Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic sights, famous for its thousands of limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters. While a day trip offers a taste, spending three days soaking in the scenery allows for a richer experience—less rushed, more relaxed, and with plenty of chances to explore caves, beaches, and floating villages. Some tours include activities like swimming at Ho Ba Ham, kayaking around Sung Sot Cave, or even learning pearl-making at Tung Sua Pearl Farm, making each trip unique. Whether you prefer luxury cruises, small-group adventures, or wellness retreats, there’s a tour that fits your travel style.
For example, the All Inclusive 3-Day 2-Night explore Ha Long Bay with Au Co Cruise combines luxury, authentic experiences, and optional seaplane transfers, providing a full immersion into the bay’s wonders. Meanwhile, the Journey to Inner Peace 3 Day Meditation at Yen Tu offers a tranquil retreat emphasizing mindfulness amid stunning landscapes. The variety of options ensures you can pick a trip tailored to your interests—whether that’s adventure, comfort, or relaxation.
Quick Overview
Our list features a broad selection of three-day tours that showcase Vietnam’s spectacular seascapes. You’ll find luxury cruises like Peony Cruise, offering intimate, less touristy experiences on the peaceful Lan Ha Bay, and Elite of The Seas, with modern facilities and a focus on luxury. For travelers seeking a cultural or wellness escape, the Journey to Inner Peace or Yen Tu meditation retreat offer quiet reflection. Budget-friendly options are also available, such as the Discover Majeststic of Lan Ha Bay, which balances affordability with engaging activities.
Now, let’s explore each of these top tours in detail.
1. All Inclusive 3-Day 2-Night explore Ha Long Bay with Au Co Cruise
At number one, this luxury cruise offers three days of exploring Ha Long, Bai Tu Long, and Lan Ha Bay, with the option of seaplane transfers from Hanoi. The cruise includes visits to Tien Ong Cave, Cua Van floating village, and the Pearl Farm, plus activities like Tai Chi and Vietnamese cooking classes. The highlight is the seamless blend of comfort, adventure, and culture, making it ideal for those who want a full, indulgent experience. Guests consistently praise the comfortable beds, delicious food, and friendly staff. A standout feature is the optional seaplane transfer, which provides incredible aerial views of the bay’s limestone towers. The itinerary combines sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic experiences, all with a touch of luxury. The trip is perfect for travelers seeking a fuss-free, all-inclusive adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those prioritizing comfort and comprehensive experiences, with great reviews and optional extras like seaplane transfers.
2. 3-day V’Spirit Cruise of Halong Bay-Lan Ha Bay
The V’Spirit Cruise ranks high for its well-rounded itinerary and excellent value—at just $279 per person. This trip takes you through Sung Sot Cave, Dog Islet, and Titov Island, with plenty of free time for swimming, kayaking, and trekking. The highlight is the immersion in local life, especially at Cua Van floating village, where you can see traditional fishing practices. The cruise offers round-trip transfers from Hanoi, making logistics simple. Guests rave about the friendly crew and beautiful scenery at sunrise and sunset. The boat provides a comfortable, authentic experience with the chance to connect with nature and local culture. While it’s not as plush as some luxury options, it strikes the right balance between comfort and adventure, appealing to travelers who want a deeper connection to the bay’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, activity-packed tour perfect for those who want to explore both the scenery and local life without sacrificing comfort.
3. Peony Cruise : Unique 3 Days 2 Nights – Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay
The Peony Cruise offers a more intimate experience with only 20 cabins on Lan Ha Bay, which is less crowded and more peaceful than the main tourist spots. The route includes Viet Hai Village and the Trung Trang Cave, with activities like kayaking, hiking, and sunbathing. The cruise’s smaller size creates a cozy atmosphere where guests often comment on the personalized service and tranquil environment. The scenery here feels untouched, and the route emphasizes the quieter, more scenic parts of Lan Ha Bay. The price is higher at $719 per person, but it’s justified by the exclusivity and thoughtful itinerary focused on natural beauty and authentic experiences.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a boutique, less touristy cruise with personalized service and serene surroundings.
4. 3 Days 2 Nights Discover Majeststic of Lan Ha Bay
This trip combines adventure and relaxation on Lan Ha Bay, with options for kayaking, hiking, or unwinding on deck. Starting on Viet Hai Village, the tour emphasizes outdoor activities like trekking to Navi Peak for panoramic views and night kayaking to see bioluminescent plankton. The homestay experience makes it stand out—staying on land in a traditional village offers a local flavor that’s hard to beat. Reviewers mention it as “more relaxed and less rushed,” and many say they loved the small group size and authentic feel. With an affordable price of $199, this tour balances activity and culture, attracting travelers who want a more hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers seeking authentic village life combined with outdoor adventures and scenic views.
5. 3 Days 2 Nights at Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island on Aspira Cruise
This cruise focuses on exploring both Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island, with activities like kayaking at Dark Cave, visiting Viet Hai Village, and swimming at Titov Island. The itinerary offers a good mix of water-based activities and cultural visits, with time to relax on the deck or enjoy the modern onboard facilities. The price of $340 per person reflects a balance between comfort and adventure. Reviews highlight the friendly staff and well-organized activities, making it a solid choice for those wanting to see a variety of sights without the high cost of luxury cruises. The inclusion of kayaking, swimming, and mountain hiking makes it versatile for different interests.
Bottom Line: An all-rounder for travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and comfort.
6. La Regina 3 days tour – Visiting Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay
This luxury cruise prioritizes comfort and style, with modern cabins and a focus on scenic cruising. It includes visits to Dark & Light Cave, Viet Hai Village, and Cat Ba Island, along with activities like kayaking and swimming. The price of approximately $303.80 makes it a good value for a high-end experience. The cruise’s reviews mention spacious cabins and attentive service, ideal for travelers wanting a more refined journey. It’s a popular choice for couples and those celebrating special occasions, thanks to its comfortable ambiance and scenic routes.
Bottom Line: A well-priced, elegant option for travelers seeking comfort and scenic exploration.
7. Emperor Cruise Halong: 3 Days 2 Nights Hideaway
For those who want top-tier luxury, the Emperor Cruise offers an all-inclusive, 3-day escape with personalized service and exclusive access. The itinerary includes Viet Hai Village, caves, kayaking, and cycling, all in a private, quiet setting. Costing $1,100 per person, it’s a serious splurge but worth it for travelers wanting privacy, gourmet meals, and tailored activities. The reviews praise the luxury amenities and peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for romantic getaways or special celebrations. This cruise truly stands out for its attention to detail and premium service.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want maximum comfort, privacy, and personalized service in a stunning setting.
8. 3-Day Halong Bay Cruise on the Starlight
Staying aboard the Starlight offers a balance of luxury and adventure, with spacious rooms, mini-bar, Jacuzzi, and guided visits to Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island. The cruise emphasizes comfortable, well-equipped accommodations and a variety of activities like kayaking, hiking, and swimming. The price of $327 makes it accessible without sacrificing quality. Reviewers mention the friendly staff and beautiful scenery, making it a reliable choice for first-timers or those wanting a classic cruise experience.
Bottom Line: A dependable, mid-range luxury cruise with plenty of scenic and activity options.
9. Elite of The Seas – Unique Luxury 3 Days Cruise
This high-end cruise offers a very contemporary, luxurious experience with 35 spacious rooms and extensive activities like swimming, kayaking, and spa treatments. The price of $900 reflects its premium positioning. The itinerary includes Viet Hai Village, caves, and scenic cruising through Lan Ha Bay, ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, indulgent escape. The reviews note excellent facilities and attentive service, making it a top pick for couples or travelers celebrating milestones.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those wanting a full-service, luxury experience on the water.
10. 3-Day Luxury HaLong Bay with Aspira Cruise
Known for its modern design and activities, the Aspira Cruise offers kayaking at Light & Dark Cave, visits to Viet Hai Village, and plenty of time to relax in the jacuzzi. The price of $308 makes it good value for a sleek, activity-rich experience. The itinerary balances adventure and leisure, with options to enjoy sunset views and traditional cooking classes. Guests appreciate the comfortable cabins and engaging excursions, making this a versatile choice for a range of travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a stylish cruise with active and relaxing options.
11. Capella Cruise 3-day Explore Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay
This high-end cruise features spacious modern cabins and a comprehensive itinerary including Sung Sot Cave, Cat Ba Island, and the fishing village. The price of $1,315 reflects its premium status, with many reviews emphasizing excellent food, attentive staff, and luxurious amenities. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with comfort and style, especially if celebrating special occasions or seeking a romantic escape.
Bottom Line: A top-tier choice for luxury travelers wanting to indulge while exploring the bay’s highlights.
12. Journey to Inner Peace 3 Day Meditation at Yen Tu
This retreat offers deep meditation sessions, cultural activities, and vegetarian meals at Yen Tu Mountain. It’s perfect if relaxation, spiritual growth, and scenic beauty are your priorities. The itinerary includes tea meditation, chanting, and outdoor lessons, making it a unique way to connect with Vietnam’s spiritual landscape. With only 8 reviews, it’s less mainstream but highly rated for its transformative experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking inner peace and mindfulness in a tranquil natural setting.
13. TOP TIER: 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS tours- LIKE ABOSS on beautiful cruises
This cruise emphasizes luxury, flexibility, and comfort, with options for swimming, kayaking, and onboard spa services. Starting with door-to-door transport from Hanoi, it caters to travelers who want ease and indulgence. The $299.89 price offers good value for its high standards, and reviews highlight the excellent onboard activities and beautiful scenery. It’s suitable for couples or groups who want a no-fuss, premium experience.
Bottom Line: Well-priced, flexible, and comfortable—ideal for travelers who want luxury without overpaying.
14. 3 Days Cruise Tour in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi
A smaller tour with a personalized touch, this trip focuses on activities like bamboo boat rides, kayaking, and exploring Tuan Chau Island. At just $461, it offers a more intimate experience with friendly guides and a flexible itinerary. Guests appreciate the attention to detail and relaxed pace, suitable for travelers who prefer less crowded, more authentic experiences. It is perfect for those who value personal service and meaningful exploration.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a more bespoke, less crowded cruise.
15. 3-Day Cruise Tour to Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi
This all-inclusive cruise features door-to-door transfers, visits to Tuan Chau, Viet Hai Village, and caves. Priced at $715, it’s suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, luxurious experience with all logistics taken care of. The itinerary includes kayaking, hiking, and cultural visits, perfect for active explorers. Reviewers mention professional service and beautiful scenery, making it a reliable, high-quality option.
Bottom Line: For those who want a full, hassle-free luxury experience with plenty of activities and comfort.
How to Choose Your Ha Long Bay 3-Day Tour
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, interest level, and whether you prefer luxury, adventure, or spiritual retreat. For instance, if you love luxury and pampering, the Emperor Cruise or Capella Cruise are top choices. On a tighter budget, V’Spirit offers excellent value with plenty of activities.
If outdoor adventure and local culture matter most, the Majeststic of Lan Ha Bay with homestay or Aspira Cruise are great options. Think about the itinerary—whether you want to visit caves, beaches, or peaceful villages—and match that to your energy level and interests.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (October to April), to secure your preferred cruise and dates.
In summary, Ha Long Bay’s 3-day tours offer everything from luxury indulgence to authentic village stays, adventure-packed activities, and peaceful retreats. For a classic experience, the All Inclusive Au Co Cruise remains a top pick, while the Peony Cruise excels if you seek tranquility and fewer travelers. Budget travelers will find value in the Majeststic, and those craving luxurious privacy should consider the Emperor or Capella Cruises. Whatever your style, booking early ensures your place on these unforgettable journeys through some of Vietnam’s most spectacular waters.