Bai Tu Long Bay Boutique Cruise: Visit Bai Tu Long bay & Overnight boat in 2 day

Discover Bai Tu Long Bay Boutique Cruise: A 2-Day Escape from Hanoi

If you’re looking for a chance to slow down and truly enjoy some of Vietnam’s most stunning seascapes, the Bai Tu Long Bay Boutique Cruise offers an excellent option. This 2-day adventure, starting from Hanoi, takes you beyond the crowds of Halong Bay to explore the quieter, more relaxed waters of Bai Tu Long Bay. For just $140 per person, you’ll enjoy comfortable private rooms, included meals, and a mix of activities such as kayaking, cave visits, and even a cooking class—all with the chance to unwind on a quiet beach or watch a sunset party onboard.

What we love about this trip is how it balances scenic beauty with authentic experiences. The fact that fewer visitors venture into Bai Tu Long means you’ll get a more peaceful feel and better opportunities to see the floating fishing villages and islets without the throngs of travelers. Also, the inclusion of all sightseeing fees and a well-organized itinerary means you can relax and focus on the views and your experience rather than worrying about extra costs or logistics.

One potential consideration is the group size—max 20 travelers—which is great for a personal feel but might mean early booking is wise if your dates are fixed. Also, be prepared for a full schedule packed with activities and transportation, but that’s part of the charm for those eager to see as much as possible in a short period.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, appreciate authentic fishing villages, and are comfortable with a moderate pace. It suits those who value local cuisine, scenic cruising, and the chance to see less-visited parts of Vietnam’s famous bay area.

Key Points

• Less crowded experience: Bai Tu Long Bay’s quieter waters provide a peaceful setting.
• All-in-one package: Meals, sightseeing fees, kayaking, and guide services are included.
• Authentic cultural visits: Floating villages and pearl farms give insight into local life.
• Comfortable accommodations: Private rooms with bathrooms, air-conditioning, and hot showers.
• Flexible activities: Kayaking, swimming, cave visits, or relaxing on deck.
• Well-organized logistics: Pickup, transfers, and a streamlined itinerary.

An In-Depth Look at the Bai Tu Long Bay Boutique Cruise

Starting Your Journey from Hanoi

The tour begins bright and early, with pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter, usually around 8:00 to 8:30 AM. This is a good time to get some rest if you’re staying nearby or to start your day with some anticipation. If you’re not in the Old Quarter, meeting at the Hanoi Opera House before 8:30 AM is your alternative. The included shuttle bus makes the journey smooth, giving you a comfortable ride out of the city and into the scenic waters ahead.

Traveling with a small group of up to 20 people makes for a cozy atmosphere—less like a big bus tour and more like a shared adventure among friends. As you leave Hanoi behind, you’ll pass through stunning landscapes and the iconic waters of Halong Bay, setting the scenic mood for the days ahead.

The First Stop: Bai Tu Long Bay

Arriving at the Bai Tu Long Bay harbor, you’ll check in onboard and enjoy a welcoming drink. This initial moment is a nice chance to settle in, meet your guide—who, based on reviews, is both knowledgeable and friendly—and soak in the view. The cruise begins with a delicious lunch as you glide into the bay, instantly immersing you in the peaceful surroundings.

What’s especially notable about Bai Tu Long Bay is how it mimics the famous Halong Bay in its beauty but with fewer visitors. The waters are dotted with towering limestone islands, and you can see floating fishing villages from the deck. It’s the perfect setting for a relaxed cruise and some memorable photos.

Visiting Vung Vieng Fishing Village & Pearl Farm

One of the tour highlights is stopping at the Vung Vieng fishing village. Here, you can see how locals live on the water, with floating houses, a floating school, and even a floating shop. It’s an eye-opening glimpse into a different way of life. The reviews emphasize how engaging the visit is—”really interesting to see what life in the ocean is like,” as one traveler noted. You can explore this charming village by bamboo boat or kayak, adding an active element to your journey.

Plus, a visit to the Halong Bay pearl farm adds a bit of local industry and a chance to see pearls being cultivated—another authentic experience that’s well worth the time. The peaceful kayaking around the floating villages was praised as “very nice,” offering a chance to stretch your legs and take in the scenery from a different perspective.

Sunset Party & Dinner Onboard

As the sun begins to set, the cruise offers a perfect time to unwind. The sunset party, coupled with happy hour, is a favorite feature, allowing you to toast the day with a drink while watching the sky change colors over the limestone islands. The onboard dinner is described as satisfying, with a selection of Vietnamese dishes that highlight local flavors.

Day 2: Morning Tai Chi & Cave Visits

Waking early, you might try Tai Chi on deck—a calming way to start the day, especially after a peaceful night onboard. Breakfast follows, and then the option to visit a cave or relax onboard. The cave visits promise impressive stalactites and stalagmites, adding a touch of adventure to your cruise.

Cruising Back & Final Highlights

On your return journey, you’ll pass through more scenic spots in Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay, soaking in the views one last time. Around noon, a final lunch is served before disembarking. The cruise concludes with transfers back to Hanoi or a finish at the harbor, depending on your chosen option.

Comfort & Details

The private rooms on the boat are well-reviewed, equipped with bathrooms, hot showers, and air conditioning—important features after a day of sightseeing. The included water, welcome drinks, and insurance add to the value, making it easy to relax and enjoy without extra worries. Optional transfers from Hanoi hotels are available, and the tour offers flexibility with pickup times and meeting points.

Authenticity & Local Flavor

What sets this tour apart, according to reviews, is the focus on authentic Vietnamese experiences—floating villages, pearl farms, and local cuisine. The guides are described as knowledgeable, making it easier to understand the significance of each stop. The small group size fosters a genuine, friendly atmosphere, ideal for travelers who prefer a more personal touch.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the itinerary is packed, keep in mind that the cruise is fast-paced—ideal for those eager to see multiple highlights in a short time. Be prepared for the typical Vietnamese climate: bring sun protection, insect spray, and appropriate clothing. If traveling during the Lunar New Year or Christmas, expect a surcharge of $30 per person.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, as the tour is popular and limited to 20 travelers. Also, although most features are included, drinks beyond water and certain transfers are extras.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with authentic local encounters without the hassle of organizing every detail. It works well for those who enjoy small-group travel, appreciate good value for the price, and are keen to explore less crowded areas of Halong Bay. If you’re looking for comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and a genuine glimpse into fishing village life, this trip checks all the boxes.

It’s also great for first-timers in Vietnam who want a reliable, well-organized experience that covers the highlights while offering opportunities for activity and relaxation. If you enjoy learning about local culture and are ready for a scenic boat ride with plenty of photo opportunities, this cruise is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, shuttle bus transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter are optional and can be booked, making the trip convenient and comfortable.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 days, with around 18 hours on the boat on the first day and about 5 hours on the second day, including cruising and activities.

What meals are included?
Included are dinner on the first night, breakfast in the morning, and two lunches—delicious Vietnamese dishes served onboard. Beverages beyond water and alcohol are not included.

Can I participate in kayaking or other activities?
Absolutely. Kayaking and swimming are included and highly praised, offering fun ways to explore the bay close-up. You can also visit caves or relax on deck.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere.

Are there any additional fees or surcharges?
Yes, there’s a $30 surcharge per person for travel during Lunar New Year (Feb 16-20, 2026) and December 24 & 31 for Gala Dinner. Extra drinks and transfers not specified are also additional.

Final Thoughts

The Bai Tu Long Bay Boutique Cruise provides a balanced, culturally rich experience that highlights the stunning scenery of Vietnam’s less-visited bay area. Its small-group size, inclusive pricing, and authentic stops make it a compelling choice for travelers eager to see the real side of Bai Tu Long. You’ll enjoy tranquil waters, charming fishing villages, and the chance to indulge in local flavors—all in a well-organized, comfortable setting.

If your goal is to escape the crowds and truly connect with nature and local life, this tour offers fantastic value and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authenticity, comfort, and a gentle pace amid some of Vietnam’s most beautiful seascapes.

Ready to explore Bai Tu Long Bay? This cruise offers a memorable, authentic experience that balances comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural insight, perfect for a short but meaningful getaway.