Mon Chéri Cruise 5 star: Unique 2 Days Tuan Chau – Halong bay – Lan Ha Bay

Planning a trip to Vietnam and craving a memorable experience on the water? If so, the Mon Chéri Cruise offers an impressive way to explore the stunning Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay over two days. Priced at $195 per person, this highly-rated (5.0-star) cruise combines scenic cruising, cultural activities, and luxurious comfort. With over 2,300 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, it’s clear many travelers find real value in this experience.

What sets this cruise apart? For starters, you’ll enjoy ample time to really soak in the scenery — swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing at your leisure — plus the chance to explore caves at Cat Ba Island. The cruise’s luxury touches, including oceanside suites, fine Vietnamese dining, and cooking classes, make it a lovely choice for those wanting comfort without sacrificing authenticity. We also appreciate the included sunset and sunrise photography opportunities, perfect for capturing memorable moments.

That said, a couple of considerations are worth noting. The cruise does involve some additional costs, such as a $20 USD limousine transfer from Hanoi, and the group size maxes out at 35, which might be tight for those seeking a more secluded experience. This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded mix of adventure, comfort, and culture, particularly those who enjoy active days on the water and scenic photography.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Explore both Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, including caves and islands.
• Flexible Activities: Swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing are all included, with opportunities for sunset and sunrise photos.
• Comfort and Cuisine: Ocean-view suites, Vietnamese dishes, and cooking classes enrich the journey.
• Full Schedule: Two days with a well-structured itinerary, including overnight stays and cultural experiences.
• Additional Costs: Optional limousine transfers and drinks are extra; consider these when budgeting.
• Group Size: Limited to 35 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Mon Chéri Cruise Experience

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers

From the moment you step aboard the Mon Chéri Cruise at Got Pier in Hai Phong, you are entering a world of comfort paired with breathtaking natural beauty. For about two days, you’ll glide through the limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves that make these bays so famous. The cruise costs $195, which covers most essentials — meals, activities, and an overnight stay — making it quite reasonable compared to many other luxury options.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation. The journey starts at Lan Ha Bay, where the cruise sets sail around noon, giving you the chance to enjoy a sumptuous Vietnamese lunch as you cruise through scenic canals heading toward Halong Bay. As the boat glides along, you’ll marvel at the spectacular views that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

One of the standout features is the two-day timeframe. This is enough to escape the day-trippers on the main routes and truly experience the tranquility of the bays. Plus, the opportunity to photograph sunsets and sunrises over the water is a rare treat that many reviews highlight as a major highlight.

Day 1: From Lan Ha Bay to Halong Bay

Your adventure begins around midday at Got Pier, where you’ll board the cruise, greeted warmly by staff. The lunch on board is praised for its variety and Vietnamese flavors, with one reviewer noting, “Food was different varieties of Vietnamese food and awesome.” This indicates a focus on local cuisine, which adds to the cultural authenticity.

After lunch, the cruise sails through Lan Ha Bay, a quieter, less crowded alternative to the more touristy parts of Halong Bay, but equally beautiful. Expect to see dramatic limestone formations, tiny islands, and perhaps some secluded beaches. The cruise includes a traditional bamboo boat ride through caves, offering an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s maritime traditions — a feature that many find charming and unique.

The afternoon then transitions to exploring Halong Bay, where you can enjoy the vast vistas, take part in kayaking, or simply bask in the sun. The reviews consistently mention how courteous and helpful the crew are, making the entire journey smooth and enjoyable.

Day 2: Exploring Cat Ba Island and Additional Scenic Stops

On the second day, the focus shifts to Cat Ba Island, where you can visit caves and admire more spectacular scenery. The inclusion of caves at Cat Ba adds an adventurous element, giving you a break from just cruising and swimming. Visitors often comment on the “wonderful scenery” and the chance to take photos of sunrise or sunset, which adds a magical touch to the trip.

Breakfast is served on the boat, followed by optional activities like swimming or relaxing on deck. The cruise finishes back at the meeting point in Hai Phong, with the option to book a limousine transfer for an extra $20 USD, which many find convenient after a long day.

What We Loved About the Experience

One of the most appreciated aspects is the balance of activities and relaxation. The inclusion of kayaking, swimming, and sunbathing means you can tailor the trip to your energy level. The luxury suites and high-quality meals elevate the experience beyond basic boat tours, making it more comfortable especially after a day of sightseeing.

Another highlight is the authentic cultural experience. The traditional bamboo boat ride and Vietnamese cuisine give you a taste of local life and flavors, which many reviews emphasize as memorable. The photography opportunities during sunrise and sunset add a personal, artistic element that keeps the experience vivid long after.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While the cruise offers a lot, it’s worth noting that additional costs like drinks are not included, so budgeting for beverages is wise. Also, the group size maxes out at 35, which might feel a bit crowded during busy times, though most travelers seem to find this manageable.

The limousine transfer from Hanoi costs extra ($20 USD), which can be a worthwhile convenience, but it is an additional expense to factor into your overall budget. Packing appropriately — including essentials for sun protection and casual smart attire for dinners and activities — will ensure you enjoy the trip comfortably.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want active days with swimming, kayaking, and cave exploration, balanced by comfortable accommodations and good food. If you’re after a photo-rich experience, the sunrise and sunset views plus the caves provide plenty of opportunities. It suits those who enjoy group tours but still want a personalized feel, thanks to the limited size.

Travelers who value local culture will appreciate the Vietnamese dishes and bamboo boat rides. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for value for money — the price covers most activities and meals, offering a comprehensive experience at a fair cost.

Final Thoughts: Is the Mon Chéri Cruise for You?

In the end, this cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic, and luxurious way to explore the stunning waters of northern Vietnam. It’s especially suitable for those who want to maximize scenery and activities within a manageable two-day itinerary — perfect for a short trip or a flexible add-on to Hanoi.

If you’re after peaceful mornings with sunrise photography, adventure activities like kayaking and cave visits, and a taste of Vietnamese hospitality and cuisine, this cruise ticks all those boxes. The high reviews and consistent praise suggest it delivers on its promises.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an extremely secluded experience or very low-cost options, you might find other alternatives more suitable. But for most travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic, and culturally enriching escape, the Mon Chéri Cruise stands out as a top choice.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
No, the cruise does not include transportation from Hanoi. However, a limousine transfer from Hanoi Old Quarter to the cruise pier is available for an additional $20 USD per person.

What is included in the price?
The $195 price covers accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as per the itinerary, all activities like kayaking and cave visits, local guide, taxes and fees, and bottled water.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package. Expect to pay extra for alcohol or soft drinks during meals or at the bar.

How many people are on the cruise?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, which creates a more intimate atmosphere but still lively enough for group activities.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. Child rates apply only when sharing with two paying adults.

What should I pack?
Bring smart casual attire, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, swimwear, and cameras for capturing the scenery. Don’t forget any personal necessities, and check luggage restrictions if bringing extra bags.

In sum, the Mon Chéri Cruise offers an engaging, scenic, and comfortable way to experience northern Vietnam’s iconic bays. Whether you’re after spectacular photos, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing on the deck, this tour provides good value and genuine enjoyment.