Discover the Beauty of Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay on a Luxury 2-Day Cruise

Imagine gliding through emerald waters dotted with towering limestone karsts, enjoying gourmet meals supervised by Michelin standards, and relaxing in elegant cabins with private balconies. This 2D1N luxury cruise, offered for about $770 per person, takes you through some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking seascapes. It combines comfort, authentic scenery, and a touch of sophistication, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and visual thrill.

What we love most? First, the opportunity to explore Lan Ha Bay, a quieter, less commercialized cousin of the famous Ha Long Bay, offering tranquility along with stunning natural beauty. Second, the fine dining experience aboard the ship, especially the dinner on the sundeck with views that are truly postcard-worthy.

A consideration? The tour’s price tag might be steep for some, but when you factor in the included luxury amenities, gourmet cuisine, and exclusive stops, it offers noteworthy value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort over clutter, are seeking a romantic escape or a special treat, and are comfortable with a group size that remains intimate. It’s not designed for those with mobility issues or very young children, but otherwise, it’s a carefully curated journey into Vietnam’s iconic waters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Luxurious cabins with private balconies ensure immersive views and personal space.
Explore both Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay, with Lan Ha offering peaceful, less crowded scenery.
Michelin-supervised dining promises gourmet meals with impressive presentation.
Activities include visiting Viet Hai Village and the Dark and Bright Cave, blending adventure with serenity.
Onboard amenities such as spa treatments, water sports, and live music enhance the experience.
Flexibility in dining preferences and optional excursions allow personalization of your trip.

Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Viet Hai Village

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your journey begins with a luxury transfer from Hanoi in a 7-seater limousine, with hotel pick-up in the Old Quarter available upon request. This smooth start ensures you’re not just thrown into the chaos of Hanoi traffic but transported comfortably to the port. Upon arrival at the Ambassador Lounge, you’ll check-in, where your luggage is tagged and delivered directly to your cabin — a small but appreciated touch that lets you relax immediately.

The speedboat transfer to the cruise ship is quick, giving you a taste of the maritime adventure ahead. Once aboard the Ambassador Signature, a warm welcome briefing will set the tone, emphasizing safety and what’s planned.

Day 1: Crusing & Cultural Stops

Your first meal, a buffet lunch, is served as you cruise through Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone islets. We loved the sense of awe watching these shapes rise from the water, especially as the ship glides past. After lunch, the highlight is the excursion to Viet Hai Village on an island in Lan Ha Bay. Traveling by electric buggy, you’ll explore rural scenes of fish farms, bee farms, and traditional houses, gaining a glimpse of local life untouched by mass tourism.

For those preferring a more relaxed pace, options include spa treatments (advance reservation recommended), enjoying the onboard water activities like swimming or sliding, or simply unwinding in the piano lounge with tea and sweets. Many reviews mention that the peaceful ambiance in Lan Ha Bay feels worlds away from bustling tourist spots, which we agree makes this a calming escape.

More Great Tours Nearby

Evening: Fine Dining & Entertainment

As the ship anchors in a scenic part of Lan Ha Bay, your evening begins with a Vietnamese cooking class followed by happy hour, live music, and canapés. The dinner, set on the sundeck, stands out as a genuine highlight—Michelin-supervised, beautifully presented, and served against a backdrop of shimmering waters and limestone silhouettes. If weather doesn’t cooperate, indoor dining is available, but many guests rave about the outdoor experience.

Post-dinner activities include live band music, drinks (additional costs apply), and optional night squid fishing or spa treatments. The cabins, equipped with complimentary soft Vietnamese cotton bathrobes, invite you to unwind comfortably.

While in Viet Hai Village, here are other experiences we've covered

Day 2: Morning Activities & Cave Exploration

The next morning offers a gentle start with Tai Chi on the sundeck, followed by a light breakfast. The day’s highlight is the visit to the Dark and Bright Cave, reachable via a short speedboat ride. Inside, you’ll paddle kayaks or row through tranquil lagoons surrounded by cliffs—an experience many reviews describe as “peaceful” and “serene.” The cave’s impressive limestone formations and quiet setting make for memorable photos.

Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to Hanoi, ending your seascape adventure feeling refreshed and inspired.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Diversity

While Ha Long Bay is renowned worldwide, it’s often crowded with tour boats. The Lan Ha Bay expansion in 2024 offers a less-trafficked alternative with similar jaw-dropping limestone formations. The tour’s dual focus allows you to enjoy both the well-known and the hidden gems, balancing crowds and tranquility.

Gourmet Experience

The Michelin-supervised cuisine is a true luxury, elevating the experience beyond standard cruise fare. Guests consistently praise the quality, presentation, and variety of meals, which include local Vietnamese dishes and international favorites. Dining under the stars on the sundeck is genuinely memorable.

Comfortable Accommodation

Each cabin’s private balcony offers uninterrupted views, making it easy to enjoy sunrise or sunset scenes from your room. The elegant decor and spacious layout ensure you feel pampered without feeling pretentious.

Practical Aspects & What You Should Know

Price & Value

At $770 per person, this tour is a premium experience. When you consider the luxury cabins, gourmet meals, activities, and transfers included, it offers solid value for travelers who prioritize comfort and authentic scenic experience. It’s not a budget option, but for a special occasion or a high-end adventure, it’s competitive.

Transportation & Logistics

The hotel pickup in Hanoi (Old Quarter) and speedboat transfer streamline the journey so you can focus on the scenery. The group size is private, meaning it’s tailored and intimate, yet large enough to ensure a lively atmosphere.

Duration & Suitability

A full 2-day itinerary offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural engagement. It’s perfect for adults, couples, or friends looking to escape Hanoi’s urban bustle. However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as some activities involve walking, boat rides, or stairs.

What to Bring

Pack essentials such as a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing. Remember, the dress code for dinner is semi-formal or smart casual—no shorts or sandals for men. Advance booking for spa treatments is recommended if you want to indulge.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Many reviews mention the stunning views and the tranquility of Lan Ha Bay, often describing it as “a peaceful retreat” away from the crowds of Ha Long. One guest appreciated the quietness and the fact that the whole experience felt “more exclusive and personal,” thanks to the smaller number of boats and the serene setting.

The gourmet meals receive high praise, with travelers describing the food as “delicious,” “beautifully plated,” and “a real highlight.” The caves are also highly rated, with visitors noting the calmness inside and the impressive limestone formations.

Some also point out that the price reflects the luxury experience, but they feel it’s worth paying for the comfort, quality, and exclusivity. Others mention that the timing of activities allows for a good balance between adventure and relaxation, avoiding long periods of inactivity.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a luxurious escape with stunning views, this cruise delivers on all fronts. The combination of high-end accommodations, gourmet dining, and peaceful exploration makes it stand out among Vietnam’s many seascape tours. It’s especially well-suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in comfort while soaking up some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful vistas.

However, the price point may be a consideration for budget travelers, or those looking for a more active, adventure-packed trip. The experience is designed for those who value relaxation, exclusivity, and fine cuisine, rather than roughing it or seeking a highly social, bustling atmosphere.

This cruise is a refined, authentic, and memorable way to experience Vietnam’s iconic waters, offering both scenic beauty and genuine luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is hotel pick-up available? Yes, hotel pick-up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter can be arranged with advance notice, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

How long does the transfer from Hanoi take? The drive in a luxury limousine generally takes around an hour, depending on traffic. The speedboat transfer from the port to the cruise ship is quick and included.

Are meals included? Yes, all meals, including a buffet lunch and fine dining dinner, are included. Special requests or indoor dining preferences should be communicated in advance.

What activities are included? Visitors can enjoy activities such as visiting Viet Hai Village, exploring Dark and Bright Cave, water sports, and a cooking class, all included or optional.

Can I participate in spa treatments? Yes, spa treatments are available by reservation, although they come at an extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for families? It’s best suited for adults, couples, or groups of friends. It’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues.

What should I bring? Pack a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Remember to bring formal or semi-formal attire for dinner.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

How much does the experience cost? At $770 per person, the price reflects the luxury level, gourmet meals, and included activities. It offers good value if you prioritize comfort and scenic beauty.

This 2D1N cruise through Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay offers a balanced mix of luxury, natural beauty, and authentic experiences. It’s a perfect pick for anyone wanting a memorable, comfortable escape into some of Vietnam’s most impressive seascapes.