Lily Cruise 2-day explore Bai Tu Long from Hanoi

A Detailed Look at the Lily Cruise 2-Day Bai Tu Long Adventure from Hanoi

If you’re considering a trip to Vietnam and want to experience some of its most iconic natural sights, the Lily Cruise offering a 2-day exploration of Bai Tu Long Bay is worth a look. Promising a mix of stunning scenery, local culture, and relaxed leisure, this cruise departs from Hanoi and takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of Halong Bay, plus the quieter, less touristy Bai Tu Long Bay.

While it’s generally appreciated for its beautiful vistas and authentic activities, some travelers have found the vessel and service to be less impressive. Still, for those who love a well-organized group trip with a variety of activities, this cruise offers good value. Keep in mind, the overall experience may be more suitable for budget-conscious travelers rather than luxury seekers.

Three things we genuinely appreciate about this tour are the variety of activities, the inclusion of local cuisine, and the opportunity to see fishermen’s villages. However, one potential drawback is the mixed quality of the boat itself, which could impact comfort and overall vibe.

If you’re looking for an adventure that balances scenic beauty with cultural insights and doesn’t break the bank, this tour can be a good fit. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to explore Vietnam’s iconic waters in a group setting, with plenty of chances to try local foods and participate in traditional activities.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: The cruise offers breathtaking views of limestone karsts and calm bay waters, particularly during sunset and sunrise.
• Engaging Activities: From bamboo boat rides and kayaking to a cooking class and squid fishing, there’s no shortage of hands-on experiences.
• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Visiting Vung Vieng floating fishing village provides a glimpse into local fishing life.
• Inclusion of Food and Drinks: Enjoy Vietnamese cuisine during meals, with some reviewers praising the quality and variety.
• Group Experience: With a maximum of 48 travelers, it’s a lively group tour, allowing for social interactions.
• Variable Vessel Quality: One review highlights concerns about the ship’s age and cleanliness, which is something to consider.

Introduction: Setting Expectations for the Lily Cruise Bai Tu Long Tour

If you’re drawn to the idea of cruising through Vietnam’s famed limestone landscapes without the hassle of organizing every detail, the Lily Cruise 2-day tour promises just that. It’s pitched as an accessible, easy-to-book way to experience the natural wonder that is Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay, with multiple activities built in to keep the trip engaging.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it includes meals, transportation, and accommodation, so you can focus on the scenery and experiences. Second, it offers local activities like bamboo boat rides, kayaking, and a Vietnamese cooking class, giving you a taste of regional culture. Third, the itinerary’s flexible schedule allows ample time for sightseeing and relaxation, making it suitable even for those with limited travel experience.

However, an important consideration is the quality of the vessel itself. While some travelers praise the organization and food, others have expressed disappointment regarding the ship’s condition—describing it as “old,” “dirty,” and lacking in proper service. This suggests a possible variance in the experience depending on the specific boat used and the crew.

This cruise is best suited for budget-conscious travelers, group explorers, and those eager to see the bay’s highlights without a fuss. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking high-end luxury or a pristine vessel.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Starting the Adventure in Bai Tu Long Bay

The journey begins at Sun World International Terminal in Hanoi, where you’re greeted with a warm welcome drink. Expect a safety briefing before the boat sets sail into Bai Tu Long Bay around noon. The initial leg is a gentle cruise to set the scene, with impressive limestone formations looming on either side.

Your first stop is Vung Vieng Fishing Village—a highlight for many travelers. This sizable floating community is the perfect place to learn about local fishing life. One reviewer appreciated the opportunity to see how fishermen live and work in this unique environment. You may choose to paddle a bamboo boat or kayak—an activity praised for offering an intimate view of the floating village, with some noting it’s a relaxing way to connect with nature.

For lunch, expect a buffet-style meal served on board, with some guests describing the food as “excellent” and “well-prepared”. The cruise company includes all entrance fees, so you won’t need extra cash for sightseeing.

As the afternoon deepens, you’ll enjoy a sunset viewing over Bai Tu Long Bay—an undeniably beautiful moment. The cruise offers a “Happy Hour” which is a good opportunity to relax with drinks and socialize. Following this, a Vietnamese cooking class focusing on spring rolls is held on the deck—an engaging, tasty experience that many travelers find memorable.

Dinner is served back on the vessel, and once again, you can try your hand at squid fishing in the evening—an activity that adds a local flavor and a dash of adventure.

Day 2: Early Mornings and Cave Discovery

The next day begins with an early Tai Chi session at sunrise, an activity that sets a peaceful tone for the day. Afterward, the ship heads to Thien Canh Son Cave—a geological wonder located on a mountain crest. The cave’s natural beauty and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop, although some reviewers recommend bringing sports shoes for the trek and a camera to capture the long, winding cave interiors.

Following the cave visit, guests return to the boat for luggage collection and a relaxed brunch as the vessel makes its way back toward the harbor. The journey ends at Halong International Cruise Port around mid-morning, with transportation provided back to Hanoi.

The Value of the Experience

The price of $265 per person for this two-day adventure covers quite a lot. You get accommodation on a luxury-looking vessel, all meals, entrance fees, and a variety of activities—offering a decent value especially considering the inclusions. However, the quality of the boat can be a mixed bag, as one reviewer pointed out its age and cleanliness issues. If comfort and modern amenities are your priorities, you might find this less satisfying.

The group size of up to 48 travelers means you’ll meet a lively crowd, but it also means some may find the environment slightly crowded during meal times or activities. Still, the shared experience of navigating scenic waters and participating in local activities tends to foster camaraderie.

Food and Beverage

Meals are a highlight for many, with some reviewers calling the food “excellent” and praising the variety—especially the Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls. The cruise does include drinks and additional beverages costing around $20, so budget accordingly if you prefer a wider drink selection.

Activities and Cultural Insights

The fishing village visit, kayaking, cooking class, and squid fishing add layers of cultural and leisure experiences that make the trip more than just sightseeing. These are appreciated by travelers who want to engage actively with their surroundings rather than simply observe.

Logistics and Comfort

The timing of stops aligns well with the scenic highlights, but some travelers have noted the early wake-up calls for Tai Chi and cave visits. The air-conditioned en-suite cabins aim to provide comfort, but reviews suggest the vessel’s condition might fall short of expectations in terms of cleanliness and maintenance.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers seeking an affordable, well-organized way to see Bai Tu Long and Halong Bay without sacrificing too much convenience. It’s ideal for those who want a mix of sightseeing, culture, and active participation. It’s also perfect for social travelers comfortable with group tours and looking for a lively, fun atmosphere.

If your trip priorities include luxury, pristine vessel conditions, or high-end amenities, you might want to explore other options. However, if you value scenic views, local experiences, and a relaxed itinerary, this tour could be just right.

Conclusions: Is the Lily Cruise Worth It?

This tour offers a solid introduction to Vietnam’s most famous waters, packed with engaging activities and scenic vistas that will likely satisfy most budget travelers. The inclusion of local cuisine, fishing village visits, kayaking, and a cave exploration makes it a well-rounded experience.

That said, the vessel’s condition is a point to consider, especially if you’re accustomed to luxury travel. The group size and early mornings might also be a factor depending on your travel style. Overall, it’s an accessible, fun way to explore Bai Tu Long and Halong Bay, especially if you prioritize value and authentic experiences over high-end comforts.

This tour is best for adventurous, sociable travelers who want a taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty without a hefty price tag. Keep in mind the mixed reviews and plan accordingly—bring good walking shoes, be prepared for some variability in boat comfort, and enjoy the scenic journey.

FAQ

What is the price for this cruise?
The tour costs $265 per person, which includes meals, accommodation, entrance fees, and activities. Additional expenses may include drinks and tips.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your adventure directly from your Hanoi accommodation.

How long is the cruise?
It’s a 2-day, approximately 24-hour experience, with most activities and sightseeing spread throughout this period.

What activities are included?
Guests can participate in a cooking class, bamboo boat rides, kayaking, and squid fishing. You’ll also visit a floating fishing village and a cave.

Is the boat comfortable?
Reviews suggest the vessel is older and not as clean as some newer ships, so if vessel condition is a priority, this may be a consideration.

What are the meal options?
Meals include Vietnamese dishes, with some travelers praising the quality and variety, especially the spring rolls. Beverages are extra.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
The itinerary involves some walking and a trek to the cave, so it may not be suited for those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and trekking, sun protection, extra cash for drinks, and a camera for capturing the scenery.

The Lily Cruise offers a balanced, activity-rich journey through some of Vietnam’s most famed waters. While it may lack the luxury of higher-end options, it compensates with scenic beauty, cultural insights, and good value for money.