Discover Ha Long Bay on Leona 5-Star Day Cruise with Jacuzzi

Imagine gliding across emerald waters, surrounded by towering limestone karsts that seem to rise straight out of a fantasy landscape. For about seven hours, you’ll find yourself floating through one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking sights, all while enjoying luxury that makes the journey both relaxing and memorable. The Leona 5-Star Luxury Day Cruise offers a perfect blend of exploration, comfort, and a touch of indulgence, all at a reasonable price of $83 per person.

What we really love about this tour is its attention to detail—think gourmet seafood lunch served with a view, and a jacuzzi onboard to unwind after visiting iconic sites like Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave and Titop Island. Plus, the lively sunset party caps off the day with music, light refreshments, and stunning scenery.

One potential consideration is the non-refundable policy, which means you’ll want to commit only when your plans are firm. But for those who love a well-organized, all-inclusive experience with plenty of activities, this cruise hits the sweet spot for an unforgettable day in Ha Long Bay. Perfect for travelers who want a luxurious yet authentic taste of this UNESCO World Heritage site, especially if they enjoy a good mix of scenery, adventure, and gourmet food.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious decks, gourmet seafood lunch, jacuzzi, and a lively sunset party enhance your experience.
• Iconic Landmarks: Visits to Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island allow for exploration, swimming, and panoramic views.
• Activities Galore: Kayaking, bamboo boating, swimming, and hiking offer engaging ways to enjoy the scenery.
• Efficient Itinerary: Well-paced stops with a smooth check-in process make the day enjoyable without feeling rushed.
• Value for Money: At $83, the tour packs in a full day of sightseeing, activities, and luxurious touches.
• Authentic Experience: The guide and well-curated stops make this more than just a boat ride; it’s an immersive experience.

Setting Off from Hanoi and Initial Impressions

Starting early at 9:40 am from the Halong International Cruise Port, this tour offers a hassle-free start with express check-in. Traveling from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay usually takes around 2-3 hours, but with this organized pickup, you avoid the stress of navigating alone. The large group size—up to 100 travelers—means a lively atmosphere, but the experience is typically well-managed so that everyone can enjoy the sights.

Once aboard the Leona 5-Star Cruise, the first thing you notice is the sleek, modern design of the boat. The spacious decks and polished interiors promise comfort, and the welcome drink sets a friendly tone. We loved how the crew immediately made us feel at ease, ready to enjoy the stunning scenery ahead.

The Journey Through Ha Long Bay’s Most Iconic Spots

Stop 1: Exploring the Limestone Marvels

As you cruise into Ha Long Bay, the towering limestone formations emerge dramatically from the water. The guide, often a friendly local expert, points out notable spots and shares stories that add context to the landscape. The highlight here is the visit to Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, a must-see for its magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. The cave’s size and natural beauty often leave visitors in awe.

Stop 2: Titop Island – Beaches, Hikes, and Views

Later in the afternoon, the boat arrives at Titop Island, which offers a chance to stretch your legs. You can choose to swim, relax on the beach, or climb the hiking trail to the island’s summit for panoramic views of the bay—a highlight for many travelers. A review mentions how the views from the top are “breathtaking,” making the hike worth the effort.

Indulgence on Board: Gourmet Seafood and Relaxation

Midday, you’ll enjoy a gourmet seafood lunch prepared fresh on the boat. We appreciated how the meal was served in a 5-star setting, with a variety of dishes that showcased local flavors. The quality of the food exceeded expectations, especially in such a setting. Many travelers note that the food is both tasty and plentiful, making it good value for the price.

If you’re into relaxing, the cruise’s jacuzzi offers a unique way to unwind while soaking in the views. The pool is a refreshing feature, perfect after hiking or swimming on Titop Island.

Activities: Kayaking, Bamboo Boating, and Swimming

For those craving more activity, the cruise offers kayaking and bamboo boating—both gentle ways to explore closer to the limestone cliffs and hidden corners of the bay. One reviewer enjoyed kayaking through Luon Cave, describing it as “peaceful and fun,” and praised the calm waters surrounded by lush greenery and towering rocks.

Swimming is also popular, with many travelers jumping into the water to cool off. The tour’s well-timed stops make it easy to enjoy a variety of experiences without feeling rushed.

Sunset Party and Return

As the afternoon winds down, the boat moves to its final highlight: the sunset party on the sundeck. With music, light refreshments, and the sunset casting a golden glow over the bay, it’s an ideal moment to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The lively atmosphere is often described as a perfect way to cap off the trip.

The cruise then heads back to port, arriving around 4:30 to 5:00 pm, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy Hanoi or your onward plans.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $83, this full-day cruise offers considerable value, especially considering the inclusions—lunch, activities, and entrance fees. The luxury features like the jacuzzi and gourmet meal elevate the experience beyond a simple boat ride. Plus, the carefully curated stops ensure you get to see the most famous parts of Ha Long Bay without the hassle of planning.

The tour’s balance between relaxation, exploration, and luxury makes it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Ha Long Bay in style without sacrificing authenticity. The small group size, attentive guides, and well-organized schedule make for a smooth and enjoyable day.

This cruise is perfect for those who appreciate comfort and quality while exploring natural beauty. If you’re after Instagram-worthy views, delicious local cuisine, and a chance to relax in style, you’ll find this experience appealing. It’s also suitable for first-timers, couples, or small groups seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free day out.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer rough-and-tumble adventures, you might find this tour a bit more luxurious than you need. The non-refundable policy also means you should be fairly certain of your plans before booking.

The Leona 5-Star Day Cruise offers an impressive mix of stunning scenery, gourmet food, and luxury amenities. It transforms a visit to Ha Long Bay into a comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable experience, especially with features like the jacuzzi and a lively sunset party.

This tour excels at showcasing the best of the bay—its caves, islands, and limestone giants—while providing engaging activities like kayaking and hiking. The well-organized schedule minimizes stress and maximizes enjoyment, making it a solid choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort.

For those seeking a full-day escape into one of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes with a touch of luxury, this cruise is a smart pick. It’s best suited for travelers who value quality over rugged adventure and who enjoy savoring scenic views with good food and friendly guides.

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The scenery of Ha Long Bay, especially at sunset and from the viewpoints on Titop Island, provides plenty of stunning photo opportunities.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts about 7 hours, with the start at 9:40 am and returning in the early evening.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
Yes, the tour can accommodate dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options if specified at booking.

What’s included in the price?
You get a full day of luxury cruising, visits to Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island, activities like kayaking, a gourmet seafood lunch, a welcome drink, and the sunset party.

Is there a group size limit?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, but it’s usually well-managed to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.

Can I swim or kayak during the tour?
Yes. Swimming at Titop Island and kayaking in the bay are popular activities included in the tour.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sun protection, a hat, swimwear if you plan to swim, and any personal snacks or drinks you prefer (although beverages are not included).