2 Days Bai Tu Long Tour from Hanoi

Traveling from Hanoi to Vietnam’s spectacular bay areas is a highlight for many visitors, and this 2-day Bai Tu Long Tour offers an engaging way to experience both Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, our research and reviews paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect. With its combination of scenic cruising, cultural activities, and comfortable accommodations, it’s a popular choice for those seeking an authentic yet relaxed adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it manages to pack so much into a short timeframe — from floating villages and caves to cooking classes and sunset views. Plus, the price of around $265 per person for all-inclusive activities, meals, and transportation offers solid value for such a comprehensive experience. That said, it’s a group tour, so if you prefer privacy or a more personalized journey, it might not be the best fit.

One thing to consider is the schedule’s pace — with early mornings and full days, it’s best suited to active travelers eager to maximize their time. Couples, solo travelers, and first-timers with a sense of adventure will find this tour particularly appealing. It’s perfect if you want a mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and engaging activities all in one package.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Combines scenic cruising, cultural visits, and activities like kayaking and cooking.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, transportation, and accommodation on a luxury cruise.
• Authentic Encounters: Visits to Bai Tu Long Bay’s floating fishing village and Thien Canh Son Cave.
• Value for Money: For $265, you get meals, activities, entrance fees, and a well-organized itinerary.
• Engaging Activities: Tai Chi, squid fishing, and a cooking class add variety and fun.
• Good for Active Travelers: Early mornings and a packed schedule suit those eager to see a lot in a short time.

Starting Out: Pickup and Departure

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am, with a pickup from your Hanoi hotel or designated meeting point. The shuttle bus is included within Hanoi’s Old Quarter area, making it easy to start your adventure without extra hassle. Expect a comfortable limousine bus that transports you smoothly to the port, setting the tone for a well-organized trip.

Day 1: Cruising and Cultural Immersion

Once aboard the cruise, you’ll be welcomed with drinks and a safety briefing, giving you a taste of the professionalism and hospitality that travelers rave about. The first stop, Bai Tu Long Bay, is a stunning stretch of limestone karsts that rise sharply from the emerald waters. This area is less crowded than the main Halong Bay, offering a quieter, more serene experience.

Following check-in around noon, a delicious lunch is served on the boat, giving you a chance to savor Vietnamese cuisine amid breathtaking views. Afterward, the visit to Vung Vieng floating fishing village is a highlight — many reviews mention how enlightening it is to learn about the lives of local fishermen. Optional activities like bamboo boat rides or kayaking let visitors engage more directly with the environment.

As the afternoon transitions to evening, you’ll witness a gorgeous sunset over the bay, perfect for photos. The “Happy Hour” and cooking class on the sundeck are favorite moments, allowing guests to participate in making spring rolls, a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. Later, the evening offers relaxation, squid fishing, or simply enjoying the starry sky from the deck.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

The second day begins with a morning Tai Chi session at sunrise. This peaceful start sets a tranquil tone before breakfast, which many reviews note as light but sufficient to energize your day. The highlight here is the visit to Thien Canh Son Cave, a natural marvel perched on a mountain crest. The cave’s geological features fascinate those interested in natural formations; bringing a camera and sports shoes is recommended.

After exploring the cave, you’ll check out and have some free time to relax on the boat. A brunch during the cruise back to harbor keeps you energized before heading back to Hanoi. The disembarkation process is smooth, with luggage assistance offered, and you’ll arrive back in the Old Quarter around noon or early afternoon.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Beauty and Less Crowded Spots

Although Halong Bay is renowned worldwide, Bai Tu Long Bay remains somewhat quieter, offering a more tranquil experience. Many travelers mention that the views are absolutely stunning, with towering limestone formations and lush green islands. The floating village adds a cultural dimension, providing insight into local life that many visitors find captivating.

Expert and Friendly Guides

Reviews highlight guides like Y (a detail from one traveler) as attentive, professional, and knowledgeable without being overbearing. Such guides enhance the experience by sharing stories and answering questions, making each stop more meaningful. Their local insight helps travelers understand the significance of each site beyond just sightseeing.

Delicious and Authentic Food

Meals are consistently praised — the lunch and dinner contain traditional Vietnamese dishes, often including fresh seafood. The cooking class on the deck is a memorable touch, making participants feel more involved and connected to the local culture. Many reviews mention how the food exceeded expectations, with some calling it the highlight of the trip.

Comfortable and Well-Equipped Accommodations

Staying on a luxury cruise means you’ll enjoy en-suite, air-conditioned cabins that are comfortable after a day of exploration. The outdoor jacuzzi pool (if weather permits) and options like kayaking or swimming add to the onboard experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Transportation and Overall Value

The inclusion of round-trip shuttle within Hanoi and port transfers simplifies logistics, so travelers don’t need to worry about extra arrangements. The price of $265 per person may seem steep initially, but considering the all-inclusive nature — meals, activities, entrance fees, and luxury lodging — it provides good value for a hassle-free experience.

Why It’s Worth It

Many travelers mention that the organized schedule and well-run logistics save time and stress, allowing you to focus on enjoyment. The variety of activities, from Tai Chi to squid fishing, offers a well-rounded experience that caters to different interests.

Possible Downsides

The tour’s pace is quite full, with early starts and packed days, which might not suit those seeking a slow, leisurely exploration. Also, since it’s a group tour, privacy and personalized attention are limited compared to private options.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, organized experience blending natural scenery, culture, and fun activities. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Halong Bay, those eager to see a quieter part of the bay, or anyone who appreciates well-run group tours with knowledgeable guides. If you enjoy physical activities like kayaking or want to try your hand at cooking Vietnamese dishes, this trip offers plenty of opportunities.

The 2 Days Bai Tu Long Tour from Hanoi offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and engaging activities, making it a solid choice for those visiting Vietnam. The combination of stunning limestone formations, authentic experiences like visiting floating villages, and excellent onboard amenities means you’ll return with memorable stories and photos.

While the schedule is tight and group dynamics might not suit everyone, the overall value, comfort, and authentic flavor of this tour make it stand out. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a balanced, organized experience that captures the essence of Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay without the hassle of planning every detail.

Is transportation included from Hanoi?
Yes, the tour includes a shuttle bus pickup within Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making it easy to start your trip without extra arrangements.

What is the duration of the tour?
It’s a 2-day, 1-night experience, with the first day starting around 8 am and returning to Hanoi late morning or early afternoon on the second day.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides all meals — breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a brunch on the return trip.

What activities are available?
Guests can participate in Tai Chi, kayaking, bamboo boat rides, squid fishing, and a Vietnamese cooking class. Some activities are optional and depend on weather conditions.

Is the accommodation on the cruise comfortable?
Absolutely, the cruise offers air-conditioned, en-suite cabins, and many reviews highlight the comfort and cleanliness of the rooms.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Additional costs include beverages, spa or massage services, tips, and visa arrangements, which are not covered in the package.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I participate if I am not very active?
Most activities, like Tai Chi or sightseeing, are suitable for all fitness levels, but some exploration at caves or floating villages may require some walking or mild trekking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities, but always check with the provider for age restrictions on specific activities.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through official booking platforms like Viator, with most trips booked 11 days in advance on average.

Embarking on this Bai Tu Long adventure promises a mix of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and fun activities that encapsulate Vietnam’s natural beauty and hospitality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this tour offers a memorable way to explore one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes.