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The 10 Best Sailing Experiences in Hanoi
Hanoi might be best known for its bustling streets, fragrant street food, and centuries-old temples, but it’s also a gateway to some of Vietnam’s most stunning water landscapes. The Bay of Descending Dragons, or Halong Bay, with its towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, makes for an unforgettable sailing backdrop. Whether you’re after the luxury of a plush catamaran or the intimacy of a private cruise, Hanoi’s boat tours deliver authentic experiences that stay with you long after you leave the deck.
What sets these tours apart? Some offer all-inclusive days packed with kayaking, swimming, and cooking classes—perfect if you want to see as much as possible in a single day. Others focus on luxury, with elegant vessels and personalized service. All provide a chance to escape Hanoi’s busy streets and learn about nature’s splendor, often with reviews praising their stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly crews. If you’re dreaming of a water-based adventure in northern Vietnam, this list will help you find the perfect sailing experience.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of sailing experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets. From the best-selling Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise that organizes your entire day with activities like kayaking and sunset parties, to the exclusive Private Halong Bay Sailing Cruise perfect for couples seeking intimacy, each offers something special. Other options include full-day luxury catamaran tours, premium cruises with cave exploration, and even yacht-style adventures. Keep reading to find out what makes each one unique and decide which suits your style.
1. The Catamaran Luxury Day Cruise to Halong Bay from Hanoi
This top seller offers a luxurious full day on the water, with round-trip transportation from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. It’s perfect if you want a no-fuss, organized experience that takes care of everything, from snacks to sunset parties. The tour features a seven-hour cruise exploring the bay, giving you plenty of time to relax, swim, kayak, or lounge on the deck.
What’s great is the variety of activities included—kayaking through caves, swimming at Lan Ha Bay, and even a cooking class. The itinerary begins with a morning pickup in Hanoi, then a transfer to Tuan Chau Marina for boarding. The cruise itself is spacious, with excellent reviews highlighting the spectacular scenery and delicious six-course lunch. The sunset ceremony on deck adds a memorable touch to end the day.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a luxury experience with everything organized, especially if they’re keen on water activities and gourmet food. The only downside? The drive from Hanoi is around 3 hours, but most find it worth every minute for the comfort and convenience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a full, relaxing day on the water with premium amenities and active options.
2. Catamaran Premium Cruise to Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay in 1 Day Tour
This tour stands out because it’s the only catamaran in northern Vietnam, blending traditional elegance with modern luxury. Designed to maximize your time on the water, it combines the beauty of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay in a single day. With around 12 hours of exploration, it’s a good pick for those who want to see as much as possible.
The journey begins with a 2.5-hour transfer from Hanoi, including a short break, before boarding at Tuan Chau Marina. Once on board, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch while cruising through UNESCO-listed waters. The itinerary features kayaking or bamboo boat rides through Bright-Dark Cave, swimming at Frog Pond, and a cooking demonstration. Guests rave about the outstanding food, professional crew, and breathtaking scenery.
Ideal for travelers confident in a full day’s excursion, this tour offers a luxurious, all-in-one experience with higher-end touches. Its shorter transfer time and elegant vessels make it a top choice for those with limited days but big water dreams.
Bottom Line: Perfect for water lovers wanting an all-inclusive, upscale adventure that covers both Halong and Lan Ha Bay.
3. Best Selling Catamaran Cruise Premium Day Trip Explore Halong Bay
This full-day cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of Halong Bay’s highlights, with a well-organized itinerary that balances activity and relaxation. It’s rated 5 stars from two reviews and is highly praised for its delicious food, organized activities, and comfortable boat.
Starting from Hanoi at around 8 am, the trip includes a 3-hour drive to Halong Bay. Onboard, guests enjoy a welcome drink and a semi-buffet lunch while cruising past towering limestone islands. Highlights include a visit to Sung Sot Cave, rowing to Luon Cave, and enjoying free time on Titop Island, where you can hike for panoramic views. The boat features a water slide and trampoline—great for families or active travelers.
Reviewers love the professional crew and the calm, scenic environment. The tour is best suited for those who want a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring caves with high comfort levels.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, active day on the water that’s especially suited for families or travelers wanting diverse experiences.
4. Ha Long Bay 1 day trip with Luxury Catamaran Cruise
This cruise offers a luxurious approach to exploring Ha Long Bay, emphasizing comfort and style. With a 12-hour itinerary, it’s ideal for those wanting to experience the bay’s top sights without rushing. The boat is modern, with a focus on relaxed enjoyment.
Starting with pickup from Hanoi, the tour includes a scenic transfer to Tuan Chau Island. From there, you’ll board the luxury vessel and cruise to explore Titop Island, with options to hike for views or relax on the deck. The itinerary features kayaking through caves and swimming at Frog Pond. Guests praise the stunning scenery, delicious seafood lunch, and professional crew.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate a premium experience without sacrificing water activities. The boat’s comfort and the scenic route make it a memorable day, though it’s a longer travel time from Hanoi.
Bottom Line: A great pick for anyone who values upscale comfort and a broader water adventure.
$109.00 per person
5. Halong Bay Saquila Yacht Explore Sung Sot Cave & Titop Island
This yacht-style experience takes a more intimate approach to Ha Long Bay. It’s rated 5 stars from one review, emphasizing quality over quantity. The tour highlights include a visit to Sung Sot Cave—famous for its shimmering stalactites—and Titop Island, where you can hike for panoramic views.
The program begins early in the morning, with check-in at Ha Long International Passenger Port. Guests enjoy a welcome drink and a light breakfast before exploring the caves, having a lunch onboard, and participating in art exhibitions. The boat’s smaller size allows for a more personalized experience, with a focus on comfort and scenic appreciation.
This tour is best suited for travelers interested in exploring caves and islands in a more relaxed, sophisticated setting. It’s slightly shorter but packed with highlights, making it ideal for a taste of the bay’s grandeur.
Bottom Line: A refined, less crowded option for travelers wanting a more personal cruise experience.
$95.00 per person
6. 5 Star – CATAMARAN Cruise – Ha Long Bay 1 Day
This 5-star rated cruise combines luxury and fun with activities like a trampoline, water slide, swimming, and a rooftop sunset view. It’s a 10-hour journey that emphasizes leisure and adventure in Lan Ha Bay, an area less crowded than the main bay.
The tour includes a delicious Vietnamese meal, kayaking, and bamboo boat trips to Bright-Dark Cave. The crew is known for their friendly service and attention to detail, making this a favorite for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and active fun. The boat’s amenities and scenic routes have earned high praise.
It’s best suited for active travelers or families who want a luxury experience with plenty of water-based activities. The price is reasonable considering the quality and variety of experiences.
Bottom Line: A top choice for adventure-seekers wanting a luxurious, fun-filled day in Lan Ha Bay.
$88 per person
7. THE HALONG CATAMARAN – Premium Day Cruise on Bay with Water Slide
This brand new luxury boat offers a fun-filled day with a water slide, kayaking, and culinary delights. Rated 5 stars, it’s a great option for families or groups looking for a lively, active day on the water.
Starting from Hanoi, it includes a pickup service, then a 3-hour transfer to Tuan Chau Marina. The cruise features a delicious lunch, a sunset ceremony, and the chance to kayak or paddle into caves. The boat’s modern amenities and playful features make it stand out.
Suitable for those who want more than just sight-seeing, this tour emphasizes fun and comfort, with reviews praising the delicious food and entertaining activities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or anyone wanting a high-energy, enjoyable day cruising in style.
$89.00 per person
8. Private Halong Bay Sailing Cruise from Hanoi
For travelers seeking exclusivity, this private sailing cruise is the ultimate indulgence. Starting at $148 per person, it offers a customized experience aboard a sailboat with a seafood lunch and visits to caves like Dau Go and Thien Cung.
The tour includes a full-day on the water, with hotel pickup and a scenic drive through northern Vietnam’s lush countryside. The boat’s smaller size allows for a more intimate experience, with personalized attention from the crew.
Ideal for couples, groups, or families wanting privacy and flexibility, the tour is praised for its quiet, scenic routes and delicious seafood. The main downside is the higher price, but many find it worthwhile for the exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a tailored, private experience with premium service.
9. Hanoi/Ha Long: Ha Long Bay Luxury Day Cruise by Catamaran
This cruise offers a comfortable, modern experience with opportunities to hike Titop Island, kayak, and enjoy a Vietnamese lunch. It’s rated 3.8 from 11 reviews, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting a straightforward but quality cruise.
Starting from Hanoi, the tour includes visits to Titop Island for panoramic views and kayaking through limestone caves. The boat’s amenities and the scenic route make for a relaxing day, with a focus on natural beauty.
This tour fits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic cruise with some active options, without the extra frills of ultra-luxury.
Bottom Line: A reliable choice for those seeking a balanced, scenic day on water.
$94 per person
10. The Catamaran – Luxury Full Day Cruise To Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay
This vessel provides a luxurious full-day cruise with a flexible schedule—ranging from 6 to 12 hours. The focus is on relaxation, onboard entertainment, and food. It’s a good option for travelers who want to sit back and let the crew handle it all.
Highlights include a welcome drink, onboard Wi-Fi to share your photos, and the chance to kayak, swim, or simply soak up the scenery. It’s perfect for those who prefer a laid-back day with options for active fun.
Rated 3 stars from a couple of reviews, this tour offers more flexibility than some others, making it ideal for travelers who want a customizable experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who value comfort and flexibility over a structured schedule.
$91.00 per person
How to Choose
When picking the right sailing experience, consider your budget, interests, and how active you want to be. If you prefer a luxury, all-inclusive day with plenty of kayaking and swimming, the Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise or the Premium Cruise to Halong & Lan Ha Bay are excellent choices. For a more intimate, personalized experience, the Private Halong Bay Sailing Cruise offers total customization.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Best Selling Catamaran Cruise or the Luxury Day Cruise. Timing also matters—many tours depart early from Hanoi around 8 am, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Hanoi offers a surprising variety of sailing experiences that suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you want a luxurious, all-inclusive day with active water fun, or a private, quiet cruise tailored to your desires, there’s something here for you. For first-timers, the Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise provides a balanced, well-reviewed experience. If privacy and exclusivity are your priorities, the Private Halong Bay Sailing Cruise will deliver.
No matter which you choose, remember to book early—these tours fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Now’s the time to plan your water adventure and start dreaming of sails unfurled on the stunning waters surrounding Hanoi.