Deluxe Cruise from Hanoi: Halong Bay Tour with Set Menu

A Closer Look at the Deluxe Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi

If you’re dreaming of cruising through one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes in style, this Deluxe 5-Star Cruise from Hanoi offers an inviting blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, detailed reviews and the itinerary suggest it’s a standout option for those seeking a high-end experience with plenty of opportunities for discovery.

What we love most about this tour is the luxurious cruise experience combined with the delicious Vietnamese set menu, the chance to explore iconic sights like Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, and the inclusion of kayaking in Luon Cave. The fact that it offers pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter and a full-day itinerary makes it both convenient and value-packed. The only consideration? For some, a full 11-hour day could feel long, especially if you prefer shorter, more relaxed outings.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine comfort with adventure, appreciate a well-organized, all-inclusive day, and are ready to enjoy some of Vietnam’s most celebrated natural sights in a premium setting. It’s perfect for those celebrating special occasions or anyone eager to experience Halong Bay without sacrificing quality.

Key Points

• Luxury Cruise: Enjoy a 5-star experience on a well-appointed boat with amenities like a Jacuzzi and towels.
• Authentic Cuisine: A set menu lunch featuring Vietnamese dishes and seafood provides a true taste of local flavors.
• Sightseeing Highlights: Explore Surprising Cave, Titov Island, and enjoy kayaking at Luon Cave.
• Comfort & Convenience: Seamless pickup and return from Hanoi Old Quarter make logistics easier.
• Value for Money: At $55 per person, the price includes transportation, sightseeing fees, and a full cruise experience.
• Authentic Reviews: Guests praise the cruise for its superb quality, responsible staff, and stunning views.

An In-Depth Review of the Halong Bay Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins bright and early at the Hanoi Opera House, where a professional guide will pick you up. The transfer to Halong Bay is via a fast expressway, ensuring you spend less time in transit and more time enjoying the scenery. The 2 hours 30 minutes ride is comfortable, with an air-conditioned bus, and the anticipation of what lies ahead builds as you cruise through the lush Vietnamese countryside.

Exploring Halong Bay on a 5-Star Cruise

Once on board the Olympus 5-Star Cruise, you’ll immediately notice the refined decor and relaxing atmosphere. The boat features luxury amenities, including a Jacuzzi and towels, to enhance your comfort. The cruise route takes you through Route 2, known for its uninhabited islets and striking rock formations—ideal for photography and peaceful reflection.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave): This is arguably the most famous cavern in Halong Bay, and for good reason. The review from Jyothish_J mentions the cruise being “supereb” and the guide being “good,” which suggests a well-organized visit. The cave impresses with its grand chambers and stalactite formations, and the guided part of the tour offers insights into its geological features.

Titov Island: After the cave visit, the tour stops at Titov Island, where visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, or simply lounging on the pristine sandy beaches. The island’s panoramic views are particularly stunning at sunset, making it a perfect spot for photos.

Kayaking at Luon Cave: One of the highlights, especially for those who love a bit of adventure, is kayaking in the tranquil waters of Luon Cave. Reviewers note that this activity allows for close-up encounters with the bay’s serene beauty, and it’s a refreshing break from sightseeing.

Dining and Relaxation

A set menu lunch, featuring Vietnamese cuisine and seafood, is served onboard. It’s often praised for its delicious flavors and generous portions, adding significant value to the overall experience. Guests report that the food is of high quality—something not always guaranteed on group tours—and a great way to enjoy local flavors without hunting for restaurants.

Afternoon Activities and Return

Post-lunch, you’ll have free time for kayaking, swimming, or just relaxing on the deck. The sunset party on the sundeck offers a relaxing way to unwind, with soothing music and tea as you take in the stunning vistas of Halong Bay.

The journey back to Hanoi is smooth, with a 20-30 minute stop before heading to the Old Quarter, arriving around 9 PM. The tour is long but well-paced, with ample time to soak in the scenery and enjoy each activity.

Overall Value and Experience

At $55 per person, including pickup, sightseeing, entrance fees, and meals, this tour presents excellent value. The quality of the cruise, combined with the variety of activities and sights, makes it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a premium experience in Halong Bay.

Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently highlight the responsibility and friendliness of the staff and the stunning views as some of the best parts of the trip. Jyothish_J particularly appreciated the helpfulness of the guide and the quality of the cruise, noting that the experience “helped us a lot” during their trip.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour suits travelers wanting a luxurious, all-in-one experience without the hassle of organizing multiple activities themselves. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Halong Bay, couples celebrating special moments, or groups of friends looking for a memorable day. If you’re after authentic scenery, comfortable transport, and a well-curated itinerary, this cruise ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

This Deluxe Cruise from Hanoi offers a well-rounded, high-end way to enjoy Halong Bay’s natural splendors. The combination of luxury amenities, delicious food, and impressive sights makes it a compelling choice for travelers willing to indulge a little. While the full-day format may be long for some, the experience’s quality and the sheer beauty of the bay make it worth every minute.

This tour is best suited for those who value comfort and authenticity and want to see the highlights of Halong Bay without sacrificing convenience or style. It’s a premium experience that promises memorable vistas, delicious food, and a smooth, hassle-free day out.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes 6 hours of cruising on a luxury cruise, a set lunch menu with Vietnamese food and seafood, sightseeing entrance fees for Surprising Cave and Titop Island, activities like kayaking or bamboo boat rides, swimming, hiking, an English-speaking guide, and return transfer via expressway.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the Hanoi Opera House at 8:00 AM and finishes back at the same meeting point around 9:00 PM, after a full day of exploring.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, your transfer is on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, designed to make the 2.5-hour journey to and from Halong Bay smooth and hassle-free.

What activities can I expect?
You’ll explore Sung Sot Cave, relax on Titov Island, go kayaking in Luon Cave, and have opportunities for swimming, hiking, and taking photos of the stunning karst formations.

How is the food?
Guests praise the delicious set menu lunch, which features Vietnamese dishes and seafood. It’s a good-quality meal that adds to the overall value of the experience.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Beverages, personal expenses, tips, and holiday surcharges are not included. You might want to budget for drinks or souvenirs.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific mobility needs, especially for activities like hiking or kayaking.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 99 travelers, but it typically feels well-organized and not overcrowded, thanks to the well-managed itinerary.

This detailed look at the Deluxe Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi hopefully helps you decide if this luxurious day trip aligns with your travel style. Whether you’re after scenic vistas, authentic cuisine, or a comfortable journey, this tour aims to deliver a memorable experience of Vietnam’s most famous bay.