From Hanoi: Halong Bay Seaplane & 6-Hour Ha Long Bay Tour

Imagine soaring above the shimmering waters and limestone karsts of Halong Bay in a seaplane, then drifting through some of the most iconic scenery Vietnam has to offer on a luxury cruise. For around $386 per person, this combination of aerial and maritime adventures provides a fantastic way to see this UNESCO World Heritage site up close and from above. Led by Anny Travel, the tour typically lasts about 12 hours, starting early in Hanoi and ending with a comfortable return.

What sets this tour apart is the spectacular 25-minute seaplane flight. It’s a real highlight—giving you a bird’s-eye view of Dau Be Island, Cong Do Island, and the famous Bo Hon Island, with its stunning limestone formations. We love how this aerial perspective makes the entire bay seem like a floating city of stone and water, offering a unique vantage point you can’t get from boat alone.

The 4-hour cruise that follows is equally impressive, featuring visits to Titop Island for swimming or trekking, a visit to the mesmerizing Sung Sot Cave, and options for kayaking or bamboo boat rides through Luon Cave. One review mentions that the airplane was very exciting, which perfectly captures how thrilling this experience is—different from the usual boat tour. However, a potential consideration is that the timing can be tight, so travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a leisurely day might want to plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers craving a combination of adventure and comfort—those who love stunning vistas, a touch of luxury, and being guided through iconic sights with ease. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want to maximize their time by combining a quick scenic flight with a well-rounded cruise.

Key Points

• Unique aerial view of Halong Bay, offering perspective impossible from the water alone
• Luxury cruise with visits to major caves and islands, including Titop Island and Sung Sot Cave
• Variety of activities: swimming, kayaking, bamboo boat rides
• All-inclusive price covers transfers, meals, entrance fees, and the flight
• Tight schedule may not suit those wanting a slow pace or more free time
• Great value for the experience of both flying and cruising in one day

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Scenic Seaplane Flight: A Thrill and a Feast for the Eyes

The journey begins early from Hanoi, with a pickup that takes you comfortably to Tuan Chau Marina. Once there, you board a private seaplane for a 25-minute flight over Halong Bay’s most famous sights. This part of the tour is often highlighted as the most memorable, with passengers describing it as “very exciting”. The view from above reveals the majestic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and tiny islands that make this area so distinctive.

Flying over Dau Be Island allows you to see the crystal-clear waters and rock formations, which look more like sculptures than natural features. Cong Do Island offers a view of rocky mountains and sea valleys that feel almost surreal from the sky. The flight concludes with a gentle return to Tuan Chau, leaving you with a visual feast that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

From Sky to Sea: The 4-Hour Luxury Cruise

After the flight, you’ll transfer to a premium cruise boat. The onboard experience is quite different from the typical day-trip boat. You’ll be welcomed with a gourmet seafood lunch, which is often praised for its quality and flavor—adding value to the experience. As the boat moves through the bay, you’ll see famous symbols like Fighting Chicken Islet and Incense Burner Islet, which are instantly recognizable.

One of the tour’s highlights is visiting Sung Sot Cave, often called the most beautiful cave in the area. It features stalagmites and stalactites that seem almost otherworldly, and the experience is enhanced by the size and beauty of the caverns. The guide will explain the formations, making it informative as well as beautiful.

Active Adventures: Kayaking, Bamboo Boating & Beach Time

A flexible part of the tour is the option to kayak or take a bamboo boat through Luon Cave’s lagoon, offering a chance to get closer to nature and explore at your own pace. Reviewers mention that this part is “a wonderful way to discover the bay’s beauty,” especially at Luon Cave, where the calm lagoon invites peaceful paddling.

For those who want a more relaxed activity, Titop Island provides a sandy beach perfect for swimming or just lounging. If you’re feeling energetic, climbing to the top of the island offers panoramic views of Halong Bay, a perfect photo opportunity.

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Sunset and Return

As the sun begins to set, the cruise turns back toward Tuan Chau Marina, and the boat hosts a sunset party with wine, tea, fruits, and biscuits. It’s a delightful way to unwind, take in the scenery, and reflect on the day. The journey back to Hanoi is comfortable, with a bus transfer that allows you to relax after a full day of adventure.

The Practical Side

Transportation & Timing

From Hanoi, your day is carefully scheduled. The luxury vehicle pickup at 07:00 gets you to Tuan Chau Marina by 09:30, giving plenty of time for check-in and the flight. The entire day, including transfers, flight, cruise, and return, lasts about 12 hours. This means you’ll want to clear your schedule for a full day of exploration.

Cost & Value

At $386 per person, the tour is a significant investment but reflects the combination of a scenic flight, a luxury cruise, and all-inclusive meals and activities. It’s a good value if you’re seeking a premium experience that combines different ways of seeing Halong Bay—both from above and on the water.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included are round-trip transfers, the seaplane flight, the cruise, lunch, kayaking or bamboo boat rides, entrance fees, and bottled water. Extras like drinks on board and surcharges for holidays or non-English guides are not included but are manageable considerations.

Things to Bring

Think comfortable shoes for walking, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, a camera to capture the stunning views, and water to stay hydrated. The tour’s staff recommends packing light but being prepared for the sun and humidity.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Feedback from travelers highlights the stunning views from the air, with one traveler noting that the airplane was very exciting. Others appreciated the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see the iconic limestone formations up close from both the sky and water.

Some reviews mention the tight schedule, but most agree that the visual payoff makes it worthwhile. The combination of luxury and adventure appeals particularly to those who want a memorable, all-in-one experience in Halong Bay.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a unique blend of aerial and aquatic adventures in one day, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want a comprehensive view of Halong Bay’s iconic scenery without sacrificing comfort. The seaplane flight is the standout feature, providing a breathtaking perspective that’s hard to match elsewhere. The cruise, caves, and island stops add depth and variety, ensuring a full experience.

If you’re after a visually spectacular, well-organized, and value-packed trip that combines adventure with comfort, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, good food, and a touch of luxury.

However, keep in mind the full-day schedule and the potential for a fast-paced experience. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or more free time, you might want to consider other options. But for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines the thrill of flight with the serenity of bay cruising, this tour is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the seaplane flight included in the price?
Yes, the 25-minute scenic seaplane flight over Halong Bay is included, making it a central part of the experience.

How long is the entire tour?
The full day’s schedule, including pickup, flight, cruise, and return, is about 12 hours.

What activities are available during the cruise?
You can explore Sung Sot Cave, go kayaking or take a bamboo boat at Luon Cave, and relax on Titop Island’s sandy beach.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a gourmet seafood lunch is included onboard, praised for its quality and authenticity.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
The itinerary involves some walking and activities that may not suit everyone. Check your comfort level with the schedule and physical demands.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended for comfort and safety.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides can speak German, French, Korean, Chinese, Italian, and Japanese, but surcharges may apply depending on the language.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely, the small group size and organized structure make it a good option for solo travelers seeking a guided adventure.

This tour combines the best of Halong Bay’s natural beauty and adventure with a touch of luxury and excitement. Whether you’re flying high above the iconic karsts or drifting through emerald waters, it’s a day that creates lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: