Doris Cruise 5 star cruise 2 days visiting Halong Bay Lan Ha Bay private balcony

Travelers seeking a blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic scenery in Vietnam will find this Doris Cruise offering a compelling escape. This 2-day journey from Hanoi is designed for those who want more than just a quick visit—it promises luxurious accommodations with private balconies, a variety of activities, and genuine local charm.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning views of both Halong and Lan Ha Bay that are truly a feast for the eyes. Second, the excellent hospitality and attentive staff, often highlighted in reviews for making guests feel like family. Third, the diverse activities—from kayaking and swimming to cooking classes—that keep the experience lively and engaging.

A potential consideration? The non-refundable policy might be a downside if your plans change unexpectedly, so it’s worth confirming your travel dates carefully. The tour is best suited for those who appreciate a mix of relaxation and adventure, and who value a smooth, organized journey with a touch of luxury.

Who is this tour for?

Travelers who want a comfortable yet authentic experience on the water, with the chance to try activities like kayaking and Tai Chi. It’s ideal for couples, family groups, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, well-organized trip that combines sightseeing, leisure, and cultural experiences.

Key Points

• Luxury with privacy: Private balconies in spacious rooms set this cruise apart.
• Diverse activities: Kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, cooking classes, and even squid fishing.
• Excellent guides and staff: Known for attentive service, with staff going out of their way—reviews mention Jessica, Genie, and Brian specifically.
• Scenic beauty: Stunning views of limestone karsts and tranquil bay waters.
• Great value: The $235 price includes most meals, activities, transfers, and entrance fees.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup in Hanoi, round-trip transfers, and a well-paced itinerary.

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Your Journey from Hanoi

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 8:00 am. A comfortable limousine bus whisks you away on a scenic 2.5-hour drive—an enjoyable way to leave the city’s hustle behind and settle into the more relaxed pace of the bay. The transfer is smooth and included in the price, which adds significant convenience and value.

Check-In and Embarkation

Arriving at Tuan Chau dock, there’s a brief check-in process before stepping aboard the Doris Cruise. The process is efficient, and the staff are welcoming, setting a positive tone for the days ahead. Many reviews rave about the friendly and attentive staff, with guests mentioning specifically how staff like Jessica or Genie make the experience feel personalized.

Day 1: Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Activities

Once on board, you’re greeted with a delicious lunch while cruising into Lan Ha Bay. This area, often less crowded than Halong Bay but equally breathtaking, is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Reviews highlight how engaging these activities are, especially the kayaking at Tra Bau, which is notably the backdrop for the film “Kong Skull Island.”

The cruise provides life jackets, towels, and dry bags, so you can keep your camera or phone safe while enjoying the water. During late afternoon, there’s a sunset party with cakes, fruit, and tea—paired with a cooking demonstration. Guests enjoy this relaxed social time, often noting the good quality of the snacks and the friendly atmosphere.

Dinner that night is another highlight, with many praising the variety and flavor—often mentioning that vegetarian options are plentiful, catering well to diverse dietary needs. The evening offers entertainment options like squid fishing and unwinding under the stars, with guests frequently remarking on the calm, peaceful environment.

Day 2: More Exploration and Return

The early morning starts with Tai Chi on the sundeck, a serene way to begin your day. After breakfast, your adventure continues with a tender boat ride to visit Dark & Bright Cave—a popular stop among reviews for its unique formations and opportunity for rowboat rides with local guides.

You might find that staying onboard for relaxing or taking part in more water activities suits some travelers better, as reviews mention. The day progresses with a lunch before disembarking and heading back to Hanoi. The return trip is comfortable, with a brief 30-minute transfer, leaving you with memories of stunning vistas and peaceful moments.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

Private Balcony Rooms

Guests consistently mention how the private balconies allow for peaceful mornings and evenings, offering unobstructed views of the towering limestone formations. The rooms are described as comfortable and spacious, with modern amenities including air conditioning and showers.

Activities and Cultural Touches

The cruise isn’t just about cruising; it’s about engaging with the environment. The option to kayak or paddle at Tra Bau, swim, or join a Tai Chi session provides a hands-on experience of the bay’s natural beauty. The cooking class during sunset is a fun way to connect with Vietnamese culture, and many reviews praise the delicious food—noting especially the accommodating vegetarian and Indian options.

Stellar Hospitality and Staff

Multiple reviewers sing the praises of staff members like Jessica, Genie, Brian, and Tam, emphasizing their friendly, attentive, and professional service. Guests feel genuinely cared for, with some noting that staff go above and beyond—even decorating birthday surprises or serving special dietary requests.

Scenic and Authentic Experience

While the luxury aspect is evident, the experience remains authentic. The boat navigates through breathtaking scenery, with limestone karsts rising dramatically from the water. Many visitors mention that the less crowded Lan Ha Bay offers a more peaceful alternative to the often busy Halong Bay.

Value for Money and Practical Aspects

At $235 per person, this cruise offers a comprehensive package that covers transportation, all meals, activities, entrance fees, and comfortable accommodations. Considering the inclusivity and quality of service, reviewers often highlight it as excellent value.

The tour’s timing—starting early and ending in the late morning of the second day—allows a full experience without feeling rushed. The group size, capped at 54 travelers, ensures a balance of social atmosphere and intimacy, avoiding the overcrowding common on some larger cruises.

Transportation and Convenience

Round-trip hotel transfers are seamless, removing the stress of arranging your transport. Plus, the mobile ticket option makes coordination easy, and the pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter is punctual. It’s especially convenient for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of self-organizing logistics.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking comfort and authentic beauty in Vietnam’s stunning waters. It’s perfect for those who appreciate luxury accommodations with private balconies, enjoy a variety of activities, and value top-notch hospitality. With the included meals and excursions, it offers great value for the price, especially when you factor in the seamless transportation and personalized service.

Couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience will find this tour meets their needs. The mix of scenic views, cultural activities, and relaxation makes it a well-rounded choice for a memorable trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is included, and the transfer is comfortable and timely.

How long is the bus ride from Hanoi?
The journey takes about 2.5 hours on a shuttle limousine bus, making it a manageable trip for a 2-day experience.

Are meals included?
All onboard meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, with many reviews praising their quality and variety, including vegetarian options.

Can I do water activities like kayaking?
Absolutely. Kayaking and swimming are available, with life jackets, towels, and dry bags provided for your convenience.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the trip, especially with the wide range of activities and the attentive staff catering to children’s needs.

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

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes, the cruise can accommodate vegetarian and specific dietary requests, often praised in reviews for their excellent service.

How big are the groups?
The tour caps at 54 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and less crowded environment.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the included amenities, activities, transport, and luxury accommodations, most guests find it offers standout value.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Be sure of your dates before booking.

For anyone looking to combine scenic beauty, cultural engagement, and luxurious comfort in Vietnam, Doris Cruise’s 2-day tour is a compelling choice. With attentive staff, stunning vistas, and a well-designed itinerary, it promises a memorable experience—especially for those who appreciate the finer details of travel.