- A Detailed Look at the Private 3-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise
- Key Points
- The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day
- Day 1: Introduction to Ha Long Bay & Kayaking
- Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay & Exploring Hidden Gems
- Day 3: Sunrise Tai Chi & Scenic Cruising
- What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind
- The Value of Quality & Personal Service
- The Experience’s Fit for Different Travelers
- Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise For You?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
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A Detailed Look at the Private 3-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise

Travelers dreaming of floating through one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes will find this Private cruise for 2-10 guests a compelling choice. This 3-day, 2-night voyage combines stunning views, authentic activities, and personalized service. While the price of $2,916 for a group of up to two might seem high, the quality, exclusivity, and tailored experience can justify the cost.
What we love most? The chance to explore Bai Tu Long Bay and Ha Long Bay in comfort, the variety of activities like kayaking and cave visits, and the opportunity to savor traditional Vietnamese cuisine while watching the scenery slip by. On the flip side, some might find the itinerary a bit packed, especially with early morning Tai Chi sessions, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy active mornings and relaxing afternoons.
This cruise is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation on the water. If you’re after a personalized, scenic escape that combines natural beauty with cultural experiences, this might be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points

- Exclusive private boat with air-conditioned en-suite cabins ensures a comfortable stay.
- Diverse activities like kayaking, cave exploration, and Tai Chi offer an engaging experience.
- Excellent value for a 3-day luxury cruise with all meals included.
- The upfront itinerary is busy but well-rounded, with time for relaxation and sightseeing.
- Intimate group size (up to 10 travelers) guarantees personalized service.
- Some activities, such as spa treatments or tips, are not included, which helps manage expectations regarding additional expenses.
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The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day
Day 1: Introduction to Ha Long Bay & Kayaking
Your journey begins with a prompt pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, giving you a comfortable start without the hassle of organizing transport. After a roughly 3-hour drive, you arrive at the Bhaya Cruise Center, where the adventure truly begins.
Once onboard the Bhaya Legend, you’ll get a quick tour of your cozy, air-conditioned cabin. The safety briefing is standard, but the real highlight comes in the afternoon when you kayak around Tung Sau Area. Surrounded by jagged mountains and pearl farms, this spot offers a peaceful escape from larger tourist crowds. The water here is a deep, jewel-toned blue, perfect for paddling and snapping some photos.
In the evening, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the restaurant and then unwind with a drink at the bar or gaze at the stars from the sun deck. This first day sets a relaxing tone, with enough activity to excite but not exhaust.
Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay & Exploring Hidden Gems
Waking early, you’ll greet the day with Tai Chi on the deck—a gentle way to start the morning amid breathtaking views. The breakfast is hearty enough to fuel a busy day ahead. The cruise then moves to Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter, less crowded alternative to the main Ha Long Bay area, offering pristine scenery.
Next, you can explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village by kayak or rowing boat. This gentle exploration, praised for its tranquility, allows for an intimate look at local life and peaceful landscape views. As one reviewer noted, “exploring by kayak felt authentic and peaceful.”
Afternoon brings a visit to Thien Canh Son Cave, often described as a “theater in the heart of the sea,” with stalactites and formations that look like dragons and statues. The cave visit is a highlight for many, providing an almost otherworldly experience in a naturally dramatic setting.
Later in the day, the boat offers a complimentary herbal foot bath, infused with medicinal plants from Vietnam’s Northwest. It’s a thoughtful, relaxing touch appreciated by guests seeking indulgence after a day of sightseeing.
Day 3: Sunrise Tai Chi & Scenic Cruising
The final morning kicks off with a sunrise Tai Chi session on the deck, complete with tea and coffee. It’s a peaceful moment that many reviews highlight as a favorite memory. The light breakfast that follows provides a light yet satisfying start to your day.
As the cruise gently makes its way back toward Ha Long Bay, you’ll have some free time to soak in the last views of the emerald waters and limestone karsts. A brunch on the boat concludes your experience, leaving you refreshed and ready to return to Hanoi.
The entire journey wraps up around 2:30-2:45 pm, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your adventure or explore more of the region.
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What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

This cruise offers impressive value for what’s included: private air-conditioned cabins, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), kayak usage, cave visits, and sightseeing fees. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention, and the transportation from Hanoi is seamless, so you won’t have to worry about logistics.
However, extras like massages, spa treatments, or tips are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge. Also, this experience is non-refundable, so it’s best to plan with certainty—good weather is essential for the full experience, and cancellations due to weather may result in rebooking options or refunds.
The Value of Quality & Personal Service
While the cost might seem high at first glance, consider the exclusivity of a private boat with en-suite cabins, the variety of activities, and the gourmet meals included. Guests have reported that the scenery is breathtaking, and the ability to kayak and explore less-crowded regions like Bai Tu Long Bay adds real value.
The Experience’s Fit for Different Travelers
This cruise is best suited for those who appreciate comfort and personalized service, enjoy a mix of active and relaxing moments, and are willing to invest in a high-end, all-inclusive experience. It’s also ideal for couples or small groups seeking intimacy, stunning scenery, and an authentic taste of Vietnam’s maritime beauty.
Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise For You?

If you’re after a luxurious, tailored experience blending natural beauty with culture, this private cruise ticks many boxes. The chance to explore bays less traveled, paddle in serene waters, and enjoy Vietnamese cuisine onboard makes it a memorable escape. The small group size and private cabins ensure a quiet, exclusive atmosphere, perfect for couples or intimate groups.
However, if you prefer a more laid-back experience without early mornings or a very flexible itinerary, this might feel a bit busy. The price point also reflects the level of exclusivity, so budget-conscious travelers might want to compare with larger, less personalized tours.
This cruise offers a well-rounded, scenic, and personalized adventure—ideal for travelers who want comfort, authentic experiences, and the chance to truly connect with Vietnam’s natural wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The fare covers a private boat with air-conditioned en-suite cabins, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), excursions such as cave visits and kayaking, sightseeing fees, and transportation to and from Hanoi.
Are drinks included during the cruise?
Bottled water is provided in your cabin daily. Other drinks like alcohol or soft drinks are not included, but you can purchase beverages at the bar onboard.
Is there free time during the cruise?
Yes, you’ll have periods of free time, especially in the mornings and afternoons, to relax, enjoy the scenery, or take a walk on the deck.
How physically demanding is this tour?
The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Activities like kayaking and exploring caves are optional and not strenuous, but early mornings and some walking are involved.
What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and sturdy footwear for walking. A light rain jacket might be useful in case of weather changes.
Can I customize this tour?
Since the tour is operated by Tiger Tourist with a fixed itinerary, customization options are limited. However, the small group size often allows for some flexibility.
What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to weather or minimum traveler requirements, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is tipping expected?
Tips are not included, so if you feel the guide or crew provided exceptional service, a tip is appreciated but not obligatory.
Final Verdict

This private 3-day cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay and Ha Long Bay offers a luxurious, immersive experience that balances scenic beauty with cultural exploration. The inclusion of activities like kayaking and cave visits enriches the journey, while the private cabins and gourmet meals elevate the overall experience.
Best suited for those who value comfort, exclusivity, and a curated itinerary, this cruise delivers both adventure and relaxation in equal measure. If you’re ready for a scenic voyage that captures the essence of Vietnam’s coastal landscape, this experience deserves serious consideration.
Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a serene escape, this cruise promises memories that will linger long after the journey ends.
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