Which Ha Long Bay Tours & Experiences To Choose? We Rank The 5 Best

The 5 Best Tours & Experiences in Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay isn’t just a postcard-perfect scene; it’s a place that comes alive through the countless tours and experiences on offer. With jagged limestone karsts, floating villages, and hidden caves, there’s no shortage of ways to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ve sampled the options to bring you a list of the top 15 tours, each with its own vibe—from luxurious cruises to lively party boats, all offering a different perspective on this natural wonder.

One of our favorites? The All inclusive Bhaya 2-Day Halong Bay Tour. It balances comfort, fun activities, and stunning scenery, making it perfect for first-time visitors. But if you prefer a more active or boutique experience, there are options like kayaking, cooking classes, or even a 5-star luxury cruise. Whatever your style, Ha Long Bay has a tour for you.

1. All inclusive Bhaya 2-Day Halong Bay Tour

This 2-day cruise offers a full taste of Ha Long Bay with everything included—meals, activities, and overnight accommodations. The cruise departs from either Hanoi or Ha Long Bay, giving flexibility for your travel plans. You’ll explore iconic spots like Trinh Nu Cave, with its stunning stalactites, and Sung Sot Cave, the largest in the bay. The itinerary includes an authentic Vietnamese cooking class, squid fishing, and optional outdoor activities.

What makes this cruise stand out is its variety of onboard and outdoor options that keep you busy without feeling rushed. The reviews praise the friendly staff and quality amenities, with an average rating of 5.0/5. It’s ideal for travelers who want a seamless, all-in-one experience with excellent value for $144 per person.

Bottom Line: This is a well-organized, comfortable tour that covers the main highlights and offers plenty of activities—great for first-timers or those who want a hassle-free experience.

2. 2D1N: Halong Bay 4-Star Cruise – Cave, Kayak, Swim, Meals

For around $133.37, this 4-star cruise balances comfort and fun. It’s perfect if you want to spend the night on the water with lively social atmosphere—think games, squid fishing, and even onboard parties. Meals are included, along with Vietnamese cooking lessons. The air-conditioned cabins and the option to kayak or swim make this cruise versatile and welcoming, especially during the summer months.

Guests appreciate the informal, friendly vibe and the convenience of hotel transfers included. While some reviews mention a short cave visit, overall, travelers find this cruise offers excellent value for its price and a lively environment. It’s best suited for those who like a mix of relaxation and social activities.

Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect if you’re looking for a lively, social experience with all the comforts of a 4-star vessel.

3. Overnight Halong Bay-Lan Ha Bay Cruise with V’Spirit Cruises

This cruise takes you through both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay with a focus on natural scenery and active adventures. Onboard, you’ll enjoy four delicious meals, a sunset party, tai chi, and even fruit carving. Kayaking around Cat Ba Island and exploring floating villages enriches the experience.

V’Spirit Cruises is highly rated for its modern wooden junk and relaxing atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for fishing and cooking. Plus, door-to-door transfers from Hanoi make logistics easier. Its reviews highlight attentive staff and spacious cabins, making it ideal for travelers who want immersion and comfort.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded cruise for those who want a balance of relaxation, activity, and authentic scenery.

4. Top 1 Ha Long-Lan Ha Bay Luxury 5 Star Cruises & Balcony Cabin

At around $135, this luxury cruise stands out for its elegant balcony cabins and upscale amenities. It offers scenic routes through either Ha Long or Lan Ha Bay, with activities like kayaking, swimming, and sunset parties included. Notably, it’s the only one offering WiFi in your cabin, blending luxury with practical connectivity.

Guests rave about the attention to detail and the exclusive experiences, such as cooking classes and squid fishing at night. The itinerary includes multiple stops, with a focus on comfort and style, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more refined experience. The price reflects the luxury level, but reviews indicate good value for the sophistication and service.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious, all-inclusive experience with private balconies and high-end touches.

5. All Inclusive 3-Day 2-Night explore Ha Long Bay with Au Co Cruise

If you can spare three days, this comprehensive cruise offers a deep dive into Ha Long, Bai Tu Long, and Lan Ha Bay. Starting at $388 per person, it includes visits to Viet Hai Village, Surprise Cave, and Vung Vieng floating village, plus activities like squid fishing, Tai Chi, and Vietnamese cooking.

The cruise features onboard accommodation and optional excursions like cycling. Reviewers note the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see both scenic water landscapes and local life up close. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a longer, immersive experience and those comfortable spending more for a richer journey.

Bottom Line: The ideal choice for those with time and interest in exploring beyond the typical highlights.

How to Choose

When selecting your Ha Long Bay tour, consider your budget, time available, and interest in activities. For example, if luxury is your priority, the La Regina 2 Days Tour offers upscale comfort. If you prefer a lively social atmosphere, the Oasis Bay Party Cruise might be best. Budget travelers might opt for the Half Day Explore Halong Bay, which offers a quick but scenic taste of the bay.

For those wanting a more authentic, less touristy experience, the Lan Ha-Ha Bay Full Day Trip provides a local flavor with floating villages and kayaking. Make sure to book early during peak season, and confirm transfer options—some tours include hassle-free hotel pick-ups.

Final Thoughts

Ha Long Bay presents a broad spectrum of tours and experiences, from budget day trips to lavish cruises. For a true immersion, the 3-day Au Co Cruise offers a deep dive into the region’s scenery and local life, while the luxury La Regina is perfect for those who want style and comfort. For travelers wanting a lively, social vibe, Oasis Bay’s party cruise hits the mark.

Most importantly, think about what makes your trip special—whether it’s luxury, adventure, or cultural insight—and pick an experience that fits your travel style. With so many options, it’s worth booking early, especially in high season, to secure your spot on the perfect ride through one of Vietnam’s most unforgettable landscapes.