2 Day Halong Bay Tour with Chill Cruise from Hanoi Vietnam

An Honest Look at the 2-Day Halong Bay Tour with Chill Cruise from Hanoi

Travelers craving a taste of Vietnam’s most iconic seascape will find this 2-day Halong Bay tour with Chill Cruise offers a well-rounded, memorable experience. Hosted by Mekong Tourist, this cruise combines comfort, adventure, and cultural insights, all wrapped in a sleek package for around $268 per person. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, this trip promises a taste of everything that makes Halong Bay special.

What we love most? First, the stunning vistas from the boat and islands. Second, the delicious buffet lunches and tapas-style dinners that showcase Vietnamese flavors. Third, the thoughtful pace that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural stops. A possible hitch? The tour is quite full on the second day, so if you prefer a slower, more flexible pace, you might find it a bit busy.

This tour suits travelers who want an immersive experience without sacrificing comfort—perfect for those who love scenery, good food, and a touch of adventure. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for an all-in-one package that combines sightseeing, cultural stops, and relaxing moments on the water.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The cruise offers panoramic vistas of Halong Bay’s limestone karsts and islands.
Cultural Stops: Visit Tung Sau Pearl Farm and Sung Sot Cave, adding depth to the experience.
Comfort & Value: A luxury cabin, all meals, and sightseeing are included at a reasonable price.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Sundecks, outdoor Jacuzzi, and live music create a laid-back vibe.
Active Options: Kayaking and swimming are available, offering fun ways to get closer to nature.
Well-Organized Itinerary: Timed stops balance sightseeing and relaxation, reducing travel stress.

Introduction: What This Tour Offers

If you’re looking for a way to experience Halong Bay’s breathtaking beauty without the hassle of planning every detail, this 2-day Chill Cruise might just be what you need. It’s a packaged journey that promises comfortable accommodations, plenty of sightseeing, and chances to unwind amid some of Vietnam’s most iconic scenery.

Our review will walk you through the highlights, the practical details, and what makes this trip stand out—or fall short. It’s a balanced look at what you can expect from the experience, based on the tour’s itinerary, included amenities, and insights from travelers who’ve already taken the plunge.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The adventure begins early, with pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 8:15 and 8:45 am. This door-to-door service is convenient, especially after a night of exploring Hanoi’s bustling streets. The drive itself is about 2-3 hours, giving you a taste of the rural landscape en route.

Upon arriving at Bai Chay, you’ll check in at 35 Bai Chay, Halong—a straightforward process that gets you quickly onto the boat. The Boss Cruise, in particular, is notable for being the largest vessel in Halong Bay, giving a sense of spaciousness and stability on the water.

Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch with spectacular views. The ship’s large windows ensure that every bite comes with a side of scenery, making the meal both delicious and visually pleasing. Several reviews mention the quality of the food—the buffet includes local and international options, served hot and fresh.

Afternoon activities include a visit to the Tung Sau Pearl Farm, where traditional Vietnamese and Japanese techniques combine to produce pearls. This is a peaceful stop that also offers opportunities for kayaking—if you’re feeling adventurous. Reviewers appreciated the relaxed pace here, noting it’s a chance to learn about Vietnam’s pearl industry and get some fresh air.

Next, the highlight is Titov Island, where you can swim or climb the 100-meter summit for panoramic views of the bay. It’s a popular stop, with many noting the climb is doable for most and offers breathtaking scenery at the top. Those not keen on hiking can relax with homemade cakes in the lounge or indulge in the spa or Jacuzzi.

As the sun sets, the boat anchors for the night, with live music and cocktails creating a lively, convivial atmosphere. Guests often mention the dinner, which is a chef-curated menu served in a formal or semi-formal setting—adding a special touch to the evening. The onboard entertainment, including live bands and optional squid fishing, keeps the energy lively into the late hours.

Day 2: Exploring More of Halong Bay

The second day kicks off with a gentle Tai Chi session on the deck, a calming way to start the morning. Then, a light breakfast is served, setting you up for the day ahead.

The main attraction is the Sung Sot Cave, the largest in the bay. Its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, some resembling animals or other figures, impress many visitors. The cave’s vast chambers and mysterious formations are a highlight, making it a must-see for first-timers.

Following the cave, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast at the restaurant before departing the boat for disembarkation. The check-out process is straightforward, and you’ll arrive back at Halong International Cruise Port by mid-morning.

The tour concludes with a drop-off at the Old Quarter in Hanoi around 3:30 pm, giving you the afternoon free to explore more of Vietnam’s capital or relax after your sea adventure.

What Makes the Experience Valuable?

Comfort and Convenience

Staying overnight on the largest boat in Halong Bay means ample space and stability, especially important if you’re prone to seasickness. The cabins are described as luxurious, with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and complimentary water—making the stay comfortable without extra costs.

The pickup service from Hanoi adds convenience, saving you from the logistical stress of organizing transport. The included air-conditioned vehicle ensures you arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the trip.

Food and Drink

Meals are a standout feature, with the buffet lunch and chef’s dinner highlighting Vietnamese cuisine. The tour also offers canapes and happy hour, making happy hour a great way to unwind with new friends over drinks. Many reviews note the quality and freshness of the food, which adds significant value, especially on a tour that’s fully catered.

Sightseeing and Activities

Highlights like Tung Sau Pearl Farm, Titov Island, and Sung Sot Cave add cultural and natural depth. Kayaking, swimming, and relaxing in the Jacuzzi give you options to get active or simply chill.

Guests also appreciate the timed schedule, which maximizes sightseeing while leaving room for relaxation. The sunset anchoring and live music provide a memorable ambiance for dinner and socializing.

Additional Perks

The onboard entertainment—live bands, movies, spa treatments—enhances the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise. The two bottles of water per cabin daily and the insurance included make for a hassle-free trip.

Practical Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is comprehensive, the busy schedule might feel rushed for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. The second day’s activities, especially the cave exploration and disembarkation, are quite packed in a short window.

The cost of optional extras like kayaking ($20) or spa treatments (from $20) can add up if you indulge. Beverages are not included in the base price, starting at $10, so budgeting for drinks is advisable.

Finally, since the tour is non-refundable, travelers should be certain of their dates before booking.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 2-day Halong Bay cruise is an excellent choice for those wanting to see one of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes with minimal hassle. It balances comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural insights into a convenient package, making it a good value for the price.

Travelers who appreciate a lively, social vibe with live music, good food, and active stops like kayaking or hiking will find this tour engaging. It also suits first-time visitors who want a comprehensive taste of Halong Bay without the stress of planning every detail.

However, if your travel style leans toward slow mornings or spontaneous exploration, the tightly packed itinerary might feel a little rushed. Still, the combination of natural splendor, cultural stops, and onboard comfort makes it a memorable experience.

This tour offers a well-rounded, visually stunning, and culturally enriching adventure—perfect for those who want to tick all the boxes in just two days.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is offered between 8:15 and 8:45 am, making things easy for travelers staying in the city center.

What’s the price?
Per person cost is $268, which covers most meals, accommodations, and sightseeing. Optional extras like kayaking and spa treatments cost extra.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 2 days, including travel time from Hanoi and the time spent on the water exploring Halong Bay.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks like canapes are included, with special menus crafted by the onboard chef.

What activities are offered onboard?
Guests can enjoy a cooking class, live music, squid fishing, spa treatments, and relaxing moments on the sundeck or in the Jacuzzi. Kayaking and swimming are available during stops.

Is there any free time?
Most of the schedule is planned, but you can relax onboard, enjoy the spa, or stay in the lounge when not in active excursions.

What are the accommodation options?
Luxury cabins with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and complimentary water are included.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

How do I get back to Hanoi?
The tour concludes at Halong International Cruise Port, with a transfer back to Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 3:30 pm.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, though those with mobility issues might find some activities challenging. The tour is designed for a broad audience, with group sizes up to 120 travelers.

This detailed review should give you a clear picture of what to expect from the 2 Day Halong Bay Tour with Chill Cruise. It’s a great way to enjoy Vietnam’s seascape in style, comfort, and with plenty of memorable moments.