From Hanoi: Breathtaking Beauty Bai Tu Long 2-Day Scenic Cruise

Travelers seeking a peaceful escape from the busier Halong Bay will find this Bai Tu Long 2-Day Scenic Cruise offers a truly authentic and less crowded alternative. It’s a carefully curated journey that combines stunning scenery, cultural insights, and relaxing activities, all aboard a boutique vessel designed for intimacy and comfort.

We love how this cruise emphasizes natural beauty and authentic experiences—from kayaking through calm waters to visiting floating fishing villages. The inclusion of Tai Chi sessions and squid fishing adds a meditative and fun touch that feels genuinely local. However, a potential consideration is that the schedule is quite packed, so travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace might find the itinerary slightly intense.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a blend of scenic exploration, culture, and comfort. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene getaway, this cruise offers a well-rounded taste of northern Vietnam’s waters.

Key Points

• Uncrowded and authentic: Bai Tu Long Bay provides a quieter, more genuine experience compared to the busier Halong Bay.
• Variety of activities: Kayaking, bamboo boat rides, Tai Chi, and squid fishing ensure there’s plenty to do.
• Comfortable boutique vessel: The cruise features deluxe ocean-view cabins with A/C and en-suite bathrooms, balancing coziness and style.
• Cultural visits: A trip to Vung Vieng floating village offers insight into traditional fishing life.
• Meal quality: Included lunch, dinner, breakfast, and brunch cater to diverse tastes, with options for dietary restrictions.
• Early mornings and sunsets: Expect breathtaking sunrise views and peaceful evenings with sunset parties.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay

The day starts with a pick-up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is convenient and includes a limousine bus transfer. The three-hour drive is comfortable, giving you a chance to reflect on the scenic journey ahead. Once at Halong International Cruise Port, guests are welcomed with drinks and a brief orientation—important for understanding what to expect during the cruise.

Embarking at noon, you’ll step onto your boutique vessel via tender, which adds a bit of adventure to the start. The ship feels intimate and welcoming, with a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing after the drive. The lunch onboard is served while cruising toward Bai Tu Long Bay—expect a well-portioned meal with fresh ingredients, taking in the views as they unfold.

Bai Tu Long Bay’s scenery is what truly makes this trip special. Unlike the crowded parts of Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long offers a more untouched landscape of towering limestone islands, calm waters, and fewer boats. This gives you a sense of peace and space that can often be missing elsewhere.

Day 2: Sunrise, Village Visits, and Return

The morning begins quite early with a sunrise view—a picture-perfect moment, particularly if you enjoy morning photography or just want to start your day peacefully. The Tai Chi session on the sundeck feels like a thoughtful addition, allowing you to connect with the tranquil surroundings while gently exercising.

Following breakfast, the highlight is the visit to Vung Vieng fishing village. Here, you’ll sit on a bamboo boat to explore the floating houses and small boats that still serve as homes and workplaces for local fishermen. This immersive experience offers a rare glimpse into traditional life on the water, which reviewers describe as “surprisingly authentic and charming.”

Cruising back to port, you’ll enjoy a buffet brunch, giving a hearty finish to your water-bound adventures. Disembarking around mid-morning, the return bus takes you back to Hanoi, arriving in the early afternoon.

Why This Cruise Offers Great Value

At $205 per person, this tour packs in a lot of experiences. The cost covers all meals, transfers, sightseeing fees, and a deluxe cabin, which is quite reasonable considering the inclusions. The small group size (maximum 30 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a peaceful atmosphere, often missing on larger cruises.

The cruise is designed to balance relaxation with activity. For example, kayaking and bamboo boat rides give you hands-on encounters with Bai Tu Long’s calm waters. Meanwhile, the scheduled activities like squid fishing and sunset parties inject fun into the journey, making it more than just sightseeing.

Comfort and Quality

The deluxe ocean-view cabins with air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms are appreciated by travelers seeking a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. The vessel’s boutique style means fewer crowds, more personalized service, and a quieter ambiance—all highly valued aspects for many travelers.

Cultural and Natural Highlights

Visiting Vung Vieng floating village stands out as a genuine cultural experience. Reviewers note that the village retains its traditional charm, with floating houses and boats still in use. The sunrise and sunset moments are consistently praised for their breathtaking beauty, perfect for photography or just soaking in the natural serenity.

Activities and Experiences

Kayaking and bamboo boat rides are highly recommended as they allow you to get closer to Bai Tu Long’s untouched scenery. The cooking class and sunset party add a fun, interactive element, making the cruise quite engaging. The squid fishing under the stars is a unique experience, especially for those who enjoy nighttime adventures.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Timing: The tour starts early, with a pickup at 8:00 AM in Hanoi, so be prepared for an early start.
• What to pack: Bring layers for variable weather, a hat for sun protection, and your camera for the stunning views.
• Dietary needs: The tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets if you specify in advance.
• Group size: With a maximum of 30 participants, the cruise offers a friendly, intimate environment.
• Photo opportunities: The mornings and evenings provide optimal lighting for landscape shots or selfies with limestone karsts.
• Additional costs: Personal expenses and beverages outside the included meals are not covered, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise perfectly suits those eager for quiet, scenic beauty away from the crowds. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy cultural insights, outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing, and comfortable accommodations. It also appeals to those wanting a well-organized, all-inclusive experience with a personal touch—perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking connection.

If you crave peaceful waters, authentic village visits, and stunning sunsets, this tour checks all those boxes. Just keep in mind that the schedule is active, so if you prefer slow mornings or extended leisure, consider how the timings fit your style.

FAQ

How do I get to the cruise from Hanoi?
The tour includes limousine bus pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The drive takes about 3 hours to reach Halong International Cruise Port.

What is included in the price?
The $205 fee covers transfers, accommodation in a deluxe ocean-view cabin, all meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast, and brunch), sightseeing and entrance fees, activities (kayak, bamboo boat, cooking class, squid fishing), and a friendly English-speaking guide.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs if you specify them when booking.

What activities are offered onboard?
Expect kayaking, bamboo boat rides, Tai Chi sessions, sunset parties, squid fishing, and photo opportunities during sunrise and sunset.

When should I arrive for the tour?
The start time is 8:00 AM, with pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter. Be prepared for a full day of travel and activities.

When do we return to Hanoi?
The return bus departs Bai Tu Long Bay around 11:30 AM, arriving back in Hanoi approximately between 2:30 and 3:00 PM.

The Sum Up

The Bai Tu Long 2-Day Scenic Cruise offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, culture, and comfort. Its focus on less-traveled areas makes it an ideal choice for travelers who want authentic experiences without the crowds. The included activities and scenic stops ensure a memorable getaway that balances relaxation with adventure.

This tour is best suited for those who value peaceful waters, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. Its well-rounded itinerary, cozy boutique vessel, and attentive service make it a worthwhile investment for a short but enriching escape from Hanoi.

If you’re looking for a serene, scenic cruise that highlights the tranquil side of Vietnam’s waters, this experience fits the bill exactly. Consider how the schedule aligns with your travel style—its early mornings and active pace are perfect for explorers and nature lovers alike.

Note: With a 6-day cancellation policy, you have flexibility in planning. Just ensure to communicate dietary needs and preferences at booking to maximize your comfort and enjoyment.