halong bay overnight cruise from hanoi

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Halong bay cruise overnight.

100+ overnight cruise itineraries in Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay.

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Halong bay: 225 Cruise itineraries

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Peony Cruise 3 Days

• Best mid-range cruise in Lan Ha Bay
• Short transfer time on limousine bus
• Great rooms with balcony

Peony Cruise

• Taxes & Service Charges
• Welcome Cocktail
• Cruise Itinerary and Program
• Entrance and Sightseeing Fees
• In-house English-speaking Tour Guide
• Luxury Cabins and Suites with A/C
• Luxury en-suite Bathroom
• Meals on board during cruise program
• Tai Chi Session
• Cooking Class
• Transfer from Hanoi to Dinh Vu Port and back (transfer time approximately 2.5 hours)
• Airfares, and Hotel Accommodation
• Visa to Vietnam
• Beauty Spa Services and Massage
• Beverages and Tobacco
• Tax, tips and other Personal Expenses
• All other services not clearly mentioned above
• Surcharge for New Year, Christmas

Peony Cruise 2 Days

JadeSails Cruise 1 Day

• Contemporary luxury design
• Pool bar and large sundeck
• Visit untouched parts of Lan Ha Bay

JadeSails Cruise

• Shuttle bus Hanoi - Halong - Hanoi.
• 7.5 hours cruise 
• All entrance fees for sightseeing indicated 
• Vietnamese fusion lunch
• Sunset party and 2 bottles of mineral water on limousine 
• Kayaking or local rowing boat, life jacket and waterproof bag 
• English speaking guide 
• Holiday surcharge
• Sightseeing fees
• Other beverages, tips and personal expenses
• All other services not mentioned clearly in the program

Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise 2 Days

• Elegant Indochine-style
• Luxury decoration
• Spacious cabins all with private balcony

Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise

• Transfer round trip Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hanoi

Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise 3 Days

Capella Cruise 2 Days

• Aesthetic Indochina architecture
• Elegant retro wooden interior
• Great itinerary with many activities

Capella Cruise

• Transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Pier and back (transfer time approximately 3 hours)

Capella Cruise 3 Days

Orchid Classic Cruise 2 Days

• Exclusive departure port - only 2.5 hours from Hanoi
• Unique routing
• Extremely spacious cabin (36-72sqm)

Orchid Classic Cruise

• Transfer from Hanoi to Cruise Pier and back - can be booked online
• Drinks and other personal expenses

Orchid Classic Cruise 3 Days

Ambassador Cruise 2 Days

• Outdoor Jacuzzi available
• Road journey just 2.5 hours from Hanoi via expressway
• Elevator available

Ambassador Cruise

• Meals as stated in cruise program
• On board insurance
• Transfer from your home/hotel to the cruise pier and back
• Tips and other Personal Expenses

Questions & Answers (6)

Is everything included in the whole price or there will be any extra fees?

Dear Eri, The price does not include everything. It normally includes accommodation, meals onboard, entrance and sightseeing tickets, activities in the program, inhouse English-speaking tour guide, bottled water in the room (1 bottle/person/night). Personal expenses such as beverages, spa & massage service, hotel accommodation, visa,... are not included. For better information, please provide us with the cruise you are considering so we can send you the details.

can a private transfer be arranged to get to Hanoi airport after the cruise for 1430/1500?

Dear Barry, Thank you for reaching out! We have private car from Halong to Noi Bai airport and it costs 120usd/car/ way. Please let us know if you want to proceed the booking. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Regards, Phoebe  

Hello Does the three day/two night cruise include Halong Bay?

Dear Helen Kerr, Thank you for your email. My name is Annie from Halong Bay Tours department and I am very glad to assist you with your trip.

If you want to visit Halongbay, please kindly consider some cruise options: Essence Grand Cruise, Indochine Premium, Paradise Elegance, Hermes, Athena, Indochina Sails, Mila Cruise, Amanda Cruise. Please let me know if you have any other inquiries. Best regards, Annie (Ms.)

When is the best time to travel on a Halong cruise?

The best time for pleasant weather is from October to November and March to April. October to November is Autumn when the weather is cool, sunny, and has a low chance of storms. March to April is Spring with low rainfall, blue sky, and light sunshine. However, Halong in each season has its own beauty and both advantages and disadvantages. Just check the weather forecast and plan your trip well, you can join a Halong cruise at any time.

Do cruise tours include a transfer from Hanoi?

No. Transportation is not included in the tour price. You can ask for a bus service or a private car from Hanoi for an extra fee.

Which cruise visits a fishing village?

Many cruises include a trip to a fishing village such as Paradise Elegance, Athena Luxury, Indochina Sails, Bhaya, Glory Legend, etc. However, this trip is usually added to the 3 day 2 night itinerary.

Is kayaking included in the cruise price?

Most Halong Bay cruises include kayaking in the tour price. However, some cruises do not include kayaking such as Paradise Elegance, Ambassador, Heritage Line Violet, Heritage Line Ginger, etc. You can contact our travel consultant to have more details of inclusions and exclusions.

We are a group of 10 adults, can we stay in all cabins next to each other?

Yes. You surely can stay in all cabins next to or close to each other if you book early and inform the travel consultant in advance.

Is there an elevator on the cruise?

You can refer to some cruises with an elevator including Ambassador, Capella, Elite of the Seas, Era, and Indochine cruise.

We are a family of 5 (2 adults and 3 children). Can we stay in one cabin?

Yes. There are some family cabins that include a king bed with 2 - 3 single beds, suitable for your family. Capella cruise is a suggestion for your reference.

Are meals onboard set menu or buffet?

Meals onboard could be set menu, buffet, or a-la-carte depending on each cruise. You can contact the travel consultant for detailed menus of a specific cruise.

Which cruises are suitable for families with children?

Cruises with large cabins, spacious public areas, swimming pools, and other entertainment activities are suitable for families with children. You can refer to Capella, Mon Cheri, Stellar of the Seas, Heritage Binh Chuan, Orchid Classic, etc.

Can I bring food and drinks onboard?

You can bring some onboard. However, there will be a service charge if you bring food/drinks during meals. All cruises have a bar with a variety of drinks such as beer, coke, juice, smoothies, wine, cocktails, etc. You’d better order food/drinks on the cruise.

More About Overnight Cruises

As one of the hotspots in the Northern region of Vietnam, Halong Bay always welcomes a large number of visitors every year. Although visitors can view the bay from many locations in the city, Halong bay cruises will bring a very different experience with plenty of interesting activities.

Cruises in Halong bay are diverse in duration, itineraries, facilities & services, as well as prices. No matter if you have just a few hours or days for the cruise, no matter if you love hiking to the top of the limestone island to get the panoramic view or just simply lazing on the isolated beach for hours, no matter if you love a traditional small junk or a giant modern ship with a bunch of recreational activities, Halong Bay Cruise promises to serve you at its best.

Cruise duration

Although some cruises offer up to 4-night durations, the three most popular durations are day cruises, 1-night, and 2-night cruises.

• Day cruises are most economical and suitable for travelers having limited time and a low budget. A day trip lasts for 4 to 8 hours on the bay but the program covers the most signature attractions that give travelers the best glimpse of the Heritage Site. 
• 1-night cruises are the choices of the majority of visitors due to the reasonable price and time. If day cruises are not enough and 2-night ones are a bit too much and expensive, 1-night cruises provide enough activities and a less-rushed program for a relaxing trip.
• A 2-night cruise is ideal for those who have a loosen budget and generous time. This is the most costly duration of the three. However, travelers have a chance to visit the deeper parts of Halong Bay which are untouched, pristine, and less touristy.

While searching for cruises, you will see not only Halong bay but also Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. You may know that Halong Bay has been recognized as World’s Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO twice in 1994 and 2000. That makes Ha Long Bay more renowned, visited by a lot of travelers worldwide, and somehow gradually commercialized a bit.

Neighboring the heritage bay, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are two smaller bays that are later discovered and well-known thanks to their similar karst islands and poetic landscapes.

A cruise itinerary will usually attach to one of three bays. Based on your preference, if you are after an active program with spectacular and bustling hotspots, Halong Bay is a must. If you are looking for more relaxation and a less crowded itinerary, or you want to have a new experience, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay would never let you down.

• Attractions: Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Tung Sau Pearl Farm, Titop Island, Me Cung Cave, Heaven Palace Grotto, Cua Van Village, Trinh Nu Cave, etc.
• Cruises: Paradise Elegance, Ambassador, Pelican, Athena, Signature, Paradise Sails, Adela Boutique, Stellar, etc.
• Attractions: Dark-Bright Cave, Tra Bau, Ao Ech, Viet Hai Village, 
• Cruises: Elite of the Seas, Orchid Trendy, Heritage Binh Chuan, Scarlet Pearl, Mon Cheri, Stellar of the Seas, Capella, La Casta Regal, Rosy, Sena, etc.

Bai Tu Long Bay

• Attractions: Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Cong Do, Cap La, Cong Dam, Hon Co Island, etc.
• Cruises: Dragon Legend, Swan, Paloma, Dragon Pearl, etc.

Facilities & services

If Halong Bay day cruises have a spacious public area of sundeck or dining room for sightseeing and relaxing, overnight cruises provide no shortage of facilities and services like a floating hotel.

You will stay in well-equipped cabins which come with a large window or balcony. Not only comfy bed and bathroom amenities, but the cabin also has Satellite TV, minibar, air-con, safe box, bathtub or jacuzzi, etc. After joining a bunch of activities, cabins onboard bring you the utmost comfort and convenience like home.

Food and drinks are served on the cruise. Unlike all meals included in the tour price, drinks could be ordered and charged based on usage. Apart from sitting in an intimate restaurant to enjoy meals, you can request room service or order drinks into your room to spend time with your loved ones from the private balcony.

Besides, Halong Bay cruises more and more focus on varied entertainment activities onboard. Therefore, you can find cruises with mini golf, swimming pool, jacuzzi pool, spa, modern gym, art gallery, club, etc. The more luxurious the cruise is, the more facilities and services it provides.

Experiences on Halong Bay cruises

There is much more than just watching the bay from a cruise. Halong Bay Cruises offer plenty of on-board and off-board activities. On-board activities are often the same while off-board ones can be changed on different days in a tour. All the activities are optional, thus you can feel free to enjoy your trip with the utmost relaxation.

Onboard activities

Watch Halong Bay from top deck

All Halong Bay cruises have a spacious sundeck where you can kick back on the sun loungers and witness the stunning scenery of Halong bay. It can be the serenity in the early morning, the splendor of the sunset, or the shimmer when all the ships are lit at night. Every moment on the cruise gives you a special view of Ha Long Bay. 

• Join Sunset party

What could be better than watching the sunset, chatting, and sipping some drinks together? Sunset parties usually include Happy Hour - Buy 1 get 1 free promotion for drinks and some complementary finger food on the top deck.

Learn how to make a Vietnamese traditional dish

Get to know about Vietnamese cuisine with local ingredients and interesting recipes. Make the dish on your own and enjoy it, you will definitely enjoy the food much more.

Fish squid at night

Simple technique but patience is needed for catching squid like a local. This is one of the interesting experiences you should not miss on a Halong Bay cruise. 

Experience Taichi

Early birds would love to follow the gentle movements of the crew in the Taichi session in the morning. Refreshing your body and mind with a quick exercise in the middle of the heritage bay should be on your bucket list.

Offboard activities

• Discover caves and grottoes

There are nearly 2,000 islands and islets in Halong Bay and plenty of them have a cave or grotto to visit. Some caves are giant and dry inside while some are small and can only be visited by kayak or sampan boat. Visitors have a chance to know the mysterious legend of Halong Bay and unique formation of the caves here.

Kayak on the bay

Kayaking on the vast ocean is a must. Gently paddle a kayak around rocky islands and feel the amazing tranquility of the bay, you will never regret it.

• Swim at the beach

Halong bay is perfect for swimming thanks to the very calm seawater. If you choose Halong itinerary, Titop and Soi Sim beaches are the two most beautiful and biggest beaches for swimming. If you choose Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay, you can swim in many untouched water areas or some smaller natural beaches.

• Climb to the mountain

If watching the bay from the top deck of the cruise is not enough, you may not want to miss the panoramic view of Halong Bay from the top of the mountain. This activity could be found in the excursion to Titop and Soi Sim islands.

Visit a fishing village

There used to be thousands of households living and fishing on Halong Bay for a living. Visiting a fishing village is a way to learn about their tough life on the ocean. Travelers can visit Cua Van, Ba Hang, Vung Vieng fishing village, etc.

Price range

Halong Bay Cruises could be divided into 3 main categories: Luxury (5*), Deluxe (4*), and Superior (3*). You need from US$100-130 per person for a 1-night trip on a Superior cruise. Deluxe cruises cost from US$130-160 per person per night. For Luxury category, Halong Bay cruise costs you from US$160 up to US$400 per person.

Price may change upon the regulation of Halong management board or vary in season. Low season is from May to September with more promotions. Price in the high season from October to April is often higher and cruises are more quickly occupied. Therefore, you should book early in the high season to ensure your favorite cruise is available.

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How to Choose the Best Halong Bay Overnight Cruises + 5 Hand-Picked Tours!

May 3, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you’re planning that dream trip to Vietnam, and you’re having a hard time choosing the best option for your Halong Bay cruises overnight , you’re in the perfect place! I have been there and spent hours (if not, days) researching before deciding to choose the best option!

Let me start by saying that a cruise in Halong Bay is part of most Vietnam Itineraries , and certainly one of the bucket lists and highlights of your trip to the country. Halong Bay is a lovely bay in Northern Vietnam, where 1,900 islands and islets rise up from the stunning turquoise waters of the South China Sea .  

Your experience will vary tremendously based on the areas you visit, the time of the year you go, the number of days you visit, and the type of tour you book.

I am here now to share the best activities you will have during your Halong Bay overnight cruise, plus make expert recommendations on what are the best overnight cruises for you! So, without any further ado, let’s dive into this very helpful guide!

You may also want to read:

• 15 Essential Tips Before You Go Cruise in Halong Bay
• Top 10 Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• Ultimate 2-week Vietnam Itinerary

Tips to Choose a Perfect Halong Bay Overnight Cruise:

8. activities on the cruise boat.

Read More: The Most Amazing Halong Bay Luxury Cruises

Best Halong Bay Cruises Overnight Overview

There are hundreds of boats available to choose from, each with a different route, activities, and prices and it can drive us crazy! In this detailed guide, you will find everything you need to know to help you to choose the best Halong Bay cruises overnight, so let’s review some important information first. I also recommend you read the 15 essential tips you should know before you go cruise in Halong Bay .

If you’re looking for even more comfort or perhaps you’re celebrating a special occasion, I recommend you choose one of the incredible Halong Bay luxury cruises .

5 Best Halong Bay Cruises Overnight

You can choose from over 500 licensed junk boats to cruise , and there are options for every taste and pocket. The junk boats can be very simple to super luxurious, and don’t forget the simple rule just like anything else:  you get what you pay for ! The higher the price, the better quality and experience you will have. 

1 . La Pinta In Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay (3-Day & 1-Night)

I did extensive research before I decided on which cruise to choose, and I booked the Le Journey Cruise . I made my choice by reading a lot of reviews and looking at photos of the rooms. Also as it’s a smaller boat with only 16 cabins, I didn’t have to deal with the crowds.

Plus, they are a reputable and ethical tour. The staff does a phenomenal job caring for the hosts, as they are fun and extremely helpful. Cruising at Halong Bay was certainly the highlight of my trip to Vietnam . I chose the 3 days 2 nights overnight cruise , which allowed me to see more of the magnificent bay.

Le Journey Cruise – Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay 3 Days, 2 Nights

The Le Journey Cruise was my choice for an overnight cruise in Halong Bay, and I highly recommend it. The boat is great, the accommodations are very comfortable, and the service and food are outstanding. Besides exploring the best of Halong Bay, you will also sail on Lan Ha Bay, with a jaw-dropping landscape of towering karst, and it’s less crowded.

2. Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi ( 2-Day & 1-Night)

• DAY 1: Tuan Chau Habor – Dog Head Islet – Swan Islet – Ba Hang Floating Village – Luon Cave – Ti Top Island
• DAY 2: Surprise Cave – Fighting Cock Island – Incense Burner Island – Stone Dogs Island – Tuan Chau Habor

Why Take This Tour:

This 2-day & 1-night Halong Bay Overnight Cruise is excellent if you’re short on time as you’ll still get to see plenty of the area’s highlights. Run by Phoenix Cruise, this cruise includes all entrance fees, all your meals, a double/twin cabin, and hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hanoi.

There are also other activities included with your cruises like a cooking class, squid fishing, kayaking, or a bamboo boat tour. If you’re still not convinced then you’ll get to visit a variety of beautiful islets, islands, and caves. This includes Surprise Cave which is the largest cave in Halong Bay!

This 2D/1N cruise will also take you to Ba Hang Floating Village and Ti Top Island so the itinerary is rather jam-packed. However, you’ll still have ample time to relax on the top deck, swim in the emerald waters, and enjoy the epic views.

3. Halong Bay Luxury Cruise (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Hon Gai Wharf – Thien Canh Son Cave –  Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Sung Sot Cave – Ti Top Island

Day 3:  Da Chong Islet – Con Vit Islet – Gia Luan –  Lan Ha Bay – Ba Trai Dao Beach/Tra Bau Area of Lan Ha Bay

This All-Inclusive 3-day & 2-night Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay route tour are one of the most amazing options out there! Not only will you get to visit a variety of destinations, but this cruise puts more of an emphasis on onboard activities and socializing.

The itinerary suggests that each night is full of activities such as cooking classes, karaoke, leisure time at the bar with your fellow passengers, and plenty of board games! Another great thing about this cruise is that you’re guaranteed an ocean-view cabin which is a huge bonus.

As well as the usual places, you’ll get to visit some more hidden gems as you’re staying on board an extra night. This includes caves, beaches, and stunning islets so what are you waiting for? Better yet, you’ll get to explore Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay as well.

4. Halong Bay and Ca Bat Island Cruise (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay – Cua Van Floating Village – Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Cat Ba Island/Pearl Farm – Viet Hai Village – Lan Ha Bay

Day 3: Kayaking/Bamboo Raft Trip – Dark & Bright Cave area/Ti Top Island

*This is a sample itinerary and can change based on which specific itinerary you choose when you go to purchase!

If you’re looking for a romantic time in Halong Bay, this 2-Nights on Best Balcony Cruise is the perfect option. Ran by Halong Bay Cruise Hunters, you know you’re in for a fantastic time as this company has thousands of reviews on Tripadvisor.

For starters, this 3D/2N cruise takes you to some of the most beautiful bays in the area including Halong, Lan Ha, and Bai Tu Long. You’ll also get to choose between some other popular locations depending on your itinerary. This includes the spectacular Cat Ba Island which you’ll be able to explore by bicycle.

All meals are included with this cruise as well as a cooking class, Tai Chi lesson, and kayaking. Just keep in mind that there’s a surcharge per person if you’re cruising during the Christmas season, Chinese New Year, or New Year’s Eve. You’ll also have to pay extra if you’re fancying a massage.

5. Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Halong International Cruise Port – Thien Canh Son Cave – Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Bai Tu Long Bay – Kayaking, Tai Chi, Swimming, & sightseeing

Day 3: Vung Vieng Fishing Village

This 3-day Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay overnight cruise is a great off-the-beaten-path option. Although many of the cruises simply stay in Halong Bay, this ship will take you on a more hidden path so you’ll have a quieter experience.

All meals are included with this cruise, as well as all entrance fees and activities such as the Tai Chi lesson, cooking class, and pre-dinner cocktail party.

The one thing to note with this cruise is that there doesn’t seem to be as much included on the itinerary. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing as you’ll have plenty of time to relax, admire the views, and get involved with the onboard activities. However, if you’d prefer an action-packed itinerary where you’ll get to see a lot within a short amount of time, you might want to go for one of the other options in this guide.

Top Activities To Do In Halong Bay

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Halong Bay. Whether you’re looking to explore by kayak, spend some time swimming, or take a trip on a bamboo boat, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also get to visit a variety of incredible places so let’s take a look at what you’ll be getting up to…

1. Sailing among the majestic limestone kasks

I spent a good amount of time on the boat, sailing, taking pictures, flying the drone or just relaxing on the roof deck while enjoying some very yummy (high alcohol content) cocktails. I felt that I was really on vacation and sometimes it’s so important to slow down and enjoy the magical view, especially if you’re in Halong Bay!

2. Boating on the floating Villages

The cruise line took us to a harbor near some small floating fishing villages. We got picked up by locals with their row boats and they took us along the bay. Each boat held 6-8 people.

We could see the beauty of the mountains very close up. It was intriguing to see the floating villages and be able to observe the families with their dogs living their normal lives in the same way, for so many generations. It was nice and relaxing, and I took many beautiful photos during the tour.

3. Visit a Pearl Farm

Halong Bay Cruises often include a visit to the area’s thriving Pearl Farm. This farm was originally opened in 1995 and owned by a Japanese company until it was sold to locals. Covering around 74 acres and home to around 3,000 cages, it’s rather impressive.

During your visit here, you’ll get to learn all about how pearl cultivation is done as it’s not a simple process. Throughout the tour, you’ll get to see the floating rafts where the pearls are grown, the processing rooms, and the showroom where you’ll see the final product.

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Halong so try to look for a company that includes it in their itinerary. As the Peal Farm is around 15 miles (24 km) from Halong City, you’ll need to be on a 2D/1N or 3D/2N package to visit this destination.

4. Visit Caves during your Halong Bay Tour

Depending on the cruise company you choose, most likely you will visit one of several natural caves on an island (weather permitting). It’s just amazing to think that some islands are hollow and there are lovely formations inside.

If you’re lucky to have a good tour guide, they will also give you an explanation of the history of the cave and an overview of the formations. The view from the top of the cliffside was outstanding, as we could overlook the whole bay and the junk boats.

5. Visit other islands in Halong Bay

Some overnight cruises in Halong Bay offer to visit other islands during the tour. If you want to experience more of the bays in this area, I’d recommend choosing a 3D/2N cruise as this allows you to travel a further distance.

To give you a rough idea, here are some of the other bays that are often included:

• Cat Ba Island : Cat Ba is the largest island in Halong Bay and is famous for its wild and rugged beauty. Half of the island is located within Cat Ba National Park and other areas are relatively untouched. Although not as popular as Halong Bay, tourism is starting to increase here and many tours now include a visit to this island in the package!
• Lan Ha Bay : This bay is located in the Gulf of Tonkin and is much less touristy compared to Halong Bay. However, it’s just as beautiful and if you can you’ll want to visit. Boasting undisturbed beaches, awesome hiking trails, and a unique ecosystem, Lan Ha Bay has a lot to offer. Some tours include a visit to both bays so I’d recommend choosing that option if possible.
• Bai To Long : Lastly we have Bai To Long – one of the largest bays in the area. Although relatively undeveloped compared to other bays in the area, the beauty here is breathtaking. Add that to the fact that you won’t have to share this place with hordes of tourists and you’ve got a sure-fire winner. The pollution here is very low too compared to other bays in the area which is another reason to visit!

6. Kayaking & swimming in Halong Bay

The Halong Bay cruise overnight tour I chose, offers kayaks and it was a highlight of my cruise, so I recommend taking advantage of it. They anchored the junk boat while we had the chance to explore the nearby area at our own pace. It’s an opportunity to see the limestone cliffs close up.

In some instances, you will be able to explore caves, which unfortunately didn’t happen for me in the area where our boat left us. I was able to go to different beaches and just admire the formations.

But please, make sure you are safe and that you have a good conditional kayak, you are offered a life vest, and that you are paddling your kayak in a safe area far from the big fish boats.

7. Taking a trip on a Bamboo Boat

There are plenty of kayaking opportunities on Halong Bay overnight cruises but this experience is something special. Many companies also offer you the chance to explore parts of Halong Bay via bamboo boat – a mode of transport that is often used by local fishermen.

Each bamboo boat can carry between 4-6 people and you’ll be maneuvered around the limestone caves by an expert. Although you can learn to do it yourself, it takes a lot of skill to avoid endless rock formations! As you cruise along Halong Bay you’ll also get to listen to the fisherman’s stories and connect with the locals on another level.

This may be a more suitable option for older individuals or families with small children who aren’t up for kayaking.

Aside from having an action-packed itinerary off the cruise, you’ll also have a variety of awesome activities onboard. No matter your hobbies or interests, you’re guaranteed to find something to your liking.

Here are some of the activities you can expect to find on Halong cruises:

Cooking Class: The cruise line offered a “cooking class” that was basically making summer rolls. It was entertaining, but I never really used my new expertise in my own kitchen.

Fishing Squid: Every night after dinner, if you’re interested, they will provide you with fishing poles and you can catch squid. I passed on the fishing but it’s a unique experience to have and the little ones tend to love it!

Sunrise Tai Chi on the Deck: This is one thing I can definitely get behind. Not only will you get to appreciate the beauty of Halong at sunrise but this martial art has a ton of benefits. It not only helps you physically but it’s thought to have emotional and mental benefits too.

Sunroof Bar: This is something you just have to do whilst on a cruise. There’s no better place to relax than at the Sunroof Bar as you can treat yourself to a cheeky cocktail or beer whilst admiring the epic views.

Spa Massages: This activity is an extra charge but it’s a great way to wind down after the day. The Halong Bay overnight cruises can be pretty taxing as there’s so much to do, so this is a great way to relax and recharge.

Local Wine Experience: Not all cruises will offer these so it will depend on your company. If your company does offer this then fantastic as you’ll get a better understanding of the local alcohol.

Vietnamese Cultural Films: Watching these types of films may not be to everyone’s taste but they’re a great way to learn about the country’s culture.

Music Entertainment: Lastly, many cruises will play music throughout the evening which only adds to the ambiance and location. I have done a Halong Bay overnight cruise during New Year, and we had a DJ with a dancing floor. Even the boat crew joined us, and boy, these guys can dance! We had a blast!

Halong Bay Cruise Overnight Conclusion

Halong Bay is the most frequented place in Vietnam and every year millions of people visit, and for a good reason. The opportunity to sail on a junk ship through hundreds of dramatic limestone mountains sticking up from a deep turquoise sea is like nothing else!

There are so many  karst islands  and rocks rising from the water in every direction that it looks mystic. There are caves, secret lagoons, and sea gypsies so you’ll have endless places to explore.

Not only is Halong Bay beautiful, but there are plenty of awesome activities waiting for you if you opt for an overnight cruise. These will give you a chance to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s culture so the cruises really do offer a bit of everything!

Hopefully, this guide has given you a good idea of what the most popular cruise options are, and what you can expect from your trip.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure you check out my other posts:

• Vietnam Travel Tips: Everything you need to know before your trip
• Best Hoi An itinerary
• Best Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
• Best Hanoi Itinerary
• Best Da Nang itinerary
• Incredible things to do in Mui Ne
• 10 Most Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• 15 Essential tips before you go on a cruise in Halong Bay
• Complete Guide to visit Marble Mountain
• Complete Guide to visit My Son Sanctuary
• 3-day in Sapa Itinerary + Authentic Homestay
• All you need to know before you go to Sapa Homestay with a Black Hmong family
• Sapa Ethical Travel: Why you should book with an independent guide

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Why Halong Bay Luxury Cruises Are Worth Every Penny!

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Vietnam Itinerary 7 Days: The Best one week in Vietnam

2 thoughts on “how to choose the best halong bay overnight cruises + 5 hand-picked tours”.

Good evening. Many thanks 🙂 Excellent article. Myanh Hoang

Right here is the right blog for everyone who wants to understand this topic. You realize so much its almost tough to argue with you (not that I actually would want to?HaHa). You certainly put a new spin on a subject that has been written about for many years. Excellent stuff, just great!

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Halong bay cruise 2 days 1 night.

Discover the attractions of Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay with our hand-picked 2-day, 1-night cruise trips.

• Choose Destination
• Cat Ba island
• Bai Tu Long Bay
• Sung Sot Cave
• Choose Prices
• Under 100 USD
• 100-150 USD
• 150-200 USD
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• Choose Option
• Free kayaking
• 2 Days 1 Night

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Overview of 2 days 1 night.

Halong bay is one of the most selected destinations for every traveler coming to Vietnam and to the northern region in specific. Some choose to spend a few hours while many want to stay for a few nights to see as much of what the bay has to offer. Among these itineraries, 2-day-1-night cruising is the most popular and favorite option.

A 2D1N cruise means almost 24 hours on the bay. It is explained by the embarkation time at 12:00 pm and disembarkation time at around 11:00 am the next day of all overnight cruises. This itinerary provides a series of activities on and off the boat and the enchanting beauty of Halong Bay at different times of the day. Some may think that with just a short timeframe, it is challenging to explore the  bay's entire magnificent landscape. However, a wisely arranged time and itinerary will surely provide you with very enjoyable experiences for a fun-filled cruise vacation.

Activities included in a 2 day 1 night itinerary

Once arriving at the cruise port, you will be assisted with luggage check-in by the cruise operator. Then, the crew member will escort you to embark the boat. A refreshing welcome drink and safety briefing is usually given before you check in your cabin and enjoy lunch. During lunch, the cruise sails to the bay and proceeds to the first attraction.

In the afternoon, you are transferred to the first attraction by a small boat (tender). It could be a cave full of beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, an island with a sandy beach and panoramic view, or a cave submerged half by water and visited by a kayak. Some of the highlights are Surprise cave , Luon cave , Titop island , Dark-Bright cave , Tra Bau area, Ao Ech area, etc.

After the excursion, you can join a number of activities onboard or spend free time relaxing on the top deck with the perfect sunset view. After dinner, you'll have the option to engage in squid fishing, catch a movie, savor beverages from the bar, or unwind in the cabin.

Cruises may offer a Taichi or Yoga session on the sundeck where you can soak up the fresh air and release the tiredness in your body and mind. You later enjoy a light breakfast while the ship cruises to the next attraction. Afterwards, you have time to freshen up and pack your luggage, check out your cabin, settle the bill (if any), and back to the dining area to savor a hearty breakfast. The trip ends at around 11:00 am.

Pros and cons

Although cruising for 2 days and 1 night brings plenty of merits, some demerits cannot be denied.

Reasonable duration

Normally, you come from other locations and commuting back and forth to both destinations can consume several hours. Thus, a day cruise cruise feels hurried, leaving no room for relaxation. Conversely, a more extended two-night cruise excursion appears to strike the right balance, making it a safe and suitable choice for most travelers.

Affordable price

Obviously, overnight cruises cost more than day cruises and 1-night cruises cost less than 2-or-more night cruises. However, compared with the time you spend to travel from nearby regions to the bay, a 1-night itinerary is more valued for money.

In fact, Halong Bay cruises are classified into different levels such as cost-saving cruises (3-star), middle-level cruises (4-star), and upscale cruises (5-star). Hence, you completely can find a budget option with a bit higher price than a day cruise to have 24 hours on the bay full of activities.

Varied activities and excursions

The longer you stay on the bay, the more activities and excursions you can join. Yet, a 2-day trip fully offers you typical activities including kayaking, swimming, relaxing on the rowing boat, hiking to the mountain, watching the bay at dawn and dusk, and more . Better still, onboard activities such as cooking class, Taichi, sunset party, Happy Hour, and squid fishing are only offered on overnight cruises but not day cruises.

Just 24 hours on the bay

2 days but not actually 2 days! This itinerary includes nearly 24 hours since the cruise departs daily and has to come back to the harbor to pick up new passengers. As a consequence, some may find it still short and do not have much time to rest among activities.

Crowded attractions

In comparison to the high daily volume of ships, the available travel routes are relatively limited. Consequently, it's almost inevitable that a significant influx of tourists will be visiting the attractions simultaneously. The less frequented routes are especially integrated into longer itineraries spanning 2 nights or more, allowing you to access more remote areas of the bay on smaller boats.

• Best 2 day 1 night cruises

Hundreds of cruises offer an enticing 2-day-1-night itinerary on Halong bay, Bai Tu Long bay, and Lan Ha bay. The price ranges from above US$100 to around US$300 per pax. Some best 1-night itineraries are listed below.

Questions and Answers (6)

Hello, my family of 3, husband n 10 year old girl thinking of doing a 2d1n cruise to Halong Bay on 6 or 7 dec. May I know which is a suitable cruise for us?

@Lindy, You can consider cruises for families with more facilities onboard such as Capella, Heritage Binh Chuan, Stellar of the Seas, Elite of the Seas, Catherine Cruise, Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise, etc. These cruises are top luxury cruises with spacious rooms, so it is more comfortable to add one extra bed for your girl. You can also make use of modern facilities on these cruises such as outdoor pool, mini golf, spa, fitness center, poker room, karaoke, etc.

Good morning, We are two friends from Spain currently living in Thailand. We will be in Hanoi for four days and we wanted to visit Ha long bay. Our concern is not to fall into the mass tourism, cruises that do not respect the environment and local community, but we are also on a budget. We were wondering if there were any possibilities of doing one. night and two-day trip to Ha long bay from Hanoi that meets this criteria. Thank you very much in advance, Best, Laura.

@Laura, For budget cruises, we have some options such as Swan Cruise, Renea Cruise for Bai Tu Long Bay and Sapphire and Alova Cruise for Lan Ha Bay. These bays are less touristy and include pristine attractions. The price ranges from $130 - 140/pax for a 2 days/1 night tour (excluding transfer). Regards,

We are intending to book a 2D1N cruise for the 3 of u on 26 Jan 2024. We are 3 friends travelling together. One of my friend is pregnant. Can you recommend which is the most luxurious and comfortable cruise ship? Preferably one with a bigger room and 3 beds.

@Jennifer, Per your requests, you can choose luxurious cruises with triple cabins such as Essence Grand, Scarlet Pearl, Orchid Classic, Mon Cheri Cruise, etc. Although all the activities are optional and you can choose to relax all the time onboard, we advise your friend to consult her doctor before the trip to make sure her health is eligible for the trip. Regards,

Frequently asked questions

1. how many attractions does a 2-day itinerary include.

Depending on each cruise, the itinerary may include 2 to 3 attractions. On day 1, there are 1 or 2 attractions in the afternoon excursion while on day 2, there is only 1 attraction in the morning excursion.

2. Does the boat cruise all the time during the trip?

No. The boat cruises through the bay and drops the anchor at the attractions for a visit and at the sleeping area at night. Boats are not allowed to operate during night time for safety reasons.

3. What is included in a night trip?

Inclusions and exclusions are specified depending on each cruise’s policy. Generally, a 2-day journey includes the following:

• 2-day-1-night itinerary and program
• Cabins with air-con and private bathroom
• Welcome drink
• Entrance and sightseeing fees
• Inhouse English-speaking tour guide
• 4 Meals on board: 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 light breakfast, 1 breakfast
• Activities mentioned in the program such as kayak, fishing equipment, sampan boat.
• Onboard insurance

4. Is 2-day or day cruise better?

A 2-day cruise gives you more time to relax and enjoy nature as you have 24 hours onboard. There are a lot of activities and you can admire the bay from day to night. In contrast, a day cruise offers fewer activities but costs less and is suitable for those who have limited time yet want to have a glimpse of Halong Bay. Each type has its own pros and cons so the answer depends on your preference.

5. Do I stay overnight on the ship or in the hotel on the shore?

For a 2D1N itinerary, you will stay overnight on the ship. You embark on the boat at noon time (12:00-13:00) and disembark at a similar time (10:30-12:00).

12 Best Halong Bay Cruises from Hanoi

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Are you looking for the best Halong Bay cruises from Hanoi? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Known for its emerald waters and limestone islands, Halong Bay is one of the most picturesque areas in Vietnam – and offers plenty of opportunities for a relaxing cruise along its waters.

There as so many available boat tours that it can be challenging to pick the one that’s right for you. But worry not, as we have listed the best Halong Bay Cruises. Read on, and enjoy.

1 – Halong Bay Deluxe Cruise (1-3 Days)

Choose your length of stay, from one day or two nights and three days, with this Halong Bay Deluxe cruise. The natural beauty of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is on offer, and you will marvel at the beautiful limestone islands.

The trip includes a visit to Cua Van Floating village, which is the largest fishing village in Halong Bay. Other features include famous islands such as Fighting Cocks and Stone Dogs. You’ll discover hidden beaches, where you can laze of the soft sands before dipping into the relaxing waters.

2 – Halong Bay Day Tour from Hanoi

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Halong Bay with this day tour from Hanoi. After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll journey along the Red River delta before arriving at Halong City harbour. From here, you will board a traditional wooden junk boat and head out into the bay.

Enjoy a spot of seafood for lunch, then take in Halong Bay and its surroundings. The tour includes a stop at Thien Cung Cave, a huge chamber filled with stalactites and stalagmites. There will also be an opportunity to kayak around the islands.

3 – 2-Day Oriental Sails Junk Cruise of Halong Bay from Hanoi

One of the best Halong bay cruises, this trip affords the opportunity to enjoy a stay on the ‘Oriental Sails’, a traditional-style junk boat featuring 18 deluxe cabins that are designed to provide maximum relaxation. They are the perfect starting point for your Halong Bay adventure. The two-day tour includes a visit to Tiptop Island, where you can enjoy a spot of hiking and swimming.

Next, kayak to Luon Cave and enjoy a tai chi morning exercise with a cooking lesson thrown in for good measure. From here, you will have the opportunity to relax at your own leisure and soak up the beauty of Halong Bay’s surroundings.

4 – Halong Bay Full-Day Deluxe Tours Including Cruise, Kayaking and Lunch from Hanoi

Experience an all-action adventure combined with the stunning sights of Halong Bay with this full-day deluxe tour. Your day will begin with a bus ride from Hanoi and lunch on the boat that will take you around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.

Discover the Sung Sot Cave, which is Halong Bay’s largest cave and features stalactites and stalagmites that serve as the folklore of the area. Once you have conquered the caves, enjoy a spot of kayaking and swimming in the soothing waters.

5 – Jadesails – Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay Luxury Day Tour

Turn your day trip to Halong Bay into a luxury one and incorporate a stop at Lan Ha Bay, the equally beautiful karst islands. This 12-hour day tour starts with a ride in a limousine to Halong Bay, where you will then board a luxury boat. There is also the opportunity to choose an overnight cruise option.

Your first experience is Halong Bay, where you will witness the UNESCO World Heritage Site while enjoying kayaking and swimming. Next, you will head to Lan Ha Bay and take in the local area of this less tourist, quieter bay.

6 – From Hanoi: Halong Bay One Day Escape Including Lunch on the Boat

Marvel at everything the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay has on offer with a one-day escape from Hanoi. From the Sot Cave to picturesque limestone islands, your day will be filled with spectacular sites.

The tour includes other prominent sites, such as rural and rustic villages of northern Vietnam, as well as sweeping scenery on offer. Lunch is also included, with a seafood buffet ready and waiting for you if you work up an appetite exploring the beauty of Halong Bay.

7 – Genesis: Halong Bay Luxury Day Tour with Premium Transport

Upgrade your Halong Bay visit with a high-class cruise. Start your 12-hour day trip with luxury transportation from Hanoi, before enjoying a welcome drink on the ship. Then get down to some major sightseeing with all of Halong Bay’s top attractions, including 2,000-plus limestone islands.

Back on the ship, a nine-dish Vietnamese lunch awaits you and offers a chance to sample local cuisine. After lunch, take part in some kayaking or hop on a rowboat and explore the relaxing waters of Halong Bay – all in the comfort of a luxury boat.

8 – Halong day tour islands caves kayak with dragonfly cruise Halong Day Tour: Islands, Caves, Kayak with Dragonfly Cruise

One of the best Halong Bay Cruises, this trip sees you enjoying everything on offer at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay, where you make a short stop to see local craft workshops.

Once on the boat, experience a cruise that visits Heavenly Palace Cave, otherwise known as Thien Cung Cave. Other features include a local fishing farm, an idyllic floating village, and the famous James Bond Cave – the site of a scene in James Bond: Tomorrow Never Dies.

9 – Halong Bay, Thien Cung Cave & Kayak with Incredible Cruise

Sail amongst Halong Bay’s natural beauty with a day cruise that features some of the area’s best sites. Dog Stone and Burning Incense, some of Halong Bay’s most iconic islets, will be on view during your cruise.

So too will be local fishing villages, where you can take a moment to kayak in the waters and jump on a bamboo boat that’s rowed by the locals. Fighting Cock island and the Heavenly Palace cave round off your trip before heading back to the wharf.

10 – From Hanoi: 2-Day & 1 Night Halong Bay Tour

Hop on a four-star junk cruiser for the night and marvel at the wonders of Halong Bay, before and after sunset. The overnight tour sees you visiting the karst rock formations, which have been named after the shapes they form.

There will be a chance for kayaking around the Luon Cave area, while Titop Island provides the perfect opportunity to take in Halong Bay’s outstanding views. Other highlights of the tour include a visit to Surprise Cave, the largest on Halong Bay; cooking classes on the cruise; and an opportunity to see the sunrise at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11 – Hanoi: 2-Day & 1-Night Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise

Make the most of your Halong Bay adventure with an overnight stay on a luxury boat with 12 cabins. The trip will see you taking in the wonderful sites of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay – the quieter, less touristic area that features plenty of natural beauty.

Swim in the secluded and relaxing area of Lan Ha Bay’s Tra Bau, before heading back to the ship and learning how to make traditional Vietnam dishes. This trip is one of the best Halong Bay cruises around and provides you with a chance to enjoy a five-star experience of the area.

12 – Halong Bay Day Trip

Take a day trip to paradise! Start the day at the port of Tuan Chau island, which is nearby Halong Bay and was officially named as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Here, you can witness the iconic formations of limestone rock that go all the way to the turquoise ocean waters.

Other points of interest on your Halong Bay day trip includes Hon Ga Choi, otherwise known as Fighting Cock. The stalactite and stalagmite rock formations inside Thien Cung cave will also be on the itinerary of things to see and do at Halong Bay.

Halong Bay Cruise Overnight Itinerary: Top Tips and Must-See Sights

Halong Bay boasts a spectacular tableau of towering limestone formations and tranquil green waters, and an overnight cruise is one of the best ways to truly revel in the splendor of this UNESCO-protected haven. This guide offers a curated Halong Bay cruise overnight itinerary packed with expert recommendations and essential stops so you can capture the essence of this natural wonder.

Weather and the best time for an overnight Halong Bay boat trip

Best time for Halong Bay cruise overnight

The weather patterns here can be broadly divided into a cooler, drier period from October to April and a warmer, rainier summer spanning the months of May through September. This split is attributed to monsoon seasons, a phenomenon common to tropical regions.

When planning a trip to Ha Long Bay, the optimal time to visit is from October to April. During this period, visitors can enjoy comfortable outdoor sightseeing, as the clear blue skies tend to be brighter and rainfall is minimal, with the exception of occasional light drizzle.

For those keen on trekking, cycling, or exploring rural villages, this period presents ideal conditions. The main drawback is that some water-based activities, like kayaking, may be limited during the colder period.

Experience the best Halong Bay overnight cruises in 2024

Paradise sails cruise - exquisite views of halong bay overnight cruise.

This overnight cruise is meticulously designed, echoing the charm of traditional Vietnamese junks yet infused with modern luxury at every turn. From the outset, guests are greeted by interiors adorned with rich sophisticated fabrics and wood, creating an atmosphere that’s both elegant and intimate.

With 16 cabins for 32 guests, it promises tailored services and an exceptional personal touch. Those aboard can indulge in a diverse fusion menu at the upscale onboard restaurant or immerse in authentic relaxation at the Le Parfum Spa, which provides a dedicated treatment room for holistic therapies.

With Paradise Sails, voyagers are treated to immersive excursions — from the royal-style dinner events reminiscent of Vietnam's regal past to insightful journeys uncovering Halong Bay's natural wonders.

A rejuvenating spa treatment during our overnight Halong Bay cruise with Paradise Sails

Paradise Peak Cruise - Enchanting Halong Bay cruise experience

This boutique vessel artfully combines Vietnam's timeless traditional aesthetics with avant-garde facilities, setting the gold standard for cruising in Halong Bay. 

Step aboard, and you'll quickly discern what sets Paradise Peak apart. With only 8 cabins, each boasting top-tier amenities like personal jacuzzis, dedicated dining areas, and bespoke butler service, you are guaranteed a premier voyage. Every cabin, from the Junior Suite to the Superior Suite or Premium Suite, exudes sophistication, offering a haven of relaxation amidst Halong's ethereal landscapes.

But Paradise Peak's luxury goes beyond its cabins. The ship boasts an array of facilities that cater to every whim and desire. You can maintain your fitness regimen while at sea with its state-of-the-art gym. If you fancy a tranquil evening with a book or a cocktail, the outdoor bar and library are at your service. And for those seeking holistic rejuvenation, the Le Parfum Spa offers three massage rooms, a sauna, and a jacuzzi.

An enticing feature of this Halong overnight cruise is its free-flow service. You can indulge in unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring that their culinary journey is as mesmerizing as the scenic one. Options abound at night, including engaging in a game of cards, or trying your hand at squid fishing.

Halong bay boat trip overnight - Paradise Peak Cruise

End your Halong bay cruise overnight by watching movies in our onboard lounge

Paradise Elegance Cruise - Tranquil charm of Halong Bay cruise

While the Paradise Sails and Paradise Peak offer intimate and boutique experiences, the Paradise Elegance takes luxury cruising to a grander scale. As one of the larger vessels in the Paradise Vietnam fleet, Paradise Elegance combines size with sophistication, presenting an all-inclusive luxury cruise that's undeniably among the world's best.

The Paradise Elegance showcases a masterclass in neo-classical design. The ship's expansive sundeck is graced with a contemporary jacuzzi, allowing guests to soak up the mesmerizing beauty of the bay.

Beyond its luxurious interiors, the Halong overnight cruise is dedicated to holistic wellness. The Le Parfum Spa is home to four treatment rooms, promising a tranquil haven where you can indulge in therapies crafted to rejuvenate both body and spirit. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in Halong Bay’s natural beauty by utilizing kayaking equipment or simply engaging in tranquil activities like squid fishing.

Read More:  Experience Halong Bay Cruise 2 days 1 night   with Paradise Elegance 

Image of Paradise Elegance Cruise - One of the Halong Bay Overnight Cruises

Spend an evening listening to live piano in our cozy onboard lounge

Trip highlights for Halong bay boat trip overnight

Despite the limited period of time, the best overnight cruise Halong Bay options offer an opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating splendor of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder. Here are some of the Halong bay tour highlights to anticipate during your journey.

Discover the renowned attractions of Halong Bay

An overnight cruise in Halong Bay promises awe-inspiring vistas of the bay's signature limestone peaks, karst outcrops, and scenic beauty.

Meanwhile, getting on a Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, or Paradise Peak walks you through the stunning charm of Titov Island, Tien Ong Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, the Trong Mai (Fighting Cock) Islet, and many others. 

Immerse yourself in the local culture with these overnight cruise itineraries, visiting Luon Cave and Cua Van fishing village. Here, you can learn about their work and kayak in the pristine waters. These waterborne communities provide an invaluable glimpse into the indigenous fishermen's daily lives, their quaint aquatic homes, and their water-centric livelihoods.

Halong bay boat trip overnight is the optimal way to explore Halong Bay's natural beauty

Sleep onboard the ship

Most cruises boast a selection of cabin choices, from standard rooms to lavish suites, ensuring every traveler finds their sanctuary with a range of cruise amenities. Here at Paradise Vietnam, you have various cabin choices, like Paradise Peak cruise with 8 cabins, Paradise Sails cruise with 16 cabins, and Paradise Elegance cruise with 31 cabins, with each cabin accommodating 2 cruisers.

Their rooms are designed for utmost comfort with air-conditioning, plush bedding, en-suite facilities, and a private balcony, making for an idyllic choice for you to stay at a Halong Bay junk boat overnight . The 5-star Paradise Peak cruise, for instance, also treats you to the relaxing Jacuzzis, a well-equipped fitness room, butler service, and michelin-quality meals at a private dining area.

Read more:  Experience Paradise Vietnam Cruise On Halong Bay Day Cruise Adventure Travel

Sleeping onboard the Halong Bay cruise accommodation boat trip overnight

A variety of cabin and suite options for an unforgettable Halong Bay overnight cruise

Savor flavorsome marine cuisine

With fresh catches made by the bay's dedicated fishermen, the onboard menu invariably takes you on a delectable voyage. It features dishes like succulent grilled prawns, aromatic steamed crabs, and exquisite fish preparations.

Many cruise itineraries enhance this dining experience by organizing alfresco seafood feasts. The silhouettes of limestone formations and emerald waters form the perfect backdrop, enhancing your meal experience manifold.

Feasting on delicious seafood

Savor high-quality dishes at the restaurants on overnight cruise

Kayaking and swimming

Halong Bay's exploration takes on a new dimension when experienced from a kayak. Offering you the chance to navigate its clear waters, kayaking is your ticket to the hidden gems of the bay.

During your cruise activities, you can venture into untouched caves like Sung Sot, Dark and Bright cave, and the enchanting Luon Cave. Each stroke of your paddle brings you closer to nature, allowing the sheer cliffs, vast lagoons, and iconic limestone pillars to paint a mesmerizing picture around you.

You can also step into the soothing embrace of the bay's waters for a swim. Surrounded by green islands and tall, shadow-casting karsts, you'll truly understand why Halong Bay remains a top destination.

Read More:  Halong Luxury Cruise - Experience the Ultimate in Lavish Comfort

Kayaking is one of the most breathtaking ways to explore Halong Bay

Visit fishing villages

Deep within Halong Bay's stunning confines lies Viet Hai village, a beacon of simplicity and tradition in an ever-changing world. When stepping into this enclave, you'll explore homes crafted from palm and bamboo, each telling stories of generations that have lived there.

The emerald rice fields stretch endlessly, a testament to the village's agrarian roots, while the towering limestone mountains stand as ancient guardians.

Beyond its scenic allure, Viet Hai floating village calls out to the adventurer in you. Guided treks into the dense jungles, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna, promise exhilaration. Meanwhile, boat rides to the serene Lan Ha Bay offer a different, equally stunning scenery.

Explore caves

Explore caves in Halong Bay boat trip overnight

The subterranean world of Halong Bay presents an opportunity to witness the geologic marvels that have, over time, earned this region its esteemed recognition.

Here, within the intricate labyrinth of limestone, each of these caves echoes its own tale of time and nature:

• Sung Sot Cave : Often referred to as the 'Surprise Cave,' Sung Sot never fails to astound visitors. The cave unfolds into vast chambers with gigantic hanging and rising mineral formations mimicking a stony forest. The gentle illumination within the chambers accentuates the details, casting ethereal shadows and presenting an almost dreamlike ambiance.
• Dark and Bright Cave : The journey, whether by boat or kayak, introduces travelers to a world of natural wonders. Here, light playfully dances upon stone, and stalagmites and stalactites gleam under the gentle sunlight piercing through the cave's mouth.
• Thien Canh Son Cave : The cavern, bathed in a soft luminescence, displays rock formations so intricately formed they appear to echo tales of mythical beasts and ancient legends. Every corner of this cave evokes a feeling of stepping into pages of a legendary tome, rich with lore and enchantment.
• Luon Cave : A trip to Luon Cave is not merely an exploration but an adventure. The entrance is snug and demanding, but what lies beyond is breathtaking - a verdant amphitheater encased by looming limestone walls, cradling crystal-clear waters that reflect the vibrant greenery overhead.

Discovering Halong Bay's magnificent caves is a highlight of many cruises in the area

Squid fishing

Amid the serene stillness of Halong Bay's overnight stay, a unique experience awaits the eager traveler—squid fishing.

The vast expanse of the dark sky, peppered with stars, stretches endlessly above, casting a shimmering reflection upon the gentle waves below. The blend of this celestial spectacle with the rhythmic motion of the fishing rod creates an atmosphere of tranquility, punctuated by bursts of excitement with every catch.

Read More:  Experience Unmatched Luxury - The Most Luxurious Halong Bay Cruise

Experience local squid fishing first-hand on your Halong Bay overnight cruise

Cooking class

The Paradise Vietnam cooking classes on cruises as part of a travel package will give you an immersive dive into the rich tapestry of Vietnam's culinary heritage. Guided by seasoned chefs, you'll uncover the secrets behind the country's iconic dishes, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the delicate art of presentation.

Once the class concludes, you'll have a piece of Vietnam that you can recreate in your kitchen, sharing its flavors with loved ones and reliving the memories of your Halong Bay tour adventure.

Master traditional Vietnamese dishes yourself through an immersive cooking class

Paradise Vietnam’s Halong Bay overnight cruise itinerary

Experience luxury, entertainment, and breathtaking nature all in one package with our luxury Halong Bay overnight cruise options.

2-Day-1-Night Trip

Day 1: The Halong cruise adventure kickstarts at Tuan Chau Island , where guests embark on the cruise.

The first day unfolds with an immersive visit to Titov Island. The island offers two exhilarating choices: ascend its peak to marvel at the panoramic vistas of the sprawling Halong Bay or enjoy the pristine beach's crystalline waters. The journey then navigates through the Halong Bay's iconic landmark - Luon Cave. 

As evening descends, the luxury cruise anchors in a serene bay, setting the scene for a night of leisure and luxury.

Day 2 : The second day on the Halong cruise begins with an invigorating session of Tai Chi  on the L’Odyssée Sundeck. As the sun's first rays paint the bay, guests are invited to embrace tranquility and harmony through this ancient martial art form.

Following a light breakfast, the journey sails towards its final exploration point – the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave.

Upon returning to the cruise, guests are treated to a sumptuous breakfast buffet at Le Marin restaurant. Concluding the memorable journey, by late morning, the cruise docks back at Tuan Chau Island.

Ease into the day on Halong bay cruise with an invigorating Tai Chi session 

3-Day-2-Night Trip

Day 1 : With itinerary planning in mind, Day 2 follows the same schedule as Day 1 in our 2-Day-1-Night trip

Day 2 : The day begins with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck, welcoming the first rays of the sun and embracing the tranquility that the morning offers.

Following this calming routine, you can relish a luxurious buffet breakfast at the Le Marin restaurant. The next phase of exploration entails boarding the Paradise Explorer. The vessel steers towards the most picturesque hotspots of Halong Bay, including Dong Tien Lake, Trong Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, and various other captivating sights.

The journey takes them to the mesmerizing Tien Ong Cave, renowned for its intricate stalactites and stalagmites. Within the cave, there's an archaeological exhibit showcasing relics from prehistoric times, evidence of life existing thousands of years ago.

By noon, the luxury cruise anchors in the scenic Deu Cave area. Here, you are treated to a lavish lunch amidst the unparalleled serenity that only Halong Bay can offer. The afternoon beckons with a visit to Cua Van floating village. You have the choice to navigate the waters using kayaks or to tour the village in traditional bamboo boats.

As the day progresses, everyone returns to the main cruise to continue their journey through the enchanting Halong Bay. Late afternoon, the vessel anchors once more, presenting you with the opportunity to witness the bay's mesmerizing sunset.

The evening offers another unique culinary lesson with the head chef–a splendid time to enjoy a live band performance and indulge in the gourmet dinner.

An overnight Halong Bay cruise allows you to get up close to the islands scattered 

Day 3 : As dawn breaks, you are greeted with another invigorating Tai Chi session on the L’Odyssée Sundeck, allowing them to feel connected with the serene environment of Halong Bay.

A light breakfast is then served to energize you for the upcoming exploration. The highlight of the morning is to visit Sung Sot Cave, the largest and arguably the most magnificent cave in Halong Bay.

Returning to the cruise, a lavish buffet breakfast awaits at the Le Marin restaurant. The journey then continues with the cruise once again passing by iconic landmarks such as Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, and Fighting Cock Islet.

As the voyage nears its end, guests proceed with the checkout formalities at the reception desk, settling any bills and preparing for disembarkation. By mid-morning, the cruise ship docks at Tuan Chau Island, marking the end of an unforgettable Halong Bay boat trip overnight .

Departure time and location for Halong bay boat trip overnight

Multi-day Halong Bay cruises typically set sail around noon

Your chosen cruise option dictates both the time and place of departure. The primary point of embarkation is Tuan Chau Wharf, found just 8 kilometers outside of Halong City. Cruise operators may also alternatively depart from other locations in Hai Phong or Quang Ninh.

It is highly advisable to confirm your cruise's precise departure time and location directly with the provider well in advance.

Most of these Halong cruises have their boarding times set for early afternoon, usually around noon. Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, and Paradise Peak all depart at 12 p.m., and you can check in at their Paradise Suites Hotel.

Make transportation plans to arrive comfortably ahead of schedule, accounting for traffic or other potential delays. Arriving early eliminates any risk of missing your scheduled departure.

Costs of Halong Bay cruise overnight

The cost of an overnight cruise in Halong Bay can vary significantly based on several factors, including the cruise operator, the level of luxury, the duration of the cruise, the type of cabin. It's essential to research and compare options to find one that fits your budget and preferences.

Cost of Paradise Peak 2 days 1 night for single or double and children

Table price of Paradise Elegance 2 days 1 night

Table price of Paradise Sails 2 days 1 night 

Typically, costs may vary between $100 to $300 each person. There are cruises tailored to provide a comprehensive Halong Bay experience without the premium price tag. These budget-friendly options prioritize essential amenities, often featuring shared accommodations.

For those seeking a more opulent experience, there are premium cruises available. They offer enhanced amenities like private balconies, specialized spa treatments, and gourmet dining experiences. These luxury options can command prices of up to more than $500 per person.

Be aware that even with the established price, some cruises might levy additional charges for specific activities or premium services.

Read More:  Escape to Paradise: Halong Bay Cruise 3 days 2 nights Experience

Ready for your Halong Bay overnight cruise?

Is it worth staying on a cruise in halong bay.

Absolutely, it is worth staying on a cruise in Halong Bay. The pristine beauty of Halong Bay, with its towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, is best experienced from the deck of a cruise ship.

With a Halong Bay boat trip overnight, you will get the chance to witness the bay's splendor up close, navigate through its islets, and discover hidden lagoons and caves that are otherwise inaccessible. Staying overnight on the calm water also lets you soak in the breathtaking sunset and sunrise and make the experience truly unforgettable.

Sundecks on Halong bay cruise overnight provide vantage points Halong Bay's scenery

How many nights do you need in Halong Bay?

Two or three nights should give you enough time to capture the essence of Halong Bay tourist experience. This duration ensures that guests can explore significant landmarks, partake in enjoyable activities, and still have moments of relaxation amidst the bay's serene setting.

Which option is preferable: an overnight cruise or a day cruise in Halong Bay? Whichever kind of immersion you like, an overnight or day cruise in Halong Bay is what you should do. Halong bay boat trip overnight offers a more tranquil experience with activities like night squid fishing, allowing you to take in the beauty of the bay between dusk and dawn. A day cruise gives you a peek but not enough time to explore. If you have the time, staying overnight offers a more in-depth, relaxed experience of the breathtaking scenery.

What should first-timers keep in mind when choose overnight cruise in Halong Bay? When embarking on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay for the first time, it's critical to take into account the cruise operator's reputation, the itinerary, cabin comfort, and included activities. Make sure the trip suits your interests for leisure and activities, and keep an eye out for any hidden fees.

Do all overnight cruises in Halong Bay provide meals as part of the package? Yes, meals are included in the price of most overnight cruises in Halong Bay. They usually serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on regional Vietnamese cuisines and fresh seafood.

Paradise Vietnam specializes in offering world-class Halong Bay overnight cruises that epitomize luxury and comfort. Tourist reviews rave about the enchanting Halong Bay cruise overnight with Paradise, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes and impeccable services that make it an unforgettable experience. For those interested in immersing themselves in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we would be delighted if you could contact us for further details or to make a booking.

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Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi

Click to explore what's on this page

• Essential information
• Tour Highlights
• Tour Description
• What’s included and excluded
• Tour Itinerary
• Additional information
• Prices & Availability
• Pick-Up locations
• Pick-Up time
• Cancellation policy
• Duration - 1 day, 8 hours, 30 minutes
• Guide options English
• Cancellation Policy Standard
• Asia, Vietnam, Ha Long
• Multi-Day Tours & Cruises

For the Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi we collect you directly from any hotel in the central part of Hanoi and we start our journey to have 2 days long overnight Halong Bay cruise to sail, swim, hike just relax in the amazing scenery.

• 2 days and 1 night of amazing Halong Bay cruise around the the archipelago!
• Visiting Bai Chay harbour, Ti Top Island, kayaking, exploring caves, enjoying beaches, cabin in the cruise boat, breakfast and lunch included!
• Observe incredible sunset and sunrise cruising among endless islands of Halong Bay!
• Hotel pick-up from Hanoi centre and comfortable transfers from Hanoi to Halong Bay and back!

Description

The Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi which is 2 days and 1 night long takes you to the Halong Bay is an incredibly beautiful natural wonder in the north part of the country nearby China. The Halong Bay is formed with 1600 limestone bigger islands and almost the same amount of islets the take a territory of over 1500 km2. Our overnight cruise takes us to discover this extraordinary site that declared by UNESCO as the World Heritage Site. Almost everyone taking a day tour, day cruise or an overnight cruise as ours will feel in Halong Bay like something right out of an incredible movie about the beauty of our planet. This UNESCO world heritage site offers a wide range of biodiversity and the surrealistic landscapes, forms and scenery have indeed featured in many films. The best way to explore the Halong Bay is to take at least Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi which is only 170km away because it offers the best relation of high day tour quality, fair price and opportunity to spend an amazing night in the mysterious atmosphere of Halong Bay.

Once we collect you from your hotel - we pick-up from any hotel located in the central part of Hanoi (if you are located somewhere else, just come by yourself to any bigger hotel in the center, so we will collect you from there for the cruise). Our drive to the Halong Bay will take approximately 3 hours by luxury comfortable air-conditioned bus. The trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay for the overnight cruise is a kind of day tours by itself because you will discover less developed areas on the way and it's good sightseeing to understand Vietnam more.

We arrive at the Bai Chay / Halong pier at about 11:30 AM and then we will have a short bay tour which's also the transfer by tender to our big cruise boat. Here, on board, you will enjoy our Welcome Drink and get cruise briefing to check in to the cruise boat cabins and then we start our day and night cruise in Halong Bay. At 13:00 in the extraordinary scenery while sailing among the endless islands of Halong Bay we will be served with lunch and you can choose between deluxe Vietnamese and International set menu. Right after lunch, the massage service is available and it will be optionally available throughout whole the cruise.

We sail across the calm sea finally reach at about 14.30 the Ti Top Island. Here, by Ti Top island you can enjoy swimming, relaxing on the beach and hiking to the top of the mountain on the island in search for amazing views and photo points. Water and towels supplied and we will keep o the island for about 45 minutes.

Located in the center of Halong Bay archipelago, just 8 kilometers from the Southeast of Bai Chay Harbor, Ti Top Island is commonly recognized as one of the most scenic sites by the Halong visitors. The island's name Ti Top is given by the most famous hero of Vietnam, President Ho Chi Minh, after the Soviet astronaut German Titov when he visited the island for the first time. So standing out from other attractions of Halong Bay, the island does not only offers unforgettable landscapes but it also possesses an incredibly beautiful white sand beach where you can spend some time feeling yourself in a paradise. Even the Ti Top beach is not a big beach like many other beaches of Halong Bay islands, but it is well known for its special atmosphere, transparent turquoise water, soft white sand, and tropical surroundings what makes it a perfect place to refresh your energy. At 15:15 we start back from the Ti Top beach to our cruise boat and sail for approximately 45 minutes to our next destination and one of the most famous attractions of Halong - the Bat Cave.

Bat Cave (Hang Doi) is a typical example of the erosive power of nature. Over time and weather, cracks and fissures in the limestone formations were slowly eroded to create the karstic cave. At the time of low tide, adventurous kayakers can enter Bat Cave, but paddling a kayak along Bat Cave depend also on the weather and you must wear life jackets and better to be accompanied by a local guide to avoid dangerous situations. We arrive at about 16:15 and anchor nearby the Bat Cave. There are two program options to choose from for the Overnight Halong Bay Cruise participants. The first option is a 40-minute kayaking trip to explore the nearby Bat Cave and lagoon as well as the surrounding waters. Kayaking is an extra cost of 10 USD per person, including a bottle of water for each kayak trip participant. Another option is to take a trip to the biggest floating fishing village in Halong Bay. We will cruise Halong to the village on the junk boat and take a short photo tour around the village for about 20 minutes.

Next, at about 18:30 we are approaching the Luon Bo area and anchor here for the overnight stop. Luon Cave is situated on Bo Hon Island, sit it is just approx. 14km toward the south from Bai Chay and just a mile away from our next attraction - Surprise Cave. We are not visiting Luon Cave, but it's good to know it has the shape of an arc which is 60 meters long and 3-4 meters high, depending on the tide and the water level. Being quite low the cave is accessible by tiny boats and kayaks only. During the high tide, travelers have to stoop down to paddle gently through the Luon Cave. Halong Bay is commonly recognized for its wide cave systems and the Halong Bay does have a lot of different caves very similar to the arc-shaped Luon Cave. Luon Cave has counted among the best places in Halong Bay for kayak trips. If you are fun of kayaking, you cannot escape experience to paddle through the Luon Cave. Beside the kayaking, rowing is the other interesting option for those who dream to discover the Luon Cave. Sitting as a passenger on a small bamboo boat rowed by a local, tourists can observe a wide diversity of different plants like ferns, cycads, Benjamin’s fig trees as well as amazingly beautiful orchids. If are a lucky person, you may even get extraordinary photos with mischievous monkeys jigging on the cliffs. Luon Bo area is an amazing creature of nature and there are not so many places like this left in the word.

At 19:00 as the first day of our luxury cruise ending you will be served with the dinner - and you can choose between deluxe Vietnamese and Western buffet or a set menu. After the dinner you can spend relaxing time watching a movie in the dining room at approximately 9:15 or playing board games or cards and watching an amazingly beautiful sunset at Halong Bay. Also, between 21:00 and 23:00 there's a Happy Hour on our Overnight Halong Bay Cruise! Buy one drink and get another one for free (wine excluded).

Our second day of the Overnight Halong Bay Cruise we start at 6:45 in the morning and coffee, tea and breakfast pastries are served in the dining room. We start cruising and at about we 7:00 arrive at the Surprise Cave area and anchor by a small fishing village here. You can relax onboard or you can join our Tai Chi program on the sundeck at 7:00 for about 30 minutes.

Situated inside of the Bo Hon Island, in the center of Halong Bay, Surprise Cave is commonly known as the most interesting cave in this charming bay. Most of the names of well-known attractions of Halong Bay having roots from legends and stories. The Surprise Cave also have own story of the name. Initially, this cave had the name of 'Grotto de la Surprise' (The cave of Surprise in French), but now people cut the name just to the 'Surprise Cave'. It because when you enter the cave for the first time, what you usually pronounce is something very emotional like 'wow', 'stunning' or 'incredible”. This your first time when you step into the cave it looks to be very narrow and a king of mini-cave, but then you walk forward and with each your step the cave become surprisingly bigger and bigger. Finally, a narrow cave becomes a gigantic, very spacious and enormous cave. Those visitors with a creative ability can easily imagine the enormous theater created by the power of Nature. The cave's ceiling is decorated with stalactites like colorful chandeliers and the floor consist of rocks in different strange shapes - some rocks remind you an elephant, horse or tree, leaves, or flowers. As deeper you are walking into the Surprise Cave as the more interesting it becomes inside.

On the second day of Overnight Halong Bay Cruise at about 8:00 in the morning we start our trip by junk boat to the Surprise Cave. It takes us just a short walk of about a hundred meters from the shore the entrance of the cave and we will visit the cave with a guided tour on foot for approximately 45 minutes. We return by the junk boat back to our cruise ship at 9:00 and upon return, you have time to refresh, take shower and check-out of the cabin. Please leave heavy luggage outside of the cabins (our staff will transfer to the pier). Now we are sailing back to the Bai Chay / Halong pier. At 9:30 you can enjoy the Breakfast Set Menu or Buffet served in the dining room. Settle bills in the dining room after breakfast.

Along the sail back you can relax on the sundeck or in the dining room and enjoy the bay scenery as we approach the pier at about 10:45 and at 11:00 will be transferred by the tender to the pier building to relax inside or enjoy the Bai Chay beach views before departing back to Hanoi.

Bai Chay is a huge, extremely beautiful, but artificial beach, located nearby the coast of Ha Long Bay. This wide white sand beach measure over a half kilometer long and it's up to a hundred meters wide. Here you will take your last photos before the last part of our Overnight Halong Bay Cruise - comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Hanoi. You will be back from the cruise to your hotel in Hanoi at about 16:00.

What's included

• Inclusions:
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in central part of Hanoi.
• Comfortable bus transfers from Hanoi to Halong Bay and back.
• Cabin, breakfast and lunch on the cruise boat.
• Junk boat transfers and local tours with English speaking guide.
• Exclusions:
• Kayak rental - optional (10 USD per person).
• Massage service (available on board).
• Visited Places:

Please, read full tour description to understand the complete Overnight Halong Bay Cruise itinerary!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time does the Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi take?

Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi duration is 1 day, 8 hours, 30 minutes .

How many days in advance I must book Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi?

You can book Overnight Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi at least in 2 days . Check availability calendar in "Book Now" form to see currently available dates.

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What to expect on an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, Vietnam

• July 27, 2023
• curious goose

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Halong Bay is one of the most popular and well known sites in Vietnam. It is considered a spectacle of natural beauty and has been awarded Unesco world heritage status due to its dramatic scenery and biological importance. The area consists of over 1600 small islands and inlets, most of which are uninhabited.

As soon as I started planning our month-long trip to Vietnam, Halong Bay was at the top of my list of places I wanted to visit. It is one of those ‘Bucket list’ places to see in Vietnam. The best way to see Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise, but there are so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming.

If you’re thinking of booking an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, you might be wondering exactly what that entails. I know I did! Let’s be honest, the cruises are not cheap and if you’re like me, who was on a backpacking budget, you’ll want to know what you are getting for your money.

In this post I’ll be sharing all the details of my overnight cruise in Halong Bay, including my honest review and opinion of the whole experience.

1. How to pick the best Halong bay cruise for you? 2. What is the Athena cruise ship like? 3. What is the itinerary for a 1 night / 2 day Halong bay cruise? > Itinerary Overview > Detailed Itinerary 4. My review of the 1 night, 2 day Halong bay cruise with Athena 5. Was it worth the price we paid? 6. Final thoughts of our Halong bay cruise

How to pick the best Halong bay cruise for you?

There are three main options available for cruising Halong Bay: a day cruise, a 1 night / 2 day cruise and a 2 night / 3 day cruise. Most of the cruises offer a hotel transfer from Hanoi (either included in the price or as an extra cost). You can easily reach Hanoi from many places in Vietnam, by train, plane or bus . The time allowed for the journey from Hanoi to Halong bay is around 2 hours and so if you chose a day trip, you would spend half of your time in the coach, rather than on the boat.

There are also lots of places to stay in Halong Bay , so you can also take a cruise directly from there.

There are many different cruise companies operating in Halong bay , each of them have slightly different itineraries – they may also change their itinerary slightly throughout the year. Therefore, if you want to see a specific attraction in Halong Bay, make sure you read the itinerary before booking.

There are also some budget cruises, so if you are travelling or backpacking on a budget in Vietnam, there are still some great options available for you.

The cruise I selected was a 1 night, 2 day cruise on the Athena cruise ship, which I booked via Azotour. I travelled to Vietnam in May 2022, which was not long after the country re-opened to tourists. This meant that not all of the cruise companies were back up and running yet, so Azotour helped to find me a cruise that fitted my dates and requirements.

(Disclaimer: the Athena cruise itinerary may have changed slightly since I took this cruise, so again, check before booking, but hopefully this post will still give you a good idea of what to expect when cruising in Halong bay).

What is the Athena cruise ship like?

The ship I was on was the Athena. It has 21 bedrooms, most of which are standard bedrooms, but there are also some suites too. All of the rooms have balconies and en-suite bathrooms, as well as a kettle and fridge. The bedrooms are small but very luxurious and the beds were so comfortable! It was definitely a nice change to the firm mattresses we had been used to in our budget hotels! We were lucky enough to be upgraded to a Premium Suite, located at the back of the ship. The suite was only a little bigger than the standard sized rooms, but it didn’t matter as we weren’t in the room that often. The main advantage of the Premium Suite was that it had a much larger balcony off the back of the boat, perfect for watching the sunset and sunrise.

Most of the rooms are located on the ground floor and the first floor. The ground floor is also where you also get on and off the ship. The dining room is located on the first floor, with floor to ceiling glass windows on three sides and on the third floor you will find the sundeck, with a bar, seating and a small hot tub in the centre (there are also two further suites on this level).

Everything about the cruise ship felt plush, new and well looked after and maintained. The staff were incredibly friendly and professional and the cruise manager kept us updated with the activities and made sure we had everything we needed.

Our Premium Suite and balcony on the Athena cruise ship

What is the itinerary for a 1 night / 2 day Halong bay cruise?

As I mentioned previously, each company has different itineraries, however this was our itinerary on the Athena at the time of cruising.

Itinerary overview:

08.30 Transfer from Hanoi

12.00 Welcome at cruise port

12.30 Transfer to cruise ship via tender boat and check in

13.00 Depart Halong bay harbour and enjoy buffet lunch in the restaurant

14.45 Transfer by tender to Sung Sot Cave (surprising cave)

15.45 Transfer to Titov Island – option to climb to viewpoint and swim

17.15 Return to cruise ship

17.30 Option to take part in Vietnamese cooking demonstration

18.00 Happy hour on sundeck

19.00 Dinner in the restaurant

20.30 After dinner, option to try squid fishing

06.15 Option to take part in Tai Chi on sundeck

06.45 Light breakfast in the restaurant

07.30 Transfer by tender to Luon Cave for kayaking or trip in bamboo boat

09.00 Return to cruise ship

09.30 Check out of rooms and enjoy buffet brunch in restaurant

10.45 Transfer by tender back to Halong bay port

12.00 Board bus back to Hanoi

Detailed itinerary

Below I’ve shared the full details of my 1 night / 2 day cruise of Halong Bay so you know what to expect before booking your trip:

Day 1 on board the Athena Halong bay cruise

Day 1 on board the Athena cruise was a busy day, jam packed with delicious food and great activities.

Checking in and setting sail

The luxury bus picked us up from our hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter at 8.30am. We stopped to pick some more people up, then we were on our way. The journey from Hanoi to Halong bay cruise port is just under 2.5 hours, but we stopped three times on the way there for a rest break / toilet break! It did feel a bit like the driver was trying to stall a little bit to slow down and stick to the schedule.

Once we were at the cruise port, we were greeted by the cruise manager who checked dietary requirements with us, then we waited for about 30 minutes in the cruise terminal before boarding the tender boat which would take us to the cruise ship.

We left our bags on the tender and made our way to the dining room for a welcome drink – a refreshing watermelon juice – and a safety briefing. After the short welcome, we collected our bags and checked into our rooms.

After checking into our rooms, we set sail to Halong bay and it was time to head back to the dining room to check out the buffet lunch! The lunch was really nice. Options included fried rice, chicken wings, fried sweet potatoes, spring rolls, salad, steamed fish, stir fried vegetables and chicken soup. There was also a selection of fresh fruit and desserts such as sweet coconut rice, profiteroles, and a little coconut cream sponge cake. Tea, coffee and water were also available. If you wanted any other soft or alcoholic drinks you just ordered them with the waiter and charged it back to your room.

The ship stopped and anchored up in Halong bay around 13.45, but we weren’t due to start the first afternoon activity until 14.45, so we weren’t sure what to do with ourselves at first! But we spent the time just relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the view of being surrounded by beautiful limestone island mountains.

Excursion 1: Sung Sot Cave

At 14.45 (they were very punctual throughout our trip!), we boarded the tender boat and went to the first stop which was Sung Sot cave (known as ‘Amazing’ or ‘Surprising’ cave). The cave is one of the biggest attractions in Halong bay. It consists of 3 chambers with the last one being quite large. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much after seeing the Marble Mountains in Da Nang, and the Paradise cave in Phong Nha but it was quite impressive and much bigger than I had anticipated.

There’s 118 stairs to walk up to reach the entrance of the cave and once you’re at the top you’ll be greeted with gorgeous views across the bay. You follow the path around the cave in a big U shape. At times we felt a bit herded through by other people. We like to take our time to really look around and stop to take photos, but it seemed some people just weren’t as interested and marched through. We just let them pass so we could enjoy looking around. The path through the cave is quite smooth and you can easily wear flip flops. It won’t take long to visit the cave and soon we arrived at the tender pick up point, where we were taken to our next stop – Titov Island.

Excursion 2: Titov Island

Titov Island is a small island with a beach and a viewpoint. The walk to the viewpoint is 400m up a set of stairs. It is a steep, but short climb, and there is a handrail to help. Again, wearing flip flops is fine. At the top of the viewpoint you will be rewarded with almost 360 degree views of the bay.

Although the view was impressive, I was a bit disappointed by the number of boats I could see. Not just cruise ships and day trip boats but also huge freight boats and oil tankers. It was a shame really because it kind of ruined the scenery. You could also see the outline of the buildings in the city on the mainland, which was when I realised that we were not actually as far out as I had thought.

The small beach on Titov island was rough sand and the water was murky and not that clean, it was possibly quite polluted from all the boats and oil tankers around the bay. Titov Island is very much there for tourists. There are toilets, showers and several snack bars as well as beach chairs which you can rent. It’s so hard not to make comparisons when you are travelling but I was expecting it to be similar to Nang Yuan Island, off the shores of Koh Tao in Thailand, which although had amenities, felt cleaner, more natural and less commercialised. Despite the boats, the view was really the highlight of this island. I was a bit disappointed with the beach itself if i’m honest.

Back to the ship

After our afternoon visiting Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, we arrived back on the ship at around 5pm, where we had some free time until dinner. There was an option to take part in a Vietnamese cooking lesson to make fresh spring rolls but we decided to skip that and enjoy relaxing in our room and on our balcony. We surfaced from our room at 6pm, in time for happy hour (of course!). All the drinks were buy one, get one free, except for wine. We were lucky enough to have gorgeous weather during our trip and sitting on the sundeck watching the sunset over Halong bay was just perfect.

Evening meal

The evening meal was a 5 course set menu and was pretty much all seafood! Luckily, at the start of the day, the cruise manager checked with us if there was anything we didn’t eat because my husband, Lee, doesn’t eat seafood! We didn’t think to tell them when we made the booking as normally there’s always a couple of options to choose from and there’s almost always a chicken or vegetarian dish! Luckily they swapped the seafood elements for beef or chicken for him.

Our dinner menu

Course 1: Seafood soup (chicken soup for Lee)

Course 2: Papaya salad with squid cake (breaded chicken for Lee)

Course 3: Beef noodles

Course 4: Seabass with 2 large shrimps, 2 oysters and rice (Lee had chicken, beef and vegetables with rice)

Course 4: Melon and dragon fruit (unless it’s covered in pastry or sat on top of a cheesecake, fruit is not a dessert!)

Course 5: Tea and Coffee (not really a ‘course’)

Apart from the disappointing ‘desert’, the evening meal was nice. The presentation was lovely, as you would expect from a luxury cruise, and it tasted good. However, I think I preferred some of the buffet food we had at lunch!

After dinner there was an option to do squid fishing, which to be honest, I forgot about because we were enjoying ourselves chatting to other people we had met on the ship. Some of the Vietnamese guests did karaoke on the sundeck after dinner too (you’re never far away from a karaoke machine in Vietnam, even on a luxury cruise in the middle of the sea it seems!).

The odd thing on our ship was that half of the guests were foreigners and half were Vietnamese and they pretty much kept us apart the whole time. I suppose on the tender boats it made sense so that the cruise manager could give instructions to them in Vietnamese and to us in English. But for the evening meal, instead of being given individual plates of food like we were, they had everything served to them as big sharing portions. Perhaps it was because they were in big groups, and most of the foreigners were in couples, or maybe it’s just because that is how Vietnamese food is often served. I’m not sure, but it felt weird that there was this segregation.

Day 2 on board the Athena Halong bay cruise

Day 2 started with an option to do Tai chi at 6.15am on the sundeck, although I skipped it, deciding to enjoy the comfortable bed for just a bit longer! A buffet breakfast was served at 6.45am and was a selection of cereals, pancakes, pastries, toast and fruit.

Excursion 3 – Kayaking

At 7.30am we got on the tender to Luon cave to do some kayaking (if you didn’t want to kayak, there were some bamboo rowing boats you could take instead. You would need to pay for the driver to take you, but I think it was only 30k vnd pp). The cave is actually only 35m long so more of an arch to be honest! You go under the arch and you are in a small circular lagoon in the bay. Although the bay is very pretty with limestone cliffs covered in trees and calm, green-blue water it was quite small and once you’d seen it there wasn’t much else to do or see.

We were given 45 minutes for kayaking, which was more than enough given the size of the lagoon. Back on the ship, we had 1 hour of free time before check out. It was weird that we had to get up so early for kayaking when we then had an hour of free time before checking out. We sort of felt like we were just hanging out, but it was nice to sit on the balcony as the sun started warming up.

Kayaking in the small but pretty Luon cave

Time to check out

At 9.30am we had to check out of the room leaving our bags outside of our door. We had a buffet brunch, which was a selection of bacon, sausage, fried chicken, bread dumplings, noodles, salad, fried rice and fruit with juice and tea and coffee.

After brunch we relaxed on the sundeck as we sailed back to the port. We had to wait for the tender boat and then once we were in the cruise terminal we waited another 30 mins for the bus.

The bus took about 3 hours and stopped halfway for a rest. It felt like a long day since we got up at 6am and left the boat at 10.45!

My review of the 1 night, 2 day Halong bay cruise with Athena

Staying on the Athena ship did feel like a real treat, particularly for us as we had spent the previous 5 months backpacking on a budget. It was really luxurious and the staff and service was really good.

The food we had was delicious, particularly the buffet lunch and the two breakfasts. The additional drinks we ordered were more expensive than what you might pay in a typical bar on land, but this wasn’t a typical bar and I didn’t think the drinks were as expensive as I had anticipated.

The excursions were really good. We managed to fit a lot into the 2 days (or 2 half-days if you think about it!) and the itinerary and organisation of everything was really smooth and professional.

It did feel like there was a lot of waiting around, which is a shame because I would rather be on the boat for longer, after all that’s what I’d paid for! It would have been better if we hadn’t had so many rest stops on the way to Halong bay. This would have meant we could have boarded sooner and also not have to get up so early on the second day to fit everything in before having to check out.

However, I do understand that they need to do this in order to have back to back bookings. As soon as we checked out of our rooms at 9.30am, housekeeping were straight in turning it around for the next guests to board.

Was it worth the price we paid?

We paid £270 for our 1 night, 2 day cruise with Athena for two people. The actual cost was £250 but we ended up having to pay a bit more as we didn’t want to pay by bank transfer (we prefer to pay with credit card so that we have added protection). The only way to pay by credit card was via paypal, which meant we were charged a credit card fee and also had to deal with paypal’s rubbish exchange rate!)

If you break down what we got for our £270, we had one night of luxury accommodation, 4 meals for two people, 3 excursions on the ship, transfers to and from Hanoi in a luxury bus, plus the experience of cruising around Halong bay. So although it blew our £60 per day backpacking budget, I think it was actually good value for what we got and the experience we had.

Final thoughts of our Halong bay cruise

Although Halong bay is beautiful, it is nowhere near as beautiful and untouched as Phang Nga Bay in Phuket , or Ang Thong Marine park near Koh Samui, Thailand (in my opinion). To be honest, I think it will be hard to beat the Phang Nga bay tour we did, it is one of my personal favourites from our travels in Asia!

All that being said, I did have a great time on our Halong Bay cruise. It was one of the things I really wanted to do when visiting Vietnam and I’m so glad we did. It was a great experience and I really enjoyed it. We saw some beautiful scenery, enjoyed some delicious food and were spoiled with a bit of luxury and great service – what more could you want from a little trip?!

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Halong Bay Overnight Cruises from Hanoi by Expressway Transfer (2D1N or 3D2N)

Code: #HLOvernightcruise

Duration: 2 Days - 1 Night / 3 Days - 2 Nights

Router: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay

Enjoy a more charismatic—and photogenic—trip through Halong Bay aboard a traditional wooden craft fitted out in true boutique style. You’ll visit Surprise Cave and Titop Island, soak up epic seascapes, paddle a kayak or ride a bamboo boat to Luon Cave, and enjoy a tai chi session, a cooking demo, and night squid fishing. Besides four delicious meals, your package includes round-trip transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter hotels. 

• Itinerary & Price 2 Days
• Itinerary & Price 3 Days

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HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISE 3 DAYS HIGHLIGHT :

• Spend two days cruising Halong Bay with meals and activities included
• See Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay in 3 days 
• S ee Surprise Cave and Titop Island, and kayak Luon Cave’s lagoons
• Explore Full Day Lan Ha Bay on second day on smaller boat
• En-suite cabins have both air-conditioning and hot water
• Skip the stress with 2-way transfers direct from your Old Quarter hotel

HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISE 3 DAYS ITINENARY  (SAMPLE ITINENARY):

DAY 1 : HANOI - HALONG BAY - OVERNIGHT CRUISE ( L/D)

• 07.45 – 08.30: You will be picked up from your hotel in Ha Noi Old Quarter. Then we will head to Ha Long Bay. Distance Ha Noi – Ha Long: 180 kilometers/2.5 – 3 hours
• 11.30: Upon arriving in our lobby in Tuan Chau Marina, you may take a short stretch while our staff arranges all registration with the local government.
• 12.00 – 12.30: The cruise captain and staff will welcome you onboard after a short tender transfer. While enjoying a refreshing welcome drink, a short cruise briefing and safety instructions will be given.
• 12.30 – 13.00: CRUISE voyages to Ha Long Bay – one of the New Seven Nature Wonders of the World. Lunch is served on board while the cruise passes via amazing limestone karst formations that rise up out of the sea in an impressive manner.
• 14.00 – 14.30: You will leave the cruise to explore Sung Sot Cave (also known as Surprise/ Amazing Cave), one of the biggest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay.
• 15.00: Returning to CRUISE, the trip will continue to Ti Top Island. Here, you can watch the magnificent view over either the Gulf of Tonkin or swim in the emerald green and cool water.
• 17.00: After a long day, this is the ideal time to enjoy energizing drinks and snacks by joining ‘Happy Hour’ or Cooking Class on the sundeck
• 19.30: Sumptuous Dinner is served. Enjoy delicious local food prepared and served for you by our wonderful onboard catering staff.
• 20.30: After dinner, various activities including karaoke, and squid fishing are organized. Or you can just laze around with exhilarating drinks from our bar. The rest of the day is spent at your leisure.
• Accommodation: On Board

DAY 2 : HALONG BAY - LAN HA BAY FULL DAY - OVERNIGHT CRUISE IN HALONG BAY ( B/L/D)

• 06:45-07:30 : Have breakfast at second floor
• 8:30 : Transfer to smaller boat to explore Lan Ha Bay
• 10:00-10:30: We will visit the Dark and Bright cave - famous for the pristine natural beauty and poetic, attractive seascape of Lan Ha Bay. Here you will take some photos of the romantic, lyrical local see-sights and enjoying bamboo boats or kayaking - which is an interesting activity to discover the truest beauty of the Limestone Mountains and the blue sky of Lan Ha Bay
• 11:30 : Enjoy your lunch on the boat
• 12:30 : Swimming at Ba Trai Dao island/ Tra Bau ( about an hour )
• 13:30 : Come back to Ha Long Bay
• 14:45 : Visit a floating Pearl Farm Village and learn the technique for making high-quality pearls
• 15:25 : Return to your cruise, take time to refresh and relax, joining in our Sunset Party
• 19:00 : Dinner is served at the Sundeck

DAY 3 : HALONG BAY - HANOI ( B/L)

• 06.15 – 07.00: Breakfast is served. It can be a great idea to enjoy the meal with the magnificent view of the sunrise in Ha Long Bay.
• 8.00 - 9.30: The cruise gets closer to the center of the Natural Preservation Area. Join our guide on a short trip to Luon Cave. This magic work of nature shows you the formation of karst mountains. You can discover this time masterpiece by kayaking on your own. If you are lucky, you can catch great photos with mischievous monkeys jigging up and down around the cliffs.
• 9.30: Cruise welcomes you back on board and it is time for checking out.
• 10.00: Whilst cruising back, delightful lunch will be served.
• 11.35: We return to the quayside in the south of the bay, where our visitors disembark in Tuan Chau Marina. And leave for Ha Noi on our shuttle. Distance Ha Noi – Ha Long: 180 kilometers/2.5 – 3 hours
• 15.30 – 16.00: You will get back to your hotel in Ha Noi Old Quarter.

HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISE 3 DAYS INCLUSIONS:

• Roundtrip Shuttle Bus Transfer HANOI - HALONG
• Welcome drinks with warm/cold tissues
• Full equipped en-suite cabin with A/C, hot water
• Complimentary morning tea and coffee
• Full meals on boat as program
• English-speaking guide during the tour
• Entrance fees and sightseeing fees
• All activities outlined above, including swimming, kayaking
• Cookery demonstration and night squid fishing .
• Smaller boat to explore Lan Ha Bay on day 2

HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISE 3 DAYS EXCLUSIONS:

• Beverages and Personal Expenses
• Tips for crews,guide & driver are appreciated
• Holiday Surcharge
• All other services not clearly mentioned mentioned.

HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISE 3 DAYS  PRICE LIST 2023 - 2024: 

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1-Night Ha Long Bay Cruise from Hanoi – A Handy Guide

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. A 1-night cruise package from Hanoi is the perfect way to experience the magic of Halong Bay, allowing you to immerse yourself in its beauty while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a cruise. This articles will guide you through the highlights of a Halong Bay 1-night cruise, covering detailed itineraries, inclusions, exclusions, transportation options, and the variety of cruises available.

Halong Bay 1 Night Cruise Itinerary

For 1 night in Halong Bay, you can choose to visit Halong Bay Center (the classic route) or Bai Tu Long Bay (the less visited area). Both itineraries have similar timing and experience but be different about visiting sites and cruise route.

Halong Bay Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: hanoi – halong bay – luon cave – titop island (l,d).

• 08:00 – 08:30: Pickup from your hotel in the Old Quarter (20-minute refreshment break en route)
• 11:30 – 11:45: Arrive at Halong International Harbor
• 12:15: Embark on the cruise, check-in, welcome drinks, and briefing
• 13:00: Lunch while cruising through Ha Long Bay
• 14:45: Luon Cave – kayaking or bamboo boat ride
• 16:00: Titop Island – climbing, beach, and swimming
• 17:00 – 18:30: Enjoy the sunset on the sundeck with drinks and a cooking demonstration
• 19:15: Dinner
• 21:00: Night-time squid fishing
• 22:30: Free time and sweet dreams

DAY 2: HALONG BAY – SUNG SOT CAVE – HANOI (B,L)

• 06:15: Sunrise and Tai Chi on the sundeck
• 06:30: Light breakfast with coffee, tea, and pastries
• 07:20: Explore Sung Sot Cave
• 09:15: Check out and settle bills, start cruising back
• 09:30: Buffet brunch
• 10:45 – 11:00: Disembark at the port
• 11:15 – 11:30: Bus back to Hanoi, arriving around 14:30-14:45

Detail itinerary: https://baithojunks.com/2-day-1-night-cruise/

Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: hanoi – bai tu long bay.

• 07:30: Pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi. Transfer to Halong Bay.
• 12:00: Arrive at Hon Gai Harbor. Check-in on board.
• 13:00: Enjoy a welcome drink and safety briefing.
• 13:30: Lunch with fresh seafood while cruising to Bai Tu Long Bay.
• 15:00: Visit Vung Vieng fishing village by bamboo boat or kayak.
• 16:30: Relax on the sundeck or swim at Ban Chan Beach.
• 19:00: Dinner on board. Evening at leisure.

Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay – Hanoi

• 06:30: Start your day with Tai Chi on the sundeck.
• 07:00: Breakfast while cruising to Thien Canh Son Cave.
• 08:30: Explore Thien Canh Son Cave.
• 10:00: Check out of your cabin.
• 10:30: Cooking demonstration and early lunch.
• 11:45: Disembark and return to Hanoi.
• 17:00: Arrive in Hanoi. End of tour.

Detail itinerary: https://baithojunks.com/bai-tu-long-bay-2-day-1-night-cruise/

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Room: Comfortable accommodation in a well-appointed cabin with modern amenities, a private bathroom.
• Meals: Four meals, including lunch, dinner, breakfast, and brunch, offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
• Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Hanoi to Halong Bay in a comfortable vehicle.
• Activities: Engaging in activities such as kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi sessions, and exploring caves and islands.
• Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to the mentioned sites
• Drinks: Beverages, including alcohol and soft drinks, are not included and are charged separately. Soft drinks at 2$ – 3$/can, Beer at 3$ – 5$/can
• Extra Services: Optional services such as spa treatments and massages are available at an additional cost.

Transportation from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Limousine bus.

For a premium and comfortable experience, opt for a limousine bus. These buses offer luxurious seats, modern amenities, and a smooth ride. They are well-equipped with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and spacious legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey.

The limousine bus could be arranged with 9 seat, 11 seat, 19 seats vehicle options

Check out the transporation by Bai Tho Junks: https://baithojunks.com/transportation-hanoi-to-halong-bay/

 Tourist Bus

A more economical option is the standard tourist bus. These buses provide basic comfort and are a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. While they may not have all the amenities of a limousine bus, they offer a reliable and convenient way to reach Halong Bay. The number of seats on normal tourist buses is 29, 35 or 45-seat vehicle options.

Pick-Up & Drop-Off

Most cruises offer pick-up and drop-off services at hotels in the Hanoi Old Quarter, ensuring a convenient start and end to your journey. If you do not stay at a hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, we have the meeting point at Hanoi Opera House in Trang Tien str, Hanoi.

Cruise Options for Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay

Boutique 4-star cruises.

• Victory Cruise by Bai Tho Junks: The 21-cabin cruising boat provides a cozy, intimate experience with excellent service and amenities. They are perfect for travelers seeking a mid-range option that combines comfort and affordability.
• Treasure Junk by Bai Tho Junks : The 14-cabin boat features traditional decoration and a cozy atmosphere. You can enjoy the indoor and outdoor dining. A perfect option for travelers who prefer more privacy and comfort.

Luxury 5-Star Cruises

• Victory Star Cruise by Bai Tho Junks: For a more luxurious experience, these 5-star cruises offer opulent cabins, gourmet dining, and top-notch facilities. They are ideal for those who want to indulge in luxury while exploring the beauty of Halong Bay. The cruise has 32 luxurious cabin, bar & restaurant, spa and sundeck to let you fully enjoy the cruise journey.

Experience on 1 night cruise

Kayaking is a highlight of any Halong Bay cruise. It allows you to explore the serene waters and hidden caves up close, offering a unique perspective of the stunning limestone formations. Paddling through the calm waters, you can discover secluded lagoons and untouched beaches, creating unforgettable memories.

Visiting Caves

• Sung Sot Cave : Also known as Surprise Cave, it is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Halong Bay. The cave features two main chambers, each filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, creating a surreal underground landscape.
• Thien Canh Son Cave : Located in Bai Tu Long Bay, this cave offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. It is less crowded than Sung Sot Cave, providing a more intimate and peaceful experience.

Visiting Islands

• Ti Top Island : Famous for its sandy beach and panoramic views from the top of the island. A short hike to the summit rewards you with stunning vistas of Halong Bay, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
• Hon Co Island: A hidden gem in Bai Tu Long Bay, this island is ideal for swimming and exploring. Its pristine beach and clear waters make it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

Vung Vieng Floating Village

In Bai Tu Long Bay, visit the Vung Vieng Floating Village to learn about the traditional way of life of the local fishermen. The village is home to a community that has lived on the water for generations, offering a unique glimpse into their daily lives. You can explore the village by bamboo boat, interact with the locals, and gain insight into their culture and traditions.

Meals on a 1-night cruise

During 2 day 1 night cruise on Halong Bay, you will enjoy 4 meals, prepared by chefs on the cruise and taste both local Vietnamese food and some international dishes.

Enjoy a diverse buffet or set menu blending Vietnamese and Western cuisines. Western options include soups, European-style bread, cheese, salads, and cold cuts. Some local seafood like oysters, squid, and shrimp, or indulge in grilled pork, beef, or chicken. Vegetarians can savor braised tofu, vegetable curry, spring rolls, and noodle dishes. Desserts feature fresh exotic fruits and sometimes European-style pastries.

As the sun sets behind Halong Bay’s karst islands, anticipate a dinner showcasing Western and Vietnamese flavors. Options range from Western food to freshly caught shrimp. Some cruises offer a fixed menu, while others provide a buffet. Seafood lovers can enjoy prawns, Ngan, lobster, and baked oysters. Some cruises offer special BBQ options for dinner.

Start your day with a light breakfast at 07:00, featuring bread with butter, jam, fruits, and sweet cakes, followed by a brunch at 09:30 or 10:00. So the breakfast is the light meal only.

Conclude your cruise with a buffet or set menu brunch at 09:30 or 10:00. Buffet options include a live seafood noodle station, egg station, bread assortment, stuffed crab, grilled oysters, and chicken. Enjoy hot dishes like pork, beef, chicken, and fish, with desserts of sweet cakes, fresh fruits, and yogurt.

Embarking on a 1-night cruise from Hanoi to Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay is an unforgettable experience that offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. You can choose a boutique 4-star cruise or a luxurious 5-star cruise based on personal preference then you are sure to create lasting memories amid one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.

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