2-Days Aspira Cruise Tour around Hanoi- Halong- Lan Ha Bay

If you’re looking to tick off one of Vietnam’s most iconic sights with style and ease, the 2-Day Aspira Cruise offers a compelling blend of comfort, culture, and adventure. Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this cruise promises a relaxing getaway while showcasing the stunning natural beauty and local charm of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay.

What we love about this experience are the modern yet traditional ship design, the chance to explore less crowded, more authentic areas, and the thoughtfully curated activities like kayaking, tai chi, and cooking classes. The only thing to keep in mind is that the transfer from Hanoi costs an extra $35, so it’s worth factoring into your budget. This trip is perfect for travelers craving a luxurious escape with cultural insights and plenty of opportunities to get active on the water.

Key Points

• Comfortable, well-rated cruise experience with a mix of traditional and modern design
• Authentic excursions like kayaking and bamboo boat rides in less touristy bays
• Engaging activities including tai chi, cooking classes, and sunset parties
• Excellent guides such as Tony, Loi Nguyen, and Mac, known for their knowledge and friendliness
• Good value for money at $170 per person, including all major meals and activities
• Optional transfer from Hanoi available for an extra fee, adding convenience

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Sailing through Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay

The day kicks off with a meetup at Aspira lounge, followed by a scenic transfer from Tuan Chau Harbor. Once on board, the sense of adventure begins as the boat sets sail through the iconic Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, both famous for their towering limestone karsts and tranquil waters.

The lunch served onboard isn’t just about filling your stomach—it’s a chance to enjoy your meal while drifting past sea caves and dramatic rock formations. Reviewers often mention the abundance of great food and the spectacular views they enjoyed during mealtimes. It’s a simple but effective way to maximize sightseeing without missing out on delicious local flavors.

A highlight of the first day is visiting Dark and Lights Cave, where you can kayak or take a bamboo boat ride with local rowers. This part of the trip is praised for its authenticity and being less crowded than more commercialized spots, giving you a taste of local life and natural beauty. One reviewer noted that the kayaking was an enjoyable, peaceful experience, allowing for close-up views of the caves.

As the afternoon winds down, you’ll return to the cruise around 4:30-5:30 pm to admire the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Many guests enjoy relaxing in the Jacuzzi on the upper deck or joining the complimentary sunset party and happy hour—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The evening also includes a traditional cooking class, which adds a cultural flavor and a fun way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine.

Day 2: Sunrise, Lan Ha Bay, and Farewell

The morning begins early with the option to practice Tai Chi on the deck, a favorite among guests who want a calm start with a view. Watching the sunrise while doing gentle movements is often described as a peaceful and energizing experience.

Following breakfast, your adventure continues with a detailed exploration of Lan Ha Bay, renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and fewer crowds. You’ll have the chance to kayak around Lan Ha Bay—a highlight praised by reviewers for its serene environment and incredible scenery.

The tour also offers further leisure time—either relaxing, doing more kayaking, or simply soaking in the views from the boat. By 9:30 am, it’s time to check out and brunch onboard while sailing back toward the pier. The entire experience is designed to maximize your time on the water while providing comfort and engaging activities.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in the package are dinner, breakfast, a tai chi lesson, a small cooking class, kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, admission fees, and an English-speaking guide. Plus, you’ll enjoy two delicious lunches—all at a reasonable $170 per person, which many reviews say offers excellent value considering the quality of food, activities, and accommodations.

However, transfers from Hanoi to Halong and back are not included in the base price and cost an additional $35. The cruise offers limousine bus transfers, which are convenient if you prefer a stress-free door-to-door experience rather than arranging your own transport.

Accommodation and Extras

Guests rave about the comfortable, modern design of the cruise ship, blending traditional Vietnamese aesthetics with contemporary comfort. There’s also mention of massage and fitness services onboard, allowing travelers to unwind or keep active during their stay.

Customer Experience and Guides

The guides like Tony, Loi Nguyen, and Mac stand out for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to handle diverse groups. Reviewers repeatedly mention guides as a major highlight, noting their helpfulness, humor, and professionalism. For instance, one reviewer said, “Tony had an Aussie sense of humor, very knowledgeable and went above and beyond.” Such personalized attention can turn a good trip into a memorable one.

The Natural Beauty and Cultural Encounters

The real star of this cruise is the spectacular scenery—towering limestone formations, tranquil bays, hidden caves, and lush landscapes that seem almost untouched. The less touristy areas of Lan Ha Bay give an authentic feel, and the local rowers in bamboo boats add a charming touch of Vietnamese culture.

Guests frequently mention the stunning views during sunset and sunrise, with many describing it as a photo-worthy experience. The kayaking allows you to get up close to the cliffs and caves, while the caves themselves are often noted as the main attractions—particularly Dark and Lights Cave, where you can explore both by kayak and bamboo boat.

Food and Beverage

Meals are consistently praised for their quality and variety, with many reviewers mentioning that the food exceeded expectations for a cruise. The traditional cooking class also receives positive comments for being fun and insightful. The happy hour and sunset parties add a social element, allowing travelers to mingle and toast to a day well spent.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who value comfort and want a well-rounded experience. Its small group atmosphere (max 44 travelers) fosters a friendly environment, ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. Because it offers authentic excursions away from crowded tourist spots, it’s especially suited to those who appreciate nature, culture, and a touch of luxury.

It’s also an excellent option for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with active pursuits like kayaking, and who enjoy engaging with guides and local culture. If you’re after a balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural insight without sacrificing comfort, this cruise ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The 2-Day Aspira Cruise around Hanoi, Ha Long, and Lan Ha Bay offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural activities, and luxurious comfort. With its high ratings, glowing reviews, and excellent value, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience memorable.

The focus on authentic, less crowded areas makes it stand out among many bay cruises, providing a more genuine taste of Vietnam’s natural charm. The knowledgeable guides and delicious food elevate the experience, creating a trip that feels both relaxing and enriching.

If you’re seeking a convenient, comfortable way to explore Vietnam’s stunning bays with plenty of opportunities for adventure and cultural exchange, this cruise is a smart choice. It’s best suited for those who want a stress-free, engaging escape—and are happy to pay a little extra for quality, comfort, and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is offered as part of the package, but the cost for transfer from Hanoi is an additional $35, which can be arranged via the cruise’s limousine bus.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy dinner and breakfast on the cruise, plus two lunches during the trip. The meals are described as high quality, with many guests praising the variety and flavor.

Can I participate if I don’t kayak?
Yes, kayaking is an optional activity. If you prefer to relax or explore on land, there is plenty of scenic beauty to enjoy from the boat or deck.

How long is the cruising time each day?
The cruise typically sails for about 9 hours on day 1 from Tuan Chau Harbor, and about 10 hours on day 2, including stops and free time.

Are the guides helpful?
Absolutely. Guests have consistently praised guides like Tony and Loi Nguyen for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 44 travelers, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the friendly guides and social environment make it a good choice for solo adventurers looking to meet others.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for kayaking and walking, swimwear, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the breathtaking scenery.

In summary, this cruise offers a noteworthy combination of comfort, authentic experiences, and scenic beauty at a reasonable price. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxing yet engaging Vietnamese bay experience, with plenty of opportunities to learn, explore, and unwind.