Premium 2D1N Halong Bay on Hermes Cruise from Hanoi

Traveling to Vietnam isn’t complete without experiencing the captivating beauty of Halong Bay. While countless tours promise unforgettable views and adventure, this particular luxury cruise offering from Hermes Cruise stands out for its emphasis on comfort, authentic activities, and seamless organization. We haven’t personally sailed on this vessel, but after examining the details and reviews, it’s clear this tour offers a balanced mix of exploration, relaxation, and gourmet dining—all wrapped up in a 5-star package.

Some highlights we love include the well-curated itinerary that covers iconic sites like Titop Island and Sung Sot Cave, the opportunity for adventure activities like kayaking and swimming, and the luxury amenities onboard such as spa treatments and fine dining. A potential consideration is the price point of $385, which might seem high to budget travelers but offers good value given the inclusions and premium experience. This tour would suit travelers looking for a blend of comfort, cultural sights, and active pursuits, especially those keen on a smoother, more upscale way of exploring Halong Bay.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: A 5-star cruise with comfortable amenities and excellent service.
• Rich Itinerary: Visits to famous sights like Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island combined with activities like kayaking and hiking.
• Authentic Activities: Opportunities for swimming, bamboo boat rides, and Tai Chi sessions.
• Gourmet Dining: Multiple meals included, with a focus on fresh, well-prepared dishes.
• Convenience: Pickup and drop-off from Hanoi’s Old Quarter make logistics easier.
• Balance of Relaxation and Adventure: Sunset parties, spa treatments, and outdoor exploration.

Overview of the Tour Experience

This 2-day, 1-night cruise captures the essence of what makes Halong Bay so special—stunning limestone karsts, serene waters, and a chance to disconnect from everyday life. The experience is designed to be as much about comfort and indulgence as it is about exploring nature. Starting from Hanoi, the tour involves a roughly 3-hour drive with a stop, making it manageable even for those new to Vietnam.

From the moment you’re picked up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the journey feels smooth and well-organized, thanks to the included limousine transfer. This small detail ensures you avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or haggling for taxis, allowing you to start your escape relaxed.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

Morning pick-up is scheduled between 8:00 and 8:30 AM, with the journey directly to Tuan Chau Island, a well-known hub for cruise departures. The drive, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, is comfortably broken with a short stop. This is ideal for travelers who dislike long bus rides and appreciate a quick break.

Once at Tuan Chau, you’ll transfer onto the Hermes Cruise, where a warm welcome awaits. The check-in process is straightforward, and the cruise staff creates a friendly environment with welcome drinks and safety briefings.

The first stop at Titop Island offers an iconic photo opportunity—climb to the peak for panoramic views or take a swim in the inviting waters. The review notes that guests enjoy both the natural beauty and the chance to be active, with plenty of time to relax and take photographs.

In the late afternoon, the cruise hosts a Sunset Party at the Sky Bar, where fresh tropical fruits and light snacks accompany breathtaking views of the limestone peaks as the sun dips. This is the perfect moment to unwind and soak in the scenery, a recurring highlight in guest feedback.

Day 2: Exploring Sights and Returning to Hanoi

Early morning begins with a Tai Chi session on the sun deck, a peaceful way to start your day. Followed by a light breakfast, you’ll head to Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most impressive in the bay. Guests report that the stalactites and stalagmites are fascinating and spark the imagination—certainly one of the tour’s highlights.

Post-cave exploration, guests can enjoy activities like kayaking or hiking around Titop Island, depending on personal preference. These activities provide a chance to connect more intimately with the bay’s natural beauty.

By mid-morning, the cruise begins its return journey, with a buffet brunch as it heads back to Tuan Chau Harbor. The reviews commend the quality and presentation of the meals, emphasizing how well the onboard dining enhances the overall experience.

The tour concludes with a limousine transfer back to Hanoi, arriving around 3:00–3:30 PM, making it a convenient and stress-free end to your adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Comfort and Quality: Traveling on a luxury 5-star cruise like Hermes offers a much-needed upgrade in comfort. With spacious cabins, a fine dining restaurant, and spa options, you won’t feel like just another backpacker but rather a guest on a well-appointed vessel.

Authentic Experiences: The inclusion of active pursuits such as kayaking and hiking, plus the chance to participate in a Tai Chi session, help balance relaxation with hands-on exploration. Guests have noted the “friendly staff” and “well-organized activities,” making the experience seamless.

Stunning Views and Photography: It’s rare to find a tour that combines such diverse scenic stops. The photos of Titop Island’s peak and Sung Sot Cave’s formations are truly picture-worthy, and the sunset views from the Sky Bar elevate the experience.

Gourmet Food: Multiple meals, including a brunch and dinner, are included, with reviews highlighting the quality and freshness. Guests also appreciate the cooking demonstration, adding an interactive element.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing at $385 per person might seem steep compared to budget options, but it reflects the added value of luxury amenities, premium meals, and organized transport. It’s ideal for travelers seeking comfort and a stress-free experience.

Group size is capped at 99 travelers, but the small-group feel and professional English-speaking guides make it manageable and engaging.

Included activities like squid fishing, Tai Chi, kayaking, and cave exploring make this a well-rounded experience, appealing to those who want more than just sightseeing.

The pickup at Hanoi’s Old Quarter and drop-off at your hotel streamline logistics, especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with local transportation.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for those who want to combine luxury with authentic exploration—think travelers who appreciate high-quality food, comfortable accommodations, and engaging activities. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to Halong Bay, couples seeking a romantic escape, or anyone wanting a hassle-free, well-organized trip.

Those on a budget might find the price steep but should consider the value of the included amenities, meals, and guided activities. If you’re after a relaxed yet active adventure with plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos, this tour really hits the mark.

If you’re after an experience that balances comfort, adventure, and scenic beauty, the Hermes Cruise 2D1N tour offers a refined way to enjoy Halong Bay.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter are included with a limousine service, making transportation hassle-free.

How long does the transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay take?
The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including a short stop, so plan your morning accordingly.

What activities are included onboard?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, bamboo boat rides, swimming, hiking, cave exploring, and Tai Chi sessions. There’s also a cooking demonstration and squid fishing at night.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch (two meals), and dinner are included, all prepared onboard with an emphasis on quality and freshness.

What sights will I see during the tour?
You’ll visit Tuan Chau Island, Titop Island for panoramic views, and Sung Sot Cave, the largest in Halong Bay. Sunset views from the Sky Bar are also a highlight.

Can I participate in adventure activities like kayaking and hiking?
Absolutely, these are part of the planned activities, and the reviews mention that guests enjoy the chance to explore actively.

Is there spa or massage service onboard?
While spa treatments are available, they are not included in the tour price and are considered personal expenses.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the scenic views and outdoor activities suggest that spring or autumn would offer the most pleasant weather.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The tour can accommodate up to 99 travelers, but the experience aims to be personalized and well-managed.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so be sure about your plans before confirming.

In all, the Hermes Cruise 2D1N tour offers a thoughtful, high-quality way to experience Halong Bay’s beauty. With its mix of sightseeing, active pursuits, and luxurious amenities, it’s a great choice for travelers wanting to indulge while exploring one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations.