About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I've spent a decade watching the cruise industry chase the highest occupancy rates possible, often at the expense of the actual guest experience. Most "five-star" labels in Vietnam are handed out like candy, but the shift toward Lan Ha Bay is one of the few pivots that actually makes sense. While Halong Bay is busy drowning in its own popularity (and RevPAR-hungry operators), Lan Ha offers a bit more breathing room without sacrificing those iconic limestone karsts. It's a bit provocatve to say, but if you're still booking the standard Halong route just because of the name, you're missing the forest for the trees—or in this case, the hidden lagoons for the tourist traps. This specific 2-day itinerary hits that sweet spot of luxury and actual exploration, provided the weather doesn't throw a wrench in the lead time.
About the Tour
Experience the emerald waters and towering pinnacles of Northern Vietnam from the comfort of a premium suite. This isn't your average "pack 'em in" day trip; every cabin features a private balcony, ensuring you have a front-row seat to the Gulf of Tonkin without having to elbow a stranger on the sundeck.
What to Pack
Before you head to the pier, make sure your "go-bag" includes:
- Identification: Original Passport or ID card (Non-negotiable for port authority).
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sun hat, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Attire: Comfortable walking shoes for cave exploration and swimwear for the bay.
The Fine Print (Know Before You Go)
The travel industry loves a good disclaimer, and for good reason. Safety and local regulations are the real "captains" here:
- Flexibility is Key: Cruise itineraries and schedules are subject to change without notice. Weather and operating conditions take priority over the brochure.
- Documentation: A current valid passport is required on the day of travel. No passport, no boarding—simple as that.
- Dietary Needs: If you have specific allergies or dietary requirements, please advise us at the time of booking so the galley can prep accordingly.
- Vehicle Etiquette: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the transfer vehicles.
- Surcharges: * Peak Season: A $13 per person surcharge applies from 1 Oct to 30 April.
- Holiday Rates: Extra charges apply for New Year, Christmas, and national holidays.
- Government VAT: $12 per person.
- Family Travel: Infant rates apply, provided the little ones do not occupy a separate seat.
Highlights
- Kayak through karst mountains and swim in the bay's crystalline waters
- Learn how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls during a cooking class
- Ride on a traditional bamboo boat around caves like the cave
- Unwind during a morning tai chi lesson and experience fishing at night
- Enjoy with Swimming, Kayaking, Tai Chi on boat and other activities on cruise
Know before you go
- Cruise itineraries and schedules are subject to change without notice, depending on the weather and operating conditions
- New Year, Christmas, and national holidays extra surcharge
- Infant rates apply, provided they do not occupy a seat
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Peak season extra surcharge $13/per person from 1 Oct to 30 April
- Government VAT: $12 per person
What to bring
Not allowed
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
Pickup and transfer to the harbor
Get picked up from the Hanoi Old Quarter and begin your 2.5-hour journey by limousine to Tuan Chau Marina.
Check in at the boat and lunch
Meet the crew and listen to a short briefing about your cruise while enjoying a welcome drink at the onboard restaurant. Check in to your boat cabin before sitting down to a buffet lunch at the onboard restaurant.
Discover Dark and Bright Cave (Option 1)
Spend about 1 hour discovering the Dark and Bright Cave on a kayaking or bamboo boat ride. After exploring the cave, return to the ship for a refreshing swim break.
Halong Bay Cruise and Ba Trai Dao Beach (Option 2)
Head to Ba Trai Dao Beach and kayak around limestone islets and swim in the crystal-clear sea.
Witness the sunset with a tea or coffee
After your day's adventure, enjoy tea or coffee on the sundeck while watching the sunset. Next, learn how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls during a cooking demonstration and class with the onboard chef.
Enjoy a seafood dinner
Savor a delicious dinner at the restaurant, featuring a seafood set menu.
Relax with evening activities
After dinner, chill out in the panoramic bar, where you can purchase cocktails. Alternatively, experience the thrills of night squid fishing on the boat. Spend the rest of your night in your cabin.
Enjoy a morning Tai Chi session and breakfast
Start your day with a Tai Chi session in the fresh morning air and enjoy the views of the sun rising over the bay. Enjoy a light breakfast afterwards.
Visit Trung Trang Cave (Option 1)
Explore Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, a beautiful island in Lan Ha Bay
Explore the Ao Ech area (Option 2)
Cruise toward Lan Ha Bay and explore the Ao Ech area. Spend some time kayaking around limestone islets and swimming in crystal sea waters.
Check out from the cruise
After returning to the main ship, check out of your cabin.
Brunch and return to the harbor
Enjoy brunch at the onboard restaurant while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina.
Transfer back to your accommodation in Hanoi
Enjoy a comfortable ride back to your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, with drop-off at your hotel in the afternoon.