Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Day Tour – Apollo Cruise, Jacuzzi, Buffet

Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Day Tour – Apollo Cruise, Jacuzzi, Buffet offers an inviting escape into one of Vietnam’s most iconic sights. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from nine reviews, this tour combines comfort, stunning scenery, and engaging activities in a well-rounded package. For just $65 per person, it presents an accessible way to experience the beauty of Halong Bay without overextending your travel schedule.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the luxury of the Apollo Cruise, launched in July 2024 with a stylish interior, promises a comfortable and upscale experience on the water. Second, the variety of activities — from exploring caves and kayaking to relaxing on Titop Island’s beach — keeps the day lively and diverse. Lastly, the buffet lunch onboard ensures you’re well-fed amid all the sightseeing, offering local flavors in a scenic setting.

That said, one thing to consider is the three-hour transfer by coach from Hanoi, which might feel long if you’re not a fan of bus rides. However, the smooth transportation and scenic drive are often appreciated, especially compared to arranging separate transfers. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day of scenic exploration with a good mix of comfort and activity, making it suitable for those with a limited schedule but high expectations for quality.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Luxury Experience: The Apollo Cruise offers a 5-star level of comfort and style.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes key highlights like Sung Sot Cave, kayaking, and Titop Island.
• Value for Money: At $65, it combines transportation, activities, and a buffet lunch.
• Authentic Activities: Kayaking through Luon Cave and relaxing on beaches add memorable touches.
• Professional Guides: English-speaking guides enhance the experience with informative tours.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours are available, adding peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The day begins early, with pickup options from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Opera House, or Hoàn Kim. The journey to Halong Bay takes roughly three hours, mainly via the Hanoi-Haiphong-Tuan Chau Highway. Travelers often find this transfer comfortable, especially with limousine-style buses that include water bottles for refreshment. Reviews highlight that the pickup process is smooth, with guides reaching out beforehand to confirm details, making the start stress-free.

While the drive is long, the scenic views along the way are a bonus, with many noting that the highway offers glimpses of rural Vietnam, giving a sense of the journey ahead. The stop for a 30-minute break provides a chance to stretch and prepare for the afternoon’s activities.

Arrival at Tuan Chau Harbor and Boarding

Once at Tuan Chau Harbor, you’ll step aboard the Apollo Cruise, a sleek vessel with a modern, luxurious interior that’s brand new as of July 2024. The crew greets guests warmly and offers a welcome drink, setting a hospitable tone for the day. The boat’s decor combines comfort with style, echoing the five-star reputation that the cruise claims.

Sights and Activities on the Water

The cruise starts with a leisurely lunch, allowing you to soak in the panoramic views of limestone karsts and islands passing by. The buffet features local dishes, with reviews noting that the food is plentiful and flavorsome, although drinks at lunch are purchased separately. During the cruise, you’ll experience an up-close look at the towering Sung Sot Cave, the largest in Halong Bay.

Sung Sot Cave (Surprising Cave) is a highlight. Its vast chambers filled with stalagmites and stalactites create a dramatic display. Guides provide interesting commentary, and visitors enjoy walking around the well-maintained pathways. Many reviewers mention taking fantastic photos here and appreciating the cool respite from the sun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kayaking and Exploring Hidden Corners

Post-cave, the tour offers kayaking through Luon Cave, which is a notable highlight. Paddling through the tunnel cave into a tranquil lagoon allows for a more personal view of Halong Bay’s natural beauty. Several reviews underscore how peaceful and picturesque this activity is, offering a chance to escape the crowds and get a closer look at limestone formations.

Some guests opt for bamboo boats instead of kayaking, and both options seem well-organized. The guides are helpful, encouraging even novice paddlers to enjoy the experience. The reviews mention that the kayaking time (about 45 minutes) is just enough to explore without feeling rushed.

Relaxation on Titop Island

The next stop is Titop Island, famous for its sandy beach and panoramic viewpoints atop. Here, you can swim or trek up to the top for sweeping vistas of the bay — a must-do for many travelers. Reviewers note the island can get busy but that the views are worth the effort. The beach is generally clean, and the calm waters invite a refreshing swim.

Sunset and Return Journey

As the day winds down, the boat offers a sunset cruise with wine, tea, fruits, and biscuits. Watching the sunset over the limestone formations is a shared highlight among guests. The cruise back to harbor is smooth, and many appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, with some mentioning that the crew keeps the mood lively with music and mingling.

Evening Return to Hanoi

After disembarking, the bus ride back to Hanoi takes about three hours. The return journey is generally comfortable, with most reviews mentioning the punctuality and efficiency of transportation. Guests are usually dropped off at their original pickup points around 9 pm, making it a full but well-paced day.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Comfort and Style: The Apollo Cruise’s recent launch means it’s outfitted with modern interiors and amenities, elevating the usual day trip experience. The inclusion of limousine transportation and a luxury vessel makes this tour feel special without a hefty price tag.

Variety of Activities: From cave visits and kayaking to beach relaxation and a sunset cruise, the itinerary thoughtfully balances active and restful moments. This diversity ensures all guests find something memorable.

Authentic and Scenic: The stops at Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island showcase some of the best natural features of Halong Bay, giving travelers authentic access to its grandeur.

Value for Money: For $65, you’re not just paying for transportation—you’re getting a full day of sightseeing, comfort, and good food. This makes it a practical choice for those who want a quality experience without overspending.

Authentic Feedback: Review snippets reveal that many guests loved the views and the well-organized itinerary. Comments like “the kayaking through Luon Cave was peaceful and beautiful” and “the buffet was plentiful and delicious” highlight the thoughtful touches.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring essentials: Sunglasses, sun hat, camera, comfortable clothes, and flip-flops for beach time.
• Weather considerations: Vietnam’s weather can vary; packing a jacket or umbrella is wise, especially if rain is forecast.
• Timing: Check available start times as the 12-hour duration can be long, but most find the experience worth it.
• Booking: The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours, so it’s flexible if your plans change.
• Additional costs: Drinks at lunch are not included, so bring cash if you want to purchase beverages.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a luxurious, all-in-one day trip without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s perfect for those who appreciate comfort, scenic beauty, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. The relatively affordable price combined with high-quality amenities makes it a great choice for first-time visitors seeking the classic Halong Bay experience. It also appeals to those traveling with limited time but who still want to see key sights and enjoy authentic Vietnamese hospitality.

The Sum Up

In the end, the Hanoi: Ha Long Bay Day Tour with Apollo Cruise offers an engaging, scenic, and comfortable way to explore one of Vietnam’s most renowned natural wonders. The combination of a luxury cruise, diverse activities like cave visits, kayaking, and beach time, and a delicious buffet lunch ensures that guests leave with a full experience—both visually and culturally.

It’s an excellent option for those seeking a value-rich day with a touch of luxury, especially if you enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. The well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and stunning views make it a standout choice for a memorable day in Halong Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to be picked up?
Pickup times vary depending on the selected option, but most pickups are scheduled between 8:00 and 8:45 am. Confirm your exact time when booking.

How long does the coach ride take?
The journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay is approximately three hours, providing a scenic drive that many find pleasant.

Is the boat accessible for all travelers?
The tour states that it is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the provider beforehand to ensure all needs are met.

What should I bring on the tour?
Essential items include sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, change of clothes, flip-flops, beachwear, and possibly a jacket or raincoat depending on weather.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks at lunch are not included but can be purchased onboard. Bottled water is provided during the transfer.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour date, providing flexibility.

How long is the tour overall?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, including pickup, transfer, activities, and return.

Is this suitable for children or groups?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally suitable for families, especially with children comfortable with boat rides and walking.

This tour strikes a nice balance between comfort and adventure, making it a strong choice for those looking to experience Halong Bay in style without losing authenticity or fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: