Sapphire Cruise 3D2N Tour to Halong & Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi

Are you dreaming of exploring Vietnam’s famed bays without the hassle of planning every detail? This 3-day, 2-night cruise offers a guided adventure through two of the most stunning water landscapes in the north—Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. While the tour sounds packed with activities, it strikes a good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and active pursuits, making it a versatile choice for many travelers.

What stands out most? First, the chance to visit both Halong and Lan Ha Bay—rare in many tours, giving you a broader perspective on Vietnam’s coastal beauty. Second, the onboard experiences like kayaking and a Vietnamese cooking class add a hands-on feel that many reviews highlight as memorable. Third, the luxury 4-star cabin with sea views offers comfort after a day of exploring. The possible downside? The busy schedule might not suit travelers craving total downtime, and some may find the early starts and packed itinerary a little intense.

This cruise suits those who want a well-rounded, active, and scenic escape from Hanoi, especially if you’re eager to experience multiple facets of Vietnam’s iconic waters. If you love good food, scenic vistas, and a touch of adventure, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines visits to both Halong and Lan Ha Bay, offering a broader view of the area’s natural beauty.
• Active & Relaxing Options: Kayaking, swimming, hiking, cooking classes, and Tai Chi cater to different energy levels.
• Comfort & Convenience: Luxury en-suite cabin with sea view balcony, plus roundtrip transfers from Hanoi.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Enjoy fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine with all meals included.
• Authentic Touches: Small-group activities like cooking classes and squid fishing add personal flavor.
• Value for Money: At $440, the package covers transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities, making it a strong value.

Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a great way to pack multiple highlights into a short trip, especially if you’re limited on time but hungry for variety. The transportation logistics are smooth—shuttle bus pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter early in the morning sets the tone for a seamless experience. The transfer to Tuan Chau Marina is straightforward, with the boat boarding process well-organized, allowing guests to transition quickly into cruise mode.

Once onboard, the atmosphere is relaxed but lively. The welcome drink and safety briefing help guests settle in, and the panoramic views from your luxury cabin with a sea view balcony become a daily highlight. Throughout the cruise, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts, floating islands, and shimmering waters, with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time on the water, with stops at both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. The first day introduces you to the two bays, with a scenic glide into Lan Ha Bay in the afternoon, giving you a taste of both environments—some reviewers describe the landscapes as “incredible” and “photogenic.”

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

In the morning, you’ll leave Hanoi’s Old Quarter, passing through scenic countryside en route to the marina. The boat departs around noon, with a seafood lunch served onboard, often praised for its freshness and flavor. Many guests comment on the delicious seafood—some say it rivals what you’d find in local restaurants.

The cruise then takes you into Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded but equally stunning area compared to Halong. The tranquil waters and dramatic limestone cliffs provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and photography. The evening features optional activities like squid fishing or a sunset party, both popular amongst guests.

Day 2: Full Day of Activities

Day two begins with the early morning Tai Chi session—a peaceful way to start the day while soaking in the sunrise over Lan Ha Bay. Later, you can opt for kayaking or swimming, with some reviewers mentioning how calm and clear the waters are—ideal for a quick dip or paddle.

The afternoon offers more exploration, with opportunities for hiking around some of the islands or taking part in a Vietnamese cooking class onboard. The meals continue to impress, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors, meaning you won’t go hungry.

Day 3: Returning to Hanoi

On the final morning, there’s a chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of Lan Ha Bay at sunrise before breakfast. The last day involves a tender transfer back to Tuan Chau Harbor, followed by the return voyage to Hanoi, with a relaxed lunch on the cruise.

Travelers often appreciate how well the schedule balances sightseeing with downtime, although some note the early start and packed itinerary require good energy and enthusiasm.

The Accommodation & Meals

The full-equipped luxury cabin is a highlight—spacious, with an en-suite bathroom and a sea view balcony, offering a comfortable retreat after busy days. Many reviews mention the cabins as a pleasant surprise, especially considering the cruise’s competitive price.

Meals are included for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on seafood and Vietnamese dishes. Guests often comment on the freshness and quality of the food, making the onboard dining a memorable part of the trip.

Activities & Excursions

Many activities are included—kayaking, swimming, hiking, cooking classes, sunset parties, and even night squid fishing. These add a personalized, hands-on element that can turn a scenic cruise into a lively adventure. The Tai Chi sessions are often highlighted for their peaceful start to the day, and the kayaking spots are praised for their calm waters and picturesque scenery.

Practicalities & Tips

• Timing & Weather: The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 50 travelers, the cruise maintains a semi-intimate atmosphere but still offers social opportunities.
• Booking & Cost: At $440 per person, the tour provides good value considering the inclusions—transfers, meals, activities, and accommodations. Keep in mind it’s non-refundable, so plan accordingly.
• What to Pack: Bring swimwear, sun protection, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for hikes.
• Meeting Point: Start at Hanoi Opera House, with pick-up between 8:00-8:30 am, providing ample time to relax before departure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who love scenic water views but also want a dash of activity and local culture. It’s ideal if you appreciate good food, comfortable accommodations, and the chance to explore multiple bays in one trip. It’s also perfect for those who value guided experiences, as the crew and guides are knowledgeable and friendly.

However, if you prefer absolute silence or total downtime, the busy schedule might feel a bit overwhelming. The early mornings and packed days require some energy, but most guests find the experience rewarding and worth the effort.

The Sum Up

The Sapphire Cruise offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, culture, and active pursuits—all in a comfortable, well-organized package. Covering both Halong and Lan Ha Bay, it allows travelers to see a variety of landscapes, from towering limestone formations to peaceful waters. The onboard amenities, delicious food, and included activities make it a solid choice for those looking to maximize a short trip.

While the schedule can be busy, the overall value and quality of the experience shine through. This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic, and active tour with authentic touches and good comfort. If you’re after stunning vistas, tasty seafood, and a taste of Vietnamese hospitality, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $440 price covers round-trip transfers from Hanoi, all meals onboard (breakfast, lunch, dinner), guided activities like kayaking and cooking classes, and accommodation in a luxury en-suite cabin with a sea view balcony.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Hanoi Opera House with a pickup between 8:00-8:30 am. The transfer to Tuan Chau Marina is organized as part of the tour, so you just need to be ready at the designated time.

Can I participate if I don’t want to do activities like kayaking or hiking?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible. Guests can choose to relax onboard or participate in activities at their comfort level.

What meals are included?
All meals are provided: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners, mostly featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine.

Is the cruise suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely. With a maximum of 50 travelers and a mix of activities, it’s a good option for families, couples, or solo adventurers seeking a lively, scenic experience.

What should I pack?
Bring swimwear, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable shoes for hiking, and casual clothes suitable for outdoor activities and dining onboard.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund, ensuring safety always comes first.

This 3-day adventure offers a fantastic introduction to Vietnam’s waterscapes—whether you’re after stunning views, active pursuits, or simply relaxing on deck, the Sapphire Cruise aims to deliver a memorable journey.