Visit Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay Over Night on 3 Star Cruise, All included

Visit Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay Over Night on 3 Star Cruise, All included

A trip to Vietnam wouldn’t be complete without exploring Halong Bay, famously called “heaven on earth” by locals. This particular 2-day, 3-star cruise offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic scenery, all from a comfortable vessel that keeps the crowds at bay by focusing on the lesser-visited Bai Tu Long Bay. For $135 per person, you get a well-rounded experience that includes hotel transfers, all meals, and a variety of optional activities—making it excellent value for such a memorable setting.

What we love about this tour is how flexible it is—you can sail on deck, kayak through limestone tunnels, or explore stunning caves, and the crew makes it easy with inclusive extras like a cooking demonstration and a welcome drink. Plus, waking up in your private cabin with views of water and soaring limestone cliffs is a real treat. The only potential downside? Since the tour is limited to 8 travelers, it’s a cozy, intimate experience, but that also means booking early is wise if you want a spot. This trip suits travelers looking for an authentic, scenic escape that balances activity and downtime, especially if you prefer avoiding the huge crowds often associated with more commercial tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focus on Bai Tu Long Bay offers quieter, less crowded scenery.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, activities, and transfers are included, providing excellent value.
• Flexible Activities: Kayaking, swimming, cave visits, and even a cooking demo cater to many interests.
• Stunning Visuals: Limestone islands and serene lagoons create picture-perfect scenery.
• Intimate Setting: Small group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention.
• Good for Relaxers & Adventurers: The itinerary offers plenty of options for both laid-back and active travelers.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Journey Begins: Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay

Your adventure kicks off early with a shuttle pickup from your Hanoi hotel (preferably in the Old Quarter). The comfortable bus ride helps you settle into the vibe before arriving at Tuan Chau International harbor, where you’ll board the Peace Charm Cruise. The briefing and welcome drink set the tone for a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Day 1: Discovering Bai Tu Long Bay’s Hidden Gems

By midday, you’re cruising into Bai Tu Long Bay—a quieter stretch of water that offers stunning limestone formations without the crowds. The buffet lunch onboard provides a variety of options, including vegetarian choices, so there’s something for all. We loved the way the food was presented—deliciously fresh and beautifully served, making the most of the scenic setting.

The highlight of the afternoon is visiting Sung Sot Cave (“Surprising Cave”), which is considered one of the largest and most impressive in the area. Walking through its chambers reveals sparkling stalactites and stalagmites, a natural wonder that’s both awe-inspiring and slightly cool after the daytime heat. The guided tour inside is informative, giving you context about the limestone formations and their significance.

Following the cave visit, the cruise offers opportunities for kayaking through limestone tunnels into tranquil lagoons, or simply relaxing on deck. Watching wild monkeys playing on the cliffs is a charming bonus, and the waters are warm enough for swimming or jumping off the boat into the emerald-green sea.

The late afternoon is reserved for a Sunset Party—a perfect chance to unwind, admire the changing colors of the sky, and toast to a day well spent. As night falls, the boat anchors in a peaceful lagoon, where you’ll enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring beautiful fruit and vegetable carvings, along with tasty local dishes. You might find yourself socializing with fellow travelers over squid fishing or just relaxing under the stars.

Day 2: A Scenic Wake-Up and Return to Hanoi

Your second morning begins with a calming Tai Chi session or a chance to snap photos of the morning light reflecting on the water. After breakfast, you’ll hike up Titop Mountain—a rewarding, if steep, 340-step climb that offers 360-degree views of the bay, including Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. The descent takes you to a natural sand Ti Top beach—a perfect spot for a dip and some relaxing in the sun.

As the cruise moves towards the harbor, you’ll enjoy a cooking demonstration—a fun, interactive way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine. The lunch buffet onboard wraps up your cruise experience, and you’ll disembark with plenty of photos and memories of limestone islands, tranquil waters, and scenic vistas.

Return to Hanoi & Practicalities

The bus ride back to Hanoi is about 4-5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on your trip. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. The small group size enhances the personal experience, and the inclusion of all meals and activities means you don’t need to worry about extra costs—just bring your sunglasses, insect repellent, and sense of adventure.

Authentic Experiences & Genuine Value

This cruise prioritizes authenticity and comfort. The focus on Bai Tu Long Bay means fewer crowds, allowing for more intimate moments with nature. We loved the way the crew takes care of small details—like offering a welcome drink and guiding you through kayaking or cave visits—making sure everyone feels included.

The delicious meals are a highlight; fresh seafood, Vietnamese specialties, and beautifully carved fruit displays showcase local flavors in a scenic setting. The cave visits and Titop Mountain hike provide a good mix of adventure and sightseeing, without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

Considering the price—around $135—this package offers excellent value, especially with all meals, transfers, and activities included. It’s a great choice if you want to see the stunning limestone islands without the chaos of larger tour groups or more expensive options.

Authentic, Relaxed, and Scenic

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as standout features. As one reviewer put it, “Honestly this is the best place to do bookings in Hanoi!” The small group size means you get personalized attention and a more relaxed experience, far from the hustle of big tours.

Potential Drawbacks

The only consideration might be the limited group size—for some, this means booking early. Also, since the tour is focused on Bai Tu Long Bay, if your main interest is the more crowded Halong Bay, this might not be the best choice. The tour timings are fairly packed, but that’s typical for such trips, and the balance of activity and relaxation is well maintained.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who want a highly authentic and peaceful experience, away from the crowds, but still with plenty of options for activity. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small-group travel, scenic landscapes, and a mix of gentle adventure and downtime. If you’re keen on local food, cave exploration, and stunning mountain views, this trip hits all those marks. It’s also a good fit for travelers who value inclusive pricing and seamless logistics.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a scenic escape that offers beautiful limestone islands, quiet lagoons, and engaging activities at a reasonable price, this 2-day cruise on Bai Tu Long Bay is a solid choice. It combines the natural beauty of Vietnam’s waters with comfortable accommodations and thoughtful extras. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the included activities keep everyone engaged without feeling rushed.

While it might not be the best choice for travelers seeking a luxury experience or a full-day Halong Bay tour, it’s ideal for those wanting a more intimate, authentic slice of Vietnamese coast. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour offers a delightful mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation—without the overwhelming crowds.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer included?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free hotel pickups from Hanoi Old Quarter and transfers back after the trip.

What activities are included?
You can enjoy kayaking, swimming, cave exploring, a cooking demonstration, and squid fishing, all included in the package.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals on the boat are provided, including vegetarian options, with a buffet lunch on the second day and dinner on the first night.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunblock, insect repellent, swimming suits, warm clothes if visiting in winter, and your passport.

Is there a snorkeling or swimming activity?
While the tour offers swimming and kayaking, snorkeling is not explicitly mentioned, but swimming in the bay’s waters is a popular option.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This experience offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural experience, and relaxed fun—ideal for those looking to explore Vietnam’s stunning waters in a small-group setting that prioritizes authenticity and comfort.