Choosing the Best Ha Long Bay Cruise

Choosing the best Ha Long Bay cruise can often be one of the hardest decisions to make when planning a trip to Vietnam.

There are lots of Ha Long Bay tour options and finding the right Ha Long Bay cruise will depend on whether you want to quickly see the sights or immerse yourself in the splendour of the region.

You can take a Ha Long bay day trip, watch the sun set over the water on a Ha Long Bay cruise overnight or discover more hidden secrets as you cruise in Ha Long Bay for two nights.

We have had the pleasure of visiting Ha Long Bay on two occasions, taking a Ha Long Bay cruise 2 days 1 night and a Ha Long Bay day trip. We also know many of people who have taken a cruise in Ha Long Bay for two nights and we share these experiences.

Ha Long Bay Cruise Options

When picking a Ha Long Bay boat tour, you will find something for every budget and time frame. There is a choice of options including a Ha Long Bay day tour, a Ha Long Bay 1 night cruise or Ha Long Bay cruise 2 nights.

These junk boat Ha Long Bay tours range from fast paced day cruises to leisurely Ha Long Bay luxury cruises. Places visited can include Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and the attractions of Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay, depending on which cruise you choose.

Ha Long Bay Cruise 2 Days From Hanoi

Taking a Ha Long Bay cruise overnight is one of the best Ha Long Bay cruise options. This gives you more time to enjoy a Ha Long Bay sunset and see more of the regions stunning beauty.

You will find a selection of Ha Long Bay 2 days – 1-night cruises which vary in price, degrees of luxury and itinerary. Here is an example of what you may experience on a Ha Long Bay overnight cruise.

 Places Visited:

• Ha Long Bay Cruising
• Ti Top Island
• Sung Sot Cave
• Luon Cave

Activities:

• Swimming & Kayaking
• Hiking & Caving
• Squid Fishing
• Tai Chi Lesson
• Cooking Demo Class
• Lunch x 2, Dinner & Breakfast
• Hanoi Transfers

Ha Long Bay Cruise – Day 1

Our Ha Long Bay Cruise 2 days – 1 night tour began with a bus pick up in Hanoi Old Quarter. We quickly left the city and made the 2.5-hour journey through lush farmland to Ha Long Bay.

At midday we boarded our boat and set off across the water to leisurely cruise Ha Long Bay. Once onboard we were taken to the restaurant where we were greeted with a welcome drink and a lunch of tasty Vietnamese dishes.

Soon we were anchored in a picturesque bay filled with soaring limestone karsts. Here we were given the opportunity to kayak around the base of these impressive geological structures.

Next it was time to visit Sung Sot Cave or Surprise Cave as it is also known. The cave has large open chambers filled with stalagmites and stalactites. Once out of the cave you will see spectacular views overlooking Ha Long Bay.

We return to the boat to get ready for ‘Happy Hour’ and we watched the sky weave its magic as the sun set within this glorious landscape.

At dinner we sampled a delicious range of Vietnamese dishes with our fellow passengers. After dinner we had a lot of fun trying our hand at squid fishing. We relaxed on deck and talked to the other passengers who came from all over the world.

After a fabulous night we went back to our comfortable cabin. Looking out of the large glass windows we watched the moon and colourful cruise ship lights dance across the water, which was a truly magical experience.

Cruise Ha Long Bay Day 2

In the morning we woke to a Ha Long Bay sunrise with a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck. We enjoyed a quick breakfast before heading out on the morning activities.

We had the choice of taking a traditional bamboo boat or kayak through Luon Cave. Here the cave revealed its splendour as we entered a setting filled with towering limestone islands and lush vegetation.

At Ti Top Island we had a choice of activities which included swimming, sunbathing or a climb to the top of the island’s peak for breath-taking views of Ha Long Bay.

We joined the onboard Vietnamese cooking lesson and consumed the dishes for lunch on our way back to the harbour. Here we met the bus and took the 2.5-hour journey back to Hanoi.

Click here to book a 2 day cruise

Ha Long Bay Day Cruise From Hanoi

A Ha Long Bay day cruise is the best Ha Long Bay cruise tour option for anyone taking a short trip to Vietnam. You will find a selection of Ha Long Bay day cruises that vary in price, the areas visited and levels of luxury. Here is an example of what you may experience on a Ha Long Bay boat cruise.

Places Visited:

• Ha Long Bay Cruising
• Ti Top Island
• Sung Sot Cave
• Luon Cave

Activities:

• Swimming & Kayaking
• Hiking & Caving
• Lunch
• Hanoi Transfers

The day begins with either a hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter or at Hanoi Opera House for anyone staying further afield. Soon it is time to take the 2.5-hour bus trip through the busy streets of Hanoi and out into the rural landscapes on the journey to Ha Long Bay.

We take a break from the road at a rest stop which is adjoined to a cultured pearl factory. Here you can learn how a humble oyster can be cultivated into a lustrous pearl.   

After boarding our boat, we got our first glimpse of Ha Long Bay. As we made our way out into the bay, we passed the magnificent limestone karsts that jut out of the water. These natural towers are covered with vegetation and home to an abundance of birdlife.

Our first stop was at Ti Top Island where we had the choice of swimming, exploring the island or if there was time, take the climb up to the top of the mountain for views of Ha Long Bay.

After visiting Ti Top Island, it was time to enjoy a lunch of Vietnamese dishes and seafood. During lunch we had a relaxing time chatting to passengers and watching the beauty of Ha Long Bay drift by.  

Visit Sung Sot Cave, a spectacular cave system of open caverns which are brightly lit and end with incredible views.

We took the boat around to Luon Cave where we had the choice of kayaking or taking a traditional bamboo boat into the cave. Once inside the cave we entered an unexpected wonderland of greenery which took our breath away.

Soon it was time to say goodbye to Ha Long Bay as we made our way back to Tuan Chau Harbour and the 2.5-hour bus trip back to Hanoi.

Click here to book a day cruise from Hanoi

Ha Long Bay Cruise 3 Days – 2 Nights

When searching for the best Ha Long Bay cruise, you will find that the most luxurious Ha Long Bay cruise is the 3 day and 2-night Ha Long Bay cruise tour.

This cruise is perfect for those wanting to explore Ha Long Bay at a slower pace. The cruise offers extra leisure activities that give a more in-depth exploration of Ha Long Bay. Here is an example of what you may experience on a Ha Long Bay 3 day and 2-night cruise.

Places Visited:

• Ha Long Bay Cruising
• Sung Sot Cave
• Ti Top Island
• Ho Dong Tien Cave
• Drum Cave
• Maze Cave
• Pearl Farm Visit

Activities:

• Swimming & Kayaking
• Hiking & Caving
• Vietnamese Cooking Class
• Squid Fishing
• Tai Chi class
• Lunch x 3
• Dinner x 2
• Breakfast x 2
• Hanoi Transfers

Ha Long Bay Cruise – Day 1

The Ha Long Bay 3 day and 2-night luxury cruise begins with a hotel pick up in Hanoi Old Quarter. From here you will take the 2.5-hour journey through the Vietnamese countryside to Ha Long Bay.

Board your boat and get your first glimpse of the grandeur of Ha Long Bay, as you pass the majestic limestone rock formations which are said to have been created by dragons. As the scenery passes enjoy a welcome drink and a lunch of Vietnamese and seafood dishes.

Explore the well-lit caverns of Sung Sot Cave and admire the ancient stalagmites and stalactites that stretch from the floor and ceiling. After visiting the cave look out over the magnificent views of Ha Long Bay.

Next visit beautiful Ti Top Island to enjoy the sun and sand, go for a swim or if you are feeling adventurous hike up the mountain for more incredible views of Ha Long Bay.

Return to the boat and head up to the sundeck to watch the sun set with a drink and marvel at the beauty of Ha Long Bay. Discover the secrets of Vietnamese cooking with a cooking class.

After a busy day relax with a set dinner of Vietnamese seafood dishes. Evening activities can include squid fishing, karaoke, and socialising with your fellow passengers. 

Return to your comfortable private ocean view balcony cabin and watch the moonlight shimmer across the water as you reflect on the activities of such a memorable day.  

Ha Long Bay Cruises – Day 2

Start a brand-new day with a light breakfast before venturing out to explore Ho Dong Tien Cave in a kayak. From Ho Dong Tien Cave move on to the water filled cavern of Drum Cave, the perfect place for a swim.

After lunch set out for the hidden passageways of Maze Cave. From here you can look out over the picturesque Lan Ha Bay.  

Head back to the boat for a well-earned ‘Happy Hour’ and enjoy dinner under the moon and stars of Ha Long Bay.

Cruise on Ha Long Bay – Day 3

Wake up to a Ha Long Bay sunrise and enjoy breakfast before visiting a local pearl farm to learn about the cultivation of pearls. Take the time to soak up the ambiance of Ha Long Bay with one last kayak around the bay.

Return to the boat and have lunch on your journey back to port. Here you will re-join your bus for the trip back to Hanoi.

Click here to book a 2 night cruise

Why Visit Ha Long Bay?

Ha Long Bay or Halong Bay as it is also known, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular beauty and is one of the most visited places in Vietnam.

Ha Long Bay is swathed in legend, and it is said to be a place where dragons once roamed. As you float through these emerald-green waters and pass the towering limestone karsts you too will fall under the spell of the inlet’s mystique.

A Ha Long Bay trip will have you reconnecting with nature with a range of activities that include Ha Long Bay kayaking, swimming, caving, and hiking.

During longer cruises on Ha Long Bay, you can join a Vietnamese cooking class, try your hand at squid fishing or relax with a drink and watch the sun go down in this magical landscape.

Other Ha Long Bay Cruise Routes

When booking Ha Long Bay 2 day or 3-day cruises, you will find two other cruise routes, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay.

Both have a fabulous selection of activities and attractions, which you choose will depend on which itinerary appeals to you the most. You will find that the Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay routes are quieter than the popular Ha Long cruise route.

Here are examples of what you may experience on a 2 day or 3-day Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay cruise.

Lan Ha Bay 2 Day Cruise Route

The Lan Ha Bay Cruise route offers a slower paced cruise with plenty of opportunities for swimming and kayaking within this impressive bay.

Day 1 Activities

The Lan Ha Bay cruise begins with a pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter. Once on board you will be greeted with a welcome drink and set menu lunch as you drift past stunning limestone islands.

After kayaking and swimming within Lan Ha Bay return to the boat for a sunset drink and enjoy the rest of the evening with dinner and dancing. 

Day 2 Activities

Start a Lan Ha Bay sunrise with Tai Chi on the sundeck. After breakfast get ready to spend the morning exploring Dark & Bright Cave.

Head back to the boat for lunch and take a last look at this exquisite scenery as you make your way back to port for the return trip to Hanoi.

Click here to book Lan Ha Bay 2 Day Cruise

Bai Tu Long Bay 2 Day Cruise Route

The Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise route offers a leisurely paced cruise with opportunities for kayaking and relaxing.

Day 1 Activities

The Bai Tu Long Bay cruise tour begins with a hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter. When you join your boat, you will be welcomed with a drink and lunch. On the journey to Bai Tu Long Bay, you will see the picturesque landscapes that Ha Long Bay is famous for.  

Visit the Vung Vieng floating fishing village and spend the afternoon kayaking around the bay. Return to the boat for a sunset ‘Happy Hour’ and Vietnamese cooking demonstration. Join your fellow passengers for a gala dinner and after dinner activities such as squid fishing.

Day 2 Activities

Greet a Bai Tu Long Bay morning with a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck. After breakfast get ready to spend the morning exploring Thien Canh Son Cave. Enjoy brunch in the restaurant before making your way back to port and Hanoi.

Click here to book Bai Tu Long Bay 2 Day Cruise

Lan Ha Bay 3 Day Cruise Route

The Lan Ha Bay 3 day – 2-night cruise route offers a selection of attractions and leisure time for swimming and kayaking within this spectacular bay.

Day 1 Activities

The Lan Ha Bay cruise begins with a hotel pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter. Once on board relax with a welcome drink and set menu lunch. Watch the striking landscapes of Ha Long Bay float by as you make your way to Lan Ha Bay.

After kayaking and swimming within Lan Ha Bay return to the boat for a sunset drink and enjoy the rest of the evening with dinner and dancing. 

Day 2 Activities

Take in a Lan Ha Bay sunrise with a Tai Chi lesson on the sundeck. After breakfast get ready for a morning of cycling around Viet Hai village.

Arrive back at the boat for a delicious Vietnamese seafood lunch. In the afternoon return to the water for more swimming and kayaking within this glorious region. At sunset unwind with a drink and dinner and spend the evening relaxing with your newfound friends.  

Day 3 Activities

After breakfast visit Dark & Bright Cave before heading back to the boat for lunch. Take a last look at this breathtaking scenery as you make your way back to port for the return trip to Hanoi.

Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Day Cruise Route

The Bai Tu Long Bay cruise begins with a Hanoi Old Quarter hotel pickup. Once on board join your fellow passengers for a welcome drink and lunch. Relax and marvel at the beauty of Ha Long Bay as you make the trip out to Bai Tu Long Bay.

Day 1 Activities

Visit the Thien Canh Son Cave and spend the afternoon kayaking around the bay. After kayaking return to the boat for sunset drinks and a Vietnamese cooking demonstration.

Get ready for a delightful evening with a tasty Vietnamese dinner and after dinner activities such as night fishing.

Day 2 Activities

Greet a Bai Tu Long Bay morning with Tai Chi on the sundeck. After breakfast get ready to spend the morning exploring Bai Tu Long Bay Geology Park and meet up with the locals at Vung Vieng fishing village.

After lunch enjoy an afternoon of kayaking and swimming at Cong Dam. As the sun begins to set return to the boat for drinks and dinner.

Day 3 Activities

After breakfast take a bamboo boat to the ancient floating village of Vung Vieng. After visiting the village head back to the boat for lunch. Enjoy the passing scenery as you make your way back to port to take the trip back to Hanoi.

Ha Long Bay Cruise Options

When picking a Ha Long Bay boat tour, you will find something for every budget and time frame. There is a choice of options including a Ha Long Bay day tour, a Ha Long Bay 1 night cruise or Ha Long Bay cruise 2 nights.

The best cruise in Ha Long Bay can range from a fast-paced day cruise to leisurely Ha Long Bay luxury cruises. Places visited can include the popular Ha Long Bay attractions of Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island and Luon Cave.

For those wanting a quieter, less visited Ha Long Bay experience, consider taking either the Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay cruise route options.

Tips for Ha Long Bay Cruise Booking

The Ha Long Bay tour package price will depend on how long you want to stay in Ha Long Bay and whether you want a budget or luxury cruise. The best Ha Long Bay cruise will come down to personal choice but most popular are the Ha Long Bay 2 day and 1 night cruise and the Ha Long Bay day cruise.

When booking Ha Long Bay 2 day or 3-day cruises, you will find three separate cruise destinations to choose from, Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay. Each area has a fabulous selection of activities and attractions.

When choosing the best Ha Long Bay cruise, make sure to book well in advance as cruises book out quickly and you may miss your preferred option.  

Last Words on Choosing the Best Ha Long Bay Cruise

We hope this article has helped you choose your very own best Ha Long Bay cruise from Hanoi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural treasure and an area of unforgettable beauty.

Whether you visit in dazzling sunshine or on a mist shrouded day, you too will begin to believe that dragons created this truly magical place.