Traveling to Vietnam offers countless adventures, but few experiences match the charm and serenity of a cruise through Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay. The Erina Cruise promises a journey that’s both scenic and authentic, with a carefully curated itinerary that takes you away from the usual crowds.

Our review highlights three things we love about this tour: the thoughtfully planned stops at lesser-visited spots like Viet Hai Village, the engaging activities such as kayaking and biking, and the warm, attentive service from guides and staff. That said, some travelers may find the overall itinerary a little predictable or the dinner options occasionally average.

This cruise works best for those seeking a balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture—especially if you appreciate good value for a luxury experience. If you’re after a peaceful escape with personalized touches, this tour deserves your consideration.

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Key Points

Authentic experiences include kayaking, biking, and local village visits.
Less crowded routes give access to hidden gems like Dark & Bright Cave.
High praise for friendly, attentive staff and knowledgeable guides.
Comfortable luxury accommodations with modern amenities.
Varied activities suited for active travelers and relaxed visitors alike.
Value for money considering all inclusions, from meals to excursions.

An Authentic 3-Day Journey in Lan Ha and Halong Bay

The Erina Cruise tour offers a well-rounded experience combining stunning scenery, cultural discovery, and engaging activities. Priced at $425 per person, it positions itself as a luxury yet affordable choice, especially with roundtrip transfers from Hanoi’s Old Quarter included, along with all entrance fees, meals, and activities.

The tour’s standout feature is its focus on less-visited destinations like Lan Ha Bay, which tends to be quieter than the busier Halong Bay. This means you’ll enjoy fewer crowds at iconic sites while still soaking up the area’s best views. The tour is perfectly suited for travelers who want the authentic and peaceful side of Vietnam’s bay, combined with a touch of adventure and local culture.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your adventure begins early with a pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter by a luxury limousine bus. The 2.5-hour ride is comfortable and fairly scenic, giving a quick taste of Vietnam’s lush countryside before arriving at the dock. The check-in process is smooth, with a brief 15-minute transfer to the cruise’s reception point.

Once onboard, the cruise kicks off with a lunch as you glide into Lan Ha Bay. The views are already breathtaking, with limestone karsts rising dramatically from the water. The highlight of this first afternoon is the chance to kayak or swim at Tra Bau—the site famously used as a backdrop in the Kong Skull Island movie. Reviewers mention that the life jackets, towels, and dry bags provided make activities hassle-free. People often comment on how the short swim suits and flip-flops are perfect for kayaking and relaxing.

As the sun begins to set, the cruise hosts a Sunset Party featuring cakes, fruits, and tea, coupled with a cooking demonstration—a nice touch that adds a personal, local flavor. The evening ends with a hearty dinner and optional activities like squid fishing, which many travelers find relaxing and fun.

Day 2: Exploring Viet Hai Village and Hidden Beaches

The second day is packed with activity and cultural discovery. It starts early with Tai Chi on the sundeck, a peaceful way to wake up. After breakfast, you transfer via boat to Viet Hai Village, a remote and peaceful spot that offers genuine insight into traditional Vietnamese life.

The village visit is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy cycling. Here, you can rent a bicycle or take an electric car to explore the area. The reviews praise the guides for being friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. The cycling tour is often described as a “must-do,” with travelers appreciating the chance to see local homes, rice paddies, and the lush landscape.

Post-lunch, the boat takes you to hidden islands and beaches around Ba Trai Dao for swimming and relaxing. Kayaking here reveals secret coves and lesser-known spots, far from the crowds. Most reviewers note the attentiveness of the staff and the overall quality of amenities.

The day concludes with another Sunset Party, dinner, and evening activities. The relaxed pace and scenic beauty make this day a favorite for many.

Day 3: The Caves and Return to Hanoi

The final day begins with Tai Chi at sunrise, followed by breakfast. The highlight is visiting the Dark & Bright Cave by tender boat, which reviewers often describe as a peaceful, scenic experience. You can row a boat with local guides or relax on the cruise if preferred.

After the cave visit, it’s time to disembark and head back to Hanoi by luxury limousine. The luggage process is smooth, with clear instructions for packing and check-out, ensuring no stress at the end.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic destinations like Viet Hai Village and Dark & Bright Cave are appreciated for their tranquility and genuine local culture. Reviewers mention guides like Jenney, who is praised for being informative and encouraging, enhancing the overall experience.

Activities such as kayaking, cycling, and cooking demos keep the trip lively. The kayaking, especially around hidden islands, is often highlighted as a highlight—”the background of Kong Skull Island” adds an extra touch for movie fans.

Accommodations are described as spacious and comfortable, with many reviewers mentioning rooms with balconies and modern amenities that add a touch of luxury. The staff are consistently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, with some reviews specifically mentioning staff members like Sophie, Kim, Andrew, and Luna for making the trip memorable.

Food plays a significant role, with buffet-style meals offering a variety of options, including special dietary needs. Most say the meals are good, with some reviewers calling them “delicious” and “well-prepared.”

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value considering its inclusions—meals, activities, transfers, and accommodations—some travelers note that dinners can be average and the itinerary might seem repetitive or centered around the same few sites. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a more personalized experience, but this also means booking 17 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

The cost of $425 is reasonable when you consider the luxury accommodations, guided activities, and all meals, which minimizes additional expenses. The tour is suitable for active travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, and those looking for an authentic, less crowded side of Ha Long Bay.

The Sum Up

The Erina Cruise offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, culture, and fun activities. It shines through its focus on less touristy locations, like Viet Hai Village, and the attentive, friendly staff that make every moment more enjoyable. The luxury amenities paired with authentic experiences make it a desirable choice for those seeking both comfort and adventure.

If you enjoy kayaking, biking, and exploring hidden corners of nature while also savoring local cuisine and relaxing onboard, this cruise will not disappoint. The tour’s value for money, combined with its thoughtfully curated itinerary, makes it an excellent option for travelers keen on a memorable, authentic Lan Ha and Halong Bay adventure.

FAQ

How do I get to the cruise from Hanoi?
The tour includes a roundtrip shuttle bus from Hanoi Old Quarter, making the transfer smooth and comfortable. The journey takes about 2.5 hours.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers all transfers, entrance fees, taxes, service charges, meals (3 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts), activities like kayaking and biking, and luxury accommodation.

Can I participate in activities if I’m not very active?
Yes, many activities are optional. You can choose to relax on the boat or join the guided walks and kayaking at your comfort level.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, travelers are asked to inform the tour in advance if they have food allergies or prefer vegetarian meals, ensuring the kitchen can accommodate your needs.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size is small (max 20), and activities are designed to be inclusive for different ages and activity levels.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, cameras, sunglasses, warm clothes depending on weather, and cash for extras like drinks. Flip-flops or sandals are best for kayaking and walking.

How many days in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 17 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

What’s the most memorable part of this trip?
Many mention the cycling tour at Viet Hai Village, the kayaking around hidden islands, and the friendly, attentive staff who enhance every moment.

Who is this tour best for?

This cruise is perfect for adventurers craving authentic sights and activities in a peaceful setting, as well as luxury travelers seeking a comfortable, all-inclusive experience. It’s an excellent choice for cultural explorers, nature lovers, and those who want to avoid crowded tourist spots while still enjoying the beauty of Lan Ha and Halong Bay.

If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized trip with excellent service and a touch of adventure, the Erina Cruise ticks all the boxes. Just remember to book early to secure your place in this memorable journey!