Charming Cruise 2-day explore Halong Bay from Hanoi

Traveling to Vietnam often means experiencing the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay, and this 2-day cruise offers an inviting way to soak in its beauty without the hassle of planning every detail. While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, the comprehensive package from Joy Tourist promises a blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation that many travelers find appealing.

What truly stands out are the opulent accommodations with private balconies, the well-curated itinerary that balances sightseeing with leisure, and the inclusion of luxury touches like outdoor Jacuzzis and spa services. A potential consideration is the fixed non-refundable policy, so it’s best to book with confidence. This tour is perfect for those seeking a comfort-focused experience combined with scenic exploration, especially travelers who appreciate delicious meals, guided excursions, and a hassle-free approach.

Key Points

• Luxury Accommodations: All cabins feature private balconies with panoramic views, suitable for romantic getaways or family trips.
• Well-Balanced Itinerary: The cruise includes stops at Lan Ha Bay, Tra Bau, and Tuan Chau Island, blending sightseeing, kayaking, and relaxing activities.
• Inclusive Value: Meals, entrance fees, kayaking, and even Wi-Fi are included, making this a convenient, all-in-one package.
• Authentic Experiences: The guides are knowledgeable, and the stops showcase the natural beauty of limestone karsts and hidden lagoons.
• Luxurious Touches: Outdoor Jacuzzi, spa options, and elegant dining enhance the experience beyond standard boat tours.
• Considerations: The tour is non-refundable and weather-dependent, so flexibility is limited if plans change.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

Your journey begins early in Hanoi, with pickup between 7:45 and 8:15 am from your hotel in the Old Quarter. This timing sets you up for a smooth transfer via Vietnam’s newest highway, connecting Hanoi to Hai Phong, reducing travel time and ensuring an efficient start. The ride offers a chance to unwind after packing and to get a glimpse of modern Vietnamese infrastructure.

Once you arrive at Tuan Chau Island, the transfer to the main boat is about 25 minutes in a high-speed tender, a comfortable ride that gets you excited for the adventure ahead. The boat, Mercury Cruise, is designed with comfort and style in mind, with just 22 cabins ensuring an intimate atmosphere.

Luxurious Accommodations

Each cabin features spacious rooms starting from 28 square meters, with options like Junior Suite, Senior Suite, Family Suite, or the VIP Honeymoon Suite with a private terrace—perfect for honeymooners or families. Guests have praised the private balconies with sweeping bay views, ideal for sipping your morning coffee or unwinding with a sunset.

Highlights include HD LED Televisions, Wi-Fi, and luxurious showers with bathtubs, making your stay comfortable and convenient. The focus on quality means you can relax knowing your lodging was carefully chosen to match the scenic surroundings.

Day 1: Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Tuan Chau Island

Your day kicks off with a sumptuous lunch at the onboard restaurant as Mercury Cruise departs for Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to the more crowded parts of Halong. The highlight here is a visit to Ba Trai Dao and a natural lagoon, where the scenery is marked by imposing limestone formations and clear waters. Travelers note that this area includes a beach, perfect for a quick swim or photo session.

In the late afternoon, guests can enjoy a sunset happy hour at the bar, with some drinks on special offer while watching the bay turn golden. Many reviews mention the beautiful views and relaxing atmosphere, making this a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Day 2: Sunrise Tai Chi and Hidden Coves

Morning begins early with a Tai Chi session on the sun deck—an activity appreciated for its calming effect and stunning sunrise views. Breakfast follows, offering a chance to enjoy the peaceful bay landscape from the comfort of your cabin.

The boat then makes a stop at Làng chài Trà Báu, a traditional fishing village where guests can kayak or swim in the calm waters. The reviews emphasize the quality of the kayaking experience, with some guests mentioning how it gives a genuine taste of local life and natural beauty.

Later, there’s an opportunity to relax, check out, and enjoy a final cruise before disembarking at Tuan Chau Harbor. The entire morning offers a blend of scenic relaxation and light adventure, making the most of your last moments on the water.

Food and Beverage

Meals are a highlight, with two included lunches and dinners served onboard. The dishes are often described as delicious, with guests appreciating the quality and variety, which elevates the overall value of the tour. Beverages are not included, so you might want to bring some extra cash or stock up before the cruise.

Additional Amenities

The cruise offers several luxurious touches, such as an outdoor Jacuzzi, a beauty spa, and fishing equipment, giving guests options for downtime or active relaxation. The Wi-Fi and satellite HD television in cabins keep you connected if needed, though many find that disconnecting enhances the experience.

Practical Details and Pricing

At $250 per person, the tour provides a fair balance of comfort, activities, and inclusions. When you consider that entrance fees, kayaking, meals, and luxury accommodations are all included, it becomes a convenient package for travelers wanting to avoid extra costs or planning stress.

The tour is designed for groups up to 98 travelers, but with only 22 cabins, it feels cozy and private rather than crowded. The non-refundable policy encourages travelers to commit only once confident in the plan, and weather considerations mean you might need some flexibility.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who want luxury and comfort in a scenic setting. It’s perfect for couples on a romantic getaway, families seeking a relaxed adventure, or friends looking to explore Vietnam’s natural beauty without sacrificing style. The inclusion of guided excursions, kayaking, and gourmet meals makes it a well-rounded experience.

On the downside, if you’re someone who prefers spontaneous or budget travel, the fixed schedule and extra costs for drinks or spa treatments might be less appealing. Also, weather-dependent plans mean that you should be flexible with your dates.

Final Thoughts

The Charming Cruise 2-day explore Halong Bay from Hanoi offers a compelling blend of luxury, authenticity, and scenic beauty. The thoughtfully designed itinerary and high-quality accommodations ensure that you’ll enjoy both comfort and adventure, with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and exploration.

While the non-refundable policy and fixed schedule require some planning, the overall value for the experience—including meals, sightseeing, and amenities—makes it a strong choice for travelers seeking a stress-free way to see some of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.

For those who prioritize beautiful views, excellent guides, and delicious food, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s best suited for travelers who want a cozy, guided experience with the comfort of modern amenities, without the crowds of larger boats.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers luxury accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), entrance and sightseeing fees, kayaking, bamboo boat rides, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, fishing equipment, outdoor Jacuzzi, transfers, and a welcome drink.

Are drinks included?
No, beverages are not included in the package, so you may want to bring some cash for drinks at the bar or onshore.

What type of accommodation can I expect?
All cabins are well-appointed with private balconies, showers, and bathtubs. Options include Junior Suite, Senior Suite, Family Suite, and VIP Suite with a private terrace.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially with options like Family Suites and activities like kayaking. However, parents should supervise children during water activities.

How early do we need to wake up?
The day starts early, with Tai Chi at 6:15 am and breakfast at 7:00 am, to maximize sightseeing and enjoy the sunrise.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The intimate group size and shared experiences create a welcoming environment for solo adventurers.

This 2-day cruise strikes a fine balance between indulgence and exploration, making it a memorable way to experience Halong Bay’s timeless charm.