Apricot Halong Cruise Discovering Titov And Amazing Cave 2 Days 1 Night

If you’re dreaming of iconic limestone karsts, shimmering waters, and peaceful island scenery in Vietnam, the Apricot Halong Cruise offers a solid option. This 2-day, 1-night adventure provides a chance to see some of the bay’s most famous sights with comfortable amenities and a balanced mix of activities. While it’s classified as a 3-star experience, many travelers find it offers excellent value, especially considering the included meals, activities, and hotel pickup.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, we love the luxury air-conditioned cabins with private showers—crucial for winding down after a day of sightseeing. Second, the variety of activities such as kayaking and visiting caves means you’re never just a passive viewer but actively engaged with the landscape. Lastly, the local guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey more informative and personable.

That said, one aspect to consider is the group size—with a maximum of 15 travelers, it’s a small enough group to foster camaraderie but still has the feel of a shared adventure. The price point at $190 per person makes it a reasonable choice, especially when you factor in the inclusive meals and transportation, but comparing it to other options is wise to ensure it matches your expectations for comfort and itinerary depth.

This experience suits travelers who want a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to explore Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for a quick revisit, the combination of scenic beauty, activities, and local flavor makes this cruise a worthwhile pick.

Key Points

• Comfortable accommodation with private, air-conditioned cabins.
• Diverse activities including cave exploration, kayaking, and cooking classes.
• All-inclusive meals, drinks, and activities enhance value.
• Expert guides provide insights and friendly service.
• Hotel pickups streamline logistics for hassle-free travel.
• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

Day 1: Setting Sail from Hanoi to Halong Bay

The adventure begins early, with pickup between 7:45 and 8:30 in the morning from your Hanoi hotel. The scenic drive through the Red River delta is a gentle introduction to the countryside, allowing you to relax and prepare for the day ahead. The shuttle, either a comfy group bus or private car, takes you to Tuan Chau Marina, where the ship awaits.

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and introduced to the crew and captain. The check-in process takes about an hour, giving you time to settle into a luxury cabin—many reviews praise the spaciousness, privacy, and the air conditioning that keeps things cool during the warm days.

Lunch on cruise is served around 1 pm, offering a tasty start to the voyage. The meals are generally described as plentiful and well-prepared, providing a good taste of Vietnamese cuisine, which adds to the overall value.

Next, the group visits the Surprising Cave, renowned as the most beautiful in Halong Bay. Expect to walk through wide grottoes filled with stalactites and stalagmites, creating a dramatic underground landscape. The cave’s size and formations make it a highlight, and many find it to be a truly mesmerizing part of the trip. As one reviewer notes, it’s “one of the widest grottoes in Halong Bay,” so it’s not just a quick photo stop but a worthwhile exploration.

Following the cave, the cruise heads to Titop Island. Here, you can swim in the water, climb to the top for panoramic views, and enjoy the island’s relaxed vibe. The climb up is manageable for most, and the vista offers a stunning overview of the bay’s limestone formations—a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs.

As the sun begins to set, the Sunset Party on the sundeck becomes the gathering spot. Free wine and fresh fruit accompany the beautiful scenery, making it the perfect moment for a toast. Dinner follows at around 7 pm, featuring local and international dishes, which are often praised for their quality and abundance.

Post-dinner, the cruise offers social activities like board games, karaoke, or fishing. Many reviews highlight the friendly, lively atmosphere created by the crew and guests alike. Some enjoy late-night conversations or just relaxing in their cabins after a full day.

Day 2: Morning Activities and Return to Hanoi

The second day kicks off early, with a Tai Chi session at dawn—a peaceful way to start the day and enjoy the sunrise. Following that, a hearty breakfast onboard fuels you for the day’s adventures.

Kayaking begins around 8 am, giving you the chance to explore the bay’s calm waters and floating villages up close. Many travelers find this to be a highlight, appreciating the opportunity to see local fishermen’s daily lives firsthand and enjoy the tranquility.

At around 9 am, you’ll visit a floating house and learn about the fishing community’s life—an authentic perspective that adds depth to the trip. After returning to the boat, there’s time to relax and freshen up before participating in a cooking demonstration. Here, you’ll learn to make Vietnamese spring rolls, a fun and tasty skill to bring home.

The cruise disembarks around noon, with a smooth return to Tuan Chau Marina. The journey back to Hanoi arrives in the late afternoon, around 4 pm, leaving you with plenty of time to explore or unwind.

Experience Highlights and Authentic Touches

Exploring the Surprising Cave: As the most stunning grotto in Halong Bay, this cave offers a cool escape into a world of formations. Reviewers note its vast size and the thousands of stalmites and stalactites make it a memorable underground adventure.

Titop Island’s Scenic Views: Climbing to the top provides a breathtaking panorama of the bay’s limestone towers and emerald waters. Many guests describe it as “the best view of Halong Bay,” making it a must-do during the cruise.

Kayaking and Floating Village Visit: These activities provide a deeper connection with the environment and local life. Guests appreciate the opportunity to paddle around peaceful areas and observe fishermen’s daily routines.

Cooking Class: A fun, hands-on experience teaching you to make spring rolls, which many find adds a personal, cultural touch to the trip.

Sunset and Sunrise Moments: The peaceful, picture-perfect sunsets and Tai Chi mornings are highlights for many, emphasizing the serenity and natural beauty of Halong Bay.

What We Love and What to Consider

Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and knowledgeable guides, especially “Tom aka. Tom Cruise,” whose warmth and insights made the trip more enjoyable. The inclusive meals, with plentiful dishes and fresh seafood, are noted as a major value point, often exceeding expectations for a 3-star cruise.

Guests also rave about the small-group atmosphere, which fosters a more intimate and relaxed vibe. The luxurious cabins with air conditioning and private showers are another standout, ensuring comfort after a day of exploring.

On the flip side, some might find the group size of 15 a bit tight during transfers or busy activities, and the cramped bus ride from Hanoi might not appeal to taller travelers. The non-refundable policy is also worth noting—so plan accordingly.

The value for money is excellent, especially considering all the included activities and meals. The experience strikes a good balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture.

This cruise is ideal for those who want a comfortable, well-organized introduction to Halong Bay without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who appreciate a mix of sightseeing, activities, and local culture in a small group setting.

Travelers seeking authentic experiences like kayaking and visiting floating villages will find plenty to love. Food lovers and casual explorers will also enjoy the onboard cooking class and plentiful meals.

While it may not be suited for travelers looking for ultra-luxury or extensive time on the water, it offers a solid, enjoyable experience that balances comfort with adventure. If you’re after a budget-friendly, activity-filled cruise with knowledgeable guides and authentic sights, this is worth considering.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. The tour offers hotel pickup in Hanoi, making logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What’s the price of this cruise?
The cost is $190 per person, which includes meals, activities, and accommodations, representing good value for an all-inclusive experience.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package, so you’ll want to budget for additional beverages during meals or at the sunset party.

How many people will be on this tour?
The group size is capped at 15 travelers, offering a more personal experience while still maintaining a lively atmosphere.

Can I participate if I don’t kayak or climb?
Absolutely. There’s plenty of free time to relax, enjoy the scenery, or socialize onboard.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Apricot Halong Cruise offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to experience some of Vietnam’s most beautiful scenery. With comfortable cabins, authentic activities, and friendly guides, it suits travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging trip. Many guests find it to be a fantastic introduction to Halong Bay, especially appreciating the combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and fun onboard moments.

While it’s not a luxury experience, the thoughtful inclusions and genuine atmosphere make it a strong contender for budget-conscious travelers or those new to Vietnam looking for a memorable getaway. As long as you’re comfortable with a small group and the possibility of a weather-dependent schedule, this cruise can be a highlight of your Vietnam adventure.

Set out on a journey that balances comfort, adventure, and authentic local experiences—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, hassle-free trip to Halong Bay.