DORIA Cruise 5* Luxury Lan Ha bay 3D2N With 2 Ways Transfer

A detailed look at the DORIA Cruise 5 Luxury Lan Ha Bay 3D2N with 2 Ways Transfer

Planning a trip to Vietnam’s famous bay area? The DORIA Cruise 5 Luxury Lan Ha Bay 3D2N offers a well-rounded experience that combines comfort, adventure, and culture. While it’s not a perfect luxury vessel—some reviews mention its age and basic balconies—the overall value and authentic experience make it a worthwhile choice for many travelers.

What we love about this cruise? First, its comprehensive itinerary covering highlights like Bai Tu Long Bay, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Thien Canh Son Cave. Second, the onboard activities—from Vietnamese cooking classes and Tai Chi to kayaking and squid fishing—that add local flavor and fun. Third, the inclusive meals and transfers, which simplify logistics and help keep costs predictable.

A potential downside? Some reviewers mention that the boat isn’t quite 4-star in all respects—its decor and balcony quality might fall short of expectations. It’s also worth noting that some activities, like swimming and the cooking class, may not be available for everyone or could feel somewhat rushed.

This cruise is best suited for first-timers wanting an overview of Halong Bay’s sights, travelers with a limited schedule, or those looking for solid value with organized activities and meals included. If you’re after a mix of sightseeing, comfort, and local interactions, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The cruise offers unbeatable views of Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and the famous limestone formations.
• Variety of Activities: From Tai Chi at dawn to kayaking and Vietnamese cooking, there’s plenty to keep you engaged.
• Inclusive Pricing: Meals, transfers, and some activities are included, making it easier to budget and avoid hidden costs.
• Authentic Experience: Stops like Vung Vieng Fishing Village and Viet Hai Village provide a genuine glimpse into local life.
• Group Size: The tour caters to up to 45 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with personal space.
• Mixed Reviews: While most praise the scenery and crew, some mention the boat’s age and limited balcony features.

An Authentic 3-Day Cruise Through Lan Ha and Halong Bay

Setting the Scene: Why Consider This Tour?

If you’re dreaming of Vietnam’s iconic limestone karsts, crystal-clear waters, and floating villages, this cruise delivers those visuals with a healthy dose of onboard comfort and culture. The $459 per person price includes everything from hotel pickup in Hanoi, transfers, meals, and activities, making it a great value for a 3-day adventure.

While some reviews highlight that the boat isn’t a brand-new vessel—“had seen better days,” as one commented—the overall experience is appreciated for its friendly staff and well-organized itinerary. The crew, especially guides like Lucky, receive high praise for their attentiveness and friendliness, making you feel like you’re traveling with friends rather than strangers.

The Itinerary: What’s on the Menu?

Day 1: Lan Ha Bay and Light & Dark Cave

Your journey begins from Hanoi with a pickup around 8:00 to 8:30 am, giving you a stress-free start. Once you arrive at Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll board the La Regina lounge with a welcome drink, setting the tone for a leisurely cruise.

Exploring Lan Ha Bay offers a more tranquil alternative to the busier Halong Bay. The highlight here is the Light and Dark Cave, a pristine spot perfect for kayaking or local boat rides. Reviewers mention the cave’s “pristine beauty” and tranquility, making it a peaceful first impression.

What you’ll love:

• The scenic cruise through limestone formations.
• The chance to kayak or take a local boat, which gives a real sense of intimacy with the bay.
• The Vietnamese cuisine served onboard, which many reviewers rave about for its flavor and freshness.

Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay & Village Adventures

The next morning kicks off early with Tai Chi on the sundeck, offering a calming start before breakfast. By 8 am, you’re on a day boat heading toward Viet Hai Village, one of the tour’s genuine highlights.

The bike ride through the village and jungly surroundings is a favorite among travelers, offering a glimpse into local life. One reviewer appreciated the “pleasant ride along jungle paths,” and another said the village was “nestled between jungle and limestone towers.”

Lunch is served either at the village or onboard, both options offering tasty local dishes. The afternoon features a stop at Ba Trai Dao Beach, known for its clear waters—ideal for a swim or just relaxing with an island view.

Key point: The activities here—the biking, beach time, and boat excursions—are well-paced, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments.

Day 3: Cat Ba Biosphere and Return

The final day begins with Tai Chi at dawn, a peaceful way to say goodbye to the bay. After breakfast, a transfer takes you to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, part of the UNESCO-recognized biosphere.

The cave tour provides an intriguing look into local geology and history. Reviewers mention the impressive size of the caves and the scenic transfer from Gia Luan to the cave itself. Afterward, it’s time to relax and prepare for the journey back to Hanoi.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s all-inclusive package covers most essentials: hotel pickup and drop-off, two meals per day, bottled water, and guided activities. The two-way bus transfer is especially convenient for travelers staying in Hanoi, removing the hassle of arranging transport.

However, alcoholic drinks aren’t included, so if you want a cold beer after a day of kayaking or beach lounging, you’ll need to pay separately. Also, some reviews note that the boat’s amenities aren’t luxury-level, but for the price, most find the onboard accommodations adequate, especially given the scenic environment.

What Do Travelers Say?

Most reviews are favorable, with a 4.7/5 rating from 71 travelers. Many praised the crew—especially Lucky—for their friendliness and attentiveness. One reviewer called the cruise “the best boat in this section of Ha Long Bay,” emphasizing the crew’s warm hospitality.

Multiple guests also highlighted the quality of the food—not just quantity but taste and presentation. The included activities like kayaking, cave tours, and Tai Chi are appreciated for adding variety.

That said, a few pointed out the boat’s age—some felt it “had seen better days”—and mentioned the balconies lacked privacy or a proper view, which could be a consideration for those expecting full luxury.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book at least 6 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Confirm whether activities like swimming or cooking classes are available, as some reviewers found they were not offered during their trips.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a swimsuit for water activities.
• Note that the boat isn’t a new vessel, so temper expectations if you’re seeking ultra-modern luxury.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

First-time visitors to Northern Vietnam will appreciate the curated itinerary and organized activities. It’s a perfect introduction to the bay’s must-see sights without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

Travelers on a budget will find this offers good value—meals, transfers, and activities are bundled into one price, saving you money compared to booking separately.

Adventure seekers will enjoy kayak trips, biking, and beach time, while those wanting cultural insights will love the stops at fishing and fishing villages.

It’s less ideal for those seeking ultra-luxurious accommodations or expecting modern, boutique-style ships. The vessel’s age and basic balconies might be a letdown for some.

Final Thoughts

The DORIA Cruise offers a solid, value-packed way to experience Lan Ha and Halong Bay. While it’s not a five-star vessel in every detail, the combination of scenic beauty, friendly crew, and engaging activities makes it a worthwhile choice, especially for those eager to explore the bay in a relaxed yet organized manner.

You’ll appreciate the diverse stops—ranging from caves to floating villages—and the authentic flavor of Vietnamese cuisine. The included transfers and meals mean you can focus on soaking up the views rather than logistics.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable cruise with a mix of adventure and culture, this tour ticks many boxes. Just keep in mind its age and standard, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful scenery and genuine local encounters.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

What is the duration of the cruise?
It’s a 3-day, 2-night experience, with the first day starting in the late morning and the last day ending in the late afternoon or evening.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided onboard, featuring Vietnamese cuisine.

Can I do water activities like swimming?
Swimming isn’t explicitly listed as an included activity, but kayaking and exploring Light and Dark Cave are available, with some reviewers mentioning kayaking as a highlight.

What’s the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 45 travelers, offering a balance between social interaction and personal space.

Is alcohol included?
No, alcohol drinks are not included but can be purchased separately onboard.

Is the boat new or luxurious?
The vessel is rated 4-star but some reviews note it has seen better days, so expectations should be realistic regarding its age and decor.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring essentials for water activities, sun protection, and comfortable clothing for biking and cave exploration.

In short, this cruise is a good pick for travelers wanting a scenic, activity-rich experience at a reasonable price. It’s especially suitable if you’re new to Vietnam or short on time but still want an authentic taste of Lan Ha and Halong Bay’s stunning natural beauty.