Bai Tu Long bay Luxury Cruise 2D/1N: Less touristy places, Kayaking, full meals

Travelers looking to escape the crowds of Halong Bay will find this Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Cruise a breath of fresh air. Instead of the bustling tourist-packed spots, this 2-day journey offers a quieter, more authentic experience full of stunning scenery, cultural activities, and cozy comforts. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone seeking tranquility, this cruise could be your ideal Vietnam escape.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the less touristy locations mean you’ll have space to breathe and truly enjoy the landscape. Second, the inclusion of kayaking and local visits like fishing villages make it more interactive than your typical cruise. Third, the full meals onboard—including local specialties—add real value, making this a hassle-free, immersive experience. The only potential hiccup? The price point of $180 per person is reasonable but still requires considering what’s included. This tour tends to appeal most to those who value peaceful, scenic escapes with a touch of cultural flavor.

Key Points

• Less Crowded Experience — escape the throngs of travelers in Halong Bay and enjoy Bai Tu Long Bay’s peaceful charm.
• Authentic Activities — kayaking, visiting fishing villages, and caves add genuine local flavor.
• Comfortable Accommodation — air-conditioned, ensuite cabins with hot water ensure a cozy stay.
• Full Meals & Beverages — all onboard meals and bottled water included, plus a cooking class and tai chi for a well-rounded trip.
• Flexible Scheduling — pickup from Hanoi or Halong Bay, with options for different departure times.
• Good Value — includes entrance fees, guided tours, kayaking, and meals for a competitive price.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Journey: Pickup and Transfer

From the moment you book, the tour staff impress with their organization. Guests are picked up either from their Hanoi hotel or directly at the Halong Bay harbor—no extra charge for the latter, which is convenient for those already in Halong. The coach transfer from Hanoi is described as comfortable and well-managed, setting a positive tone for the trip. As one reviewer noted, “The pick-up was well organised and a comfortable coach transferred us from our hotel in Hanoi to the boat terminal,” giving you reassurance about the beginning of your adventure.

Day 1: Cruising Bai Tu Long Bay and First Impressions

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink—a small but thoughtful touch that makes the onboard experience inviting. The cruise passes through stunning landscapes of Halong Bay en route to Bai Tu Long Bay, an area known for being less crowded and more pristine. The itinerary includes a stop at Vung Vieng fishing village, where you can witness traditional floating life up close, and enjoy kayaking or a bamboo boat trip.

One of the most praised aspects, based on reviews, is the quality of the scenery. As Nicola_S described, “We passed beautiful landscapes in Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay,” with travelers often remarking on the peacefulness of these areas compared to the busier tourist spots. The guided visits provide insight into local fishing life and traditional crafts, adding depth to the experience.

Activities on Day 1: More Than Just Sightseeing

The cruise offers swimming, kayaking, and a bamboo boat trip—all activities that foster a hands-on connection with nature. Guests have reported enjoying these activities, often describing kayaking as an excellent way to explore hidden corners and enjoy the calm waters. The boat also stops at Thien Canh Son Cave, where visitors can explore impressive limestone formations, adding an element of adventure.

Day 2: Relaxed Morning and Return

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll visit Thien Canh Son Cave or relax onboard with scenic views. The cruise continues to glide past stunning limestone formations, giving plenty of opportunities for photos. The check-out time is around 9:30 a.m., but guests can stay onboard while the boat continues cruising back to the harbor, making the most of their last moments in this tranquil setting.

Lunch is served early before arriving back at the harbor around noon, after which transfer options take you back to Hanoi. The return trip is described as smooth and well-organized, with many reviewers appreciating the seamless logistics and comfortable transportation.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package covers most of what you’d want for a relaxing, hassle-free experience. Expect air-conditioned private rooms with hot showers, ensuring comfort after a day of activity. Meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are all included, and reviewers highlight the quality and variety of the onboard cuisine. Local dishes and snacks are served, often accompanied by bottled water, making it easy to stay hydrated.

Activities such as caving, kayaking, and tai chi are included, with the latter turning out to be surprisingly popular among guests for its calming start to the day. The cooking class is another highlight, allowing travelers to learn and taste traditional Vietnamese dishes—adding an interactive and cultural component to the trip.

The cruise also includes entrance fees, sightseeing, and insurance, so there’s little to worry about beyond packing essentials. Note that beverages and tips are not included, so bringing cash for extras is recommended.

Surcharges and Special Dates

For travelers booking during festive periods like the Lunar New Year or Christmas, a surcharge applies—$30 or $50 depending on the date—but this is clearly communicated and paid locally. This reflects the busy holiday seasons when demand is high.

The Authentic Touch: Why Travelers Love This Tour

From the reviews, what really stands out is the authentic, peaceful experience. Nicola_S appreciated the seamless organization, “We were given a welcome drink and escorted all the way through the process,” which shows the attention to detail. Another guest loved the stunning views and felt the trip provided good value for the price, especially considering kayaking, entrance fees, and meals are included.

Many travelers also note that the less touristy nature of Bai Tu Long makes for a more personal and relaxed experience. The chance to see fishing villages and stop at less crowded locations means you get a taste of local life and nature without the overwhelming crowds of Halong Bay.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Timing: Book at least 48 days in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• What to bring: Pack a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and insect spray. Also, bring small cash for tips or extra drinks.
• Clothing: Light layers for daytime, warmer clothes if visiting in winter.
• Meeting point: Make sure to confirm pick-up details beforehand, especially if not staying in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
• Optional upgrades: Consider the Gala dinner surcharge if traveling during holidays—it’s an extra cost but can add a festive touch.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking peaceful, scenic landscapes away from crowded tourist hotspots. It’s perfect if you want interactive activities like kayaking and a cooking class, and appreciate comfortable, all-inclusive accommodations. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning vistas and quiet coves, while those interested in local fishing life will find the fishing village visits particularly meaningful.

However, those looking for luxury with spa services or extensive nightlife might find this experience more understated. It’s suited for independent travelers, couples, or small groups wanting an authentic yet comfortable escape.

The Sum Up

This Bai Tu Long Bay luxury cruise offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and comfort. With its quieter locations, engaging activities, and well-organized logistics, it provides a genuine feel for Vietnam’s stunning waterways without the usual crowds. The inclusive meals, cozy cabins, and scenic stops make it a fantastic value, especially for those who prioritize tranquility and authenticity.

For travelers eager to explore Vietnam’s waters with a touch of local flavor, this tour delivers a memorable experience that balances adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, it’s a chance to unwind and enjoy the true essence of Bai Tu Long Bay.

FAQs

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Halong Bay harbor is included, depending on your choice. The transfer is described as comfortable, ensuring a smooth start or end to your trip.

Can I join this cruise if I don’t stay in Hanoi?
Yes, you can. The tour offers pickup options at Hanoi hotels or directly at Halong Bay harbor. Just confirm your meeting point and time before the trip.

What activities are included onboard?
Activities include kayaking, visits to fishing villages, exploring caves like Thien Canh Son, and tai chi exercises. A cooking class is also part of the experience.

Are meals provided?
Yes, all onboard meals are included—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—featuring local dishes. Beverages are not included but bottled water is supplied.

What should I pack?
Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, swimwear, insect spray, and essentials like small cash, camera, and a raincoat or jacket depending on the season.

Is there a holiday surcharge?
Yes, during peak holiday periods like Lunar New Year or Christmas, a surcharge applies—$30 to $50—payable locally.

This experience represents a great way to enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty with fewer crowds, authentic activities, and comfortable amenities—making it well suited for travelers seeking a peaceful yet engaging escape.