Mila Cruises 3 Day Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi

Experience the Serenity of Halong Bay on Mila Cruises’ 3-Day Tour from Hanoi

Imagine gliding through towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, surrounded by silence broken only by the gentle lapping of waves. This is Halong Bay, Vietnam’s most iconic landscape—and with Mila Cruises’ 3-day Explore Halong Bay tour, you get a blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic experiences. Starting with a convenient pickup from Hanoi, your journey takes you to the Tuan Chau Marina, where you’ll board a beautifully appointed vessel blending rustic charm with touches of European elegance.

At just $377 per person, this cruise offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to relax, indulge in flavorful food, and explore the hidden corners of this UNESCO World Heritage site. We particularly appreciate the spacious rooms with private balconies that afford panoramic views of the bay—imagine waking up to the sight of limestone peaks shimmering in the morning light. Plus, the itinerary includes well-paced activities that avoid the usual rushed feel, giving you ample time to truly soak in the scenery.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite full, with a packed schedule of visits and activities, so if you prefer a very slow, leisure-focused experience, you might find the timing a bit tight. Also, while the food is generally well-received, some reviews mention that drinks are extra and snacks are limited, so consider bringing your own if you’re particularly hungry or thirsty.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a combination of comfort and adventure—whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see the highlights or someone craving a taste of the quieter, more secluded parts of Halong Bay. If you love beautiful scenery, good food, and a guided itinerary that balances activity with relaxation, this cruise could be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Luxurious accommodations with private balconies and panoramic views
• Well-organized itinerary balancing sightseeing, activities, and downtime
• Authentic experiences like cooking demonstrations and kayaking
• Delicious Vietnamese cuisine and international dishes included
• Comfortable transportation from Hanoi, with group size capped at 48
• Extra charges for drinks and optional services like massages

A Thorough Look at the Mila Cruises Experience

Starting in Hanoi & Transfers to Halong Bay

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup at 8:30 am from your Hanoi hotel. The coach ride offers a chance to enjoy the scenic Red River Delta and get a glimpse of rural Vietnam. It’s about a 3-hour drive to Tuan Chau Marina, where the boat awaits. This transfer is a key comfort feature—no need to fuss over logistics, just relax and look forward to the scenery ahead.

Embarking on Mila Cruises & First Impressions

Once on board, you’re welcomed with a refreshing drink and a short briefing. The boat’s interior is cozy, with hardwood fittings and plush seating that make it feel like a floating boutique hotel. Check-in is straightforward, and you can settle into your spacious stateroom—many of which feature private balconies, ideal for morning coffees or sunset drinks, as some reviews highlight.

Day 1: Iconic Sights & Unique Activities

Your first day is packed with sights and experiences. By 12:30 pm, you’ll dine on Vietnamese and international cuisine while cruising past famous islets like Incense Burner, Dog Stone, and Fighting Cock Islet—all photogenic spots that make for memorable photos.

In the afternoon, you visit a Pearl Farm, an engaging stop that provides insight into traditional pearl cultivation. Kayaking here is a popular activity, allowing you to approach the bay’s towering limestone formations up close and personal. Many travelers, including one reviewer, enjoyed the kayaking as a peaceful way to explore hidden corners of the bay.

Later, you’ll visit Sung Sot Cave, the largest limestone cave in the area. The stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over millions of years, are a natural wonder. It involves a steep climb (so wear proper shoes), but the spectacular formations are worth the effort. Given the cave’s size and beauty, it’s a highlight that many travelers fondly recall, describing it as “magnificent.”

Evening: Sunset & Culinary Delights

As the sun sets, the cruise offers a cooking demonstration on the sundeck. This is a chance to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes, which many guests appreciate for adding an authentic touch to their experience. The happy hour—buy two drinks, get one free—sets a relaxed tone, and some reviews note that the food served during dinner is beautifully presented and tasty, making the most of fresh seafood and local flavors.

You’ll find plenty of ways to unwind—playing cards, watching movies, or enjoying a massage (extra cost). The peaceful ambiance of the bay at night is often described as “unforgettable,” especially when combined with stargazing and the gentle rocking of the boat.

Day 2: Exploring Lan Ha Bay & More

The second day begins early with Tai Chi at dawn—an activity that many reviews praise as a serene way to start the day. After breakfast, a day boat takes you to Lan Ha Bay, notable for its quieter, less-crowded scenery compared to Halong Bay.

Highlights include kayaking at Bright and Dark Cave areas, swimming at Ba Trai Dao beaches, and exploring Me Cung Cave. Each activity offers different ways to connect with the landscape: floating through caves, basking on sands, or simply taking in the crystal-clear waters. Many reviews mention the beautiful beaches and the peaceful, untouched feel of Lan Ha Bay, making it a favorite for travelers seeking tranquility away from tourist crowds.

In the evening, another cooking demo on the deck, along with sunset snacks, continues the relaxed, social vibe. The sunset on the sundeck is consistently praised as a magical moment, with some reviews mentioning it as “dyeing the sky in orange and pink.”

Day 3: Final Highlights & Return to Hanoi

Your last morning starts again with Tai Chi and a leisurely breakfast. The highlight is a visit to Titov Island, famous for its sandy beach and panoramic views from the top of the limestone hill. An energetic hike rewards you with stunning vistas of the bay.

Afterward, the cruise begins its return to Tuan Chau Marina, with brunch aboard as you soak in the final views. Disembarkation is around 11:30 am, and the journey back to Hanoi takes about 2 hours.

What Travelers Say & Why It Matters

Multiple reviews highlight the professional and friendly staff, which makes the whole experience more enjoyable. One reviewer described the spacious rooms with private balconies as “the perfect way to wake up to the view,” resonating with many guests who value comfort.

Food is frequently praised for being fresh and well-prepared, especially the seafood and Vietnamese dishes. The cooked demonstrations and local cuisine add an authentic flavor to the cruise. However, some mention extra charges for drinks and limited snacks, so packing a few extras might improve your experience.

The balanced itinerary with well-spaced stops and optional activities like kayaking, swimming, and cave visits allows travelers to tailor their day. The small group size (up to 48) ensures a more intimate atmosphere, which many find preferable over larger, more commercial cruises.

Considerations & Tips

If you’re not a fan of early mornings, the Tai Chi sessions at 6:15 am might be a challenge but are highly valued by many for starting the day peacefully. The cost of drinks and extras, like massages, is not included, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge. Also, weather can affect certain activities, so be flexible and prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized experience with plenty of opportunities to explore Halong Bay’s hidden spots at a relaxed pace. If you appreciate delicious food, authentic activities, and stunning scenery, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who value genuine hospitality and small, intimate group settings that make the experience feel tailored.

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentically Vietnamese adventure with a good balance of activity and downtime, Mila Cruises delivers a memorable three days on the water.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included? Yes, the tour includes a pickup and transfer from your Hanoi hotel to the marina, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the cruise last? The entire experience spans roughly three days, with pick-up early in the morning and disembarkation around midday on the third day.

Are meals provided? Yes, all onboard meals are included, featuring both Vietnamese and international cuisine, with options like seafood and fusion dishes. Drinks, however, are extra.

What activities are included? Expect kayaking, cooking demonstrations, Tai Chi sessions, visits to caves and beaches, and optional activities like squid fishing and massage.

Is the tour suitable for children or solo travelers? The tour generally caters to most travelers, with a maximum group size of 48. While not specified for children, the activities are family-friendly, and the relaxed pace suits solo travelers seeking company.

Can I cancel or change my booking? This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Be sure of your dates before reserving.

To sum it up, Mila Cruises’ 3-day Halong Bay tour offers a balanced, comfortable, and authentic way to experience Vietnam’s most famous natural wonder. With stunning vistas, engaging activities, and delicious food, it’s an ideal option for those seeking scenic beauty without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive taste of Halong Bay, or seasoned travelers craving a peaceful escape, this cruise provides a memorable journey on the water.