Halong bay deluxe cruise 2D/1N: Kayaking, swimming, surprise cave, Titop island

Introduction

Looking to experience the stunning natural beauty of Halong Bay without the hefty price tag? This deluxe 2D/1N cruise offers a fantastic blend of scenic cruising, active adventures, and cozy onboard comfort—all for just $140 per person. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve enjoyed this trip, highlighting what makes it special, as well as some considerations to keep in mind.

What we love most about this cruise is the friendly, professional staff who go out of their way to make your stay memorable, the chance to explore hidden caves and peaceful islands, and the opportunity to try kayaking and swimming at your own pace. The delicious Vietnamese cuisine served onboard is another highlight, alongside engaging activities like a cooking class and squid fishing in the evening.

A potential downside could be the group size—with a maximum of 25 travelers, it’s more intimate than larger tours, but still feels bustling enough to meet new friends. This cruise suits travelers looking for authentic experiences with a good mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights, all within a well-organized itinerary.

Key Points

• Affordable luxury with a focus on authentic Vietnamese experiences
• Active options like kayaking and swimming to get closer to nature
• Well-organized itinerary with expert-guided cave explorations and island visits
• Delicious local cuisine served onboard, with cooking classes and entertainment
• Small group size enhances personal interaction and comfort
• Inclusively priced, with most activities, meals, and entrance fees covered

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Booking and Arrival Process

Starting with convenience, the tour offers pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House via shuttle bus around 8:00-8:30 AM, making it straightforward for city-based travelers to join without fuss. The journey to Halong Bay includes stops for refreshment, helping you shake off the travel fatigue before arriving at the harbor around noon. The boat’s boutique, traditional style immediately sets a relaxed tone—this isn’t a giant cruise ship, but a cozy, boutique vessel that emphasizes personalized service.

Boarding and Welcome Aboard

Once at the harbor, you’ll transfer by tender to the cruise, where a welcome drink awaits. The crew will give a quick safety briefing and cruise overview, helping everyone feel at ease. Your cabin features a private bathroom and is designed to provide comfort during your stay. Expect a warm, friendly atmosphere, with staff eager to assist and share local knowledge.

Day 1: Scenic Cruising and Cave Exploration

Lunch is served shortly after departure—fresh seafood paired with Vietnamese favorites—giving you fuel for the adventures ahead. As the boat glides through the stunning karst formations, you’ll enjoy the picturesque landscape from the deck.

The highlight of the afternoon is visiting the Surprise Cave—known for its grandeur and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Reviewers mention this as a “big and amazing” cave, and it’s easy to see why. The guided tour offers insights into the cave’s natural formations, making it more than just a photo stop.

Next, the cruise takes you to Titop Island, famed not only for its sandy beaches but also for its panoramic views. You can swim in the calm waters or climb the steps to the top for a sweeping view of Halong Bay. One reviewer noted how the climb offers a “beautiful panorama”, making it a must-do activity, particularly at sunset.

Sunset, Cooking, and Nightlife

As the sun dips, the cruise hosts a sunset party, creating a calm, romantic atmosphere. Later, you can join an engaging cooking class making Vietnamese spring rolls—an authentic and delicious activity that adds a cultural touch. In the evening, there’s squid fishing, which many find surprisingly fun, and options to sing karaoke or dance at the bar. These social activities foster a lively, friendly vibe, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.

Day 2: Sunrise and Exploration

Waking up early, you’ll see a spectacular sunrise (weather permitting), a peaceful moment to soak in the tranquil beauty of the bay. Breakfast is served quietly, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of the morning.

The cruise then visits a Pearl Farm, where you can learn about how oysters are cultivated for pearls—an interesting glimpse into local industry and craftsmanship.

Kayaking and Departure

The highlight of the second day is kayaking—a chance to explore the bay at your own pace. Reviewers loved this part, citing it as a fantastic way to get close to the water and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective.

After a satisfying lunch, it’s time to check out and return to the harbor. The bus ride back to Hanoi typically finishes around 3:00 PM, making this a manageable day trip for most travelers.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out

Authentic and Boutique Atmosphere

Unlike larger, more commercial cruises, this boat emphasizes a personalized experience. The friendly staff, led by operations manager Hoang, received praise for their accommodating attitude and excellent service, which truly enhances the trip.

Active and Engaging Activities

From kayaking and swimming to cave explorations and cooking classes, the itinerary balances adventure and culture. The surprise cave is a definite highlight—its size and natural beauty make it a memorable stop.

Quality Cuisine on Board

The fresh seafood and Vietnamese dishes are more than just fuel—they’re part of the experience. Reviewers rave about the delicious food, often describing it as some of the best they had during their trip.

Ideal for Social Travelers

The evening activities, including squid fishing, karaoke, and bar dancing, foster a fun, social environment. Smaller group sizes mean you’ll often find yourself chatting with fellow travelers from around the world.

Value for Money

For $140, this cruise includes meals, entrance fees, kayaking, and activities, making it a very competitive option. The all-inclusive approach helps avoid surprise costs, although beverages outside of meals are not included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet active experience in Halong Bay, especially if you appreciate good value and a more intimate setting. It suits adventurers, food lovers, and culture seekers alike who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots while enjoying comfortable accommodations. It’s also a great choice for first-timers or solo travelers eager to meet new friends in a lively environment.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early if you want to secure your spot, especially during peak holidays like Christmas or Lunar New Year, when surcharges apply.
• Pack essentials like swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for hikes and kayaking.
• Bring cash for tips or personal expenses not included.
• If you’re sensitive to crowds, note the group is capped at 25 travelers, maintaining a friendly, manageable atmosphere.
• The pickup service is included, but if you prefer to join the tour directly at the harbor, check the options.

The Sum Up

This Halong Bay cruise offers a well-rounded experience—you get to see breathtaking landscapes, enjoy engaging activities, and taste authentic cuisine—all at a reasonable price. The friendly staff, small-group vibe, and delicious food make it stand out among budget options.

It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with culture and prefer a cozier, more personalized atmosphere. Whether you’re kayaking through tranquil waters, exploring caves, or relaxing on a sandy beach, this cruise delivers an authentic and memorable Halong Bay experience.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, the cruise offers shuttle bus pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Opera House, departing around 8:00-8:30 AM.

What activities are included?
Activities like kayaking, swimming (weather permitting), squid fishing, and visiting caves and islands are included. Cooking classes and entertainment are also part of the experience.

Are meals provided?
Yes, all onboard meals are included—two lunches, one dinner, and breakfast—featuring delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

Can I do kayaking on the second day?
Absolutely, kayaking is scheduled around 8:30 AM on Day 2, giving you the chance to explore the bay from a different perspective.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for up to 25 travelers, creating a friendly and intimate environment.

Are there any holiday surcharges?
Yes, there is a $30 surcharge per person on Christmas (December 24), New Year (December 31), and Lunar New Year holidays.

What is the accommodation like?
Your cabin has a private bathroom and basic amenities, offering comfort for the overnight stay on the boat.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 2 days and 1 night, with the return to Hanoi around 3 PM on the second day.

Is this suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the social activities and small group size make it a great option for solo travelers looking to meet others while exploring Halong Bay.

This cruise combines the essentials of a Halong Bay adventure with thoughtful touches that elevate the experience—perfect for those wanting to enjoy nature, culture, and good company without breaking the bank.