Taking a trip to Halong Bay is almost a rite of passage for travelers visiting Vietnam, and doing it in style with Capella Cruises’ 6-star luxury experience certainly makes it memorable. While I haven’t personally boarded this cruise, a thorough look at the reviews, itinerary, and features paints a picture of a well-rounded, premium escape into some of Vietnam’s most iconic seascapes.

What really stands out about this tour are the stunning vistas of Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, the variety of activities packed into just 48 hours, and the gourmet Vietnamese cuisine served onboard. Plus, the attention to detail from staff, the beautiful, spacious cabins, and the range of options for relaxation—like massages and happy hour—make it clear this experience is designed for comfort and enjoyment.

One potential drawback to consider is the price point—at $500 per person, it’s a luxury purchase, but based on reviews, many feel the quality justifies the cost. This tour is ideal for those seeking a comfortable, seamless experience with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and indulge in scenic beauty. If you’re after a more budget-friendly or adventure-focused trip, there might be better options. But if luxury, good food, and well-curated activities are your priority, this cruise hits the mark.

Luxury Experience: Capella Cruises offers a 6-star level of service, comfort, and cuisine.
Diverse Activities: Kayaking, cave visits, squid-fishing, and Tai-chi ensure you’re actively engaged.
Beautiful Scenery: Expect breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, limestone formations, and floating villages.
Gourmet Cuisine: Excellent Vietnamese food and seafood served onboard, with special mention of delicious meals.
Well-Reviewed Guides: Friendly, attentive staff, including knowledgeable guides, make a difference.
All-Inclusive Feel: Most activities and meals are included, with optional extras like massages.

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Day 1: From Lan Ha Bay to Frog Lagoon

Your adventure begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is convenient and ensures a hassle-free start. Once aboard the Capella Cruise, you’ll head towards Lan Ha Bay and Frog Lagoon—a highlight for many travelers. Here, the atmosphere is relaxed; you’ll find floating pools, waterslides, and even a jacuzzi, making it perfect for unwinding after the journey from Hanoi.

The reviews highlight how the onboard activities like kayaking and paddleboarding are a major plus, allowing you to explore the limestone karsts and grottoes at your own pace. A cooking demonstration gives a taste of Vietnamese culinary skills, and the happy hour adds a fun social element.

Travelers consistently mention how friendly and attentive the staff are—reviewers like “Ly, Tom, and Gin” get special shoutouts for their warm service. The spacious cabins with balconies are a bonus, with some guests praising the ability to shower while admiring the sunset views.

Day 2: Halong Bay’s Highlights

Early risers can join a Tai-chi class on the sun deck at dawn—an activity that many reviewers found peaceful and energizing. After a light breakfast, the cruise visits the Dark & Bright Cave, a favorite for its traditional bamboo boat rides and serene lagoons. As one reviewer notes, the cruise through the caves is scenic and calming, providing fantastic photo opportunities.

The cruise then continues toward Tuan Chau Island where you can explore the local floating village or relax on the beach. The cruise’s timing ensures you’re back at the harbor by mid-morning, giving you ample time to explore or enjoy Hanoi afterward.

Love the evening vibe? Here are more after-sunset activities we've covered in Hanoi

Food and Drinks

Throughout the cruise, meals are consistently praised as delicious. Reviewers mention delightful breakfast, brunch, and dinner spreads, emphasizing Vietnamese flavors and seafood options. The inclusion of meat and seafood dishes means there’s something for all, and many guests appreciate the quality and presentation.

However, drinks are not included in the package, so you’ll want to budget for additional beverages if you plan to toast or enjoy cocktails during happy hour or meals.

Guided Tours and Activities

From cave exploration to kayaking and squid-fishing, the activities are well curated for both adventure lovers and those wanting a more laid-back experience. The kayaking and SUP options are highlighted as particularly enjoyable, with a reviewer saying, “the boat ride out to the caves was wonderful.”

The availability of massage services onboard adds a touch of indulgence, perfect after a day of exploring.

Practical Aspects: Transport, Group Size, and Pricing

The tour’s pickup from Hanoi is included, which is a major convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with local transportation. The group size caps at 30 travelers, maintaining an intimate, friendly atmosphere. The approximate price of $500 per person may seem steep—considering the luxury level, all meals, activities, and transfers included, it’s a good value for a premium experience.

The duration of just 2 days and 1 night means you get a taste of Halong Bay without the commitment of a longer cruise, making it perfect for a weekend trip. Keep in mind, the non-refundable policy might be a drawback if your plans are uncertain.

Authenticity and Guest Experience

Multiple reviewers praised the staff’s friendliness and helpfulness, citing specific guides like Ly, Tom, and Gin, who went above and beyond. Guests loved the stunning views at sunrise and sunset, often describing them as magical moments. The cleanliness and comfort of the cabins also received consistent praise, adding to the luxurious feel.

Many travelers mention how well-organized everything was, from check-in to disembarkation, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and you can personalize your experience more easily.

This 2-day cruise with Capella Cruises is best suited for travelers seeking a luxurious, hassle-free way to see Halong Bay. If you enjoy comfort, gourmet food, and well-organized activities, this experience will meet your expectations. It’s ideal for honeymooners, couples, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who wants to indulge in scenic beauty with a touch of elegance.

For those who want a more adventurous or budget-oriented trip, this might feel a bit indulgent. The positive reviews confirm that the level of service, scenery, and food justify the cost for many.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Hanoi

Who Should Consider This Tour

Travelers looking for a luxury experience with high-end amenities
Visitors wanting a seamless, well-organized trip with guide support
Those interested in a combination of scenic beauty, cultural activities, and relaxation
Couples or honeymooners seeking a romantic getaway with stunning views

Is transportation from Hanoi included? Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter are included in the package.

How long is the cruise each day? The first day’s activities, including stops, last around 8 hours, and the second day also totals about 8 hours with cave visits and cruising.

Are meals included? Yes, all meals for two days are included, with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a brunch, but drinks are extra.

Can I participate in all activities? Most activities like kayaking, cave visits, and Tai-chi are included, but optional extras like massages may cost extra.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothes, swimwear for swimming or kayaking, sun protection, and a camera for the stunning views.

Is this tour suitable for children? The reviews suggest most travelers can participate, so it’s probably fine for older children, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What’s the accommodation like? The cabins are spacious, with large beds and balconies, often praised for cleanliness and comfort.

How do I book this tour? You can reserve through the provider’s official site or authorized agents like Viator, with instant confirmation.

What if I need to cancel? The booking is non-refundable, so cancellations will not be eligible for a refund.

Choosing a cruise like this offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and scenic beauty that’s tough to beat in a short trip. The friendly guides, delicious food, and stunning vistas make it stand out as a top-tier experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a relaxing escape into nature, this tour promises to deliver.

While it may come at a premium, the carefully curated activities and high service level mean many travelers feel it’s worth every penny. If you’re after a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and memorable moments, this cruise will likely tick all your boxes and then some.