Amanda Cruise Luxury Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay 2 Days Tour

Imagine gliding through emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone formations, with a chance to relax in plush cabins and enjoy gourmet Vietnamese cuisine. That’s the promise of the Amanda Cruise Luxury Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay 2 Days Tour—a journey that seeks to blend adventure with comfort amidst some of Vietnam’s most iconic scenery. While it’s not perfect, it offers a solid experience for those looking to explore these UNESCO-listed waters with a touch of luxury.

What we like most about this tour is its elegant cruise setting, the opportunity to kayak around hidden lagoons, and the delicious, well-prepared meals that come with the package. The timing is generally well thought out, allowing travelers to soak in the views without feeling rushed. However, some guests have mentioned issues with communication and room upgrades—so managing expectations is key. This tour tends to suit travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation, scenic exploration, and good value for money.

Key Points

• Luxurious onboard experience with panoramic sea-view cabins and a friendly crew.
• Well-organized itinerary balancing sightseeing, activities, and downtime.
• Inclusion of meals, transfers, and activities at a fair price, making it good value.
• Potential for logistical hiccups, especially with room upgrades or last-minute cancellations.
• Authentic experiences like kayaking and cave exploring provide genuine adventure.
• Suitable for travelers craving comfort with a taste of adventure in a stunning setting.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early in Hanoi, with pickup from your hotel in the Old Quarter or Hanoi Opera House. This is a real plus—no fuss, as someone else handles the logistics. The roundtrip limousine transfer takes approximately 2.5 hours, including a short break, setting a relaxed tone for the journey ahead. This direct and plush transfer is a nice touch, especially after a long day of travel or prior sightseeing.

The Arrival at Tuan Chau Harbor

Once at Tuan Chau Harbor, you’ll transfer onto the Amanda Luxury Cruise via tender, which takes around 30-45 minutes. The boat itself is described as elegant, with en-suite cabins featuring private balconies offering panoramic sea views. A friendly cruise manager will greet you with a welcome drink and give a safety briefing—important for first-timers on a boat of this size.

Day 1: Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Beyond

Lunch on board is served as the boat starts to sail into Halong Bay’s quieter extension—Lan Ha Bay. This area is known for its less crowded, more peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those wanting a break from tourist-heavy spots. Expect to pass thousands of limestone islands, each with unique shapes, creating a mesmerizing landscape.

The highlight of the afternoon is a visit to Tra Bau Area, renowned for its filming location for Kong Skull Island. Here, guests can kayak and swim, exploring secluded lagoons and enjoying the clear waters. Reviewers mention that the kayaking here is a great way to get close to nature and see the hidden corners of Lan Ha Bay.

Later, there’s a sunset party and happy hour, along with a cooking class—a fun way to learn some Vietnamese culinary tricks. Dinner on the boat features local dishes, and after hours, guests can enjoy activities like karaoke, drinks at the bar, or even squid fishing. Guests have found the night scenery of Halong Bay beautifully peaceful, although some note that the overall atmosphere can be a bit lively or quiet depending on the crowd.

Day 2: Early Morning Activities and Cave Exploration

The following morning begins with a Tai Chi class on the sun deck—an excellent way to start the day relaxed and centered. After a light breakfast, the boat heads towards Dark & Light Cave, a highlight for those interested in natural beauty and photography.

The kayaking experience here is especially praised; reviewers say that exploring the Bright-Dark Cave allows for close-up views of limestone formations and a chance to capture stunning photos. The activity is considered not overly strenuous, making it accessible for most travelers.

Back on the boat, there’s a brunch before heading back to Tuan Chau Harbor, concluding the cruise around 11:30 am. From there, you’ll transfer back to Hanoi, with an estimated arrival between 2:30 and 3 pm.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers good value for the price of $235 per person, especially considering luxurious cabins, meals, activities, and transfers are all covered. The inclusion of kayaking, swimming, and cave visits adds authenticity and adventure, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

However, there are some costs not included—like beverages, tips, and personal expenses. Some travelers might find that additional drinks or souvenirs can quickly add up, so budgeting is wise.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour generally runs smoothly, some guests have experienced last-minute cancellations or room upgrade issues. A reviewer mentioned being asked to change rooms and not receiving a refund for the difference, which highlights the importance of clarifying room details beforehand. Also, communication issues, such as last-minute notices about tour availability, have occurred, so keeping a flexible attitude helps.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the tour’s strengths lies in its authentic activities. Kayaking around Tra Bau Area and the Dark & Light Cave offers tangible ways to connect with the environment. Guests often comment on the crystal-clear waters and spectacular limestone formations, which truly are a sight to behold.

The cave exploration is a highlight—it’s not just about the scenery but also about feeling like an explorer at home in nature. The bamboo boats at the caves provide a charming, traditional touch that adds to the experience.

Food and Service

Guests consistently mention the delicious Vietnamese cuisine served onboard. With two lunches and a dinner included, there’s plenty of opportunity to sample local flavors. Reviewers especially appreciated the well-prepared dishes and the friendly service from the crew.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balance of comfort and adventure. The luxurious cabins, gourmet meals, and organized activities make it suitable for couples, friends, or even solo travelers seeking a relaxing yet engaging experience.

However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a perfectly smooth operation, as some past guests experienced minor logistical issues. It’s also not suited for travelers on a tight schedule—the itinerary is relatively relaxed, but the transfer times are fixed.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful and scenic escape in Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort, this cruise offers a compelling package. Just be prepared for possible last-minute surprises and ensure your room preferences are clear.

FAQs: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $235 per person, which covers transfers, meals, activities, and accommodation onboard.

How long does the transfer from Hanoi take?
The limousine transfer takes about 2.5 hours, including a short break, making it a comfortable journey.

Are meals included?
Yes, two lunches, one dinner, and a light breakfast are included, featuring Vietnamese cuisine.

What activities are offered during the cruise?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming, cave exploring, and a cooking class. There are also opportunities for karaoke and squid fishing at night.

What should I know about the cabins?
The cruise offers luxury en-suite cabins with private balconies. Some reviews mention room upgrade issues, so clarify your booking details in advance.

Are there any age or physical activity restrictions?
Most activities like kayaking and cave exploring are suitable for most travelers, but some effort is involved. Tai Chi is optional and gentle.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days prior may result in partial or no refund, depending on timing.

Final Words

The Amanda Cruise Luxury Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay 2 Days Tour offers a well-rounded experience blending luxury, adventure, and natural beauty. Its stunning scenery, authentic activities, and good value make it a solid choice for travelers wanting to explore Vietnam’s famous waters without sacrificing comfort.

While it’s not flawless—some minor logistical hiccups and room issues—most guests find it a memorable way to enjoy the bay. If you prioritize a peaceful, scenic escape with added touches of luxury and genuine exploration, this tour could be just what you need.

Ultimately, this cruise is best suited for those who enjoy a balanced mix of relaxation and activity, value good food and comfortable accommodations, and are flexible enough to handle minor surprises along the way.