Hanoi: 2-Day Halong & Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise with Balcony

Hanoi: 2-Day Halong & Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise with Balcony offers an opportunity to explore Vietnam’s most iconic seascapes in style. For just $188 per person, you’ll spend a night aboard a luxurious 5-star cruise, with a spacious private balcony and modern amenities. Starting from Hanoi, this cruise takes you through the stunning waters of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay, with plenty of activities to keep you engaged—think kayaking, swimming, and even cooking Vietnamese spring rolls.

What we love about this experience are two things: first, the carefully curated activities like kayak trips and bamboo cave rides that let you truly get close to the scenery, and second, the luxury touches such as the private balcony cabins and the well-equipped sundeck for relaxing with a drink as the sun sets.

One possible consideration is the limited time—many reviews note that while the cruise is packed with activities, the actual “day” feels more like 24 hours, which might leave some wishing for a longer stay. Still, for travelers seeking a comfortable, activity-rich escape with authentic scenery, this cruise is a great pick.

This tour suits those who appreciate a mix of luxury, adventure, and local culture—perfect for honeymooners, first-time visitors to Ha Long Bay, or anyone wanting a taste of Vietnam’s seascape with a touch of comfort.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Private balcony cabins, modern facilities, and a spacious sundeck emphasize a high-end experience.
• Variety of Activities: Kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, cooking classes, and cave explorations ensure there’s no dull moment.
• Authentic Scenic Views: Enjoy spectacular sunsets, limestone karsts, and crystal waters—perfect for memorable photos.
• Authentic Cultural Touches: Learn to make traditional spring rolls and ride bamboo boats through caves.
• Value for Money: All meals, entry fees, and activities included, with the option for personalized touches like honeymoon setups or birthday cakes.
• Transportation Ease: Transfer from Hanoi is available, making travel seamless (though at an extra cost).

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Cruise Experience

Starting from Hanoi, the journey to the cruise port takes about two and a half hours by limousine, which is comfortable and convenient, especially after a long day of travel. The pickup at the Hanoi Old Quarter is straightforward, and the transport is often praised in reviews for its smoothness—many travelers appreciated that they were picked up right from their hotels or residences.

Once at Tuan Chau Port, you’ll meet the crew, receive a brief on what’s ahead, and settle into your private, ensuite cabin with a balcony overlooking the water. The cabins are described as spacious, clean, and well-equipped with air conditioning, providing a cozy retreat after busy days of exploration.

The First Day: Exploring the Bay

After a welcome drink and a buffet lunch, you’ll have the chance to venture into the Dark and Bright Cave—a highlight for many. This involves kayaking or riding a bamboo boat, which adds an intimate touch to the scenery. The caves and limestone islets are the star here, with some reviews noting the beauty of exploring caves by bamboo boat, which offers a different perspective from the usual.

Another option during this time is cruising toward Ba Trai Dao beach, where swimming and kayaking are prime activities. The afternoon is ideal for relaxing on the deck, sipping tea or coffee, and watching the sunset—a truly tranquil experience that many reviews highlight as a favorite part of the cruise.

Dinner features a seafood set menu, served at the onboard restaurant, with vegetarian options available. Many reviewers rave about the quality and variety of the food, emphasizing how well the crew caters to dietary preferences, including vegetarians.

The Second Day: Sunrise and Cultural Stops

Waking up early for Tai Chi on deck is a peaceful way to start the day, with many noting it’s a calming practice to connect with nature. After breakfast, you’ll head to either Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island or explore Lan Ha Bay’s Ao Ech area, depending on your chosen itinerary.

The visit to Trung Trang Cave is widely appreciated for its scenic beauty, giving a chance to step ashore and walk through impressive limestone formations. Alternatively, kayaking and swimming in Lan Ha Bay provide more opportunities for water-based fun, with reviews confirming that these activities are well-organized and enjoyable.

Before heading back to Tuan Chau Port, you’ll enjoy a brunch cruise, taking in the final views of the bay’s towering limestone formations. The return journey includes a scenic limousine ride back to Hanoi, often praised for its comfort and efficiency.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What sets this cruise apart is the thoughtful inclusion of local cultural experiences like learning how to make Vietnamese spring rolls during a cooking class. This is a fun, hands-on activity that offers a taste of Vietnam’s culinary traditions—something many reviews find memorable.

Activities like squid fishing at night and kayaking give you a chance to interact with the environment rather than just passively enjoy it. These are especially valued for the genuine connection they foster with the bay’s natural beauty, even if some guests wish for more time to indulge in each activity, as noted in reviews.

The onboard amenities—such as a panoramic bar, room service, and a large sundeck—combine luxury with practicality. Many travelers mention the delicious food, with some even celebrating the high quality of the seafood dishes, making the cruise an excellent value considering that all meals, activities, and entrance fees are included in the price.

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Considerations

While the cruise is praised for its organization and comfort, some reviewers mention that the itinerary can be short, with activities lasting about an hour each, leaving limited time for swimming or kayaking. The overall experience is often described as feeling more like a 24-hour trip rather than two full days, which might be a downside for those looking for a longer, more leisurely experience.

Plus, extra charges apply for transfers from Hanoi if you prefer not to use the provided transportation, and during peak seasons (October to April), there is a surcharge of $12 per person. These costs are worth considering in your budget planning.

Accessibility is limited—this cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users—and travelers should bring essentials like passport, sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable shoes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, activity-packed introduction to Halong and Lan Ha Bay. Honeymooners and couples will appreciate the special touches, such as honeymoon or anniversary cabins. Adventure seekers will enjoy kayaking, cave explorations, and water sports, while food lovers will delight in Vietnamese cooking classes and seafood dinners.

If you’re after a relaxing escape with stunning scenery, good food, and engaging activities, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s also ideal for those who value a seamless, well-organized experience from Hanoi, with the convenience of transfers and all-inclusive pricing.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day, 1-night cruise offers a luxurious slice of Vietnam’s most beautiful waters. The combination of comfortable cabins, authentic activities, and breathtaking scenery makes it a compelling option for travelers wanting a taste of the natural beauty without sacrificing comfort.

While the itinerary might leave some wishing for more time—particularly to fully enjoy kayaking or swimming—the overall experience is highly praised as a value-packed, memorable journey. From the helpful guides to the delicious Vietnamese cuisine, every aspect seems tuned to create a genuine, enjoyable adventure.

If you’re seeking a high-quality, activity-filled trip with authentic cultural moments, this cruise is a great match. Perfect for honeymooners, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to experience the best of Vietnam’s seascape in style.

FAQ

How do I get to the cruise from Hanoi?
You can be picked up at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and transported by limousine to Tuan Chau Port, about 2.5 hours away. Transfers are often included in the package, but you can also pay extra if you prefer.

What’s included in the price?
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), activities like kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, and cave exploration, entry fees, and the private balcony cabin are included. Beverages (other than bottled water in cabins) and transfers are extra.

Can I request a special cabin, like a honeymoon or birthday setup?
Yes. The cruise offers free honeymoon and anniversary cabins if requested beforehand. You can also request a birthday cake if celebrating during the trip.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Solo travelers can join, but there’s a surcharge of $80 for a private single room. Shared cabins are also available, depending on availability.

What activities are available?
Kayaking, swimming, cave visits, bamboo boat rides, Tai Chi, cooking classes, squid fishing, and sunset tea sessions are all part of the experience.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are offered during meals, and reviews mention that the crew makes an effort to cater to dietary preferences.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Peak season runs from October to April, with a surcharge of $12 per person. Weather is generally good, but always check the forecast as schedules are weather-dependent.

How long is the cruise?
It’s a 2-day, 1-night trip, with some reviews noting it feels more like a 24-hour experience rather than two full days.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
The provided information doesn’t specify Wi-Fi availability, so it’s best to assume limited or no internet access on the boat.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), swimwear, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a camera to capture the scenery.

This luxury cruise balances comfort, adventure, and authentic Vietnamese culture, making it perfect for those wanting a memorable, well-organized getaway in Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay.

You can check availability for your dates here: