2 Day in Bai Tu Long from Hanoi

Planning a trip to Vietnam and craving a genuine, scenic escape from Hanoi? This 2-day tour to Bai Tu Long and Halong Bay promises a well-rounded experience filled with breathtaking views, cultural insights, and fun activities—all without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself. While it’s a group tour with a set itinerary, it offers enough flexibility to make it memorable and engaging.

What we love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines luxury and authenticity. You’ll enjoy a comfortable cruise aboard the Lily Cruise, with access to an outdoor Jacuzzi, kayaks, and the chance to learn Vietnamese cooking. Plus, the stops at fishing villages, caves, and the chance to watch the sunset over limestone karsts are truly memorable.

One consideration to keep in mind: the tour starts early and involves quite a bit of moving around, so it’s best suited for travelers who are ready for a full, active two days. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture—all rolled into one package.

If you’re looking for an authentic yet comfortable way to experience Vietnam’s iconic waters, this tour could be just what you need. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just eager to see some of Southeast Asia’s most stunning scenery, this trip offers a balanced blend of leisure and exploration.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience the dramatic limestone formations and emerald waters of Bai Tu Long and Halong Bay.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Accommodation, meals, and activities are covered, reducing planning stress.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit fishing villages, participate in cooking classes, and enjoy local activities like kayaking and squid fishing.
• Balanced Itinerary: The schedule combines sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure, suitable for most travelers.
• Group Convenience: Small group size and guides ensure personalized attention and local insights.
• Value for Money: At $265 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience for those wanting more than just a boat cruise.

The Pickup and Journey from Hanoi

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup around 8:00 AM from your Hanoi hotel or the Opera House. The transfer is via limousine bus, and while a small additional charge might apply if you’re outside the central Old Quarter, the comfort and convenience are worth it. The journey itself is smooth, giving you a chance to relax and get excited about the scenery ahead.

Once on the bus, you’ll be heading towards the Sun World International Terminal, where your floating journey begins. The half-hour ride offers a preview of what’s to come—vistas of rice paddies, limestone cliffs, and small villages dotting the landscape.

Boarding the Lily Cruise at Bai Tu Long Bay

Around noon, you’ll check in on the cruise, greeted with a welcome drink and a safety briefing. The vessel is described as a luxury cruise, with air-conditioned en-suite cabins and modern amenities, making it a comfortable floating base for your explorations.

What sets this apart: The cruise’s focus on comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing authenticity. The crew is attentive, and the boat’s design blends luxury with traditional Vietnamese aesthetics. Many travelers mention the outdoor jacuzzi and the sundeck as perfect spots to unwind and take in the views.

Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay’s Natural Beauty

The first stop, Bai Tu Long Bay itself, offers a quieter alternative to the bustling Halong Bay. With fewer crowds and equally impressive formations, it’s a perfect introduction to the region’s limestone karsts and emerald waters. The cruise’s itinerary includes a chance to marvel at these vistas from the deck, often during sunset or sunrise, which many describe as breathtaking.

Vung Vieng Fishing Village

Next up is a visit to Vung Vieng, one of the largest floating fishing villages in Bai Tu Long Bay. This stop is particularly valued for its authenticity. You’ll learn about the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen and their families—an insight that many reviewers find enriching. Optional activities like bamboo boat rides and kayaking are available, with some travelers noting that the chance to paddle around these floating communities adds a genuine touch to the experience.

Reviewers have expressed admiration for the peaceful, almost untouched atmosphere here. One said, “It’s a rare glimpse into local life that’s often missing in more commercialized tours.” You get to see how these communities thrive on the water, which makes for compelling photos and stories.

Sunset and Cooking Class

As the day winds down, you’ll witness the stunning sunset over the bay—an experience many describe as awe-inspiring. During “Happy Hour,” the crew hosts a Vietnamese cooking class featuring spring rolls, a staple of local cuisine. This activity is a favorite among travelers because it’s interactive and delicious, giving a taste of authentic Vietnamese flavors.

Dinner and Nighttime Activities

Dinner on the cruise is generally seafood-based, with fresh ingredients and local flavors. Many mention the quality of the food as surprisingly good for a group tour, with some describing it as “delicious and beautifully presented.” After dinner, the boat stays out in Bai Tu Long Bay, and guests have the chance to try squid fishing from the deck—an experience that’s both relaxing and lively.

Early Tai Chi and Sunrise Views

Awakening early for Tai Chi at dawn is a serene way to start your day. The slow, mindful movements against the backdrop of the rising sun over the water are described as calming and refreshing. It’s a great way to connect with the natural environment before the day gets busy.

Thien Canh Son Cave

The highlight of the morning is exploring Thien Canh Son Cave, perched on a mountain’s crest. The cave’s geological formations, long history, and natural beauty are well worth the effort of a short trek. Expect to bring a camera, as many visitors find the scenery inside to be quite photogenic. Some reviewers mention needing sports shoes for the trek, which adds a little adventure to the visit.

Return and Check-Out

After the cave visit, it’s time to relax, check out, and prepare for the journey back to Hanoi. The crew helps with luggage, and the boat heads toward the mainland, with a brunch served en route—a warm, satisfying meal to round out your experience.

Back to Hanoi

Arriving at the Halong International Cruise Port around 11:30 AM, you’ll transfer back to the Sun World International Terminal. The return trip offers a chance to unwind, reflect on the trip, and enjoy the scenery one last time before arriving in Hanoi in the early afternoon.

Included in the tour are all major meals—breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner—alongside accommodation in a luxurious cabin, activities like kayaking, squid fishing, and Tai Chi, and entrance fees to key sites. The tour also provides a guide, travel insurance, and round-trip shuttle service within Hanoi.

Not included are gratuities, visa arrangements, spa services, other beverages, and optional extras like massages. The tour’s price of $265 per person offers good value, considering the comprehensive itinerary, quality accommodation, and included activities.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, culture, and leisure. It appeals especially to those comfortable with group travel and early mornings, as well as anyone eager to explore Vietnam’s iconic limestone waters without the stress of planning every detail themselves. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can enjoy the flexibility and variety of activities.

This 2-day tour to Bai Tu Long from Hanoi offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Vietnam’s stunning bay area while maintaining comfort and convenience. The stunning vistas, engaging local visits, and tasty Vietnamese cuisine make it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting more than just a quick boat ride.

The combination of relaxing onboard moments, active kayaking, and cultural insights ensures you leave with a genuine appreciation of this remarkable region. With a focus on quality, authentic experiences, and good value, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Vietnam’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, pickup is offered from your Hanoi hotel or the Opera House; additional charges may apply for other locations.

How long is the boat cruise each day? The cruise operates across the two days with specific stops at different times, roughly from noon on Day 1 to late morning on Day 2.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner are included, with local dishes and seafood being highlights.

What activities are available onboard? You can participate in kayaking, squid fishing, Tai Chi, and a Vietnamese cooking class.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for early mornings and some walking/trekking, especially at Thien Canh Son Cave.

What is the group size? The tour typically has a maximum of 48 travelers, ensuring a communal yet manageable experience.

Are there any additional costs? Gratuities, spa services, beverages, and optional extras like massages are not included.

How do I get back to Hanoi? The tour ends with a transfer back to the Sun World International Terminal in Hanoi, arriving around noon.

Can I customize the experience? The itinerary is fixed, but you can choose to join optional activities like kayaking and squid fishing.

Is this tour weather-dependent? Yes, the tour operates mainly in good weather; cancellations due to poor weather are refunded or rescheduled.

This 2-day Bai Tu Long tour balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and comfort, making it a fantastic way to experience Vietnam’s legendary waters without feeling rushed. Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes or local interactions, it’s designed to leave you with lasting memories of this extraordinary region.