Excite Cruises 3-day Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi

If you’re dreaming of floating through misty waters, exploring ancient caves, and relaxing aboard a stylish boat, then the Excite Cruises 3-day Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally set sail, the detailed itinerary and reviews paint a picture of an immersive, enjoyable adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfortable luxury.

What we love about this experience is how it balances active exploration—kayaking, cave visits, fishing—with moments of pure relaxation on a spacious boat. The chance to visit Surprise Cave, Cua Van fishing village, and Luon Cave promises a well-rounded taste of what makes Halong Bay so special. Plus, the onboard activities like a cooking class or happy hour add a fun, social vibe. A potential downside is the busy schedule, which leaves little downtime, but for many, the value-packed itinerary more than compensates.

This tour suits travelers seeking a hassle-free way to see Halong Bay’s highlights without sacrificing comfort. If you’re after authentic experiences with a touch of luxury, and don’t mind a packed schedule, this trip could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary covering key sights like caves, floating villages, and islands.
• Luxury onboard experience with spacious cabins, en-suite bathrooms, and air conditioning.
• Active options including kayaking, squid fishing, and sunset viewing.
• All-inclusive meals and drinks, with extra options like massages available for purchase.
• Convenient pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter makes the start seamless.
• Limited free time may challenge those who prefer slow-paced travel.

Diving Into the Details of the 3-Day Halong Bay Cruise

First Impressions: A Well-Organized Start

The tour kicks off early at 8:15 am with pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is ideal for those staying centrally. From there, the journey to Bai Chay takes roughly 2 hours 30 minutes—so settle in and enjoy the scenic drive. Once you arrive at Excite Cruise’s dock in Bai Chay, the check-in process is smooth, and you’re soon on board the largest boat in Halong Bay. This is a good moment to get a feel for the boat’s vibe: spacious, modern, and well-equipped for comfort.

Day 1: A Taste of Halong’s Highlights

Your first stop is at Tung Sau Pearl Farm, where you’ll learn about traditional Vietnamese techniques and Japanese technology used for pearl cultivation. It’s a neat introduction to local craftsmanship, and you can observe the process without extra charges. Many reviews mention the pearl farm as a peaceful spot that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s pearl industry.

Next, you’ll visit Ti Top Island—a standout for many travelers. The crescent-shaped beach invites you to unwind in turquoise waters, while the climb to the top rewards you with sweeping views of the bay. The short visit (about 45 minutes) means you can relax on the sand or snap photos of the stunning landscape.

Later in the afternoon, the boat anchors at H Long Bay for the night. Here, the sunset views are one of the tour’s highlights, perfect for photography or a sundowner. Guests often enjoy the cooking class or happy hour on deck, which adds a social element to the experience.

Day 2: Deeper Into Halong’s Wonders

The second day begins with a Tai Chi session on the deck—an excellent way to stretch out and greet the day. Breakfast is a light, sweet affair, perfect for fueling up before the day’s adventures. Then, you’ll visit Hang Luon Cave, known for its self-contained lake inside a mountain. It’s a fantastic spot for kayaking or simply admiring the natural architecture.

Later, the tour explores Ho Dong Tien Cave, noted for its pristine condition and impressive stalactites. The caves are a favorite for those who love natural formations and quiet, contemplative spaces. Many reviews mention the caves as a highlight, with visitors appreciating the opportunity to explore such untouched sights.

In the afternoon, the Cua Van floating village offers a glimpse into traditional life on the bay. It’s the largest floating village in Halong Bay, and many find it fascinating to see how locals live on the water. The tour includes sightseeing along the return trip, making the experience both scenic and culturally enriching.

Evening activities mirror the previous night’s: enjoying sunsets, a cooking class or happy hour, and relaxing on the sundeck. Guests consistently point out the comfort of the boat’s lounges and the quality of the onboard meals.

Day 3: A Grand Finale

The last day starts early with another Tai Chi session, followed by a visit to Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most grand in the bay. Inside, thousands of stalactites and formations create a mysterious, almost magical atmosphere. Reviewers love how spacious and well-lit the cave is, making it easy to explore comfortably.

After the cave, you’ll settle the bill and check out, with disembarkation at Halong International Cruise Port around 10:30 am. The tour ends with a drop-off back in Hanoi, usually around 3 pm, giving plenty of time to relax afterward or continue your adventure.

What Makes this Cruise a Great Choice?

Excite Cruises’ 3-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and onboard comfort. The spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning give you a welcome retreat after busy days exploring. And the inclusion of meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—adds convenience and value, especially since the food is generally well-reviewed for quality and flavor.

The itinerary’s highlights—Surprise Cave, Cua Van village, and Luon Cave—are authentic, not overly commercialized, and give you that genuine Halong Bay experience. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to kayak, fish for squid, or simply relax with a drink as the sun dips below the horizon.

The Value Perspective

At $496 per person, this tour offers a lot—three days of guided sightseeing, luxury accommodation, meals, and transportation—all in one package. It’s especially attractive for those who prefer a hassle-free experience, with pickups and organized activities. While extras like kayaking ($20), massages, and beverages aren’t included, they are available for purchase, allowing you to tailor your experience.

Possible Considerations

The tour’s schedule is quite full, with early mornings and limited free time, which might not suit travelers seeking a leisurely pace. Also, since it’s a group tour with up to 120 travelers, those who prefer more intimate, private experiences may find it a bit busy. Weather can impact some activities—if it’s rainy or foggy, certain sights like caves or sunsets might be less spectacular.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable introduction to Halong Bay’s main sights. It’s suited to those who enjoy a mix of active pursuits, cultural insights, and social onboard experiences. If you’re traveling on a budget but still want quality, convenience, and memorable scenery, this tour strikes a good balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup from Hanoi included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making the start smooth and easy.

How long is the drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay? Expect about 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided, with additional options like canapes and cooking classes onboard.

Can I do kayaking? Kayak services are available for around $20, offering a fun way to explore the bay’s calmer waters.

What type of accommodation is provided? You’ll stay in a luxury cabin or suite with en-suite bathroom and air conditioning, ensuring comfort after long days.

What activities are available on board? Guests can participate in Tai Chi, cooking classes, squid fishing, and sunset watching.

Is this tour suitable for families? While most travelers can participate, the schedule is quite full, so it’s better suited for active or adventurous families.

Are cave visits included? Yes, visits to Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Hang Luon Cave are part of the itinerary.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Excite Cruises 3-day Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi offers a well-rounded, enjoyable journey into one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. It combines scenic beauty with cultural touches, all wrapped in a comfortable, contemporary boat experience. The inclusion of key sights like caves, floating villages, and island stops ensures you get a true taste of Halong Bay’s magic.

While the packed schedule might not suit those seeking a slow pace, it’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights. The value for money is strong, especially considering the luxury accommodations and meals included. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, this tour offers an authentic, memorable taste of what makes Halong Bay so special.

In summary, this cruise is best suited for adventurous travelers looking for a robust, comfortable, and authentic Halong Bay experience, all wrapped up in a convenient package. If you’re after stunning views, delicious food, and cultural insights, it’s a solid choice to consider.