Hanoi: 2-Day Halong & Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise with Balcony

Traveling through Vietnam’s famous bay scenery is often on every adventure lover’s bucket list, and this 2-day luxury cruise offers a chance to do it in style. While we haven’t personally sailed it, detailed reviews highlight its well-rounded blend of comfort, authentic experiences, and stunning vistas.

What truly makes this cruise stand out are its luxurious private cabins with balconies, the variety of activities like kayaking and cooking classes, and the chance to explore two different bays. But, like any popular tour, it’s worth noting that schedules and itineraries can shift due to weather, which might impact your plans.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort combined with authentic exploration, love engaging activities, and want to see some of Vietnam’s most dramatic landscapes without sacrificing quality. However, those looking for a truly secluded or off-the-beaten-path vibe might find it slightly more structured than they prefer.

Key Points

• Luxury at sea: Well-furnished cabins with private balconies and ocean views.
• Active and relaxing: Kayaking, swimming, tai chi, and squid fishing balance adventure and downtime.
• Culinary insights: Enjoy Vietnamese cooking classes and seafood set menus.
• Flexible options: Different stops like caves or beaches; activities tailored to your interests.
• Authentic experience: Knowledgeable guides and traditional bamboo boat rides enhance the journey.
• Value for money: For $178, the combination of amenities, activities, and scenery is impressive.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Elegant Way to Discover Lan Ha and Ha Long Bay

Exploring Vietnam’s iconic bay via a luxury cruise is an experience that balances comfort with adventure. This tour from Hanoi promises a tasteful mix of sightseeing, activities, and relaxation in a style that appeals to those who want to indulge a little without losing authenticity.

The well-designed itinerary is broken into two days filled with diverse sights and tastes. From the moment you’re picked up in Hanoi, the journey begins with a scenic 2.5-hour limousine ride to Tuan Chau Port, where the real journey starts. Guests frequently praise the smooth transfer service, noting that it sets a relaxed tone for the trip.

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and a briefing about the cruise. The cabins, equipped with private bathrooms, bathtubs facing the sea, and A/C, ensure you can unwind in comfort. Plus, with two bottles of water daily, staying refreshed is simple.

What the Cruise Offers in Detail

The cruise itself is a floating oasis, with a spacious sundeck perfect for catching sunset views or simply relaxing after a day of exploring. The onboard restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with vegetarian options available, which is a thoughtful touch.

Guests consistently mention how the seafood set menus are fresh and delicious, adding local flavor to the experience. The cooking class in which you learn to make Vietnamese spring rolls is a standout activity, providing a hands-on cultural moment.

Activities That Make It Special

The cruise’s activities are what set it apart. The discovery of Dark and Bright Cave by kayak or bamboo boat is a highlight, with some travelers describing paddling through the limestone formations as magical. When not kayaking, guests often swim in the bay’s clear waters—a refreshing break after exploring caves.

The sunset tea sessions are a favorite, offering a peaceful moment with panoramic views. The option to fish for squid at night adds a fun, authentic touch, as some reviews mention it’s a surprisingly delightful and calming activity.

Tai Chi sessions at dawn are another unique feature, helping guests start the day with mindfulness surrounded by nature’s quiet beauty. Plus, if celebrating a special occasion, the cruise offers free honeymoon or anniversary cabins and birthday cakes, which can make your trip memorable.

Shore Visits and Optional Stops

On the second day, options include visiting Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island or exploring the Ao Ech area in Lan Ha Bay, both of which are praised for their scenic beauty. Reviews mention how guides are attentive to timing, ensuring you get the most out of each stop, though schedules may shift based on weather conditions.

One review notes that visiting caves by bamboo boat feels intimate and peaceful, adding a layer of charm to the adventure. For those who prefer more beach time, Ba Trai Dao beach offers ideal kayaking and swimming spots amid limestone islets.

More Great Tours Nearby

Comfort and Convenience

The private balconies of the cabins are a real treat, giving you a front-row seat to the bay’s ever-changing scenery. Guests often comment on how well-appointed the rooms are, with some noting the private bathtubs with ocean views as a highlight.

The cruise includes all meals, kayaking, swimming, and fishing, making it an excellent value considering the level of comfort and the variety of activities. Optional extras like single rooms or special request cabins (for honeymoon or birthdays) are available, adding flexibility.

Transport options extend beyond Hanoi, with limousine transfers to Ninh Binh available for those wanting to extend their trip. The entire experience feels seamless, with pick-ups and drop-offs arranged to minimize hassle.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers great value, it’s important to consider a few points. The roundtrip transfer from Hanoi costs $25 per person, which is reasonable but adds to your overall expense. If traveling solo, a $80 surcharge applies for a private single cabin, so group travel is more economical.

The schedule is weather-dependent—tours are subject to change, which might affect your planned activities or stops. If you’re visiting during peak season (October to April), expect a $13 per person surcharge.

Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera, as activities such as kayaking and cave exploration require some gear.

Note that smoking is prohibited in vehicles and alcohol or drugs are not allowed onboard, ensuring a safe and family-friendly environment.

Authentic Experiences and Guides

Guests have highlighted the knowledgeable guides who make the experience richer by sharing insights about the landscape and local culture. The bamboo boat rides around caves or beaches offer an intimate, traditional touch that many find memorable.

The cooking class with the onboard chef is more than just a demonstration; some reviews mention that they learned new techniques that they later used back home, adding a practical element to the trip.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, yet active and authentic experience. It suits those who appreciate comfort—private cabins with ocean views—and want to explore both Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay in style.

It’s also well-suited for couples celebrating special occasions, thanks to the free honeymoon setup and birthday treats. However, it’s less ideal for travelers who prefer solitude or a more rustic experience, as the cruise offers a structured itinerary with guided activities.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day luxury cruise combines style, adventure, and culture into one memorable package. With its private balconies, tasty Vietnamese cuisine, and a variety of engaging activities, it delivers good value for those who want a taste of Vietnam’s iconic bay scenery in comfort.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and activity-rich experience that doesn’t skimp on comfort, this cruise is a compelling choice. It balances the thrill of kayaking and cave exploration with pampering and relaxation, making it a solid option for many types of travelers.

Just keep in mind that schedules may shift with weather, and additional costs like transfers and surcharges can add up, so plan accordingly. Ultimately, this cruise offers a beautiful way to see some of Vietnam’s most scenic waters while enjoying top-notch amenities.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Port?
The transfer takes about 2.5 hours via limousine, providing a comfortable start to your journey.

What amenities are included in the cabins?
Cabins feature private bathrooms with bathtubs, ocean views, air conditioning, and private balconies.

Are vegetarian meals available onboard?
Yes, all meals are included with vegetarian options, and the onboard restaurant offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes.

Can I participate in kayaking and swimming?
Absolutely. Kayaking and swimming are included, with some reviews noting how clear and inviting the waters are.

Is there a schedule for cave visits?
Yes, cave visits like Dark and Bright Cave or Trung Trang Cave are scheduled, but time may vary depending on weather conditions.

Can I book a private or honeymoon cabin?
Yes, free honeymoon or anniversary setups are available upon request, and special cabins can be arranged ahead of time.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Peak season is from October to April, but keep in mind there’s a surcharge during this period. Always check weather forecasts, as schedules depend on weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: