Off The Beaten Track to Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay on 5 Star Cruise

Travelers seeking a more exclusive, less crowded way to experience Vietnam’s stunning bay landscapes might find this 2-day cruise a compelling option. It promises comfort, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure — all from a luxury vessel with private cabins and thoughtful amenities. We’ve taken a close look at this tour, weighing its highlights and potential pitfalls, to help you decide if it’s right for your trip.

What we love most about this experience are the luxury cabins with private balconies offering uninterrupted views, the chance to explore less touristy spots like Lan Ha Bay, and the all-inclusive nature that makes planning simple. However, some travelers have noted that the itinerary can change due to weather, which might affect your expectations if you’re keen on specific stops. This tour, with its focus on relaxation and authentic scenery, suits those who prefer a more laid-back, exclusive cruise experience over crowded sightseeing.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Private cabins with balconies provide a relaxing retreat and stunning vistas.
• Authentic Experiences: Less crowded spots like Lan Ha Bay offer a peaceful alternative to typical tourist spots.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Meals, transfers, and activities are included, making it easy to enjoy without extra planning.
• Flexible Itinerary: Weather conditions can influence stops, so flexibility is essential.
• Group Size: A maximum of 50 travelers ensures a more personal, intimate atmosphere.
• Reviews Highlight: Knowledgeable guides and delicious meals enhance the experience.
• Possible Drawback: Some reviews mention discrepancies or changes in the itinerary, so expectations should be flexible.
• Best For: Travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic escape with luxurious touches and manageable group sizes.

The Basics: What to Expect

This 5-star cruise is a two-day adventure around Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, with round-trip transfers from Hanoi included if you opt for the limousine service. Priced at $199 per person, it offers a decent value given the comfort, scenery, and included meals. Booking well in advance (about 71 days on average) suggests high demand and popular appeal.

It’s designed for those who want a luxurious escape without the hassle of organizing multiple activities or transportation. The tour accommodates up to 50 guests, striking a balance between intimacy and social opportunity.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your Hanoi hotel or a self-arrival at Tuan Chau Marina if you’re coming independently. The limousine transfer (available for those booking from Hanoi) takes around 2.5 hours, offering a comfortable start with a short break along the way.

Once at Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll check in and transfer via high-speed tender to the cruise vessel. The welcome drink sets a relaxed tone, and you’ll receive a briefing on safety and the plan ahead. A highlight is the lunch served onboard, which features seafood, Vietnamese, and international cuisine — often praised for its quality and flavors.

After lunch, the cruise departs for Lan Ha Bay, where the scenery truly shines. The natural beauty of towering limestone formations and tranquil waters creates perfect photo ops. The boat stops at Ba Trai Dao Islet where activities like kayaking, swimming, and hiking are available — weather permitting. One review points out that if the weather isn’t great, the stop might be changed to a Light Cave, but the experience of being on the water remains enjoyable.

Day 2: Sunrise, Exploration, and Return

Early risers can join a Tai Chi session at sunrise, a peaceful way to start the day. Breakfast follows, offering a relaxed view of the bay’s scenery. Later, you’ll visit Tra Bau or nearby spots, with kayaking and swimming opportunities. The highlight here is the famous caves and limestone islets, where the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitudes shine.

A brunch on the boat wraps up the cruise, followed by disembarkation at Tuan Chau Marina. Those with Hanoi transfers will be whisked back, usually arriving around mid-afternoon.

What Makes This Cruise Special?

Private Cabins with Balconies: Each guest has their own room with a sea-view balcony — a genuine highlight. This setup allows for quiet reflection and uninterrupted views of the stunning landscape, far from noisy groups.

Authentic and Less Crowded Spots: The focus on Lan Ha Bay instead of the overcrowded parts of Ha Long Bay appeals to travelers looking for serenity. The less-touristy areas like Ba Trai Dao offer pristine beaches and natural beauty without the crowds.

Inclusive Meals and Activities: With breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even a cooking demo included, there’s no need to worry about extra costs. The food quality is generally praised, with reviews mentioning delicious seafood and Vietnamese dishes.

Onboard Entertainment and Relaxation: Activities like kayaking, bamboo boat riding, and photo hunting keep guests engaged, while wifi availability in common areas helps share the journey with friends or family.

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently commend the crew and guides for their friendly attitude and local insights, making the journey more enriching.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the experience offers many positives, some travelers have noted that the itinerary may change unexpectedly, especially if weather conditions are poor. One review highlights that Dark and Bright Caves might be substituted with other sites, which could be disappointing if you had specific spots in mind.

Plus, some reviews mention feeling that the experience was not as advertised, particularly regarding the stops in Lan Ha Bay. It’s wise to remain flexible and understand that safety and weather are primary concerns that can alter plans.

Finally, Wi-Fi is only available in the common areas, so internet access is limited onboard, which might be a consideration for those needing to stay connected.

The Value Proposition

At $199 per person, this cruise provides luxury accommodations, all meals, and scenic exploration — a package that tends to be cost-effective when compared to booking separate transportation, hotel, and activities. The private cabins elevate the experience, making it suitable for couples or solo travelers who value comfort.

The tour’s small group size (max 50 travelers) ensures a more intimate vibe and better interaction with guides, adding to its appeal. The inclusion of activities like Tai Chi, cooking demos, and kayaking gives a well-rounded experience that balances relaxation with engagement.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise caters well to relaxed travelers who appreciate comfort and scenic beauty over high-energy adventures. It’s ideal for those wanting a refined experience with less tourist traffic, and for travelers who value good food and knowledgeable guides. If your priority is a peaceful, picturesque escape with the comforts of a luxury hotel afloat, this might be perfect.

However, if your focus is on specific, pre-planned itinerary stops or you require strict adherence to a fixed schedule, you should be prepared for potential itinerary changes due to weather.

Final Thoughts

This Off The Beaten Track to Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay cruise offers a compelling way to see Vietnam’s iconic landscapes while enjoying a touch of luxury. The private cabins, scenic stops, and inclusive meals make it a practical choice for travelers wanting comfort and authenticity.

While the itinerary can be flexible — which is both a plus and a potential source of surprise — the overall experience is built around relaxation, natural beauty, and good service. It’s best suited for those who value comfort, fewer crowds, and a genuine connection with the stunning seascapes.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic voyage with a bit of pampering, this cruise deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, if you book the limousine transfer option, your round-trip transport from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay is included. Otherwise, you’ll need to arrive independently at Tuan Chau Marina.

Can I join the cruise if I arrive late?
No, late arrivals might be denied boarding or face extra fees, as the tour starts at specific times and the registration closes early.

Are meals included?
Yes, all onboard meals — which feature seafood, Vietnamese, and international options — are included in the price.

What activities are available?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, bamboo boat rides, photo hunting, and a cooking demonstration. Activities depend on weather, and some may be changed or canceled.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available in the restaurant/bar area, but connectivity may be limited due to the bay’s geography.

What should I expect in my cabin?
Your private suite will have a sea-view balcony, providing a peaceful retreat with stunning vistas right outside your window.

Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes, due to weather or safety concerns, stops like Ba Trai Dao or caves might be substituted with alternative sites.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers seeking a relaxed, luxurious experience with authentic scenery and fewer crowds will find this tour appealing. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, good food, and a more intimate atmosphere.

What is the price and is it worth it?
Priced at $199, it offers a good balance of comfort, scenic explorations, and inclusions, providing good value for a luxury cruise in this region.

This detailed review hopefully helps you weigh the options and decide whether this cruise fits your travel style. For a peaceful, scenic escape with the comforts of a luxury vessel, it’s worth considering.