DORIA Cruise 5* Lan H Bay 2 days 1 night with 2 ways transfer

Exploring the DORIA Cruise 5 Lan Ha Bay 2-Day, 1-Night Tour

Traveling to Vietnam and craving a scenic escape that combines luxury, adventure, and culture? The DORIA Cruise offers a compelling way to experience Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay without the chaos often associated with crowded tours. This 2-day, 1-night cruise is praised for its well-organized itinerary, stunning scenery, and excellent value, making it a popular choice among travelers seeking a memorable getaway.

What we find particularly appealing are its all-inclusive meals, hassle-free transfers, and the opportunity to explore both the iconic Ha Long Bay and the less-visited Lan Ha Bay. Plus, the free onboard Wi-Fi and activities like kayaking and cooking demos add a modern, comfortable touch. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is non-refundable—so it’s best to go into it with some flexibility. This experience seems perfect for travelers who want a balanced blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking limestone formations and serene waters.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, transfers, and activities included for convenience.
• Authentic Experiences: Participate in cooking demos and visit local floating villages.
• Good Value: Competitive pricing with a wide range of activities.
• Well-Organized: Smooth logistics and engaging guides make the experience stress-free.
• Limited Refundability: Be sure of your plans before booking due to non-refundable policy.

The Experience at a Glance: What to Expect from the DORIA Cruise

The DORIA Cruise promises a thoughtfully planned journey that balances sightseeing, leisure, and local culture—making it an ideal option for first-timers or anyone wanting a reliable, high-quality tour. With a cost of $229 per person, the tour delivers a good balance between affordability and inclusions, especially considering the premium feel of the accommodations and guided activities.

Seamless Transfers and Comfort

Starting bright and early at 8:00 am, the tour offers pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, removing any stress about logistics. The air-conditioned bus ensures comfortable travel from the city to the cruise departure point, which is located in Tuan Chau. The transfer time gives you the chance to relax and get into vacation mode even before the boat adventure begins.

First Day: Lan Ha Bay and Tra Bau

Arriving around noon, you’ll be welcomed aboard the Peony Cruises vessel, which is described as luxurious and well-maintained. The crew briefings and welcome are designed to set the tone for a relaxed yet engaging experience. By mid-afternoon, the tour takes you to Tra Bau, an area celebrated for its unspoiled seascape and scenic beauty—perfect for photography, quiet reflection, or just soaking in the views.

Later in the afternoon, the cruise offers a cooking demonstration where you’ll learn how to make Vietnamese spring rolls. Reviewers like Katherine mention guides like Tuan who are personable and friendly, adding a personal touch to the experience. The evening meal is seafood-focused, something many guests appreciate for its freshness and flavor.

Second Day: Sunrise, Cat Ba Island, and Return

The next morning kicks off with Tai Chi at sunrise—a peaceful way to start the day—and a hearty breakfast while the boat cruises back toward Gia Luan jetty. The highlight of this day is a visit to Cat Ba Island’s Biosphere Reserve, accessible via a short transshipment. You’ll explore Trung Trang Cave, famous for its thousands of stalactites, geological interest, and the unique cave ecosystem. Some travelers note that the cave provides impressive geological formations and offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s natural landscape.

Returning to the boat after the cave visit, the cruise concludes with a relaxing journey back to Tuan Chau. The entire experience, from early morning Tai Chi to the cave exploration, is designed to maximize sightseeing and enjoyment without feeling rushed.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Stunning Scenery and Authentic Stops
The tour’s main draw is undoubtedly the scenery. The limestone cliffs and tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay are iconic, and the itinerary allows you to see both. Notably, the visit to Tra Bau and Cat Ba Island offers a more peaceful alternative to the usually crowded Ha Long Bay tourist spots, which many reviewers find refreshing.

Good Value for Money
For $229, travelers get multiple meals, transfers, activities like kayaking, and accommodation on a luxurious boat. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi onboard is a practical touch, allowing updates or sharing photos during the trip. The reviews commend the organized nature of the tour, with NatalioIsidoro calling it “very well organized” and a “marvelous experience for sightseeing.”

Engaging Guides and Friendly Atmosphere
Guests frequently mention guides like Tuan, who make the trip more memorable through their friendly and personable approach. Tuan, in particular, seems to have left a strong impression with his engaging manner and willingness to hang out in the evenings, making guests feel more like friends than just travelers.

Activities for a Well-Rounded Experience
Whether kayaking, swimming, or participating in a cooking demo, there’s enough variety to keep the experience lively. Reviewers like Katherine appreciated the personal touches and the fun activities, which add a layer of authenticity to the trip.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Love and What to Keep in Mind

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your journey begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter at around 8 am—conveniently scheduled to maximize your day. The drive to Tuan Chau takes around 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax or chat with fellow travelers. Once on board, the crew welcomes you aboard the luxurious Peony Cruises vessel, which boasts modern amenities and a friendly crew.

The afternoon takes you to Tra Bau, a spot praised for its serene beauty. Expect unspoiled seascapes, peaceful waters, and fantastic photo opportunities. This area is less commercialized than some other parts of Ha Long Bay, making it ideal for travelers seeking tranquility.

In the evening, guests can join a cooking demonstration where spring rolls are on the menu. From the reviews, guides like Tuan are particularly engaging, making the activity fun and interactive. The seafood dinner served onboard is often highlighted for its freshness and variety.

Day 2: From Lan Ha Bay to Cat Ba and Return

The day kicks off early with Tai Chi at sunrise, a calming ritual that guests find a perfect way to start the day. After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Cat Ba Island for a visit to Trung Trang Cave—a geological wonder filled with stalactites and a cave ecosystem that offers a window into local natural history.

The trip back to the boat is quick, and the journey home in the afternoon is smooth. The overall pace is designed to give you a balance of sightseeing and leisure, ensuring you get a comprehensive taste of Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay without feeling overwhelmed.

Additional Inclusions and Practical Details

The tour includes all meals—lunch, dinner, and breakfast—so you don’t need to worry about additional costs for food (though drinks are not included). The air-conditioned vehicle keeps the transfer comfortable, even in warmer weather.

While the tour’s non-refundable policy may seem strict, it encourages you to confirm your plans beforehand. The group size caps at 39 travelers, maintaining an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a high-quality experience with good value. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate scenic beauty, comfort, and cultural activities like cooking demonstrations. The inclusion of kayaking and visits to less crowded areas make it an appealing choice for those wanting an authentic, peaceful escape.

It’s also ideal if you prefer organized, hassle-free trips with all logistics taken care of upfront. The tour’s moderate pace and diversity of activities cater to a broad range of interests, from nature lovers to foodies.

Plus, travelers who value good guides and friendly atmospheres will likely find this tour memorable. Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Tuan for their personable approach, which adds warmth and authenticity to the experience.

The Sum Up

The DORIA Cruise 5 Lan Ha Bay 2-day, 1-night package offers a fantastic way to explore Vietnam’s world-famous waters in comfort and style. Its team ensures a smooth, well-organized trip, with highlights like unspoiled Tra Bau, the stunning limestone scenery, and engaging local activities. The inclusive meals and transfers, along with free Wi-Fi, provide excellent value, especially for those who want a hassle-free, immersive experience.

While it’s not refundable, the tour’s thoughtful itinerary and attentive guides make it an attractive option for travelers seeking a balanced blend of sightseeing, cultural exposure, and relaxation. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to see the best of Ha Long Bay without the crowds, this cruise is likely to meet—and often exceed—your expectations.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes hassle-free pickup from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel.

What is the price of the tour? The tour costs $229 per person, which covers meals, transfers, activities, and accommodations.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included in the package.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately two days, with a full itinerary packed into a 2-day, 1-night cruise.

What activities are included? Activities include kayaking, swimming, cooking demonstrations, and visits to floating villages and caves.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 39, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What is the main highlight? Exploring the unspoiled natural beauty of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island, along with enjoying fresh seafood and authentic Vietnamese activities.

Can I expect good service? Based on reviews, guides like Tuan are friendly, personable, and engaging, adding a positive personal touch.

What should I bring? Weather-appropriate clothing, swimwear, sunblock, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

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

In summary, this cruise offers an engaging, scenic, and comfortable way to discover some of Vietnam’s most beautiful waters. It balances outdoor adventure with culture, all wrapped up in a well-organized package that emphasizes value and genuine experience. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a memorable escape without breaking the bank.