Luna 5 Star Cruise in Halong Bay Day Trip with Buffet Lunch

Travelers craving a taste of luxury while exploring one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes will find the Luna 5-Star Cruise offers a compelling option. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, extensive research and reviews help paint a clear picture of what to expect from this high-end day adventure in Halong Bay.

What we love about this experience:
– The luxurious amenities, including Vietnam’s first outdoor glass-bottom pool, immediately elevate the experience beyond the usual boat trip.
– The diverse activities like exploring Sung Sot Cave, relaxing on Titov Island, and kayaking through Hang Luon Cave promise a well-rounded visit.
– The delicious buffet lunch, served on a stylish vessel, is a highlight for many travelers, providing both flavor and a feast for the eyes with scenic views.

A potential consideration is the tour’s size—up to 500 travelers—which might mean a busier, less intimate atmosphere than smaller, private excursions. However, for those seeking a blend of comfort, sightseeing, and social connection, it’s unlikely to be a problem.

This cruise suits travelers who love luxury experiences, are eager to see Halong Bay’s famous sights in style, and enjoy a full day of activities with plenty of comfort and convenience.

Key Points

• Luxury amenities like the outdoor glass-bottom pool and double sundeck make this cruise stand out.
• Convenient pickup and mobile ticket options simplify planning.
• Includes entrance fees and travel insurance for peace of mind.
• A substantial buffet lunch offers quality dining with spectacular views.
• Group size can be as large as 500, so expect a lively, bustling environment.
• The tour includes a visit to Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, plus kayaking at Hang Luon Cave, making it active and engaging.

An Inside Look at the Luna 5-Star Cruise Experience

Starting Point: Halong International Cruise Port

Your journey begins at the Halong International Cruise Port, where check-in happens on the first floor of the terminal. It’s a straightforward process, and the tour includes admission tickets to the port area, making logistics simple. Most travelers find this a smooth start, with the staff often offering a warm welcome and clear instructions.

The Cruise Vessel: A Floating Luxury

Once aboard, you’ll quickly notice the boat’s upscale design. With capacity for around 550 guests, Luna’s vessel balances spaciousness with comfort. The highlight for many is the outdoor glass-bottom pool, a rare feature in Halong Bay cruises, which provides a unique vantage point to view the seascape while lounging in the water.

The double sundeck offers 360° views, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery. The vessel also boasts two elegant restaurants, ensuring that everyone has a good view while enjoying their meals.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

First Stop: Sung Sot Cave

After boarding, the cruise departs from the port and heads towards Sung Sot Cave, one of Halong Bay’s most famous and impressive. The cave’s vast chambers and stalactites are often described as awe-inspiring. Visitors can expect about 45 minutes here, which is usually enough to explore the main chambers and take some memorable photos.

Second Stop: Titov Island

The next highlight is Titov Island. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on the beach or hike up to a viewpoint. The climb isn’t strenuous but offers stunning panoramic views of the bay, which many reviewers say are worth the effort. The island’s natural beauty is a favorite part of the trip.

Kayaking at Hang Luon Cave

For a more active experience, kayak enthusiasts can pay a small fee of $10 per person to glide through the Hang Luon Cave’s calm waters. Multiple reviews mention the serene waters and scenic surroundings, making it a worthwhile addition for adventure lovers.

Dining: A Buffet Lunch with Scenic Views

One of the cruise’s most praised features is the premium buffet lunch served on board. The menu often includes a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes, with some reviewers highlighting the fresh seafood and tasty salads. The setting, with panoramic views of the limestone karsts, transforms a simple meal into a memorable experience.

Relaxation and Entertainment

Apart from the outdoor pool and sundeck, the cruise offers outdoor relaxation areas where you can unwind while enjoying the breeze. Many guests appreciate the live music on the deck during the return journey, which adds a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

End of the Voyage: Return to Port

After about 7 hours of exploring, relaxing, and dining, the cruise returns to Halong International Cruise Port. The crew often offers a warm farewell, leaving travelers with lasting impressions of a day well spent.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $97.58 per person, the cruise provides a well-rounded experience that combines luxury amenities, scenic sightseeing, and engaging activities. When you factor in entrance fees, a buffet meal, and insurance included in the price, it represents good value for those seeking an upscale day trip in Halong Bay.

Many reviews mention the quality of the amenities and the full day of activities, making the cost feel justified. The only caveat is that the large group size could mean less intimacy, but it also fosters a lively, social environment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for luxury travelers wanting a comfortable, all-inclusive experience. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or groups who appreciate amenities like pools and outdoor decks, combined with scenic exploration. However, those seeking a more private or boutique experience might prefer smaller, specialized tours.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, and you will be picked up from your hotel or a designated meeting point in Hanoi.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, including check-in, activities, meals, and return.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for attractions listed in the itinerary are included in the price.

What’s the meal like?
Guests enjoy a premium buffet lunch, featuring a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes, served with splendid views.

Can I kayak at Hang Luon Cave?
Yes, kayaking is available for $10 per person, allowing you to paddle through scenic waters and explore caves at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with large groups and active participation in activities like hiking and kayaking.

What’s the capacity of the vessel?
The cruise can host up to 550 guests, which might make it lively but also ensures plenty of space to spread out.

Is live music played onboard?
Yes, during the return journey, guests can enjoy live music which adds a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Luna 5-Star Cruise in Halong Bay offers an appealing mix of luxury, scenic beauty, and activity. For travelers who love to combine comfort with adventure, it delivers stunning views, a variety of engaging stops, and premium amenities that make for a memorable day. The large capacity makes it a lively experience, perfect for those who enjoy socializing in style.

While it may not offer the intimacy of smaller tours, the value-packed inclusions and high-end features make it a strong choice for anyone wanting to explore Halong Bay in comfort and style. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a scenic escape, this cruise has much to offer.

In summary, the Luna 5-Star Cruise is a solid pick for travelers who want a premium, full-day Halong Bay experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate amenities like pools and panoramic decks, and who don’t mind sharing the space with a large group. For a day filled with stunning views, good food, and engaging activities, it’s tough to beat this luxurious trip.