Amanda Cruise – Luxury Unique Halong Bay Cruise (2D1N Tour)

A first look at the Amanda Cruise – Luxury Unique Halong Bay Cruise (2D1N Tour)

For travelers craving a combination of natural beauty, comfort, and engaging activities, this 2-day cruise offers a solid choice. Starting from Hanoi, you’ll spend approximately 2.5 hours on a comfortable bus to reach Tuan Chau Port, then set sail into the iconic karst landscape of Halong Bay. The price of $205 per person covers practically everything — from meals and accommodation to water activities like kayaking and a cooking class.

What we really appreciate are the included round-trip transfers from Hanoi, which take the hassle out of travel logistics. Once on board, you’ll be treated to delicious meals served throughout the journey, giving you a true taste of local cuisine without the hassle of extra costs. Plus, activities like Tai Chi, cave exploration, and water sports are all included, making the experience feel full and authentic.

One thing to consider is that this tour is quite popular, especially since it’s booked on average 23 days in advance. It’s well suited for those who enjoy organized but leisurely adventures—perfect for first-timers or travelers who prefer a well-planned itinerary without sacrificing comfort.

Overall, if you’re looking for a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural activities, and convenience, this cruise is a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who want the full Halong Bay experience without the unpredictability of independent travel or the expense of ultra-luxury options.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Meals, activities, transportation, and accommodation are covered.
• Convenient transfer: Round-trip shuttle from Hanoi simplifies logistics.
• Engaging activities: Kayaking, Tai Chi, cave exploring, and cooking classes provide variety.
• Authentic and scenic: Enjoy the iconic karst formations, caves, and peaceful water views.
• Group tour value: Booking in a group helps keep costs down, making it accessible.
• Limited free time: The schedule is packed, so expect a busy but fulfilling two days.

Exploring the Halong Bay Experience in Detail

The Journey Begins: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

Starting early from Hanoi, the pick-up is organized from the Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House around 8:00 am. The approximately three-hour drive (including a quick stop) sets the tone for a smooth trip. Once you arrive at Tuan Chau Port, the excitement builds as you check in and get a welcome drink before boarding the Amanda Cruise. This part of the journey is a good opportunity to get a first glimpse of the crew’s friendly attitude, often praised by past travelers.

Day 1: Setting Sail and Scenery

Upon boarding, you’ll notice your deluxe seaview cabin — spacious, with a private shower, offering a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. The cruise leaves Tuan Chau Marina and heads into the stunning karst landscape of Halong Bay. The scenery here is the kind of thing that makes you think of classical paintings: jagged limestone pillars rising from emerald waters.

The highlight of the first day is the time spent on Tuan Chau Island, a quick stop where you can stretch your legs and get your bearings. The real magic begins when the boat moves further into the bay, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the impressive cliffs and islands that have been millions of years in the making.

Day 2: A Morning of Calm and Cave Discovery

Day two kicks off early with Tai Chi on the sun deck — a gentle way to start the day and connect with the surroundings. Following this, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast with coffee, tea, and fresh fruit, setting the tone for more adventure.

Next, you’ll explore Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most breathtaking caves in Halong Bay. The guide will likely point out the cave’s spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, along with its immense size that will make you feel like you’ve entered a natural cathedral.

Post-cave, you have about three hours to relax or participate in water activities like kayaking. The herbal foot bath and sunbathing on the deck are standout moments for unwinding and taking in the views. For those who love photography or shopping, there are opportunities to capture memorable shots or buy local souvenirs directly from the boat.

The Return: Comfort and Convenience

By late morning, you’ll start heading back towards Tuan Chau Port, where a transfer bus will take you back to Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Expect to be back around 3 pm, giving you the rest of the day to relax or explore Hanoi further.

What Past Travelers Love

Many reviews mention the friendly staff and excellent hospitality, highlighting guides like Dan and Hanna, who add a lively touch to the journey. One reviewer commented, “Dinner on the upper deck, open air, is unique,” echoing the appeal of dining with a view. Others appreciated the organized nature of the trip, making it easy and stress-free.

Potential Drawbacks

The only downside might be the short time available at each stop, as the schedule is tightly packed to fit in all activities. If you prefer more leisure or in-depth exploration, this gentle-paced tour might feel somewhat hurried. Also, since it’s a group tour, the experience is quite structured, which could limit flexibility.

Analyzing the Value

At $205 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It packages nearly everything — meals, accommodation, water activities, and transportation — eliminating extra costs and planning headaches. For first-time visitors or those wanting a hassle-free experience, this all-in-one approach is a big plus. The inclusion of activities like kayaking and a cooking class adds authentic hands-on elements that enrich the trip.

The reviews reinforce that the experience is well-organized, with pleasant staff and plenty of photo-worthy moments. The meals are consistently praised, with some travelers describing the dinner as especially memorable in the open-air setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate a structured yet scenic experience. It’s ideal for those who want to see the highlights of Halong Bay without the stress of planning or worrying about logistics. If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and authentic water activities, this tour checks all those boxes.

It’s particularly good for first-timers in Vietnam or anyone with limited time who still wants to get a genuine sense of Halong Bay’s beauty. The inclusive nature and friendly guides make it accessible, even for travelers unfamiliar with organizing their own trips.

The Sum Up

The Amanda Cruise 2D1N offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Halong Bay. With its combination of stunning scenery, engaging activities, and all-inclusive comfort, it provides excellent value for a memorable trip. The organized transfer, friendly staff, and delicious meals help make it a worry-free choice for those who want to focus on the scenery and experiences rather than logistics.

While it might be a little fast-paced for those seeking deep exploration or extra leisure, its well-planned itinerary ensures you see the highlights without feeling rushed. If you want a reliable, beautifully curated tour that balances comfort, adventure, and authenticity, this cruise is a smart pick.

For travelers craving beautiful vistas, local cuisine, and water-based fun in a hassle-free package, the Amanda Cruise delivers. It’s especially perfect for first-time visitors, small groups, or anyone looking to enjoy the best of Halong Bay with minimal fuss.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers round-trip transfers from Hanoi, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), accommodation in a deluxe seaview cabin, and all activities listed in the itinerary such as kayaking, cave exploring, Tai Chi, and a cooking class.

Do I need to pay extra for water activities?
No, kayaking and bamboo boat rides are included in the package, so you can enjoy water adventures without additional costs.

How long does the drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay take?
The transfer takes about nearly 3 hours, including a short break, making it a comfortable journey.

What time do the activities start each day?
On the second day, Tai Chi begins at 6:15 am, followed by breakfast, then cave exploration. The schedule is designed to maximize the experience while allowing some rest.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 6 days before start time are not eligible for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially since the tour is well-organized and the activities are not overly strenuous. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic water views, light physical activity, and cultural experiences.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether the Amanda Cruise offers the perfect mix of comfort, adventure, and value for your trip to Halong Bay. It’s a dependable choice for those wanting a balanced, memorable experience in one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.