Halong Luxury Cruise 2D/1N: Kayaking, Swimming, Titop island, meals, best prices

A Detailed Look at the Halong Luxury Cruise 2D/1N Experience

Planning a trip to Vietnam and dreaming of exploring Ha Long Bay in style? This luxury cruise offers a relaxing yet active way to enjoy the bay’s breathtaking scenery without sacrificing comfort. From spacious cabins to engaging activities like kayaking and a cooking class, this tour aims to balance adventure with indulgence.

What we love about this experience is its attention to comfort, the variety of included activities that appeal to different interests, and the affordable price point given the luxury accommodations and comprehensive itinerary. On the flip side, some travelers might find the overcrowding in peak seasons or the additional surcharges during holidays worth considering.

This cruise is especially suitable for families, couples, and luxury travelers who want a well-rounded experience with plenty of space and good service. If you’re after a relaxed yet exciting way to see Ha Long Bay’s highlights, this tour delivers in spades.

Key Points

• Comfort & Luxury: Spacious private cabins with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, and hot showers.
• Activities Included: Kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, cooking class, and Titop Island visit.
• Flexible Transfers: Optional pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter or direct transfer to the harbor.
• Value for Money: Competitive pricing for a 2-day all-inclusive cruise with meals and activities.
• Environmental Awareness: Some notes on bay cleanliness; the tour encourages responsible tourism.
• Family-Friendly: Triple cabins available for families seeking a comfortable group experience.

An In-Depth Review of the Ha Long Luxury Cruise 2D/1N

Pre-Trip Planning and Booking

Booking this cruise is straightforward through Viator’s platform, with the added convenience of optional pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The price is around $180 per person, which covers most essentials—meals, activities, accommodation, and entrance fees. The tour is run by Easy Tours, a reputable provider known for delivering professional service.

A significant benefit is the flexibility in transfer options. If you choose the hotel pickup service, you’ll be collected early in the morning, around 8:00 to 8:30 am, depending on your location. For those staying outside Hanoi Old Quarter, a meeting point at Hanoi Opera House on Trang Tien Street is available. The shuttle is comfortable, and travelers have praised the professionalism and punctuality of the transport.

First Impressions and Onboard Experience

Once you arrive at Tuan Chau Marina or the harbor, you’ll check in on the spacious, well-appointed boat. Reviews highlight the generous cabin size, with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and hot showers—much appreciated after a day exploring or enjoying the sun. The crew is described as attentive and professional, making guests feel welcomed from the moment they step aboard.

The tour begins with a welcome drink and fresh towels, setting the tone for a relaxed journey. The boat’s common areas include sun decks perfect for unwinding, plus indoor spaces for meals and socializing.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: Cruising & Adventure

The day kicks off with an early morning pickup, followed by a smooth transfer to the boat. After check-in, the cruise immediately sets sail, offering stunning views of Ha Long Bay’s iconic limestone karsts.

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to kayak in the bay—a favorite for reviewers, who say it’s “very exciting” and a “great part of the trip.” Kayaking allows you to get closer to the towering rock formations and hidden corners, which are often inaccessible from larger boats.

Swimming is also included, with safe spots designated for guests to cool off. You might find the bay’s waters a little busy during peak season, but the experience of floating in such a scenic setting remains unbeatable.

A visit to Titop Island is high on the list. Here, you can swim, relax on the beach, or climb to the top for panoramic views over Ha Long Bay. Reviewers mention that climbing Titop Mountain offers a “perfect panorama,” and the beach is ideal for unwinding after the climb.

The day ends with a seafood dinner onboard, often highlighted as fresh, well-prepared, and plentiful. The menu combines local specialties with international dishes, making sure there’s something for all.

Day 2: Grotto & Return

The morning begins with a delicious breakfast followed by a visit to one of the bay’s most famous sights: a stunning grotto. The specific grotto visited isn’t named in the itinerary, but guests typically enjoy exploring the natural formations and taking photos.

Later, you’ll check out around 9:30 am, but can stay onboard while the cruise continues to sail back toward the harbor. During the return trip, guests often comment on the beautiful scenery and the peaceful atmosphere before disembarking for lunch.

The lunch on the boat is praised for being delicious and satisfying, rounding off the trip on a high note before transfers back to Hanoi. The total cruise duration is approximately 18 hours in total, including transfer and activity time.

Included & Optional Extras

The tour covers all entrance fees, kayaking, cooking classes, Tai Chi exercises, and professional guides. The meals—two lunches and two dinners—are generally high quality, with reviewers noting exceptional food service. Bottled water is provided inside the rooms, and the guide is said to be knowledgeable and engaging.

Upgrades are available, such as round-trip transfers from Hanoi hotels, which many find convenient. Surcharges apply during Christmas, New Year, and Lunar New Year, so be prepared for extra costs if traveling during those periods.

What Travelers Love & Appreciate

Reviewers often point to the professionalism of the crew and the comfortable, spacious cabins. The kayaking and Titop Island visits are frequent favorites, with many describing the activities as “exciting” and “enjoyable.” The culinary experience is also a recurring praise point, with guests mentioning delicious seafood and well-prepared local dishes.

Some note that the tour runs smoothly, with timely pickups and well-organized schedules. The option for luxury, including hot showers and modern amenities, makes this trip stand out among more basic options.

Considerations & Tips

While the tour offers excellent value, it’s worth mentioning that Ha Long Bay can get crowded, especially during weekends or peak summer months. Some reviews mention the occasional presence of garbage in the bay, reflecting ongoing environmental challenges. The tour encourages guests to be responsible travelers—please bring sun protection, comfortable shoes, swimwear, and small cash for tips or souvenirs.

If you are sensitive to surcharges, note the additional fees during major holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Lunar New Year. Planning ahead can help you avoid surprises.

Safety & Environmental Responsibility

The tour emphasizes insurance onboard and most travelers can participate, but always check if you have any health conditions that might limit activities like kayaking or swimming. The crew is attentive to safety, but guests are encouraged to follow instructions during activities.

Tour operators are aware of environmental issues, and efforts are made to keep the bay clean. Travelers can contribute by not leaving trash and respecting local culture and rules.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re after a luxury experience that combines comfort with adventure, this cruise hits the mark. It’s ideal for families seeking space and safety, couples wanting a romantic yet active getaway, and luxury travelers eager to indulge while exploring one of Vietnam’s most iconic spots.

The inclusion of kayaking, swimming, and Titop Island visits makes it suitable for those who want a taste of adventure without the hassle of managing logistics themselves. The all-inclusive meals and professional guides ensure a smooth, enjoyable journey.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Ha Long Bay cruise offers a well-rounded, high-quality experience at a competitive price point. With comfortable cabins, engaging activities, and excellent food, it provides great value for travelers craving both relaxation and adventure. The positive reviews underscore its reliability, with many guests calling it the best cruise experience in Vietnam.

While it’s not without the occasional holiday surcharge or the reality of bay overcrowding in peak seasons, the overall package balances luxury, fun, and culture beautifully. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Hong Long Bay’s natural beauty in style, this cruise ticks most boxes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private cabins with private bathrooms, all entrance fees, kayaking, activities, meals (2 lunches and 2 dinners), welcome drinks, fresh towels, water in rooms, and guide services.

Can I be picked up from my Hanoi hotel?
Yes, pickup from hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter is available, typically around 8:00 am. If you’re outside the Old Quarter, you can meet at Hanoi Opera House.

Are transfers included?
Transfers are included if you choose the shuttle bus option, which is available for an 8:00 am pickup. Upgrading for round-trip transfers from Hanoi hotels is possible.

What activities are part of the tour?
Kayaking, swimming, visiting Titop Island, enjoying Tai Chi, and participating in a cooking class are all included.

What is the best part of the tour based on reviews?
Guests often highlight kayaking, the stunning views from Titop Island, and the quality of food and service as the standout features.

How many people are in each group?
The tour typically accommodates up to 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sun protection (umbrella, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), swimwear, towels, comfortable shoes, small cash, and possibly raincoats or jackets depending on the weather.

Is the cruise suitable for families?
Yes, with triple cabins available and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great choice for families.

Are there holiday surcharges?
Yes, there are additional charges of $50 USD per person during Christmas and New Year, and $30 USD during Lunar New Year holidays.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

The Halong Luxury Cruise 2D/1N offers a wonderful mix of comfort, adventure, and authentic experiences—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Ha Long Bay’s beauty without sacrificing ease or style.