5-STAR Amanda Cruise – Ha Long Bay Explorer – 2 Days 1 Night

Travelers dreaming of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonder now have a luxurious option with the Amanda Cruise‘s 2 Days, 1 Night Ha Long Bay Explorer tour. This experience promises comfort, breathtaking views, and a variety of activities designed to make your stay both relaxing and adventurous.

We’re looking at a cruise that impresses with its high-end amenities, all-inclusive offerings, and authentic excursions—plus a dash of Vietnamese hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a serene escape, this tour offers a taste of Ha Long Bay’s legendary scenery in style.

What we love most? The luxurious en-suite cabins with sea views, the well-rounded itinerary that balances exploration with relaxation, and the knowledgeable guides who make each stop meaningful. A potential caveat? The weather can affect some activities, like kayaking or swimming, so flexibility is key.

This trip best suits travelers who appreciate comfort, are keen on active experiences like kayaking and cave exploring, and want the convenience of all-included costs. If you’re after a seamless, luxury experience that covers the highlights of Ha Long Bay, this cruise might be just what you need.

• Luxury at Sea: Comfortable en-suite cabins with sea views and private bathrooms make overnight stays cozy and private.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, entrance fees, activities, and some transfers are included—no hidden costs.
• Flexible Activities: Choose kayaking, swimming, cave visits, or simply relax on the sundeck with a drink.
• Guided Exploration: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, especially at key sights like Sung Sot Cave.
• Convenient Transfers: Options for pickup from Hanoi or Tuan Chau Port help streamline your journey.
• Authentic Experience: Activities like tai chi, sunset parties, and cooking classes add local flavor to the trip.

Booking and Availability

This cruise is popular, with travelers booking roughly 69 days in advance, reflecting strong demand. The price of $215 per person is quite reasonable for what’s included—especially considering the high-quality accommodations and comprehensive itinerary.

The group size is limited to around 60 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere. Confirmations are straightforward, and cancellations are flexible if made at least 3 days ahead for a full refund.

Transportation and Pickup

For travelers staying in Hanoi, the limousine bus transfer from the Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House ensures a comfortable journey to Tuan Chau Marina. The drive lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, giving you time to relax before the adventure begins.

If you already plan to be at Tuan Chau Port, you can skip the transfer and arrive directly for boarding before 11:30 AM. The cruise departs promptly at noon, so arriving late—especially after 12:00 PM—will require you to arrange your own transport and pay extra.

Embarkation at Tuan Chau

Once at Tuan Chau Marina, the staff offers a warm welcome, and you’ll complete check-in procedures swiftly. While waiting, travelers can enjoy some light refreshments or browse the onboard shop, which offers Amanda Cruises branded products.

The First Day: Setting Sail for Scenic Wonders

At 12:30 PM, the cruise kicks off with a welcome drink and a cold towel—an appreciated touch after the journey. You’ll check into your seaview en-suite cabin, which many reviews praise for being small but well-appointed, with all expected amenities.

By 1:00 PM, lunch is served on the deck or in the restaurant, featuring Vietnamese, seafood, and international dishes. The views while dining are a highlight, with the boat cruising towards Trinh Nu Cave, providing a perfect backdrop.

Activities and Sights

• Trinh Nu Cave: Tender transfers take guests to explore this impressive limestone formation. While on the boat, you can opt for kayaking or swimming at nearby beaches—reviewers note these are memorable but weather-dependent activities.
• Sunset Party & Cooking Class: As the boat moves toward the shore, guests join a sunset cocktail gathering and participate in a Vietnamese cooking class—great opportunities for fun and learning.
• Evening: After dinner, the deck offers tranquil views of the bay at night, often described as breathtaking. Optional activities include squid fishing and enjoying live music at the Sky Bar, adding to the relaxed, social vibe.

Day Two: Sunrise, Cave Exploration, and Return

• Early Tai Chi: At dawn, many guests join a tai chi session on the sundeck—an ideal way to start the day with peaceful, stretching movements against the backdrop of a rising sun and misty waters.
• Breakfast: Light and satisfying, fueling you for the morning activities.
• Sung Sot Cave: The highlight of the day for many reviewers, this massive cave boasts incredible stalactite formations and panoramic views of the bay once you step outside. The visit is approximately one hour and offers fantastic photo opportunities.
• Departure: Around 11:00 AM, guests prepare to disembark, with luggage transferred to the Marina. Before leaving, there’s a chance to shop for Amanda Cruises souvenirs, adding a personal touch to the farewell.

Final Meal and Return

• Early Lunch: Served at 10:00 AM, providing a last taste of onboard cuisine.
• The group then heads back to Tuan Chau Marina, arriving around 11:00 AM, with the option for a return transfer to Hanoi at 12:00 PM.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

Comfortable and Well-Appointed Cabins

Reviewers consistently praise the en-suite cabins for their cozy, functional design and sea views. While the rooms are small, they’re equipped with everything needed for a comfortable overnight stay, including private bathrooms and modern amenities.

Inclusive and Diverse Activities

From kayaking, swimming, and cave exploring to cooking classes and squid fishing, the experience covers a good mix of adventure and relaxation. The guides, often mentioned by reviewers, are friendly and knowledgeable, adding depth to each excursion.

Spectacular Scenery and Authentic Experiences

Guests frequently comment on the stunning vistas of Ha Long Bay and Sung Sot Cave’s fascinating stalactites. Many mention the peacefulness of sunrise Tai Chi and the beauty of the bay at night as unforgettable highlights.

Value for Money

At $215, the tour offers excellent value, considering inclusions like meals, entrance fees, activities, and transfers. The reviews underscore the quality of the food and the attentiveness of the staff, making this more than just a scenic cruise—it’s a well-rounded experience.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Weather can influence certain activities like kayaking and swimming, and these may be canceled if conditions deteriorate. Reviewers note that unused services aren’t refunded, so flexibility is important.

On top of that, while the cabins are comfortable, they are compact, which might not suit travelers seeking more spacious accommodations. The tour’s schedule is quite full, so those who prefer a more leisurely pace might find it busy.

The Wi-Fi is limited to areas like the restaurant/bar, so expecting constant connectivity might be unrealistic.

Luxury seekers, who want a comfortable, all-inclusive experience, will love the en-suite cabins and the variety of activities. Adventure lovers will appreciate kayaking, cave exploring, and the morning Tai Chi. First-timers to Ha Long Bay will find this cruise offers a well-organized, memorable introduction.

On the other hand, if you prefer longer or more flexible trips, or are sensitive to weather disruptions, you might want to consider other options. Still, for those wanting a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and adventure, this cruise hits the mark.

The Amanda Cruise Ha Long Bay Explorer offers a polished, enjoyable way to experience Vietnam’s most famous bay. With luxurious cabins, inclusive activities, and guided excursions, it provides a chance to relax and explore without feeling rushed. The attention to detail—like the sunset parties, cooking classes, and peaceful Tai Chi—adds a genuine touch of local culture and comfort.

For travelers who value quality over quantity, this cruise delivers a memorable journey in style. Its excellent reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, especially around the scenery, guides, and value. If you’re after a smooth, scenic, and well-rounded trip that ticks all the boxes, this experience is a solid choice.

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers en-suite cabins with sea views, all meals (including seafood, Vietnamese, and international options), entrance fees for Sung Sot Cave and other sightseeing, activities like kayaking, swimming, and cave exploring, and transfers from Hanoi or Tuan Chau Port.

Can I choose my departure point?
Yes, you can depart from either Hanoi (with pickup and transfer included) or Tuan Chau Port (for those arriving directly there). Just make sure to board the cruise by 11:30 AM at Tuan Chau if not using the transfer service.

What activities are available during the cruise?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming, cave visits, a cooking class, sunset party, squid fishing, and Tai Chi sessions—all included in the tour.

Is the price of $215 per person good value?
Considering the accommodations, meals, activities, and transfers included, this price offers solid value for a luxury, all-in adventure in Ha Long Bay.

How big is the group?
The cruise limits group size to around 60 travelers, creating a more intimate atmosphere, though the exact number varies depending on bookings.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Activities like kayaking and swimming might be canceled in poor weather, and unused services won’t be refunded. Flexibility is key, so prepare for possible schedule adjustments.

Are the cabins comfortable?
Yes, reviewers describe the cabins as small but very comfortable, with modern amenities and private bathrooms offering good privacy and views.

How do I get back to Hanoi?
If booked with transfer from Hanoi, a limousine bus takes you back in the afternoon, arriving in the Old Quarter around 3:00 PM. For those arriving directly at Tuan Chau, the cruise concludes around 11:00 AM, with a transfer back to Hanoi at 12:00 PM.

This cruise balances luxury with adventure, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re an avid explorer or simply seeking a scenic escape, the Amanda Cruise delivers a memorable and authentic Ha Long Bay experience.