Iris Cruise – Unwind on Luxury Halong Bay Day Cruise with Lunch

Planning a day trip to Halong Bay often feels like a must-do for anyone visiting Hanoi, and choosing the right cruise makes all the difference. The Iris Cruise offers a blend of comfort, cultural exploration, and scenic beauty, wrapped into a well-organized 7-hour experience. With a price tag of $85 per person, it promises a luxurious yet accessible way to see one of Vietnam’s most celebrated natural wonders.

What we love about this cruise is the thoughtful itinerary, the relaxed vibe with live music and a sunset canapé party, and the delicious lunch served onboard. The friendly, English-speaking guides also earn praise for their knowledge and warmth, making the journey both informative and enjoyable. One thing to consider is that the tour is non-refundable, so if your plans change, you’ll want to double-check your schedule. This cruise fits best for travelers who want a comfortable, scenic day with a good mix of activity and relaxation, ideal for those who prefer a more curated experience over rugged adventure.

Key Points

• Comfortable luxury experience with excellent food and scenic views
• Well-paced itinerary focusing on highlights like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island
• Engaging activities including kayaking, sampan rides, and swimming
• Informative guides who enhance the cultural and natural understanding of Halong Bay
• Relaxing moments with live music, sunset canapé, and optional Jacuzzi
• Group size up to 99 travelers, maintaining a lively yet intimate atmosphere

An In-Depth Look at the Iris Cruise Experience

Starting at Halong International Cruise Port

Your day begins at the Halong International Cruise Port, where you’ll step aboard the luxurious Iris Cruise vessel. The boarding process is straightforward, with a welcome drink to kick things off. The cruise manager then delivers a short safety briefing and an overview of the day’s schedule, setting a professional but friendly tone.

It’s worth noting that the vessel accommodates up to 99 passengers, creating a lively yet manageable environment. Many reviews mention the friendly and attentive staff, which makes the whole process smooth and relaxing. Expect to start your journey around 10:30 am, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and settle in before the day’s activities.

Scenic Cruising and the First Stop

The cruise glides out from the port into the majestic waters of Halong Bay, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of limestone karsts and floating islands. The first major highlight is the H Long Bay stop, where you can appreciate the natural grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The captain provides context about the formations and history, making the scenery come alive.

This section offers a calm, scenic cruise that sets the tone for the day. It’s an excellent chance to take photos or simply relax and enjoy the breeze. Some reviewers mention that the vessel’s modern design and comfortable seating make this part of the journey a truly pleasant experience.

Lunch: A Feast with a View

Around 11:30 am, the cruise anchors for a buffet lunch featuring Vietnamese and international flavors. The menu is set for groups under 25 guests, but every review mentions the delicious quality of the food. The mouth-watering lunch is served on deck, with spectacular views that turn dining into a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

Guests often comment on the generous portions and the variety of fresh ingredients, making this a highlight of the day. Many note that the lunch surpasses typical cruise fare, providing great value for the price. The relaxed setting encourages conversation and helps travelers connect over their shared experiences.

Exploring Sung Sot Cave

Post-lunch, the cruise visits Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay. The 1-hour tour inside reveals countless stalactites and stalagmites in fascinating shapes, which many describe as otherworldly. Guides often share interesting facts about the formation process, adding depth to the visit.

While the cave can get crowded, most reviewers appreciate that the pathways are well-maintained, and the spectacle of shimmering formations is worth the visit. Expect to spend about an hour exploring the cave, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

Kayaking or Sampan Rides

From 2:00 pm, you have the choice to kayak or take a bamboo boat (sampan) to discover the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay from a different perspective. Many guests find this activity refreshing and a nice break from the boat’s more relaxed cruising segments.

The guides are attentive, ensuring safety and offering tips to make the most of your paddle. The chance to glide past limestone towers, floating villages, and hidden coves adds a sense of adventure to the day. You’ll spend about 45 minutes on this activity, which is appreciated for its personal touch amidst the larger group.

Ti Top Island

Next, you’ll head to Ti Top Island, famous for its sweeping views and sandy beach. The 1-hour stop is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or climbing the small mountain for panoramic vistas of Halong Bay.

Many visitors find the climb worth the effort, describing the view as spectacular. The beach is clean and inviting, and the opportunity to dip in the sea is a favorite memory for many. It’s a great chance to unwind, with some reviews mentioning that they appreciated the less crowded environment compared to other tourist spots.

Sunset Cruise and Relaxation

From 3:30 pm, the cruise continues with live music, creating a laid-back atmosphere on the deck. Guests can enjoy delicious canapés while taking in the magnificent scenery. For those who want to unwind further, a jacuzzi is available for a self-immersion experience.

This part of the trip is often described as peaceful and enchanting, with many reviewers noting the perfect balance of entertainment and relaxation. The sunset views over the bay are generally praised as a highlight of the experience, providing a beautiful ending to the day.

Return to the Port

The cruise wraps up around 5:00 pm, with a last leisurely glide back to the port. Many travelers comment on how the comfortable journey and friendly staff leave them feeling satisfied and eager to recommend the experience.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

Included

• Luxury day cruise with comfortable amenities
• Welcome drink and delicious lunch
• Visits to Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island
• Activities like kayaking, sampan rides, swimming, or hiking
• English-speaking guides to enrich your understanding
• Canapé sunset party and live music
• All entrance fees and sightseeing tickets

Not Included

• Personal expenses like souvenirs or additional beverages
• Holiday surcharge or other unlisted services

Practical Tips

• The tour departs at 10:30 am from Halong International Cruise Port, so plan to arrive early.
• The group size, up to 99 people, means you’ll meet fellow travelers but still have space to relax.
• Dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free are accommodated if specified at booking.
• Since the tour is non-refundable, double-check your schedule beforehand.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travellers seeking comfort with scenic beauty and a blend of cultural exploration and relaxation. It’s suited for those who prefer a well-organized day with activities like kayaking and cave visits but don’t want the rough edges of more adventurous tours. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure will find it particularly appealing.

While it offers a relaxed pace and stunning vistas, it might not satisfy those looking for intense adventure or off-the-beaten-path excursions. The focus on luxury comfort, good food, and informative guides makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting a memorable yet stress-free day.

Final Thoughts

The Iris Cruise offers a thoughtfully curated experience of Halong Bay that combines scenic beauty, engaging activities, and comfort. Its well-organized itinerary, coupled with delicious food and friendly guides, makes it a great value for the price point of $85. It’s especially suited for those who want an easy, scenic day with the opportunity to explore cave systems, enjoy a beach, and unwind with live music and sunset views.

If your priority is a high-quality, relaxing trip that highlights the best of Halong Bay without the hassle of logistical planning, this cruise ticks many boxes. With its focus on authentic experiences and attention to detail, the Iris Cruise might become a memorable highlight of your Vietnamese adventure.

Is the tour suitable for all age groups?
Most travelers can participate, and there’s a good mix of activities suitable for different ages. However, those with mobility issues might find some activities like climbing the mountain at Titov Island more challenging.

What’s the starting time and duration of the cruise?
The tour begins at 10:30 am and lasts approximately 7 hours, ending around 5:00 pm.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, you can specify dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets when booking, and the crew will do their best to accommodate.

What kind of activities are included?
You can enjoy kayaking, sampan boat rides, swimming, or hiking at Titov Island. These activities are included to add variety and fun to your day.

Is lunch included, and what’s it like?
A buffet lunch is served onboard, offering Vietnamese and international dishes that guests find delicious and satisfying.

What’s the group size?
The cruise can accommodate up to 99 travelers, creating a lively yet intimate atmosphere.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Beverages are not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring extra drinks or purchase them during the cruise.

Is there any free time during the day?
Yes, you’ll have free time at places like Ti Top Island and during the relaxing cruise segments to enjoy the scenery or unwind.

This detailed review aims to help you understand what makes the Iris Cruise a worthwhile choice for exploring Halong Bay. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, engaging activities, or peaceful relaxation, this day cruise offers a well-rounded experience that highlights the natural beauty and cultural charm of Vietnam’s iconic bay.