Planning a trip to Vietnam and considering a cruise through the iconic Halong Bay? This 2-day, 1-night all-inclusive tour promises an adventure filled with stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and comfortable accommodations. With a perfect 5.0 rating based on nearly 700 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this trip to be a highlight of their Vietnam visit.
Our review covers everything you need to know—from how the itinerary unfolds to what makes this tour special, and even some honest insights from previous travelers. If you’re seeking a trip that balances natural beauty, local flavor, and thoughtful service, this tour could be a fantastic choice. Just keep in mind that, like any busy tour, it demands full days and a fair bit of sightseeing enthusiasm.
What we love about this experience:
- The detailed, well-structured itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxation
- The inclusion of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including a fun spring roll cooking class
- The chance to explore iconic caves and islands with knowledgeable guides
- The value for money, given the all-inclusive pricing and comprehensive activities
A potential consideration is that the tour can be quite full and paced for those who prefer more leisurely travels. It’s designed for travelers eager to maximize their time and see the highlights of Halong Bay in a short period. If you’re after a more laid-back, unstructured experience, this might feel a bit hectic.
This trip suits first-time visitors to Halong Bay, adventurous travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing and local culture, as well as those who appreciate good value for a well-organized tour.
Key Points

- All-Inclusive Convenience: Meals, accommodations, and transportation are covered, reducing stress.
- Iconic Sightseeing: Highlights include Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave.
- Authentic Experiences: Includes a Vietnamese spring roll cooking class and opportunities to swim.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Share cabins are available in twin or triple setups.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers praise Mickey and other guides for their friendliness and insights.
- Flexible, Well-Arranged Schedule: The itinerary balances busy sightseeing with relaxing moments.
The Itinerary in Detail

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Day 1: The Highlights of Halong Bay
Your adventure begins with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, typically around 8:10-8:30 am. The journey to Tuan Chau Harbor is about 4 hours, but it’s made more pleasant by the bus comfort and scenic views along the way. Most travelers note that the pickup is punctual, and the included half-way break offers a nice chance to stretch and refresh before the boat.
Once you arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor, you’re welcomed aboard with a drink and a brief safety overview. The check-in process is straightforward, and your cabin—shared based on twin or triple beds—is ready for you.
Lunch is served around 1 pm as you glide through the stunning waters of Halong Bay. The Vietnamese dishes are described as traditional, and the setting—cruising past towering limestone formations—is breathtaking. Expect to see unusual rock shapes and islands that seem to rise directly from the water, perfect for photo ops.
Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave)
At 2:30 pm, the tour takes you to Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most famous in the bay. The cave’s interior, filled with stalactites and stalagmites, is often described as impressive and a must-see. Reviewers mention it’s well worth the visit, with one noting, “The cave was fascinating; the guide Mickey explained its formations with enthusiasm.” The admission is included, so all you need is your camera and curiosity.
Titop Island: Views and Swimming
By 3:30 pm, you’re headed to Titop Island—renowned for its panoramic viewpoint. Climbing to the top is a highlight, offering sweeping vistas of Halong Bay’s thousands of limestone islands. Many guests find this climb rewarding, and some mention it’s a bit of a workout, but worth it for the views.
Afterward, you can enjoy swimming or relaxing on the beach. The island’s calm waters and sandy shoreline are inviting, especially after a day of sightseeing. Mentioned in reviews, the island is “noted for having a viewpoint at its peak,” and the opportunity to cool off makes this a memorable stop.
Sunset, Relaxation, and a Cooking Class
Back on the boat, the early evening is perfect for unwinding. Guests enjoy watching the sunset from the sundeck in loungers, sipping cocktails, or simply reading a book. Around 6 pm, the evening kicks off with a Sunset Party and a spring roll cooking class led by the crew. Many reviews praise the guides, like Mickey, for their friendliness and tips on making fresh spring rolls, adding a fun, interactive element.
Dinner is served around 7 pm, with a romantic setting in the restaurant. The menu features Vietnamese specialties, with some reviews calling the food “delicious” and well-prepared. After dinner, many guests opt to fish, sing karaoke, or just relax under the stars.
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Overnight on the Boat
The shared cabins are described as comfortable, with clean linens and basic amenities. Some reviewers note that the experience is quite social, with fellow travelers sharing the space, which adds to the camaraderie.
Day 2: Early Morning Views and Luon Cave

Rising early (around 6 am), you’re greeted with fresh air and peaceful views—an ideal moment for photos or a quiet reflection. Breakfast follows at 7:30 am, fueling you for the day ahead.
Luon Cave Exploration
At 8:30 am, the cruise heads toward Luon Cave, located on Bo Hon Island. The cave’s shape resembles an arch, with a short length of about 60 meters, but it’s the boat ride through that captures attention. Because of the limited height, the best way to visit is via small boat or kayak, which the tour provides. Reviewers love this quiet, scenic spot, and one mentions, “The small boat ride to Luon Cave was peaceful and unique—definitely a highlight.”
Return and Farewell
By 11 am, it’s time to check out and cruise back toward Tuan Chau Harbor. Lunch is served aboard during the return journey, allowing you to reflect on the trip while soaking in the views. Arrival back at the harbor is around noon, marking the end of the experience.
Practical Considerations and Value
Transportation and Group Size
The tour provides air-conditioned coach transfers between Hanoi and Tuan Chau Harbor, ensuring comfort for the roughly four-hour journey each way. Group sizes are capped at 25 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, manageable atmosphere. Some reviews mention that the bus pickup can be late or full, so punctuality is advisable.
Cost and Included Amenities
Pricing at around $114.54 per person offers good value, considering the meals, accommodations, entrance fees, and activities included. The share cabins are a cost-saving feature, but those wanting privacy can opt for a single supplement at an additional cost of 800,000 VND.
Food and Activities
Guests frequently praise the delicious onboard meals, especially the spring roll class, which adds a personal touch. The activities—visiting caves, hiking Titop Island, kayaking, and relaxing on deck—are well balanced. Reviewers also mention that the guides, like Mickey, are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.
Potential Drawbacks
Some reviews relay minor issues, such as late pickups or room mix-ups, but these do not seem to detract significantly from the overall experience. The schedule can be busy, so travelers seeking a relaxed pace might find it a little rushed. Also, weather-dependent activities like kayaking or cave visits might be affected by rain.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, book-included experience of Halong Bay’s highlights. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, cultural activities, and socializing in a well-organized setting. Travelers who value authentic local flavors and guided insights will appreciate the cooking class and knowledgeable guides.
If you prefer a more flexible, leisure-focused trip, or are traveling solo seeking privacy, you might find this tour a bit full-on. However, for those eager to see the key sights, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers, and get your fill of Vietnamese food, it’s a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned bus pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with most travelers finding it punctual and convenient.
What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 days and 1 night, including travel time to and from Halong Bay.
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch (two meals), and dinner are covered. The onboard meals feature Vietnamese dishes, with a special spring roll cooking class.
What type of accommodation is provided?
Shared cabins are available, based on twin or triple beds. They are generally described as comfortable and clean.
How many people usually join?
The tour caps at 25 travelers, fostering a friendly and manageable group size.
Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, fees for Sung Sot Cave are included. However, Luon Cave is visited by small boat or kayak, which are part of the tour.
Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers of all ages participate, but expect some walking, climbing, and boat rides—young children or those with mobility issues should consider this.
What’s the best time to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, good weather is essential for the best experience, and most travelers find the dry season ideal.
To sum it up, this Halong Bay 2D1N cruise offers a rewarding combination of scenic beauty, culture, and comfort. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a structured, all-inclusive experience that covers the major sights and includes local flavors. Although the schedule is busy, the guides’ expertise and the authenticity of the activities make it a worthwhile adventure for most. If you’re after a memorable, hassle-free way to see one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes, this tour fits the bill perfectly.
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