2 Days Bai Tu Long / Ha Long Bay / Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise

Planning a trip to Vietnam often means contemplating a cruise through its famous bays. This 2-day luxury cruise around Halong, Lan Ha, or Bai Tu Long Bay promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, comfort, and fun activities. While we haven’t personally experienced it, a detailed look into what’s on offer helps paint a clear picture of this popular tour.

What immediately catches the eye is the luxury aspect—ranging from 3 to 5-star accommodations—combined with an array of engaging activities such as kayaking, bamboo boat rides, cooking classes, and sunset parties. The fact that the tour includes meals and transfers from Hanoi adds notable convenience, especially for travelers anxious about logistics.

However, a small consideration is that the itinerary depends on the season and weather conditions, which could mean some planned activities might be affected. This is typical with outdoor adventures, but it’s worth keeping in mind.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want to experience Vietnam’s scenic bays in style without sacrificing comfort, and for those who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and social fun onboard.

Key Points

• Luxury accommodations range from three to five stars, providing comfort on the water.
• Includes meals and activities like kayaking, bamboo boat rides, and sunset parties, offering great value.
• Hassle-free transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter make logistics smooth for travelers.
• Flexible itinerary depending on weather and season, so some activities may vary.
• Authentic experiences such as cooking classes and squid fishing give a local touch.
• Small group sizes (max 45 travelers) allow for a more personalized experience.

Exploring the Itinerary and What to Expect

Day 1: Bai Tu Long Bay Adventure

Your journey begins early with a pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter between 07:30 and 08:00, a smooth start that takes away the stress of navigating local transport. The drive to Ha Long Bay is about 3 to 4 hours, which gives you time to relax or plan your day ahead.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed aboard with a refreshing drink and cold towel—a small but thoughtful touch that sets the tone for comfort. As the cruise sets sail through Bai Tu Long Bay, you’re treated to stunning vistas of limestone karsts rising from the water, a signature sight that never loses its charm.

The first big highlight is the beach stop in Cap La, where you’ll get a chance to swim—an excellent way to cool off after the journey. Following this, kayaking becomes the activity of choice, with the chance to explore the quiet, calm waters close to the shore. One reviewer mentioned that the kayak activity allowed for a peaceful connection with nature, describing it as a “relaxing and scenic experience.”

In the late afternoon, the boat cruises towards the shore while you participate in a sunset party and cooking class onboard. This is a guest favorite—“enjoying a barbecue dinner on the sundeck while watching the sunset” is a scene many travelers cherish, especially if the weather cooperates. After dinner, there’s the chance to join in on board games or squid fishing, a fun way to mingle with fellow travelers.

Day 2: Halong Bay & Shore Excursions

Waking up early to the sound of Tai Chi on the deck is a serene start—plus, it’s a chance to stretch and energize before a busy day. The cruise then takes you to Vung Vieng Fishing Village via bamboo boat, which offers a peek into local life, away from the usual tourist trails. A reviewer described this as “a charming glimpse into the traditional ways of fishing,” adding that it felt authentic and unhurried.

After exploring, you’ll have time to relax, sunbathe on the deck, or snap some photos of the scenery. The herbal foot bath, a little luxury added by the crew, is appreciated, especially after a morning of activity.

Lunchtime is a buffet-style affair, with delicious, well-prepared meals. Given the positive review mentioning “good value for money” and “delicious food,” you can expect a satisfying dining experience that complements the scenic setting.

The trip concludes with a check-out around 09:30-10:00, after which you can enjoy some free time in the harbor lounge before heading back to Hanoi. The entire experience balances structured activities with free time, allowing you to soak in the scenery at your own pace.

The Value of the Experience

When analyzing the cost—$185 per person—it’s clear that this cruise offers good value considering the inclusions. Meals, activities, transfers, and accommodations all contribute to a hassle-free experience, especially for first-timers unfamiliar with navigating Thai or Vietnamese travel logistics.

The luxury accommodations elevate the journey, making it suitable for travelers who want scenic beauty combined with comfort. The group size capped at 45 ensures a cozy atmosphere without feeling crowded, which is important for social travelers or those seeking a bit of tranquility.

Authentic Touches and Guest Highlights

From reviews, it’s evident that the scenic views are the main draw—crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone formations, and peaceful coves. One reviewer called it the “best way to experience the charm of Halong Bay on a luxury cruise,” emphasizing the high-quality experience.

The meals are also a highlight. Guests consistently mention they enjoyed good food, with some describing the dinner on the sundeck as a memorable part of the trip. The cooking class adds an interactive element that allows you to learn about local flavors, which can be a fun and enriching experience.

What Could Be Improved?

While the itinerary is generally well-rounded, some activities depend on weather conditions—they can be canceled or altered if the weather turns bad. This is typical for outdoor tours, but it’s worth considering if your trip coincides with the rainy season or stormy weather.

Another point to consider is the single supplement fee of $50, which might be steep for solo travelers looking for a private room. Sharing a cabin with others is often more economical, but the option is there for those who prefer privacy.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal for those seeking a blend of comfort and adventure. It’s perfect if you want to see the stunning karst landscapes of Halong Bay without roughing it. The included activities like kayaking, bamboo boat rides, and cooking classes appeal to travelers craving both culture and fun.

It’s also suitable for social travelers or couples who want to enjoy a relaxed, scenic experience with the option to meet others. The small-group setting enhances the feeling of intimacy and personal attention.

Finally, it’s a good choice for first-time visitors to Vietnam who appreciate having transportation and meals included, removing much of the hassle and uncertainty often associated with independent trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter hotels, making logistics simple for travelers.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 days, with activities scheduled mainly in the mornings and afternoons, allowing for plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the options of a BBQ dinner on the sundeck and buffet-style meals.

Can I participate in activities like kayaking?
Absolutely. Kayaking and bamboo boat rides are part of the experience, giving you a peaceful way to explore the bay’s quiet waters.

Is there any free time onboard?
Yes, guests can sunbathe, take photos, enjoy herbal foot baths, or relax on the deck during free periods.

What accommodations are provided?
Options range from three to five-star cabins, ensuring comfort and style during your overnight stay.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.

Are single travelers charged more?
Yes, a single supplement fee of $50 applies if you prefer a solo room, but sharing cabins is often more economical.

How many travelers typically join?
The tour caps at 45 travelers, creating a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Is the weather a concern?
Outdoor activities depend on weather conditions; if the weather is poor, some activities may be canceled or altered, but the core experience still offers stunning scenery and comfort.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking an affordable yet luxurious way to explore Vietnam’s iconic bays, this 2-day cruise delivers on both fronts. The carefully curated mix of scenic cruising, engaging activities, and quality accommodations creates a memorable escape that balances adventure with relaxation.

The inclusive nature of the tour—meals, transfers, and activities—means you can focus on soaking up the spectacular views without worrying about the logistics. The chance to participate in local experiences like cooking classes and bamboo boat rides adds meaningful touches that elevate the trip from just sightseeing to cultural discovery.

While the itinerary is weather-dependent and the single supplement might be a consideration for solo travelers, these are minor points in an otherwise well-rounded package. The positive reviews highlight good value for money, delicious food, and the breathtaking scenery, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers wanting a hassle-free escape.

This cruise is best suited for those who want a comfortable, fun, and scenic introduction to one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders—perfect for couples, small groups, or solo adventurers looking to enjoy a taste of luxury on the water.

Embark on this journey if you crave scenic beauty, comfort, and memorable experiences in a relaxed setting. It’s a trip that promises stunning vistas, tasty food, and a chance to create lasting memories.