Hanoi: Full-Day Halong Bay Cruise With Kayak, Caves & Lunch

Exploring the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay is a must-do activity for visitors to Hanoi. This full-day cruise offers a chance to witness the area’s stunning natural landscapes, from the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave to the tranquil waters of Luon Cave. With activities like kayaking and a sunset party, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. But what other surprises await those who embark on this journey?

Contents hide

1. Activity Overview

2. Scenic Drive to Tuan Chau Harbor

3. Exploring Sung Sot Cave

4. Kayaking at Luon Cave

5. Hiking and Swimming at Ti Top Island

6. Sunset Party and Refreshments

7. Return to Hanoi

8. Customer Feedback

9. The Sum Up

Key Points

Full-day cruise from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, with prices starting at $44.73 per person and durations ranging from 6 to 12 hours.
Scenic 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Harbor, offering pastoral landscapes and views of Ha Long Bay’s limestone cliffs.
Guided tour of the Sung Sot Cave, featuring stunning stalactite formations and unique geological features.
Kayaking through the serene Luon Cave, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and natural beauty.
Sunset party on the cruise with refreshing red wine and snacks, followed by a 2.5-hour return journey to Hanoi.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Halong Bay Cruise offers a full-day trip from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, priced from $44.73 per person and lasting 6 to 12 hours.

A full-day trip from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, priced from $44.73 per person and lasting 6 to 12 hours.

A live tour guide is available in English and Vietnamese. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Pickup and drop-off are provided from central Hanoi accommodations. The scenic drive to Tuan Chau Harbor takes 2.5 hours.

Activities include visiting Sung Sot Cave, exploring Ti Top Island, and kayaking at Luon Cave, culminating in a sunset party before returning to Hanoi by 9 PM.

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Scenic Drive to Tuan Chau Harbor

A scenic 2.5-hour drive transports guests from Hanoi to the Tuan Chau Harbor, the launching point for the Halong Bay Cruise.

Along the way, travelers witness the changing landscapes as they leave the bustling city behind. Pastoral scenes of rice paddies and rural villages give way to the dramatic limestone cliffs and emerald waters of Halong Bay.

The drive offers a peaceful prelude to the day’s adventures, allowing guests to relax and prepare for the stunning natural wonders that await them at the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Exploring Sung Sot Cave

After disembarking from the cruise, guests embark on a guided tour of the renowned Sung Sot Cave. Exploring this natural wonder, they encounter a labyrinth of stunning stalactite formations that adorn the cave’s cavernous interior. The cave is divided into two major chambers, each with its own distinct character.

| Chamber | Characteristics |

| — | — |

| First | Majestic, cathedral-like appearance |

| Second | Intricate rock formations resembling animals and people |

The tour guide skillfully navigates guests through the cave, highlighting the unique geological features and explaining their formation over millennia. Visitors emerge from the cave with a deeper appreciation for the remarkable natural beauty of Halong Bay.

Kayaking at Luon Cave

Next on the itinerary, guests paddle their way through the serene Luon Cave.

They glide effortlessly along the calm, emerald waters, gazing up at the towering limestone cliffs that line the cave’s entrance. The guide points out the unique rock formations and wildlife that thrive in this sheltered environment.

Paddling is a peaceful experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the cave.

After an hour of exploration, guests return to the main boat, energized by the intimate encounter with this hidden gem of Halong Bay.

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Hiking and Swimming at Ti Top Island

As the cruise makes its way to Ti Top Island, guests eagerly disembark to explore the island’s hiking trails and beaches.

The island offers stunning panoramic views from its summit, which can be reached after a 15-minute moderate hike. At the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the emerald waters and iconic limestone formations of Halong Bay.

After a 15-minute moderate hike, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Halong Bay’s emerald waters and iconic limestone formations.

After enjoying the viewpoint, guests can cool off with a refreshing swim at the island’s white sand beach. Ti Top Island provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation during the Halong Bay excursion.

Here are 3 highlights of the visit to Ti Top Island:

Scenic hike to the island’s viewpoint
Panoramic vistas of Halong Bay
Refreshing swim at the island’s beach

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Sunset Party and Refreshments

The sunset party aboard the cruise is a highlight for many guests. As the sun dips below the horizon, the crew sets up a festive gathering.

Guests are served refreshing red wine, along with a selection of cakes and fresh fruits. It’s a chance to relax, unwind, and soak in the stunning natural beauty surrounding Halong Bay.

The party creates a convivial atmosphere as travelers mingle, share stories, and revel in the tranquility of the moment. This memorable experience caps off an eventful day of exploring the bay’s iconic caves, islands, and turquoise waters.

Return to Hanoi

After the tranquil sunset party, guests board the cruise again for the return journey to Hanoi.

The drive back to the city takes approximately 2.5 hours. Along the way, guests can:

The drive back to the city takes approximately 2.5 hours. Along the way, guests can catch up on their camera roll, enjoy a final snack, and mentally prepare for the return to Hanoi.

Catch up on their camera roll, taking in the last breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay as the sun dips below the horizon.
Enjoy a final snack or beverage on the boat as they reflect on the day’s adventures.
Mentally prepare for the return to the bustling city, already planning their next visit to this natural wonder.

The cruise arrives back in Hanoi around 9 PM.

Customer Feedback

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Halong Bay cruise, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 based on 3 reviews. Positive comments highlighted the high quality of the food and the enjoyable kayaking experience. Reviewers recommended preparing to get wet during the kayaking activity.

| Criteria | Ratings |

| — | — |

| Overall Experience | 5/5 |

| Food Quality | 5/5 |

| Kayaking | 5/5 |

| Cave Exploration | 5/5 |

| Value for Money | 5/5 |

The cruise offers a full-day adventure with diverse activities and stunning scenery, leaving customers highly satisfied with their experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring for the Kayaking Activity?

For the kayaking activity, one should bring water-resistant clothing, quick-drying shoes, and a waterproof bag to store any valuables. It’s also recommended to wear sun protection and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the excursion.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, but parents should consider their child’s ability to comfortably engage in the activities like kayaking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour allows you to customize the itinerary to fit your interests. You can focus on specific activities or attractions that appeal to you, such as spending more time kayaking or hiking on Ti Top Island.

How Much Additional Cash Should I Bring for Extra Expenses?

According to the details provided, additional cash for extra expenses is not necessary, as the tour includes most activities and meals. However, guests may want to bring some extra money for purchasing drinks not included in the package.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Lunch?

The tour includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch on board, but there’s no mention of any special dietary requirements. Guests should check with the tour operator if they have any specific dietary needs.

The Sum Up

Participants on this full-day cruise to Ha Long Bay will be awestruck by the natural splendor of the region. From the stunning stalactite formations in Sung Sot Cave to the serene kayaking through Luon Cave, the excursion offers a diverse range of activities amidst the breathtaking landscape. The sunset party and return to Hanoi cap off an unforgettable day of exploration and adventure.