Ha Bay, renowned for its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings. Here, you can swim, kayak, or just relax on the pristine beaches. According to recent reviews, kayaking in the clear waters is a favorite activity, with many noting that the experience is both fun and a great way to see the bay from a different perspective.

This area features about 400 limestone islands and caves, making it a photographer’s dream and an ideal spot for nature lovers. Some guests mention that the scenery is unlike anything they’ve seen before—”fascinating” and “jaw-dropping,” as one review put it.

Sunset & Evening Delights

As the day winds down, you’ll return to the cruise, where you can enjoy a sunset party with complimentary drinks. Several reviews praise the staff, including Remy and Ann, for their friendliness and attentive service, which enhance the relaxed atmosphere. For those looking to unwind further, onboard massages are available—just book directly with the cruise staff.

Dinner follows with a carefully prepared menu, often highlighted as delicious and beautifully presented. Afterward, the top deck becomes a romantic spot for enjoying the night sky, sipping drinks, or even trying your luck with squid fishing, which many guests find charming and fun.

Night on the Water

Nighttime on the boat offers a peaceful escape, with many travelers commenting on how quiet and starry the bay is. You might enjoy watching a movie, listening to music, or simply gazing at the lit-up limestone formations against the night sky.

Day 2: From Bay to Hanoi

The next morning begins early with options like Tai Chi or simply enjoying the sunrise from the top deck. Breakfast is light but satisfying, setting the tone for the day’s adventures.

The cruise then moves to Dark and Bright Cave, where bamboo boats take you into the caves’ mysterious chambers. The caves are often described as fascinating, with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Guests find the visit to be a highlight, giving a sense of adventure and discovery.

Following the cave visit, you’ll check out of your cabin and cruise back to port. Before disembarking, a cooking demonstration introduces you to the art of Vietnamese spring rolls—an engaging way to connect with local cuisine. The buffet brunch is often noted for its variety and quality, making a satisfying end to your cruise experience.

The return to Hanoi is around 3:00 pm, giving you the rest of the day to explore or relax.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

Exceptional Service & Hospitality

Multiple reviews highlight staff members like Jimmy, Ann, and Harry for their attentiveness, friendliness, and professionalism. Guests frequently mention the crew’s warmth, which turns a luxurious cruise into a personal, memorable trip. The small number of cabins (only 24) fosters a sense of intimacy and personalized care that larger ships often lack.

Authentic, Well-Organized Activities

From kayaking and cave visits to cooking classes and squid fishing, the range of activities ensures you get a full experience of the bay’s natural and cultural charms. Many reviewers appreciate that these aren’t just superficial excursions but thoughtful, engaging experiences.

Quality & Comfort

The cabins get rave reviews for being spacious, spotless, and equipped with private balconies—perfect for relaxing while taking in sunrise or sunset views. The onboard amenities and food also receive high praise, with many saying the meals go beyond expectations, often with seafood options and vegetarian choices.

Shorter Travel Time

The cruise’s unique arrangement minimizes the time spent on the road, which is a significant advantage. You’ll spend more time enjoying the scenery and activities rather than stuck in transit—a real benefit if your schedule is tight or if you prefer quality over quantity.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers might find the cruise quite popular; booking well in advance is recommended. Also, the boat’s movement and activities depend on weather conditions—cooler weather can limit outdoor options like kayaking or sitting on the deck, as some guests experienced.

If you’re someone who prefers a more secluded, less touristy experience, this cruise might feel a bit bustling. Nevertheless, the small number of guests and attentive staff help keep it cozy and personalized.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience suits travelers looking for a good balance of luxury and adventure in a well-organized package. It’s ideal if you appreciate thoughtful service, want to maximize scenic time with minimal transit, and enjoy engaging activities like kayaking, cave tours, or cooking classes. Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who value comfort and authenticity.

It’s also a great choice for those who want a short escape from Hanoi that feels indulgent yet action-packed, without sacrificing natural beauty or local flavor.

The Sum Up

The Mon Cheri Cruise offers a compelling way to see two of Vietnam’s most stunning bays without the hassle of long travel days. From the moment you’re welcomed onboard to the farewell brunch, the focus on comfort, service, and memorable experiences shines through. The combination of scenic beauty, engaging activities, and delicious food makes it a strong value—especially if you prefer a more intimate, well-organized cruise.

Travelers who love natural landscapes, local cuisine, and friendly service will find this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxing yet active adventure, with just enough luxury to make your trip feel special. If your goal is a genuine, well-paced exploration of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays, this cruise could very well be your highlight in Vietnam.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from Hanoi to the cruise port?
The transfer is relatively short and direct, allowing you to reach Cat Hai Port in Hai Phong faster than many other cruises, giving you more time on the water.

What is included in the price?
The price covers one night onboard in a luxury en-suite cabin, all meals (2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast), water, coffee/tea, activities like kayaking and cave visits, and services from the crew.

Are beverages other than water provided?
No, other beverages are not included; you’ll likely need to buy drinks at the bar or bring your own if permitted.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children under 5 sharing with parents can join at no extra charge, with some restrictions. Children from 5 to 12 are charged at a reduced rate and may need separate beds or sharing arrangements.

How flexible are the activities?
Most activities, such as kayaking and cave visits, are optional. You can choose to participate or relax onboard, depending on your preference and weather conditions.

Can I get a massage onboard?
Yes, massage services are available, but you need to book directly with the cruise staff onboard.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Is the boat clean and comfortable?
Based on guest reviews, the boat and rooms are spotless, well-maintained, and comfortable, with many guests praising the spacious cabins and private balconies.

What’s the best time of year for this cruise?
While not explicitly mentioned, typical considerations suggest avoiding the coolest or rainiest months for optimal outdoor activities and scenery.

Would you recommend this cruise?
Absolutely. It’s highly rated for its staff, food, scenery, and overall experience—ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic adventure on Vietnam’s iconic waters.