About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I've spent a decade watching the cruise market in Vietnam turn into a bit of an arms race for occupancy, with every operator claiming "luxury" while cutting corners on the actual guest experience. But this 2-day run through Lan Ha and Halong is one of the few that actually delivers on that 5-star promise without the usual corporate fluff. While the industry loves to talk about RevPAR and lead generation, they often forget that travelers just want a decent balcony and a view that isn't blocked by fifty other hulls. Lan Ha Bay is the smarter play here—it’s the less-congested sibling of Halong, offering the same limestone karsts but with half the "tourist trap" vibe. It’s a solid pick if you’re tired of the same old scripted itineraries that feel more like a conveyor belt than a vacation.
About the Tour
Experience the emerald waters of Northern Vietnam from the comfort of a high-end vessel where every cabin features a private balcony. This itinerary is designed to give you a deep dive into the UNESCO World Heritage area while maintaining a relaxed, premium pace.
Essential Highlights
- Five-Star Accommodations: All cabins are designed with a modern aesthetic and include private balconies for uninterrupted views of the bay.
- Tailored Experiences: Whether you want to kayak through hidden lagoons or simply sip a cocktail on the sundeck, all activities remain entirely optional.
- Celebration Perks: Special touches for milestones are integrated into the service. Anniversary and honeymoon cabins can be arranged at no additional cost, and we even provide birthday cakes if your big day falls during the sailing.
Whether you're looking to escape the hustle of Hanoi or just want to see if the hype around Lan Ha Bay is real (spoiler: it is), this cruise offers the perfect balance of adventure and luxury. Honestly, it’s one of the few products where the lead price actually reflects a quality experience.
Highlights
- Spend the night on a luxury cruise ship anchored in the tranquil Ha Long Bay
- Indulge yourself by purchasing a relaxing massage or a spa treatment onboard
- Welcome the sun with a Tai Chi class before enjoying a light breakfast onboard
- Get your heart pumping with a fun kayaking tour through the famous Dark Cave
Know before you go
- There is a peak season extra surcharge of $13 per person from 1 October to 30 April
- Government VAT: $12 per person
- The itinerary may be subject to change at short notice depending on the weather or tide conditions
- All activities are optional
- Honeymoon cabins and anniversary cabins are available at no extra cost
- Birthday cakes are available if your birthday takes place on the cruise
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
Depart from Hanoi
Either get picked up from your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter and ride to Tuan Chau Wharf, or meet your skipper at the wharf.
Board the Cruise Ship
Board a transfer boat to your cruise ship. After you check in, enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and cool off with a cold towel. Listen to a short briefing with safety instructions and a tour of the cruise.
Explore Ha Long Bay
As you cruise on Ha Long Bay, enjoy a delicious lunch in the onboard restaurant, taking in views of the picturesque canals that lead to the bay.
Option 1: Dark and Bright Cave Kayaking Tour
Discover the Dark and Bright Cave by kayak or bamboo boat for about an hour. After, head back to the boat for some swimming.
Option 2: Explore the Ba Trai Dao Lagoon
Visit the area of Ba Trai Dao and the natural lagoon of Lan Ha Bay.
Sunset Cruise, Dinner and Evening Activities
Return to the cruise in time to admire the striking colors of the sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Relax in the onboard swimming pool, have fun at the sunset party, or join a traditional cooking class. If you wish, you can purchase an optional massage onboard. After sunset, the captain will drop anchor in a tranquil section of the bay as you enjoy your delicious dinner. Spend the rest of the night squid fishing, watching a movie, listening to music, or having drinks at the bar.
Morning Tai Chi Class and Breakfast
Wake up bright and early to start your day with Tai Chi class and watch the sunrise from the top deck. Enjoy a light breakfast in the restaurant.
Option 1: Kayaking in Ao Ech
Cruise toward Lan Ha Bay explore the Ao Ech area. Enjoy time kayaking around limestone islets and swimming in crystal sea water.
Option 2: Visit the Quan Y Cave on Cat Ba Island
Spend about an hour on the beautiful island in Lan Ha Bay. After returning to the cruise, check out of your cabin. Afterwards, enjoy having brunch on board, before heading onto the tender boat and return to the port.
Disembark at Tuan Chau Wharf and Return to Hanoi
Disembark at Tuan Chau Wharf where you will either make your own way back to Hanoi or enjoy a comfortable transfer service.