Two Day Excite Cruises to Halong and Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi offers a balanced blend of stunning scenery, cultural exploration, and onboard comfort for travelers eager to experience Vietnam’s iconic bay area. Priced at around $217.60 per person, this tour spans roughly two days, starting with pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and ending back in the city. It’s designed for those who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, with visits to Viet Hai Fishing Village and Dark-Light Cave, plus activities like kayaking, fish foot massages, and even a cooking class.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines laid-back exploration with genuine cultural encounters. The chance to visit a primitive fishing village and learn about local life, along with the relaxed atmosphere of the cruise, makes it stand out. Plus, the option to unwind with a massage or sip drinks on the sundeck while soaking in the views adds a touch of luxury.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is the crowded nature of popular spots like Lan Ha Bay, which can limit the feeling of complete seclusion. Also, the itinerary involves a fair amount of travel and activity, so it suits travelers who are comfortable with a somewhat busy schedule.

This cruise is well-suited for those who value authentic scenery, cultural insights, and good food—all at a reasonable price. If you’re after a taste of Vietnam’s spectacular landscape combined with engaging excursions, this trip offers a practical and enjoyable way to spend two days.

Key Points

Beautiful Scenic Spots: Visit Lan Ha Bay and Halong, with views that often leave visitors speechless.
Cultural Encounters: Explore Viet Hai Fishing Village and learn about traditional Vietnamese life.
Variety of Activities: From kayaking and bamboo boat rides to fish foot massages and cooking classes.
Comfortable Accommodation: Stay in a spacious, air-conditioned cabin with en-suite bathroom.
Onboard Amenities: Relax on the sundeck, enjoy live music, or indulge in spa treatments.
Value for Money: All sightseeing fees, meals, and some activities included in the price.

An In-Depth Look at the Excite Cruise Experience

Starting in Hanoi with a prompt pickup from the Old Quarter, this tour aims to whisk you away early in the morning to maximize your time on the bay. The transfer by bus and speedboat is smooth, though it does require a good chunk of your morning. Arriving at Bai Chay, you’ll check into the Boss Cruise, a vessel that balances traditional charm with modern comfort. The ship’s large cabins and verandas are often highlighted as a highlight, with one reviewer noting, “Old but charming ship, with large cabins and verandas, with private bathroom.”

While in Hanoi, here are other experiences we've covered

Day 1: Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Viet Hai Fishing Village

Your day kicks off with a welcome drink and a quick briefing. Then, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch while cruising through Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to the busier Halong Bay. The views of the islands and islets are spectacular—expect to snap dozens of photos, even if the weather is cloudy, as one reviewer mentions, “Took dozens of photos, all a little grayish due to the cloudy weather.”

The first major stop is Viet Hai Fishing Village, a place that offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life. Here, you can explore fish lakes, visit bee hives, and see ancient houses. This part of the trip is praised for its authenticity and tranquility, providing a break from tourist-heavy areas. For those not interested in the village visit, the cruise offers home-made cakes or the chance to relax at the spa or sundeck.

Later in the afternoon, the boat anchors for a sunset and leisure time, with options for a cooking class, happy hour, or just relaxing with canapes. Dinner is served in a semi-formal setting, and the evening can include live music or a spa treatment—a thoughtful addition for those seeking a bit of pampering.

Day 2: Caves and Calm Waters

Early risers start with a Tai Chi session on the deck, which many find a peaceful way to begin the day. After breakfast, the highlight is exploring the Dark-Light Cave—a stunning limestone feature with sparkling stalactites and a peaceful lake for kayaking or bamboo boat rides. One reviewer describes it as “fascinating,” especially with the option to paddle inside or sit back and enjoy the scenery from a bamboo boat.

Following this, you’ll enjoy a full breakfast and a smooth checkout process. The entire experience culminates with disembarkation and a transfer back to Hanoi, usually arriving in the early afternoon.

What Sets It Apart

The balance of activities and leisure stands out. The excursions are designed to give a taste of local life and natural beauty without feeling rushed. The onboard amenities, from large cabins to sundecks and entertainment options, make for a comfortable stay. We also appreciate that meals are included—the buffet lunches and dinners are described as quite good, adding value to the overall experience. The additional activities, such as fish foot massages and kayaking, can be booked separately, allowing flexibility.

Authenticity and Comfort

One of the reviews notes the large, charming cabins and the spacious verandas, which add a touch of comfort to the trip. The cruise’s reputation for a tranquil experience is reinforced by the inclusion of visits to less crowded areas like Viet Hai Village and the quiet waters of Lan Ha Bay, rather than the overrun spots around Halong Bay.

While you're exploring Hanoi, here are other experiences we've looked into

Price and Value

At roughly $217.60 per person, this cruise offers a solid value—it includes all major sightseeing fees, meals, onboard activities, and transportation. While drinks and spa treatments are extra, the overall package is competitive for a two-day cruise that combines scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy authentic encounters—like seeing local villages and exploring caves—will find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a comfortable cruise experience without sacrificing scenery or cultural authenticity. The mix of leisurely activities and unique excursions makes it suitable for a broad range of travelers, from couples to small groups.

Final Thoughts

This two-day cruise strikes a nice balance between scenic beauty and culture, with enough comfort and activities to keep all types of travelers engaged. The emphasis on quiet, less touristy spots like Viet Hai Village and Lan Ha Bay’s calm waters makes it particularly appealing if you’re looking to escape the crowds of Halong Bay.

The meals, onboard amenities, and included excursions deliver good value, especially for those who want an authentic yet comfortable experience. The availability of optional spa treatments and kayaking means you can tailor your journey to your preferences, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Overall, if you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and culturally interesting escape from Hanoi, this cruise offers a worthwhile way to see Vietnam’s spectacular bay area without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine natural beauty with local flavor, and who enjoy a comfortable onboard setting.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pick up is scheduled between 8:15 and 8:45 am, so plan to be ready slightly earlier to ensure timely departure.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, all sightseeing and entrance fees, meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast), onboard insurance, and some activities like bamboo boat rowing and a cooking class.

Are drinks included?
No, beverages and cigarettes are not included and start at around $25. Bottled water is provided in your cabin daily.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking?
Yes, kayaking is available from $20, and bamboo boat rides are included in the cruise experience.

What type of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in a luxury cabin or suite with an en-suite bathroom and air conditioning, offering ample space and comfort.

What are the optional activities onboard?
You can enjoy fish foot massages, spa treatments, live music, or go squid fishing after dinner—many are optional and at additional cost.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the physical activity involved in excursions like kayaking or walking around villages.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the entire experience last?
The cruise spans approximately two days, with pickup early in the morning and return to Hanoi in the early afternoon of the second day.

In sum, this cruise is a thoughtfully curated way to see some of Vietnam’s most stunning natural landscapes and enjoy authentic experiences, all while relaxing on a comfortable boat. It’s a strong choice for those wanting more than just a boat ride—looking for a meaningful glimpse into local life and scenic beauty.