Halong Bay Cruise With 4 Star for 2days/ 1night all included

Discover the Beauty of Halong Bay with a 2-Day, 1-Night Cruise

Imagine gliding through the shimmering waters of Halong Bay, surrounded by towering limestone karsts and tranquil islands. This 4-star all-inclusive cruise offers a taste of Vietnam’s most iconic seascape, with 16 deluxe cabins, tasty local cuisine, and a thoughtfully crafted itinerary. For around $280 per person, you’ll enjoy a blend of comfort, adventure, and culture, making it a smart choice for those seeking a hassle-free way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

What we love most? First, the delicious Vietnamese food and the opportunity to try traditional dishes and cooking classes that add an authentic flavor to your trip. Second, the well-designed excursions — from bamboo boat rides and kayaking to exploring caves — that give you a real feel for the bay’s natural beauty and local life.

However, a word of caution: some reviews mention early morning anchor pulls and the boat’s age, which may affect your sleep or comfort. If you’re sensitive to noise or looking for a very modern vessel, this is worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and cultural experiences, especially those who appreciate good food and a friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for first-timers to Halong Bay or those short on time but eager to see the highlights.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, transfers, and activities included for a straightforward experience.
• Authentic Cultural Touches: Opportunities to learn Vietnamese cooking and explore local villages.
• Beautiful Scenery: Cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, with stops at caves and beaches.
• Delicious Food: Enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine, including a cooking class and family-style meal.
• Limited Flexibility: Non-refundable booking and early morning anchorings could impact your experience.
• Good for Beginners: Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing, comfort, and culture.

A Deep Dive into the Halong Bay Experience

Starting from Hon Gai International harbor at 7:30 am, this cruise kicks off with a warm welcome and safety briefing. The first day sets a relaxed tone, with a buffer lunch served onboard as you set sail into the stunning Bai Tu Long Bay. The limestone formations here are truly breathtaking, and watching them pass by as you sip your drink is a calming way to start your adventure.

The Excursions: From Village Visits to Beaches

One highlight on the first day is a bamboo boat trip to Vung Vieng village and a visit to a pearl farm. This stops you from just admiring the scenery from afar — you get a peek into local life and traditional crafts. Many travelers appreciated this glimpse into the authentic side of Halong Bay, as one reviewer noted, “The tour included all the things you want to see,” highlighting the well-rounded nature of the excursion.

Afterward, you’ll transfer to Ban Chan beach for swimming and kayaking. The water here gets glowing praise, but some reviews mention the limited time for water activities, which might leave water lovers wanting more. The cruise then relaxes and socializes during a sunset party on the deck, where the views and cool breezes make for memorable moments, especially as the boat anchors in Cong Do area for the night.

Dinner takes us back in time, with a feast inspired by the Hue Dynasty, featuring 8 courses of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Many guests commented positively on the quality and flavor of the food, which is a real selling point.

The Second Day: Exploring Hidden Caves and Cooking

Waking early, you’ll have the chance to participate in Tai Chi on the upper deck — an excellent way to start the day calmly — paired with soothing early morning views. After breakfast, the boat takes you to Thien Canh Son cave, an impressive natural formation that offers some of the best photo opportunities.

For those interested in cuisine, the tour includes a cooking class making Vietnamese spring rolls, which doubles as a fun activity and an opportunity to learn a new skill. The class culminates with a family-style meal, giving you a taste of local home cooking.

What Travelers Are Saying

While many highlight the beauty of the scenery and the delicious food, some reviews point out the boat’s age and the early anchor pulls as occasional downsides. One reviewer shared, “Rooms are a bit old and they bring up the anchor at 5 am which wakes everyone,” indicating that while the experience is largely positive, some may find the early start a bit disruptive.

Others praised the friendly staff and the well-organized excursions, though a few expressed concern over environmental issues like plastic pollution, noting that trash and water quality are ongoing problems for the bay. It’s a reminder that even as travelers, we should be mindful of our impact.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Day 1:

• Embarkation and Welcome: Arrive at Hon Gai harbor by 7:30 am, meet your crew, and settle into your bay view cabin. Expect a safety briefing and a welcome drink to start your journey.

• Lunch & Scenic Cruising: A buffet lunch with local flavors as you cruise into Bai Tu Long Bay, famous for its towering limestone formations and quieter atmosphere than main Halong Bay.

• Village & Beach Visits: The bamboo boat ride to Vung Vieng offers insight into local pearl farming and village life, a refreshing change from just sightseeing from the deck.

• Water Activities: Swimming and kayaking at Ban Chan beach provide a chance for some active fun, although water activity time can feel limited depending on the day’s schedule.

• Sunset & Dinner: The sunset party on the deck is a highlight, with stunning views and a chance to mingle. Dinner features authentic Vietnamese dishes that many guests found quite tasty.

Day 2:

• Tai Chi & Breakfast: Early morning Tai Chi sessions offer a peaceful start, with breakfast served overlooking the bay.

• Cave Exploration: The visit to Thien Canh Son cave is a visual treat, showcasing nature’s artistry in limestone.

• Cooking Class & Family Meal: Hands-on experience making spring rolls, followed by a traditional meal that immerses you in Vietnamese culinary culture.

• Wrap-Up & Return: The cruise concludes by late afternoon, returning you to the harbor.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour provides transfer services, meals, bay view cabins, and complimentary water — a good value considering the price. The meals are a standout, with lots of reviewers praising the quality and authenticity of the Vietnamese cuisine.

On the flip side, beverages (other than water), tips, and personal expenses are extras. The non-refundable policy means you should be certain before booking, especially if you value flexibility or have last-minute changes.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This cruise is a solid pick for those who want a comfortable, all-inclusive experience without sacrificing authenticity. If you’re looking for delicious food, friendly service, and well-organized excursions, you’ll find this cruise ticks those boxes. It’s also suited for first-time visitors to Halong Bay or travelers on a compact schedule who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing individual activities.

However, if you’re sensitive to early mornings or prefer a newer, ultra-modern vessel, you might want to explore other options. Be prepared for some noisy anchor pulls early in the morning, and consider whether that suits your travel style.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In essence, this 4-star Halong Bay cruise offers a balanced and enjoyable way to explore one of Vietnam’s most famous landscapes. You’ll enjoy beautiful scenery, tasty local food, and meaningful activities that go beyond just sightseeing. The value for money is notable, especially given the all-inclusive nature and the quality of food.

It’s best suited for adventurous food lovers and those who appreciate a good mix of relaxation and cultural discovery. Even with some minor drawbacks, most travelers leave with lovely memories and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If you’re after an experience that combines comfort, great food, and a taste of local life, this cruise delivers. Just pack your patience for the early mornings, and you’ll be rewarded with a truly memorable trip.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour?
  Meals, transfer services, bay view cabins, and complimentary water are included. All excursions mentioned in the itinerary are part of the package.

• Is vegetarian food available?
  Yes, vegetarian options are available. Please advise at the time of booking if you require this.

• What is the starting point?
  The tour begins at 15 Ng. Hàng Hành, Hanoi, at 7:30 am.

• How long is the cruise?
  The entire experience lasts about 2 days and 1 night.

• Are activities suitable for children?
  Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the physical demands of kayaking and cave walking.

• Can I cancel or change the booking?
  This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

• What should I bring?
  Bring comfortable clothes, swimwear, sun protection, and a camera. Water and some snacks are provided onboard.

• Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
  The provided information does not specify Wi-Fi availability, so it’s best to assume limited or no internet during the cruise.

• Is the vessel modern?
  The cruise is described as a new vessel launched in 2015, made from steel and high-quality wood. Some reviews note the rooms are a bit old, and early anchor pulls can wake guests.

• What about environmental concerns?
  There are mentions of plastic pollution and water quality issues in reviews, so travelers should be mindful of their ecological footprint.

This Halong Bay cruise offers a hearty slice of Vietnam’s most photogenic scenery paired with good food and friendly service. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting an authentic, manageable adventure without sacrificing comfort or flavor.