From Ninh Binh: Ha Long – Lan Ha Bay 2D1N on 5-star Cruise

Traveling through Vietnam’s northern waters often conjures images of iconic limestone karsts and tranquil turquoise bays. While Ha Long Bay is well-known, this particular 2-day, 1-night cruise from Ninh Binh offers a luxurious and authentic way to explore both Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay with a touch of refinement.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances comfort with adventure, offering a luxurious cabin complete with a private bathtub, engaging activities like kayaking and cooking classes, and the breathtaking scenery that makes every moment picture-perfect. The fishing and squid fishing options add a fun, local twist, while the onboard meals highlight high-end Vietnamese cuisine.

A potential consideration? The cruise is quite a structured experience with a lot of scheduled activities and a short time frame—so if you’re craving a relaxed, open-ended sailing, this might feel a little tight. Still, it’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of the bay’s beauty combined with comfort and guided experiences.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate well-organized trips with beautiful scenery, good food, and a bit of luxury without breaking the bank. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to tick off one of Vietnam’s top sights in style, this cruise delivers a memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Luxury accommodations with private tubs and modern amenities
• Authentic Vietnamese cuisine and cooking experiences onboard
• Stunning scenery of limestone karsts, caves, and secluded beaches
• Engaging activities like kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing
• Efficient itinerary with well-timed stops and guided excursions
• Convenient transfers from Ninh Binh and back to Hanoi

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Ninh Binh to the Bay

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup between 7:00 and 7:15 AM in Ninh Binh, making it easy to start your day without stress. Once aboard the transfer boat, the journey really begins. Arriving at Tuan Chau Marina around midday, you’ll transfer onto the cruise, where a warm welcome drink and introductions set a friendly tone.

The cruise departs for what’s expected to be an unforgettable cruise through Halong Bay‘s iconic limestone formations. As you glide past the Con Vit Islet (Duck Islet), Thumb Islet, and Gia Luan Harbor, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. The highlight here is the natural lagoon in Lan Ha Bay, which offers quiet waters and a sense of untouched beauty.

Lunch onboard features Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian dishes, prepared with care to reflect local flavors. We loved how the meals were seemingly a highlight for many guests—“the meals were a culinary highlight,” says one reviewer—really showcasing Vietnamese cuisine with fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation.

Afternoon Activities: Swimming, Kayaking, and Relaxation

After lunch, there’s time to unwind and explore. The boat anchors at Ba Trai Dao Beach or Tra Bau area, where swimming and kayaking are on the agenda. The reviews mention that water quality could be an issue due to pollution, which is worth considering if swimming is your priority. However, the kayaking experience is often praised for its tranquility and the chance to get close to the scenery.

For a more interactive experience, guests can enjoy a Vietnamese cooking class led by the cruise’s chef. The opportunity to make spring rolls and learn local culinary secrets is a big plus, especially for foodies. The sunset party with fruit, cake, and tea creates a convivial atmosphere—“Tina, the guide, truly went above and beyond,” one guest remarked, highlighting the attentive staff that makes the trip special.

Evening Entertainment

As night falls, you can partake in games, listen to music, or try squid fishing—activities that add a fun, local flavor to the trip. The cabins are described as luxurious, each with private bathtubs and modern amenities like Wi-Fi and satellite HD televisions, making it easy to unwind after a busy day.

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Day 2: Exploring the Bay

The morning begins with Tai Chi on the deck, a peaceful activity to start the day. Breakfast is served with bay views, and the cruise continues with a visit to Dark & Bright Cave. Guests have the option to explore by kayak or on a bamboo boat pulled by local rowers, providing different ways to experience the scenery.

Around 11:30 AM, the cruise returns to Tuan Chau Harbor, and guests are transferred back to Hanoi via bus. The entire experience is about 29 hours, making it a compact but comprehensive way to see some of Vietnam’s most stunning waters.

What Sets This Cruise Apart?

Stunning Scenery and Well-Organized Route

Travelers consistently praise the scenery—“The views of limestone karsts, hidden caves, and emerald waters were simply unforgettable,” as one reviewer shared. The cruise covers key highlights like Con Vit Islet and the caves, giving you a good sense of the bay’s natural wonders without feeling rushed.

High-End Comfort and Cuisine

Every cabin features a private bathtub, Wi-Fi, and HD TVs, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. The meals onboard, including seafood and vegetarian options, are more refined than typical buffet-style offerings, with many reviewers noting them as a culinary highlight. The cooking class is an extra touch that allows you to bring a piece of Vietnam home.

Activities That Add Value

Kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing are included, with some reviewers mentioning how these activities make the trip more engaging. The guided tour of caves and lagoons is well-paced but limited to a 2-day schedule, so don’t expect a full, immersive expedition.

Exceptional Service and Guides

Many reviewers mention guides like Tina, whose care and professionalism elevate the experience. The crew’s hospitality ensures that dietary requests, such as vegan meals, are accommodated—“Her warmth, professionalism, and infectious energy turned the experience into a floating family celebration,” as one guest noted.

Convenient Transfers and Overall Value

The round-trip shuttle from Ninh Binh and back to Hanoi simplifies logistics, adding to the overall value. For $213 per person, you get luxury accommodation, multiple meals, activities, and transportation, making it a good deal for a comprehensive bay experience.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the cruise offers a lot, it’s worth noting that some travelers found the experience somewhat structured and brief. One reviewer mentioned that “the boat sails for about 1.5 hours in a straight line and then anchors,” which might feel less like a traditional cruise and more like a floating hotel with scheduled stops.

Plus, the water quality for swimming isn’t perfect, so if swimming is a top priority, you might want to plan accordingly. The short duration can also mean limited free time—most activities are scheduled, and the deck tends to empty early at night.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise suits travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with a splash of luxury in one of Vietnam’s most scenic areas. If you enjoy engaging activities like kayaking and cooking, and prefer a well-organized itinerary with high-quality amenities, this trip ticks those boxes.

It’s also ideal for those wanting to combine sightseeing with culinary delights and a relaxing environment. However, if you’re seeking an unstructured, extensive voyage or water-based activities like swimming in pristine waters, you might find this experience somewhat limited.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour includes shuttle buses from Ninh Binh to Ha Long Bay and from Ha Long Bay back to Hanoi, entrance fees, sightseeing, kayaking, and local bamboo boat rides. The cruise features luxury accommodation, meals (2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast), insurance, Wi-Fi, and fishing equipment.

Are there options for children?
Yes, children from 1 to 4 years are free if sharing a room, while those from 5 to 7 are charged 50%, and from 8 to 11 are charged 75%. Children over 12 are considered adults, and only one child under 4 can share a room for free with two adults.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Absolutely. The booking process allows you to reserve your spot without immediate payment, offering flexibility in planning.

What should I bring?
A passport is essential. It’s also wise to bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for daytime activities.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, each cabin is equipped with Wi-Fi, although connectivity in remote areas might be limited.

What if I want a single room?
A single supplement is about 80% of the cost for a second guest, so you would pay extra for solo occupancy.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day, 1-night cruise balances comfort, adventure, and authentic Vietnamese experiences. It offers a convenient way to see some of Vietnam’s most impressive bay landscapes without the hassle of planning each detail. The luxurious cabins, delicious cuisine, and well-organized itinerary make it a solid choice for travelers who want a taste of the bay’s beauty in style.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who value guided experiences, high-quality amenities, and a mix of relaxation and activity. Keep in mind the water pollution concerns for swimming, and manage your expectations regarding the cruise’s pace and scope. Still, for many, this trip delivers a memorable, picture-perfect escape that’s worth every penny.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to tick off a bucket list destination, this cruise promises an enjoyable, scenic, and comfortable journey through one of Vietnam’s most iconic regions.

You can check availability for your dates here: