Hanoi: 2-Day Renea Cruises Discover the Beauty of Bai Tu Long

Planning a trip to Vietnam and looking to add a touch of adventure and serenity to your itinerary? This 2-day Renea Cruises experience promises a peaceful escape into some of the country’s most captivating waters. From Hanoi, you’ll venture into Bai Tu Long Bay, often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay, but equally breathtaking and less crowded.

What makes this tour stand out are three key things: its focus on untouched scenery, the chance to try kayaking through secluded corners, and the delicious onboard cuisine that highlights local flavors. However, one thing to consider is the timing of the pickups and return — especially if you’re staying outside the Old Quarter — which might require some planning.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love nature, enjoy gentle adventure activities like kayaking, and want a more intimate, less touristy vibe during their cruise. It’s a great fit for those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, cultural insights, and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Less crowded than Ha Long Bay, offering a more peaceful environment.
• Activities: Kayaking, cave exploring, cooking demonstrations, sunset parties, and squid fishing.
• Comfort: Fully furnished ocean-view cabins with private bathrooms.
• Culinary Delight: Vietnamese set menus and Western-style breakfasts.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup, shuttle transfers, and group discounts make planning easier.
• Group Size: Limited to a maximum of 30 travelers for a more personal experience.

The Journey Begins: From Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay

Starting early, around 8:00 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The 3-hour transfer via expressway is straightforward, with a short break along the way. It’s worth noting that this travel time is fairly standard for tours heading into the bay, but it means you’ll want to be prepared for an early start if you’re not a morning person.

Once you arrive at Ha Long International Cruise Port, you’ll relax in the waiting lounge while the crew handles registration. The welcome drink and safety briefing set a friendly tone, and you’ll quickly feel part of a well-organized operation. Boarding the boat by tender, you’ll check into a fully furnished cabin with ocean views — a highlight for those who appreciate comfort after a day of travel.

Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay: Scenic cruising and activities

Your first cruising experience is a highlight, with a leisurely Vietnamese set menu served as you glide into Bai Tu Long Bay. This means you’ll get to enjoy the stunning scenery from the deck while sampling local cuisine, a perfect way to start the adventure.

The first stop is Cap La Island, where kayaking is on the menu. Expect to paddle through calm waters, with the opportunity to explore the limestone karsts and quiet coves. The reviews mention how peaceful and pristine this area feels, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Some guests noted the kayaking area is especially suited for beginners or those wanting a relaxed paddle.

Later in the afternoon, the cruise sails to the overnight anchorage. The sunset party is a nice touch — a relaxed gathering on deck with drinks and music, offering a chance to unwind and enjoy the changing colors of the sky. Dinner on board features a sumptuous set menu, with some reviews noting how the food exceeded expectations in both quality and flavor.

In the evening, there’s plenty of entertainment options, from Vietnamese puzzle games to squid fishing, which adds a playful element to the tranquil night on the water.

The Second Day: From Cave to Cuisine

Early risers can start the day with Tai Chi on the sundeck or simply enjoy the dawn over the bay with a cup of tea or coffee. The next surprise? A Vietnamese cooking demonstration, which many reviewers appreciated for its authenticity. Guests learn how to make simple yet delicious dishes like Nem Cuon, guided by the crew or even by a chef inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s techniques.

Breakfast is served Western-style, giving you a hearty start before heading to explore Thien Canh Son Cave. This hidden gem is praised for its natural beauty, stalactites, and the “paradise” scenery that surrounds it. The cave is described as pristine and less commercialized, which adds to its charm and appeal.

Back on the boat, a traditional Vietnamese lunch wraps up the exploration. The tour ends with disembarkation at Ha Long Cruise Port around 3:00 PM, giving you the rest of the day to reflect on your experience or continue exploring Hanoi.

Practicalities and Value

For $171 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and cultural engagement. The price includes all meals, kayaking equipment, cooking demos, and entrance fees — making it good value considering the fully guided experience and the exclusive access to Bai Tu Long Bay’s less visited spots.

The cabins are well-furnished with ocean views and private bathrooms, a notable feature that enhances comfort after long travel days. The group size, capped at 30, ensures a more intimate and less crowded environment.

One review mentioned the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew as standout features, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. The tour’s activities are tailored to suit most travelers — from relaxed cruising and scenic kayaking to cultural exploration — making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Considerations and Tips for Travelers

While the experience is largely positive, you might want to be aware of the early start times and the three-hour transfer back to Hanoi, which could be tiring after a busy day. Also, if you’re staying outside the Old Quarter, confirm the pickup details beforehand, as the tour departs from specific locations.

The optional dietary accommodations like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals are available if requested when booking, which is a plus for travelers with restrictions.

Weather is a factor — the tour is weather-dependent, so cancellations are possible if conditions are poor. The company offers rescheduling or refunds in such cases, providing peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In all, this cruise offers an authentic, comfortable, and scenic way to experience Bai Tu Long Bay without the crowds of its more famous neighbor. The combination of peaceful scenery, engaging activities like kayaking, and the opportunity to learn about Vietnamese cuisine makes it a well-rounded trip.

It’s best suited for travelers who value a quieter, more personal experience and want to enjoy nature in a relaxed setting. If you’re after luxury, a more intense adventure, or a busy party vibe, this might not be the right fit.

However, if you seek a genuine connection with stunning landscapes, delicious food, and a touch of cultural activity, this cruise delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers two days of cruising, all meals (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner), kayaking equipment, cooking demonstrations, entrance and sightseeing fees, and group transfers between Hanoi and Bai Tu Long Bay.

Do I need to bring my own water?
No, each person receives one bottle of water on board. However, bringing additional water or beverages is at your own expense.

Is the cabin comfortable?
Yes, cabins are fully furnished with ocean views and private bathrooms, ensuring a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.

What activities are available?
Kayaking, cave exploring (specifically Thien Canh Son Cave), cooking demos, sunset parties, squid fishing, and relaxing on deck are included.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs if you specify when booking.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 30, providing a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While not specifically stated, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially kayaking and exploring caves, but it’s best to check with the operator if you have very young children.

How do I get back to Hanoi?
A shuttle bus transfers you back to Hanoi Old Quarter, with arrival expected between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM, depending on traffic.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening. Don’t forget your personal essentials and any medication.

This 2-day Bai Tu Long Bay cruise combines scenic beauty, cultural activities, and comfort, making it a fantastic option for those eager to explore Vietnam’s waters with fewer crowds. It promises a peaceful, authentic experience wrapped in stunning natural surroundings — just what you need to recharge and connect with nature during your Vietnam adventure.