Mon Cheri Cruises 2 Day 1 Night

A comprehensive look at Mon Cheri Cruises’ 2 Day 1 Night tour in Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island.

This cruise experience offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural activities, and comfortable luxury. For $395 per person, you’ll spend roughly 18 hours exploring one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking coastal areas, with highlights including the Dark and Bright caves, kayaking adventures, and a visit to Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve. Warm, attentive service is a recurring theme, with guests praising the crew, especially hosts like Jasmine and Andy, for making the trip memorable.

What really draws us to this tour is the chance to see Lan Ha Bay’s limestone karsts at their best—whether from the deck, kayaking, or swimming in the emerald waters. The cave visits and the optional spa treatments add a layer of relaxing luxury that makes the experience feel special. Also, the included cooking class (focused on Vietnamese spring rolls) offers an authentic, hands-on cultural touch that travelers love.

One potential consideration is the fixed schedule and non-refundable policy, which means if weather turns foul or your plans change, you might face some inconvenience. Still, most travelers find the payoff worth the commitment. This tour suits those who want a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally engaging experience with a good value for their money—perfect for first-timers or travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Stunning views of limestone formations and caves in Lan Ha Bay.
• Engaging activities like kayaking, swimming, and a Vietnamese cooking demo.
• Comfortable cruise amenities including jacuzzi, good food, and attentive service.
• Balanced schedule with stops on Cat Ba Island and free time to enjoy the scenery.
• Excellent reviews praising the crew, food, and overall experience.
• Value-driven experience with all entrance fees and meals included.

An in-depth look at the Mon Cheri Cruises 2D1N experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour packs a lot into roughly 18 hours, starting early in the morning and ending late afternoon of the second day. We appreciate how it balances activity with relaxation—making it suitable for a variety of travelers.

Day 1: Lan Ha Bay Exploration

Your day begins with a hotel pickup—note there’s an extra charge, so budget accordingly if you prefer this convenience. You’ll arrive at the cruise port around noon, where the vessel awaits. The boarding experience feels warm and welcoming, with fresh food served during a hearty lunch that includes local delicacies. The emphasis on local cuisine is a highlight, especially if you love fresh seafood or traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Post-lunch, the real adventure starts. A visit to the Dark and Bright caves offers two options: bamboo boat rides or kayaking. These caves are impressive limestone formations with stalactites that appear like sculptures, and many guests describe the experience as “interesting” and “beautiful,” especially with the limestone mountains framing the view. One guest reviewer mentions paddling through the caves and enjoying “the truest beauty” of the area, highlighting how engaging these activities are.

Later in the afternoon, you can choose to swim in the emerald waters or relax on the deck, enjoying the mini pool and jacuzzi—a nice touch to unwind with scenic views. Returning to the boat, you’ll join a cooking demonstration where you get to try your hand at making Vietnamese spring rolls. The included happy hour (buy one, get one free) adds a social element before dinner.

Evening and Nightlife

Dinner is served at the cruise’s restaurant, featuring a romantic setting with possibly soft music and panoramic views. Many reviews mention the “impeccable” service and tasty food, making the whole day feel like a luxurious retreat. After dinner, the ship offers a glimpse into the bay’s nightlife, perfect for night owls or those seeking a peaceful star-gazing session.

Day 2: Cat Ba Island and Biosphere Visit

Morning begins with a Tai-chi class on the deck—an excellent way to start the day physically and mentally refreshed. Breakfast offers familiar options like Pho, Bun Ca, tea, and coffee, providing energy for the activities ahead.

The highlight of the second day is the visit to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, part of the Biosphere Reserve. The limestone cave features thousands of stalactites, presenting a fascinating geological landscape. Guests describe the ecosystem as “typical” and the cave visually captivating.

After the cave visit, you’ll check out of your room and enjoy a lunch (additional charges may apply). The cruise then heads back to the port, bringing this scenic, activity-packed journey to a close.

What We Like About This Tour

First, the scenery is spectacular. The limestone formations, caves, and waters provide endless photo opportunities—many guests say the views are “beautiful” and “impressive.” The inclusion of kayaking and swimming means you don’t just sit back, but actively engage with the environment, which enhances the sense of adventure.

Second, the service and food quality consistently receive praise. From friendly hosts like Jasmine and Andy to the fresh, well-prepared meals, this adds a layer of comfort and authenticity that elevates the experience beyond a simple day cruise.

A Possible Drawback

The main consideration is the non-refundable policy. If the weather isn’t cooperative or if plans change last minute, you might be stuck with a non-refundable booking. Also, the extra charges for transportation and certain services mean you’ll want to budget carefully.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive taste of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural activities like cooking. The reviews suggest that it suits travelers seeking authentic scenery and good value, especially since all meals and entrance fees are included.

Full Breakdown: What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Scenic Highlights

Lan Ha Bay is often overshadowed by Halong Bay but offers equally stunning limestone towers and clear waters. The inclusion of activities like kayaking and swimming helps you experience the bay’s natural beauty firsthand. Guests mention the caves as “interesting” and “beautiful,” with many appreciating the chance to paddle through limestone formations.

Cultural and Authentic Experiences

The cooking class focused on making spring rolls is a delightful way to connect with Vietnamese cuisine. Many travelers find this hands-on activity a memorable part of the trip, giving a taste of local life beyond the scenic views.

The Cruise Comforts

The vessel offers modern amenities such as a jacuzzi, mini pool, and spacious decks—elements that make relaxing after excursions easy and enjoyable. The meals served are valued for their freshness and variety, with reviews mentioning “delicious” and “appetizing” food.

Activities and Adventure

Kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing are included, giving you options beyond just sightseeing. Guests consistently enjoy paddling around the caves, with some raving about the “interesting activity” and the chance to explore the caves from the water.

Value for Money

With all entrance fees and meals included, the price point of $395 per person offers good value, especially considering the quality of the food and services. Extra costs are limited to optional transportation and personal expenses, making it straightforward to budget.

The Authentic Touch

Guests appreciate the personalized service from staff like Jasmine and Andy. Many reviews note how attentive and friendly the crew were, creating an atmosphere where travelers felt cared for and welcomed.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers eager to experience the stunning natural scenery of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island without sacrificing comfort, this cruise offers a compelling package. The beautiful limestone caves, kayaking adventures, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine make it a memorable escape. The boat’s amenities and attentive crew further enhance the experience, making it suitable for those who appreciate a bit of luxury alongside adventure.

It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a well-organized, scenic, and engaging tour. The reviews are glowing, focusing on the views, food, and friendly staff, which speaks well of its reputation. However, if you’re sensitive to rigid schedules or worried about weather disruptions, be aware of the non-refundable policy.

This tour provides great value and a genuine taste of Vietnam’s coastal beauty, blending relaxation, activity, and cultural insight into a memorable trip.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance fees, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, brunch), kayaking, and squid fishing are included, making it straightforward to understand the total cost.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts roughly 18 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon of the second day, with most activities scheduled during daylight hours.

Is transportation to the cruise port provided?
Pickup is offered at an additional charge, but most travelers find it convenient. You can also make your way to the port independently.

What kind of activities can I expect?
Kayaking, swimming, cave visits, and a Vietnamese cooking class. There’s also optional activities like squid fishing and relaxing in the jacuzzi.

Are meals vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, reviewers mention special vegetarian meals were provided, and the food is generally praised for its freshness and variety.

What is the accommodation like?
While the review focuses on the cruise experience, the vessel appears comfortable and well-equipped, with amenities like jacuzzis and spacious decks.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’re offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour typically has a small group maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I customize the activities?
The schedule is fixed, but most guests enjoy the planned activities. Special requests might be accommodated if communicated beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the activities and relaxed pace make it suitable for families, especially those traveling with older children who can kayak or swim.

This cruise blends scenic beauty, cultural engagement, and comfort, making it a highly recommended choice for travelers looking to explore Vietnam’s coast in style and authenticity.