BEST SELLER – 2 Day 1 Night HALONG bay cruise with All-Inclusive

Traveling through Vietnam’s iconic coastline often centers around a trip to Halong Bay, and this 2-day, 1-night cruise experience is one of the most booked ways to see its stunning limestone formations, caves, and islands. While many travelers choose this tour for its convenience, engaging activities, and scenic beauty, it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking. This tour, offered by HT Travel & Cruises, scores well with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5, making it a solid choice for many.

What really stands out are the beautiful views of limestone islands, the included meals and activities, and the ability to relax on well-chosen luxury accommodations. Plus, the seamless round-trip transfer from Hanoi simplifies logistics, saving you time and effort. One thing to consider is the mixed reviews—some travelers felt that the overall quality didn’t quite match the promotional promises, especially regarding the cruise’s star rating. Nonetheless, if you’re after an authentic, scenic, and activity-filled getaway, this tour might be just right. It’s best suited for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, comfort, and local immersion.

Key Points

• Convenient all-inclusive package with meals, activities, and transfers.
• Beautiful scenic stops like Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave.
• Engaging activities such as kayaking and bamboo boat rides.
• Comfortable accommodation options aboard the cruise.
• Ideal for travelers who value guided experiences and scenic views.
• Consideration for those sensitive to seasickness or looking for ultra-luxury service.

A Complete Look at the 2-Day Halong Bay Cruise

What makes this tour appealing?

This cruise’s primary draw is its combination of scenic beauty, activities, and convenience. It’s a well-rounded experience designed for travelers who want to see the highlights of Halong Bay without the hassle of organizing multiple logistics. The price point of $133 per person reflects what you get—meals, guided excursions, and transport—making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers seeking value.

How is the itinerary structured?

The tour features a balance of guided sightseeing, relaxation, and hands-on activities that showcase the best of Halong Bay. The journey begins with a pickup from Hanoi early in the morning, followed by a roughly 3-hour drive to the cruise departure point. Once aboard, the boat begins to navigate through the impressive limestone islands, giving you time to settle in, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in a delicious lunch. Key stops include the famous Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave, with kayaking and bamboo boat rides adding an interactive element.

Transportation and timing

The round-trip transfer is included, with departure from Hanoi around 8:00-8:30 AM and return around 3:00 PM two days later. The long drive is necessary but is generally smooth, especially with the air-conditioned vehicle. Onboard WiFi, restrooms, and bottled water make the journey comfortable. The cruise itself is moderate in size, accommodating up to 50 travelers, which fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Day 1: From Hanoi to the Majestic Bay

Early morning pickup

Travelers are collected from centrally located Hanoi hotels, which is a definite plus, especially if you’re staying in districts like Hoan Kiem or Ba Dinh. For those arriving at Noi Bai Airport, pickup can be arranged for an extra fee, provided your flight aligns with the schedule.

Cruise boarding and initial views

As the boat departs, you’re treated to your first views of the limestone karsts—a truly mesmerizing sight. The included lunch on board is appreciated, especially as it offers local flavors and picturesque surroundings.

Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island

The highlight of the day is visiting Sung Sot Cave—the largest in Halong Bay—with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. One reviewer noted, “The stunning stalactites and stalagmites shaped over millions of years will amaze you.” After exploring the cave, travelers can hike up Titop Island for panoramic views or relax on its sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing or swimming. Titop’s beach is praised for its gentle waves and scenic vistas, even though some mention it can get crowded during peak times.

Evening activities

Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy a sunset party, a cooking class, and happy hour—buy 2 drinks, get 1 free. The night views of the bay are peaceful, and optional activities like massages or herbal foot baths are available. One reviewer expressed appreciation for the “peaceful view of the bay at night,” highlighting the relaxing atmosphere.

Day 2: Sunrise, Cave Visits, and Return

Early morning Tai Chi

Starting the day with Tai Chi on the sundeck offers a quiet moment to enjoy the sunrise over the water—a calming ritual for many guests.

Visiting Sung Sot Cave again

On day two, you’ll revisit Sung Sot Cave for a more leisurely exploration, and possibly hike to the summit for stunning views of the bay. As one review pointed out, “The largest cave in Halong Bay is simply breathtaking,” which justifies the visit twice.

Return to Hanoi

Post-brunch, the cruise disembarks, and the journey back to Hanoi begins. Expect to arrive around 3 PM, leaving plenty of time to explore the city or relax.

What’s Included, What’s Not

The inclusive package covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch), WiFi, bottled water, kayaks, bamboo boats, and guided excursions—all major value drivers. The additional costs mainly involve drinks outside the complimentary list and personal expenses. Notably, the tour accommodates special dietary needs like vegetarian or gluten-free options—just mention it during booking.

A Closer Look at the Highlights

Sung Sot Cave

As the largest cave in the bay, Sung Sot offers impressive chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Its size and natural formations often leave visitors in awe, and the hike to the summit provides sweeping views of the bay. One guest described it as “stunning,” and many appreciate the opportunity to walk through its expansive chambers.

Titop Island

This spot stands out thanks to its sandy beach and hiking trail. The view from the top offers postcard-perfect panoramas, ideal for photos and catching your breath after the hike. The beach can get busy but remains a favorite for swimming and sunbathing.

Luon Cave and Kayaking

Kayaking is a highlight for many, offering an up-close experience of the limestone formations and grottos. Several reviewers mentioned “kayaking around the cave and grottos” as a fun, active way to explore. Bamboo boat rides are also available, adding a traditional touch.

Seaside Serenity

The nights on the boat are surprisingly tranquil, and the deck views are spectacular. One traveler enjoyed “peaceful views of the bay at night,” which is perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

What Could Be Improved?

While the experience offers great value and memorable sights, some travelers felt that the cruise itself was only a 3-star experience despite being marketed as higher-end. One reviewer expressed their disappointment, stating, “It wasn’t a 5-star cruise as sold by Viator. The cruise staff themselves mentioned it’s a 3-star cruise. We felt cheated.” This highlights the importance of managing expectations regarding the ship’s amenities and service level.

Plus, the size of the group (up to 50 travelers) can influence the intimacy of the experience. Larger groups may feel less personal, especially during meals or shared activities.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Halong Bay cruise delivers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, activities, and value. The included guided tours, kayaks, and meals mean you won’t have to worry about extra costs or planning, making it a smooth adventure from start to finish. The views of limestone islands, caves, and islands like Titop are genuinely breathtaking and worth the journey, even if the cruise’s star rating might not be five stars.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities for active exploration, comfortable accommodation, and authentic local experiences. If you’re after a straightforward, affordable way to see Halong Bay’s iconic sights, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is pickup from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from hotels in the central districts of Hanoi, typically between 8:00 and 8:30 AM. Airport pickup is available for an extra fee if your flight aligns with the schedule.

What meals are included?
You’ll be served breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch during the cruise. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request, so be sure to specify dietary needs when booking.

How long is the drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
The transfer takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Are activities like kayaking included?
Yes, kayaking and bamboo boat rides are included as part of the experience, allowing you to explore caves and grottos up close.

What is the group size?
The cruise can accommodate up to 50 travelers, fostering a friendly, shared experience.

Is the cruise suitable for people sensitive to seasickness?
It may not be ideal for those highly sensitive to motion, as the vessel moves through open water and can sway.

Can I stay on the cruise if I don’t want to participate in outdoor activities?
Absolutely. If outdoor activities aren’t your thing, you can remain on the ship and enjoy the scenery from the deck or relax in your cabin.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before will incur charges, with no refunds for cancellations made less than 2 days before.

Final Words

This all-inclusive 2-day Halong Bay cruise offers a compelling blend of iconic scenery, manageable activities, and comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. While the cruise’s star rating might not match some promotional claims, the natural beauty and engaging excursions more than compensate. Perfect for those seeking a classic Halong Bay experience without overcomplicating logistics, this tour is a sound choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

If you’re looking to enjoy Vietnam’s coastline with ease, great views, and a variety of activities, this cruise provides a balanced, memorable adventure. Just keep your expectations aligned with the cruise’s actual level of luxury and service, and you’ll have a trip full of stunning sights and authentic moments.