Doris Cruise – Luxury 2 Days Cruise in Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay

Experience the Best of Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay with Doris Cruise

If you’re dreaming of floating among towering limestone karsts, relaxing in a luxury cabin, and exploring some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking waters, Doris Cruise offers a compelling package. For $225 per person, this 5-star cruise promises a two-day adventure packed with exclusive destinations, authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and unique amenities like a private balcony for every cabin—and yes, it even has a swimming pool, a rarity in this part of the world.

What we love most about Doris Cruise is its focus on creating a personal, luxurious experience while maintaining an authentic feel. The cruise’s itinerary takes you beyond the typical tourist spots, with stops at Lan Ha Bay’s hidden lagoons and caves, along with opportunities to swim, kayak, and enjoy local cuisine. The second standout feature is the dedication to comfort and quality, from gourmet meals and welcoming guides to the sunset party and cooking class onboard.

A small consideration is the price point, which might be on the higher side compared to more basic options, but it’s reflected in the level of comfort, exclusivity, and personalized activities. This tour is best suited for travelers who value luxury, authentic experiences, and are happy to spend a bit more for a well-rounded, memorable cruise.

If you’re someone who appreciates detailed amenities, loves sea views from your own balcony, and wants to explore less crowded areas of the bay, this cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion wanting a blend of relaxation and adventure.

Key Points

• Luxury Comfort: All cabins feature private ocean-view balconies and ensuite bathrooms.
• Unique Itinerary: Combines the beauty of Halong Bay with exclusive Lan Ha Bay destinations, including caves and islets.
• Activities Galore: Swimming, kayaking, cooking classes, and Tai Chi give you plenty to do.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian dishes, including a buffet BBQ dinner.
• Inclusive Experience: All entrance fees, some activities, and meals are included, offering good value.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 60 travelers, it feels personal and well-managed.

The Full Lowdown: What You Can Expect from Doris Cruise

Starting with Practicalities and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a key convenience if you opt for the transfer service. The drive to Halong Bay takes about 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax or enjoy the scenery along the way. The transfer ensures your day starts smoothly, avoiding the chaos often associated with independent travel in Vietnam.

Once at Tuan Chau Harbor, you’ll transfer by speedboat to Doris Cruise. This boat is new, luxurious, and boasts the first-ever swimming pool on a Halong Bay cruise—perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of sightseeing. The crew greets you with a welcome drink and a chance to meet the captain and staff, which makes the experience feel genuinely personalized.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your day kicks off early—around 8:30 or 9:00 a.m.—with a limousine pickup from your Hanoi hotel. After a scenic drive, you arrive at Tuan Chau harbor, and then it’s onto the luxurious Doris Cruise. Once onboard, your first taste of Vietnam’s seafood and vegetarian dishes is served as you cruise through Halong Bay’s iconic limestone formations.

The highlight is the visit to Lan Ha Bay, an area less crowded than the main bay but equally stunning. Here, you’ll drop anchor at Ba Trai Dao Islet, where swimming and kayaking are on the menu. The pristine waters and wild scenery make these activities particularly memorable, especially since the bay is described as private, wild, and fresh air.

In the late afternoon, you’ll enjoy a sunset party with fruit, cake, and wine—an ideal moment to relax and snap photos of the dramatic landscape. Later, a cooking class led by the ship’s chef offers a taste of Vietnamese culinary tradition—think spring rolls or other local specialties. Dinner is a buffet BBQ featuring fresh seafood and Vietnam’s typical dishes, providing a hearty and authentic meal.

Day 2: Exploring More of Lan Ha & Halong Bay

The second day begins at dawn with Tai Chi on the sundeck, offering a peaceful start with panoramic views. After breakfast, you’ll sail toward Dark & Bright Cave—an impressive limestone cave that’s navigable by kayak or bamboo boat. The choice to explore on your own or relax on local boats adds flexibility to your experience.

Post-cave exploration, the cruise returns to Tuan Chau Harbor, where you’ll enjoy a final buffet lunch onboard. The cruise concludes around 12:30 p.m., and you’re transported back to Hanoi, with a brief stop in Hai Duong to relax before arriving in the city around 3 or 3:15 p.m.

What This Experience Means for You

Comfort and exclusivity are at the core of Doris Cruise. Every cabin offers a private balcony with ocean views, allowing you to soak in the scenery at your own pace. The inclusion of a swimming pool and kayaking turns this from a standard cruise into an active, immersive experience. The carefully curated itinerary highlights less crowded spots like Lan Ha Bay’s lagoons and caves, giving you a sense of discovery often missing from more commercial tours.

Authenticity and Food

Guests consistently praise the delicious food—a mix of seafood and Vietnamese dishes prepared onboard. The cooking class is a fun addition, giving you a hands-on experience of local cuisine. Also, the sunset party with fruit and wine adds a festive touch, making the evenings aboard feel lively yet intimate.

The Guides and Staff

Reviewers mention knowledgeable guides and friendly crew who go out of their way to make your trip special. One reviewer specifically appreciated guides Jessica and Michael, highlighting how well they managed the experience, and another loved the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff. This personal touch makes a real difference in how memorable the trip feels.

Who Should Consider Doris Cruise?

This cruise suits travelers seeking luxury and comfort without sacrificing authenticity. If you enjoy sea views from your own balcony, engaging activities like kayaking and caving, and appreciate good Vietnamese cuisine, this is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing for couples or small groups celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a relaxing yet adventurous getaway.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more active, less deluxe experience, there are more basic options available. But for those who value a well-rounded, high-quality experience and the chance to explore lesser-visited spots in Lan Ha Bay, Doris Cruise hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a limousine pickup from your Hanoi hotel and transfers to Tuan Chau harbor and back, making logistics smooth.

How long is the drive from Hanoi?
The journey to Halong Bay takes about 2.5 hours, giving you a comfortable start to your adventure.

What meals are included?
All main meals—two lunches, one dinner, and breakfast—are included, with a focus on Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian options.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking and swimming?
Absolutely. The itinerary features swimming at Ba Trai Dao Islet and kayaking at Lan Ha Bay’s lagoons and caves, all included in the package.

What amenities are available onboard?
Every cabin has a private balcony, ensuite bathroom, and access to the pool. The cruise also hosts a cooking class and sunset party.

How many people can join?
The cruise accommodates up to 60 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

Is the itinerary flexible?
While the itinerary is scheduled, it offers some flexibility for activities like kayaking and cave exploration.

What is the best time to go?
The tour is designed to be enjoyable year-round, but clear, sunny days in Vietnam’s dry season (October to April) will give you the best experience.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find some activities like kayaking or climbing caves challenging.

Final Thoughts

Doris Cruise offers a luxurious way to explore the stunning waters of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. With private balconies in every cabin, a swimming pool, and thoughtfully curated activities, it balances comfort and adventure beautifully. The focus on authentic Vietnamese cuisine and less crowded spots makes it ideal for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing cruise.

While it is priced higher than some basic options, many reviewers feel the value is justified by the quality of service, comfort, and exclusive destinations. If you’re after a relaxing, indulgent, yet active and authentic experience in Vietnam’s most picturesque waters, Doris Cruise deserves serious consideration.

This cruise best suits those who appreciate personalized service, are willing to pay a bit extra for luxury, and seek a mix of adventure, relaxation, and gastronomy. It’s a reliable choice for making your trip to Vietnam not just memorable but truly special.

Remember: Whether you’re celebrating, honeymooning, or simply wanting a well-rounded escape, this cruise provides a comfortable and immersive way to enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty. Plan ahead—booking about a month in advance guarantees you secure a spot on this popular vessel.