Planning a trip to Vietnam and want to see some of the most breathtaking scenery away from the crowds? This 2-day, 1-night luxury cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay offers an excellent chance to enjoy spectacular limestone formations, quiet beaches, and authentic local life—all with the comfort of a private, air-conditioned cabin.

While the cruise includes must-see highlights like Vung Vieng fishing village and Halong Pearl Farm, it also takes you to the less-visited Bai Tu Long Bay, which means fewer travelers and more tranquil moments. We love the combination of relaxing activities like kayaking, swimming, and even a Vietnamese cooking class on board. However, if you’re looking for a very leisurely pace with more downtime, this trip might feel a little packed, as the itinerary emphasizes sightseeing and activities.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and comfort, want authentic local experiences, and appreciate stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find plenty of value in a well-organized, engaging trip that offers a taste of Northern Vietnam’s incredible landscapes.

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Key Points

Comfortable private cabins with air-conditioning and hot showers provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.
Balanced itinerary includes sightseeing, kayaking, swimming, and cultural activities like a Vietnamese cooking class.
Less crowded Bai Tu Long Bay offers a peaceful alternative to the more touristy Halong Bay.
Excellent guides and staff are frequently praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and local knowledge.
Good value for money at $180 per person, with meals, activities, and transfers included.
Additional costs like drinks, transfers from hotels, or surcharges during holidays are important to note for budgeting.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

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Day 1: From Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay

The adventure starts with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, typically around 8:00 to 8:30 AM. This early start is perfect if you want to maximize your time on the water, and the transfer is comfortable, often in a limousine-style bus, which is a nice touch considering the overall price. If you’re not staying in the Old Quarter, you’ll need to head to Hanoi Opera House beforehand.

Once onboard, expect a scenic drive passing through some of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes—think limestone karsts, lush greenery, and distant mountains. The highlight of the morning is cruising through Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site that needs no introduction for its iconic limestone formations. However, the real treat begins when you turn into Bai Tu Long Bay, which is notably less crowded but equally stunning. This quieter stretch allows for more peaceful moments to appreciate the scenery.

The cruise makes stops at Vung Vieng fishing village—a small, traditional floating community—and the Halong Pearl Farm. These visits are more than just photo ops; they offer a glimpse into local life and Vietnam’s pearl cultivation industry. The guide, often praised for their friendly and knowledgeable manner (one reviewer specifically mentioned a guide named Tu), adds context and personal touches that make these visits informative and engaging.

Activities: Kayaking and Swimming

One of the key highlights is the opportunity to kayak in calm waters—a favorite among reviews, with many describing it as a fun and exciting way to explore close-up the limestone islands and hidden coves. Swimming from secluded beaches is another activity that adds a refreshing element to the trip, especially on a warm day.

Sunset and Dinner

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a sunset party on deck, a perfect time to unwind with a cold drink, chat with fellow travelers, and marvel at the changing colors of the sky. The onboard restaurant serves a delicious dinner, with reviewers often emphasizing how beautifully the meals are presented and how tasty they are. Included are two lunches, one dinner, and breakfast, giving you a good amount of hearty, Vietnamese-inspired cuisine.

Day 2: Morning Tai Chi and Return to Hanoi

Waking up early, many guests partake in Tai Chi exercises—a peaceful way to start the day and a feature that gets praise for its calm and restorative qualities. After breakfast, there’s the chance to visit another cave or simply relax onboard while the boat cruises back toward Halong Bay.

The second day’s schedule is a bit more relaxed, with an early lunch served mid-morning before disembarking around 9:30 AM. You stay onboard while cruising back, which allows for catching some final views of the limestone formations and the peaceful bay.

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Return to Hanoi

The transfer back takes approximately five hours, which is worth mentioning since it’s a longer ride but generally comfortable. The trip concludes with the option to arrange transfers from Hanoi hotels for an added fee, making this a seamless experience for travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic and Less Crowded Bai Tu Long Bay

Many travelers flock to Halong Bay, but this cruise’s inclusion of Bai Tu Long Bay means you’ll enjoy the same stunning scenery without the overwhelming crowds. Reviewers like the one who said, “the bay itself is incredible beautiful & 3 Days/2 nights will be our option for the next time,” indicate that the quiet, pristine waters are a major draw.

High-Quality Amenities and Service

Guests consistently praise the friendly, professional guides—one reviewer specifically mentioned a guide named Tu, who provided excellent info and care. The private cabins are described as beautiful, comfortable, and well-equipped with air conditioning and hot showers, turning the cruise into a floating retreat after busy days.

Activities That Add Value

The kayaking and swimming options are highly appreciated, offering a chance to get close to nature. The Vietnamese cooking class** is a unique cultural experience that adds a hands-on element and is often highlighted as a fun, memorable part of the trip.

Dining and Local Experiences

Meals are frequently described as delicious and beautifully presented, with some reviewers mentioning they exceeded expectations. Visiting Vung Vieng fishing village and the pearl farm provides an authentic look at local industries and community life.

Cost and Inclusion

At $180 per person, this cruise delivers good value, especially considering the meals, activities, guides, and private accommodations included. However, additional costs like beverages, transfers, or surcharges during holidays are worth noting, so budget accordingly.

Practical Details and Tips

Transfers: Pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter is available, with the option to meet at Hanoi Opera House if your hotel isn’t in the area. Transfers from Hanoi are optional and incur extra fees, so plan ahead.
Timing: The cruise starts early in the morning, so packing light, comfortable clothing, and essentials like hats, sunscreen, insect spray, and swimwear will make your experience more enjoyable.
Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a personal and friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.
Weather considerations: Good weather is essential for activities like kayaking and swimming; the tour offers a full refund if canceled due to weather.
Extra costs: Surcharges apply during certain holidays, such as the Lunar New Year or December 24–31, so check in advance if you plan to travel during these times.

Who Is This Tour For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural encounters. If you love scenic landscapes and want to avoid the big crowds of Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay offers a quieter, more intimate experience. It’s perfect if you enjoy active pursuits like kayaking and swimming but also appreciate comfortable, private accommodations. The inclusion of local visits and a Vietnamese cooking class makes it appealing for those wanting a more authentic taste of Vietnam.

While it’s suitable for most travelers, keep in mind that the schedule is packed with activities, so if you prefer a slow, unstructured holiday, you might find it a bit busy. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find value here, especially those looking for a well-organized, memorable adventure.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Bai Tu Long Bay cruise offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, engaging activities, and cultural insights—all at a reasonable price point. The private cabins, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experiences elevate this trip beyond a simple sightseeing tour. You’ll get to kayak past limestone karsts, visit fishing villages, and enjoy delicious Vietnamese cuisine—all in a peaceful setting away from crowded tourist spots.

It’s especially suited for those who want a balanced itinerary, combining active exploration with restful moments aboard a comfortable vessel. If you’re after a meaningful, scenic, and well-organized escape in Northern Vietnam, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup from Hanoi included in the price?
Pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter can be arranged, and is often included or offered as an option for an extra fee. If you don’t stay in the Old Quarter, you’ll need to meet at Hanoi Opera House beforehand.

What activities are included?
Activities include kayaking, swimming, visiting fishing villages and pearl farms, and participating in a Vietnamese cooking class. You also have the option to join Tai Chi exercises in the morning.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides two lunches, one dinner, and a breakfast, all with local Vietnamese dishes that are praised for their presentation and flavor.

Can I stay longer in Bai Tu Long Bay?
This tour is for 2 days and 1 night, but the reviews mention that some travelers might opt for 3 days/2 nights for more relaxed exploration.

What should I bring?
Essentials include sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear and towels, small cash for extras, insect spray, and comfortable shoes. Raincoats and jackets are advised for winter or rainy days.

What is the group size limit?
The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers, creating a friendly, small-group atmosphere.

Are there any surcharges I should be aware of?
Yes, surcharges of $50 during holidays like December 24-31 and $30 during Lunar New Year holidays are payable directly on the tour.

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

This cruise offers a genuine balance of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an active exploration of Northern Vietnam’s waters, it’s a worthwhile choice that delivers on both value and experience.