Orchid Cruises 2 Days/1Night 5 Star All included

Experience the Majestic Halong Bay on Orchid Cruises’ 2-Day/1-Night All-Inclusive Tour

If you’re dreaming of floating among towering karst formations and tranquil waters, Orchid Cruises offers a luxurious and comprehensive way to explore Halong Bay from Hanoi. At $350 per person, this 5-star adventure promises a blend of comfort, natural beauty, and authentic Vietnamese experiences. The tour lasts approximately two days, with pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter included, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines the splendor of nature with delicious local cuisine—from a candlelit dinner on deck to a traditional tea ceremony. Plus, the optional activities like night squid fishing and massages give it a personalized touch that makes each visit memorable.

One potential consideration is the long travel day to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay, but with comfortable transport and a scenic drive, it’s a small price to pay for what follows. The tour is well-suited for those looking for a luxurious yet authentic experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, excellent food, and the chance to explore Cat Ba National Park and Trung Trang Cave. It also appeals to those who value professional guides, a small group setting, and an all-inclusive package that simplifies planning.

• Luxurious Comfort: Well-appointed cabins with balconies, plush amenities, and excellent service.
• Authentic Experiences: Activities like Vietnamese tea ceremonies, kayaking, and squid fishing bring local culture to life.
• Stunning Vistas: The cruise offers breathtaking views of Halong Bay’s iconic limestone karsts and tranquil waters.
• Excellent Food: Delicious, plentiful meals, including vegetarian options, served onboard.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter, smooth transportation, and all essentials included.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised for staff professionalism, scenery, and overall value.

Setting the Scene: Comfort Meets Authenticity

From the moment we are picked up from Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, it’s clear this is a well-organized, high-end experience. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the four-hour journey to Halong Bay comfortable, and the scenic drive over Vietnam’s newest bridge—the longest in Southeast Asia—sets a tone of modernity and grandeur. The transfer alone is a highlight, offering ample opportunities to spot Vietnamese countryside and coastal views.

Once at the Got Ferry Terminal in Haiphong, the excitement builds. You get a glimpse of local life, and the chance to experience the impressive ferry system that connects mainland Vietnam to the bay’s islands. The highlight is crossing over the bridge to Cat Hai Town, a striking piece of engineering that signifies how well-developed this region is.

First Impressions on Board

Boarding the cruise feels like stepping into a luxury retreat. The boat’s cabins are described as immaculate, offering balcony views—a feature many reviewers highlight as a favorite. The welcome drink and a detailed safety briefing put you at ease, setting the tone for a polished experience.

As the cruise departs, the views are simply unforgettable. The towering limestone formations rise sharply from the water, and the vastness of the bay makes you feel like you’re at the edge of the world. The stop at Da Chong Islet with its historic lighthouse is a lovely introduction to the area’s blend of natural and human history.

Day 1: Exploring Halong Bay’s Wonders

The itinerary includes a visit to Da Chong Islet, offering opportunities for fantastic photos and a peek at Vietnam’s maritime history. The highlight? The candlelight dinner onboard, which many reviews rave about as a romantic and memorable experience. The food is plentiful, with some reviewers mentioning the vegetarian options are especially good, prepared with spices and aromas that impress even the pickiest eaters.

For those interested, night squid fishing is available, a delightful activity that adds a dash of local flavor and fun. The crew is helpful and accommodating, making sure everyone gets a chance to participate or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Day 2: Active and Cultural Experiences

Early risers can partake in Tai Chi on the sun deck—an invigorating way to start the day—followed by a light breakfast. The real adventure begins with a canoe trip exploring the area around Toi Sang Cave, giving you a chance to get closer to the limestone formations and enjoy some peaceful paddling.

Later, the cruise offers a delicious brunch as you cruise back toward the mainland. The Vietnamese tea ceremony is a charming cultural touch, offering insights into local customs and a chance to relax before disembarking. Many reviewers mention how engaging and fun the crew makes this ceremony, blending tradition with friendliness.

The return journey is smooth, with plenty of time to reflect on the stunning vistas and memorable activities. The cruise’s small group atmosphere—max 30 travelers—adds to the intimacy and personalized feel.

Multiple travelers emphasize the high quality of guides, often mentioning how knowledgeable and friendly they are. One reviewer described the experience as “incredible,” especially praising the vegan dishes, which arrived with “spices and aromas to die for.” The boat’s cleanliness, as well as the staff’s professionalism, are consistently highlighted.

Another reviewer called it “worth doing,” pointing out the variety of activities—kayaking, swimming, even some dancing on deck—that kept the trip both relaxing and lively. The all-inclusive nature, with food and activities covered, is a significant plus, making the trip easy to enjoy without constantly checking your wallet.

What’s Not Perfect

One consideration is that the journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay is quite long—about four hours each way. While the scenery and comfort make it worthwhile, some travelers might prefer a shorter transfer or stay closer to the bay. Plus, the tour is non-refundable, so it’s important to be certain of travel dates.

• Transport: The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive manageable, but prepare for a early start (~9 am pickup).
• Group Size: With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour balances social camaraderie with intimacy.
• Meals: All meals are included, with good variety and vegetarian options, so you won’t be left hungry.
• Activities: Optional activities like massages cost extra but are available, giving you a chance to indulge.
• Duration: Two days is enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed, but be prepared for a busy schedule.
• Booking in Advance: It’s popular—book around 172 days ahead on average—so plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience with a focus on stunning scenery and cultural activities. It suits those who value comfort and convenience but want authentic experiences, like the tea ceremony or kayaking. It’s great for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a well-organized trip with lots of variety.

If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway that combines nature, food, and culture, Orchid Cruises hits the mark. Just remember, if you’re short on time or prefer a more independent adventure, alternative options might be worth exploring.

How early should I book this tour? The tour is quite popular, with an average booking window of about 172 days, so planning ahead is wise to secure your spot.

Is pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, simplifying your day.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers all meals for two days, guide services, entrance fees, pickup and drop-off, and accommodation on the cruise.

Are drinks included? No, drinks to order are not included, so you’ll want to bring extra cash if you’d like alcohol or specialty beverages.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with your guide about specific accessibility needs.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, sun protection, a hat, camera, and possibly a light jacket for the evening or early morning activities.

To sum it up, Orchid Cruises offers a well-rounded, comfortable, and visually stunning way to experience Halong Bay. It’s especially suited for those who value luxury, good food, and authentic local activities. The consistent praise for professional guides and breathtaking views makes it a strong choice for travelers seeking a memorable Vietnamese adventure. Just remember to book early and prepare for a full but rewarding itinerary that showcases one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.