HaLong Bay Cruises

Halong Bay

If you're planning a trip around Halong Bay, this article will tell you when to go, what to bring, and how to choose the best boat.

Why Should You Cruise Halong Bay?

• Natural beauty

You'll have a better time on vacation because of the breathtaking natural beauty of mighty mountains, blue sky, and pure water. Halong Bay is a unique geographic formation created by Mother Nature.

• Comfortable accommodation

We opted for the traditional Halong cruise primarily out of convenience. You won't have to worry about making travel arrangements or arranging for lodging or food. 

It enables you to cruise to remote spots you'd never explore by yourself and to view Halong Bay from the sea, which is impressive.

• Affordable price

Taking a trip might be quite expensive. Halong Bay Cruises, on the other hand, will be reasonably priced.

Consider your budget and requirements to determine which option is best for you, since the price range varies widely. An all-inclusive cruise package eliminates the need to budget separately for transportation, lodging, entertaining activities, and dining ashore.

• Interesting activities

If you come, you may take part in all sorts of exciting activities. These range from the more commonplace, such as seeing landmarks and taking photographs.

On the other hand, an overnight cruise will allow you to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. Many additional intriguing sights await your observation from the ship.

Under the glow of the moon, the landscape takes on a beauty that is distinct from its daylight counterpart.

While at Halong Bay, you may do kayaking, swimming, night squish fishing, rowing a traditional sampan, etc.

Those interested in learning more about local cuisine may enroll in culinary lessons designed specifically for foreign visitors. In general, participating in these pursuits will enrich your vacation.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Halong Bay?

Best time to visit Halong Bay

The optimum time to cruise Halong is often from late February to April, taking into account the people and weather concerns. However, to further assist you, here is a breakdown.

• Springtime – February to April

Because summer approaches, the weather is drier and warmer. The main drawback is that there will likely be more visitors, which could make some areas overcrowded.

• Summertime – May to August

The hottest and wettest months of the year coincide. It's ideal for daily activities on sunny days, especially swimming and kayaking.

• Autumntime – September to November

Halong is not overly crowded this season of the year, but the weather may be an issue. More cancellations occur as a result of rough seas.

• Wintertime – December and January

It is the coldest season of the year, with temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius and more fog. Although there are fewer crowds and barely any rainy days, it's not the season to go swimming.

How To Get To Halong Bay?

Vietnam train

Based on where you come from, there are many ways to get to Halong Bay. Look over the short guide to determine which choice is perfect for you. 

1. Motorbike

If you're not too far from Halong Bay, the motorbike will be an ideal transportation to select. You may enjoy the stunning scenery of Vietnam on the way. 

With the freedom to stop whenever you choose in little villages in Northern Vietnam, a bike journey will give you a better understanding of the way of life there.

Remember that due to Vietnam's crazy traffic, this transportation is only advisable for experienced people. 

An extended motorcycle excursion is not recommendable for a beginner. The weather is unstable, and unexpected rain can threaten your vacation plans.

2. Public buses

In Vietnam, there are three different types of buses suitable for a long journey: local, luxury, and private shuttle buses. When you want to go overnight, you can take a sleeper bus, which enables you to relax and sleep all night long. 

Economical travelers should consider taking the local bus. But remember that the less you pay, the fewer services you have. 

You can spend a little extra money to travel in comfort on luxury buses that offer air conditioning, WiFi, and other seats. 

Private shuttle buses provide the added function of pick-up and drop-off at your resort or hotel, which is a huge benefit. They are often a little more expensive but faster than local buses.

3. Train

Train travel is one of the most well-liked ways to explore Vietnam. As opposed to riding a bike or a bus, taking the train will allow you to enjoy the view at a slower speed. 

You can select between a soft or even a sleeping cabin when purchasing train tickets, which are incredibly affordable. Because it's slow, train travel is not recommendable for people who are time rushing.

The beautiful Ha Long bay

I've put up this guide to Halong Bay cruises to help you choose the right one. Then, I'll tell you which Halong Bay trips I think you'll like the most.

Time

In Halong Bay, there are primarily three different kinds of cruise trips available:

• Cruises for a day 

• 2D1N cruises 

• 3D2N cruises

• 4D3N cruises

Day excursion cruises are quick trips designed to bring you a taste of how it feels to travel between forests of islands. Day cruises without an overnight stay are available, leaving from Hanoi, Cat Ba, or Halong City.

Overnight cruises are a traditional option that gives you more time to unwind and appreciate the marine environment. Additionally, you sleep on board and awaken to a stunning sight. 

2D1N cruises are ideal for the majority of passengers. For those seeking to relax and explore more secluded regions of the bay, longer trips are a good option. 

During 4N3D and 3D2N cruises, you switch from the big boat to a smaller vessel and back to the big ship in the evening. How long you visit depends on how much you need or want to unwind and how much money you can spend. 

The more you stay, the more opportunities you'll have to explore remote locations and engage in various outdoor activities.

Budget

Try to acquire what's a great deal by doing some research or asking around. Always consider the ship and the entire contents of the tour. It includes entertainment, dining, vehicles to or from Halong, etc.

Prepare to haggle if you're making a reservation through travel agencies in Vietnam, but come prepared with a maximal budget and follow it. 

Those who want to spend most of their time on board participating in organized activities should book a luxury cruise. You may choose one that fits your needs and budget, whether you want a large, comfortable bed, a banquette-style lounge, or a breathtaking view of the bay.

Mid-range alternatives become constrained. They will not be as roomy or luxurious as the high-range options.

Also, there is less supervision, less direction, and fewer things to do. But most of your wishes may come true aboard modern luxury cruisers.

You may find it difficult to choose the perfect cruise when you don't have much money. If you want to prevent any problems, you should conduct some research based on reviews and comments from other passengers.

Most boats in this price range are rather tiny, have limited seating, and have bare-bones decor. Few services and amenities are available due to a shortage of personnel.

Types of Boat

Boats in HaLong Bay

The next thing to consider is whether you prefer more modern, luxurious ships or older, more typical junk boats. Although the junk boats are beautiful, you must be ready for worse boat quality with fewer rooms. 

The Paradise Elegance is one of the best overnight junk boat trips in Halong Bay. You may prefer doing your research on the Internet if you like newer cruises with more luxurious, roomy accommodations that include balconies and terraces.

Number of Rooms

The number of rooms on board should be your next factor. The bigger boats with more individuals will be more enjoyable if you're young and enjoy parties.

However, it would be good to reserve a smaller boat for those who just want to be relaxed. 

Activities

Taking a look at the cruise's list of included activities is the best method to choose which one to book for your Halong vacation. There is a wider variety of activities available to cruisers on overnight trips compared to day trips.

If you visit Halong, you really must go kayaking. Kayaking is often included as an activity and excursion on cruises that last for 2 or 3 days.

You may take your bike to several rural communities and explore less traveled paths. It's the ideal activity for vacations with loved ones.

If you have an interest in Vietnamese cuisine, taking a cooking class is a fantastic way to learn some of the fundamentals of making Vietnamese food.

Itineraries

The majority of cruise companies' itineraries are essentially the same. Typically, you'll go to a Pearl Farm, a Cave, and a Fishing Village. You'll also have the chance to ascend to the top of Ti Top Island and swim.

All around Halong Bay, there are five different paths you may take. The amount of time devoted to each show is likewise different.

>>>> Explore other interesting cruises at Lan Ha Bay Cruises or Bai Tu Long Bay Cruises! 

I have produced a list of the top 10 cruises in Halong Bay to make your planning a breeze. Here are the cruises we recommend to those who are short on time.

#1. Paradise Elegance Cruise - Best for Variety of Culinary

Paradise Elegance

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi - Halong bay

• Day 2: Halong Bay Tour - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Half Side Ocean View

• Shower & Bathtub

• Private Balcony

Price: from $190 per person

Reviews

I opted for a more extended trip of two nights aboard the Paradise Elegance. Since I wanted a more spacious accommodation with a deck that looked out over the ship's bow, I opted for the Captain's View suite.

Paradise expertly orchestrated the whole trip, from hotel pick-up to transportation to the cruise to onboard activities and back to the hotel.

The stateroom design impressed me when I arrived. As expected, the restaurant and bar on the second floor were also well-designed.

The Le Marin restaurant served delicious food. I appreciated the manager remembering my special diet.

I went on the island trek, caving, kayaking, and even had a culinary lesson! I did it carefully and effectively.

Our guides on the adjacent islands were fluent in English, and many other staff members were also. The young man who showed us around Sung Sot Cave was the most fantastic part of our trip.

The cave tour was a lot of fun. However, a constant stream of rubbish floating past made the kayak trip unpleasant.

In addition, I hardly stayed on the train much because there were so many activities to participate in. I visited the well-known Ti Top Island and Tung Sau Pearl Farm, watched a cooking demonstration on the L'Odyssée Sundeck, and enjoyed the sunset over Coconut Tree Island.

I would want to return for a more extended voyage. I look forward to having you join us for first-class service!

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#2. Mon Cheri Cruise - Best for Service Attitude

Mon Cheri

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi - Hai Phong - Halong bay - Lan Ha bay

• Day 2: Halong bay - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Full Side Ocean View

• Shower

• Queen-Size Beds

Price: from $190 per person

Reviews

I took another vacation to Vietnam with a buddy and his wife. We had a fantastic time, thanks to Mon Chéri Cruises. 

After reserving online, they sent a posh minivan equipped with WiFi to take us from our hotel in Hanoi. A trip from Hanoi to the port was a smooth and relaxing experience.

When we arrived, there was a balcony in the room, so my buddy and I hung out and had a few glasses of wine. The toilet is sizable, and I liked the added amenity of a tub with a view of the bay.

In the late afternoon, my boat was the only one in a beautiful part of the harbor. Both the cave kayaking and the cave itself were enjoyable outings.

We participated in the squid-fishing excursion in the evening, the cookery demonstration and the tai chi session in the morning. 

There is no better way to spend a holiday than on a cruise to Cat Ba Island, where I alternated relaxing beach time and adventurous activities like kayaking, cave excursions, and jungle hiking.

We appreciated the positive vibes that emanated from the whole crew. Everybody here is youthful, happy, and full of sunshine.

For his honeymoon, my pal got the red carpet treatment. He had misplaced his wallet, and the employees had diligently checked through all the cameras and helped him find it.

The migraine pain hit me hard when I woke up, and I've been sick ever since. The staff administers meds and checks to make sure I'm doing well.

The most common criticism I've heard is how pricey the bar's selection of beverages is. When you believe there will be a free drink with dinner, you'll be disappointed to find out there isn't one.

However, it is well worth the cost. If you're looking to spend a reasonable amount on a cruise around Halong Bay, this is the choice.

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#3. Violet Cruise - Best for Educational Itineraries

Violet

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Visit the Cua Van Fishing Village

• Day 2: Visit the Ti Top island, the Tam Cung Cave, and Poem Mountain - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Half Side Ocean View

• Shower & Jacuzzi

• Queen-Size Beds

Price: from $470 per person

Reviews

Another time, I came to Vietnam with my large family of 12 people. So, I convinced them to board this magnificent vessel.

The hotel that we stayed at was just beautiful. While sailing along the bay, we could gaze out the windows, which reached from floor to ceiling.

My sister and I slept in a junior suite, and it was beautiful. We even had a balcony where we could relax and enjoy the view. 

There was a dining room, a sauna and massage area, a modest fitness center, and a massive sundeck with chairs and umbrellas. We entirely used the luxurious and high-quality spa and massage facilities on board.

The rooftop pool was an excellent place to watch the sun go down with a drink in hand. As a bonus, I enjoyed the culinary demonstration given before dinner.

They served excellent, plentiful meals. Everything was great, beautifully prepared, and filled with care.

The staff was helpful and honest, in my experience. I picked up a lot of useful information about Lan Ha and Cat Ba Island from conversations with them while we were at sea.

You must climb the arduous 400 steps to Ti Top. They let us in first since it would have been challenging to get to the top if we hadn't arrived so early and had other people in the way.

Visiting the caves and the floating village was an exciting and informative experience. You get a glimpse into the secluded lifestyles of the world's other half.

Unfortunately, the queue to enter the caverns quickly degenerates into a fistfight. A larger boat shoved us sideways.

Sometimes rude people are inevitable. But anyway, we would be delighted to do this again.

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#4. Peony Cruise - Best for Outdoor Activities

Peony

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi – Hai Phong – Halong bay – Lan Ha bay

• Day 2: Lan Ha tour - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Full Side Ocean View

• Shower & Bathtub

• Queen Size Beds

• All board-meals Included

Price: from $145 per person

Reviews

My boyfriend and I sailed on the Peony Cruise for two days and one night, and we had a wonderful time. The staff was accommodating and kind, meeting our every need and answering our inquiries regarding Ha Long Bay.

Gorgeous accommodations let you take in Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay from the comfort of your tub, bed, private terrace, or interior window seat.

The food served on the ship was delicious. The staff provided us a buffet breakfast, a six-course supper, a buffet lunch, and a six-course brunch before our departure.

Vegans, seafood lovers, and carnivores will find something to eat. Those of all tastes may find something to their liking.

It was well worth the early wake-up call to participate in Tai chi. The girl that managed it was pretty kind and helpful, providing outstanding service to passengers.

They went above and above to meet our requirements. We can't express how much we appreciate Hong and his team's contributions to the success of our trip.

Day visits to Cat Ba Village were highlights, including kayaking, swimming, and a limestone cave tour.

Kayaking and swimming on the first day were a lot of fun. The kayaking experience in the cave was around an hour and a half long.

The second day is filled with a joyful bike ride around Cat Ba Island. Cat Ba National Park is accessible here.

You may find massive tropical rainforests, pristine lakes, private beaches, colorful coral reefs, and a wealth of endangered animals there.

Not having access to free water was one of our biggest complaints. Even though we were kayaking in the hot sun, we were not given water bottles.

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#5. Jasmine Cruise - Best for No-Fee Beverage

Jasmine

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi - Halong bay - Visit the Cua Van Fishing Village

• Day 2: Visit the Ti Top island, the Tam Cung Cave, and Poem Mountain - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Half Side Ocean View

• Shower and Jacuzzi

• Queen Size Beds

Price: from $190 per person

Reviews

An operator quickly confirmed my reservation and went off without a hitch. Because they picked us up and dropped us off at the airport, our trip was delightful and hassle-free.

Inside, the yacht is tastefully decorated with dark wood furnishings, and the cabins are comfortable and private.

All three meals provided to us on the boat were delicious and of the most outstanding quality. Complimentary tea and coffee were available all day long in the bar area, which was a nice perk.

They treated me like family the moment we stepped through the door. While spending our one night aboard the yacht, we made ourselves home on the deck, taking in the breathtaking views of the islands.

The price of your stay covered an excursion from the floating fishing village in a small boat rowed by a local. The journey was enjoyable and presented beautiful photographic opportunities.

During our stay, our excellent guide took us kayaking and then on an island tour of Cat Ba. After exploring a cave on one island, we went back to shore for supper.

The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. The chef made a special effort to accommodate my wife's dietary restrictions.

We kayaked, saw a fishing town and a pearl farm, and explored the incredible Surprise Cave. The trips to the Tien Ong cave and the Cua Van floating fishing hamlet were educational, and the panoramas from the peak of Ti Top Island were breathtaking.

We think the three-day, two-night vacation is the best value, so please take advantage of it if you can. I find a stay of just one night to be very rushed.

There were many things to do, and we had a great time doing them all since the environment was so beautiful. The vacation was fantastic; we ate well, slept in friendly hotels, and saw many exciting things.

The only minus is the four-hour journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay. The roads were busier than usual because of the holiday.

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#6. Paradise Peak Cruise - Best for High-End Facilities

Paradise Peak

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay

• Day 2: Halong Bay Tour - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Half Side Ocean View

• Shower & Bathtub

Price: from $420 per person

Reviews

After hearing praise for the place, I decided to treat my mom to a spa vacation here. She continues to laud the professionalism and helpfulness of the crew.

The yacht is quite spacious and high-end. My mom remained in a premium cabin with a dining room and a balcony big enough for two sun loungers.

The bathroom was spacious, with a shower and a jacuzzi tub in a separate area. It has one of the most excellent onboard looks I've ever seen.

Both lunch and dinner had fantastic seafood that was relatively fresh. Free food and drinks are available all day long.

And let's not forget the quiet time we spent sipping complimentary drinks before dinner while overlooking the bay at dusk. She went to bed on her first night, full of excitement and anticipation for the following day's adventures.

The staff was always pleasant, helpful, and professional. They helped us with our needs in perfect English, and our vacation was unforgettable.

Despite our short stay, we could choose between two exciting shore excursions, one of which was to a fascinating cave system. Kayaking, cave exploring, a cooking presentation, squid fishing, and morning Tai Chi were a few planned activities.

The pricing is commensurate with the high service standard, and the memorable experience customers get. It would have been preferable to do the vacation when the weather was warmer so that we could have gone swimming.

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#7. Au Co Cruise - Best for Relaxation

Au Co

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi - Halong bay

• Day 2: Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay Tour

• Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Half Side Ocean View

• Shower & Bathtub

• Queen Size Beds

Price: from $420 per person

Reviews

In January, we spent three wonderful days and two nights on the Au Co. From the moment I stepped upon boarding the ship; I could tell that this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In addition to the breathtaking scenery, you'll enjoy the trip aboard a luxurious ship outfitted with every amenity imaginable.

Because of our good fortune, we could enjoy a room with a balcony, an incredible perk of our hotel stay. Relaxing on your patio in the morning before beginning the day was a fantastic perk.

There was fantastic, freshly prepared, and diverse cuisine on board, and the views from the windows were breathtaking. Staff members work hard to ensure that your time here is the highlight of your trip to Vietnam.

An incredible cruise manager, Kevin, seemed to be everywhere at once. He is very proficient and reliable. 

Even though only approximately 30 people were on board, the staff made everyone feel welcome and valued.

Depending on your mood, you may go ashore during the day tours or relax aboard the ship.

I took advantage of all the ship's services. I had Tai Chi lessons, squid fishing, a Vietnamese cookery demonstration and a formal tea ceremony.

Moreover, I used the ship's spa facilities and had a massage. It was the perfect ending to a fantastic vacation, a haven of tranquility and relaxation.

These three days on a luxury boat through Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay were some of the most unforgettable of my life.

I quickly departed to explore the cave of Tien Ong, home to many old stalactites and stalagmites. After cooling down in Cua Van's water, I went on a bamboo boat ride to the nearby floating fish hamlet of Ho Ba Ham and had a dip.

There was nothing about the vacation that we didn't like. This vacation ranks up there among the finest ones I've ever had.

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#8. Aclass Stellar Cruise - Best for Classic Vibe

Aclass Stellar

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi - Halong bay

• Day 2: Halong bay tour - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Full Side Ocean View

• Shower

Price: from $140 per person

Reviews

When you book an overnight cruise on Halong Bay with Aclass Stellar Cruise, you'll get to spend the night aboard a traditional boat with an oriental style that will make your trip unforgettable. 

There are 21 comfortable cabins on board, each with its private bathroom, central heating, and access to the ship's expansive sun deck.

Seafood was available, in addition to Western and traditional Vietnamese dishes. The BBQ feast is delicious.

It also comes with free snacks, coffee, water, and fruit. On the last day of my trip, we had a private chef prepare a delicious breakfast for us to enjoy.

My only complaint is that the room was just 17 square meters. Although shown in photographs as being well-lit, the public restroom was dimmer than expected.

In addition, I didn't like that they crammed me into a little table with a large group of strangers. We needed some time to ourselves and wanted some alone.

Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island trekking/kayaking were highlights of my 2-day, 1-night trip. The next day, before heading back to Hanoi, we explored Luon Cave.

It was beautiful to take a boat around the monoliths and tunnels while being rowed by hand. The natural beauty of Ha Long Bay was stunning, and the caverns inside were much more impressive.

All in all, the thing I loved the most on the whole trip was the staff. One of the tour operators, both kind and knowledgeable, contacted us over WhatsApp to provide us with important trip information. 

She was accommodating by calling the tour leader to confirm our pick-up time. They were pretty kind and welcoming to us. 

Our tour guide spoke perfect English and made our two-day trip very enjoyable. Their friendliness and dedication to their customers made our stay aboard quite remarkable.

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#9. Pelican Cruise - Best for Safety

Pelican

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi – Halong bay

• Day 2: Halong bay tour - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Full Side Ocean View

• Private balcony

• King size beds

Price: from $140 per person

Reviews

The helpful employees handled my trip from my Hanoi hotel to the port. Nearly half an hour passed as I waited to board.

The room on the boat was more comfortable than those in several hotels we visited. The patio doors glided open and shut.

I stayed in a twin room with a lovely private bathroom. The rooms were spotless, the mattresses were soft, and there was a safe.

Even though we were on a boat, I couldn't believe how spacious our room was. The available luggage space was also a plus, as we didn't need to unpack completely.

Evening meals were of gourmet grade and were delicious. In addition, they gave us a bottle of wine to enjoy on the terrace.

Due to my early rise, I was unable to have breakfast. The staff could do better if they moved breakfast to a more convenient hour or left food out for individuals running late.

They packed a lot into the schedule. I went out to eat, kayaked, saw an oyster farm, and hiked up to a beautiful overlook.

The next day at 6:30 a.m., I went to Tai Chi class. After that, I explored some fantastic caverns.

We sightsaw the caverns while sitting on a small boat. Life jackets were always available, and the entire excursion was well-organized and safe.

An excellent cruise manager led a fantastic crew. Just being around him makes you feel at ease.

As a lone traveler, I appreciated his efforts to put myself and my fellow passengers at ease.

The company of other travelers was a highlight of the trip. Only around 30 people, including crew, were aboard.

The second night was great since I spent more time in my comfortable cabin on the ship. Relaxing on the balcony and taking in the scenery was a real treat.

It is the only cruise line I'd ever suggest. I do not doubt that the 2D1N visitors had a wonderful experience, but after considering all options, I decided that the 3D2N would be best for us.

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#10. Alisa Premier Cruise - Best for Spectacular Scenery

Sunset over Ha Long Bay

Itineraries: 

• Day 1: Hanoi – Halong bay

• Day 2: Halong bay tour - Hanoi

Highlight Facilities

• Full Side Ocean View

• Shower and Jacuzzi

Price: from $175 per person

Reviews

It was quiet in my forward cabin. The bed was soft, the bathroom was spotless, and there was a tiny sitting space on the balcony.

The rooms were large, and the jacuzzi was the highlight. Each suite has its jacuzzi, while the main deck has an enormous communal jacuzzi.

The majority of the meals we had on board were rather enjoyable. Some might be better, but I have no significant issues with them.

But, the seafood wasn't my favorite meal. A buffet, in my opinion, is superior since diners may pick and choose what they want to eat and how much of it they consume.

Nighttime entertainment, such as placing seats and loungers on the top deck and music playing, also needs enhancement. As an additional point, I wish I had spent less time waiting around, and I could have saved more time on the journey there and back.

This place has a staff that makes you feel like they value your time here. They were fantastic, and despite fitting a lot into the schedule, it never seemed hurried.

They even went out of their way to celebrate my birthday with a cake and music on the boat without me even having to ask. They will use information from your passport for this purpose.

I chose the more leisurely two-day, one-night itinerary so that we could devote more time to each activity. I had a great time on the kayak and in the unexpected cave.

There are a number of other cruise ships, so expect crowds at all the attractions. But fortunately, we were able to visit areas that had fewer visitors.

In a word, Halong Bay is breathtaking. During our boat's happy hour, we saw a spectacular sunset that we will never forget.

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People Riding on Boat on Sea

Envision yourself basking in the sun on the deck of a graceful 30-meter yacht as a backdrop of soaring limestone cliffs glides by. That's my time in Halong Bay, and it couldn't have been better spent in that manner!

My Itinerary 

I decided to take a two-night cruise onboard the Paradise Elegance. I chose the Captain's View suite because I wanted a larger room and a deck with a view of the ship's front.

I was blown away by the decor when I first saw my stateroom. The second-floor bar and restaurant lived up to expectations in terms of design.

We paid close attention to every aspect of the rooms. Manager Ronald L. Cinco assisted, and his service was something I'll never forget.

The restaurant Le Marin has excellent cuisine. I appreciated the manager's recollection of my dietary restrictions.

Management is accessible, friendly, and invested in the company's success on a personal level. Everyone seems to be in a good mood and quite nice while keeping up an impression of uncompromising professionalism.

I went kayaking, caving, on an island excursion, and even took a cooking class! All of the effort and precision paid off beautifully.

On the neighboring islands, our guides and a good number of the other employees all spoke English. The highlight of our trip was the young guy who toured us around Sung Sot Cave.

Aside from seeing the famous Ti top Island and Tung Sau Pearl Farm, I also enjoyed a cookery demonstration on the L'Odyssée Sundeck and the sunset over Coconut Tree Island.

If possible, I'd like to return for another extended trip. 

Travel Tips

Passenger Boats in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

First, you should care about transportation. When you book a tour, ask the people in charge about the detailed fee you will have to pay for commuting. 

If you want to go faster from Hanoi to Halong Bay, there will be a new highway that can decrease travel time. However, you will have to pay an extra 15$ to go this way. 

If you love to visit Halong Bay and Ninh Binh, you can commute directly from one place to another. 

Second, you should think about the time to travel. Because the rainy season is from April to September, the weather in this period is so humid and hot. 

It's not recommendable to visit Halong Bay during this time of year. The month with the highest rainfall rate is usually August. 

So the ideal time to travel to Halong Bay should be from October to March when the weather is better; there is less rain.

Third, make a plan of some destinations you want to call on. Junk boating is one of the popular activities in Halong Bay.

But there are many local and online tourist agencies with different prices. Therefore, ensure that you research to find which agencies provide good deals.

Finally, identifying how long you will stay there is necessary too. By estimating when you come and leave, you will have the chance to enjoy your trip. There will be no rush, just happiness. 

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This is what we are made for, because we believe that having a one- on- one session with our customers will enable us to understand them as well as their travel needs. 

This goes a long way to influence how we tailor solutions to match the lasting needs of our customers.

Peace of  mind

As confusing and complicated as traveling can be, especially when exploring internationally, we at Asia Tour Advisor will stop at nothing to make sure that we take away that burden, so you can only focus on packing your bags.

We also build and maintain long term relationships with our customers to enable us personalize the customer’s needs and also demonstrate a sense of responsibility and accountability, so as to give room for the growth of trust.

Scenic Shot of Ha Long Bay

Is the Halong Bay cruise worth it?

Many tourists consider a trip around Halong Bay an absolute must since it is widely regarded as one of Vietnam's most breathtaking natural settings. It's an emerald bay dotted with 2,000 small islands, each with its unique ecosystem of caves, lagoons, coves, and coral reefs.

How much is the cruise in Halong Bay 2022?

Depending on your room type, it costs $150 to $490.

Should I book a cruise to Halong Bay in advance?

Travel arrangements made in advance are easy and convenient. Credit cards such as American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal are accepted with no additional processing fees.

What is the cancellation policy due to bad weather in Halong Bay?

If the Management Board of Halong Bay announces the cancellation, depending on the timing of the cancellation, we will apply the following policies:

Get a 100% refund if you have used none of the services before departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay.

Pay for used services during the trip, including transfer, lunch, and hotel in Halong. Get a refund for the rest.

If the trip is reduced from 2 nights to 1 night, you will be charged a 2 days/1 night trip and other used services. Get a refund for the rest.

Your consultant will confirm the final cost via email.

How to choose the best cruise in Halong Bay?

• Duration

The most popular durations for junk boat trips are three days and two nights or two days and one night. If you choose the 2-day cruise and leave at 11:30 a.m. on the second day, you'll only be on board for 24 hours. 

The 3-day trip, meanwhile, has a half-day on the first day, a full day on the second day, and another half-day on the third and final day. If you have the time and money, a 3-day/2-night tour is the better choice since it gives you more time to settle in and enjoy yourself.

• Route

When deciding on a decent boat tour, you have several possible itineraries. Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay are the three main areas to explore.

Cruises typically only visit one of three regions, while some claim to see all three. The cruise only takes you to one area, and you only get a cursory look at the others.

• Budget 

There are hundreds of boats to select from in Halong Bay, so you should be able to choose one that works within your price range. Choosing the best cruise quality is simple by comparing the trip's different pricing points.

A fair price is commensurate with the level of quality being offered. Most tourists choose a ship with at least a 3-star rating to ensure a high-quality overnight cruise.

In addition to the aforementioned common pricing points, Halong Bay also has numerous unique, exquisite 5-star cruises at jaw-dropping prices, such as the Paradise Peak, Orchid Premium, Violet Cruise, and many more.

What is the best month to visit Halong Bay?

Because of the mild temperatures and limited rainfall, October through December is the perfect season to explore Halong Bay.

How do I choose a Halong Bay cruise?

1. Find a Halong Bay cruise company with positive ratings and travel with them.

2. Experience Halong Bay on a three-day, two-night trip.

3. See whether you're covered for transportation to and from Hanoi.

4. You should set out spending money on alcoholic beverages.

5. Choose a company that provides rooms with private balconies to maximize your stay.

How many days do you need in Halong Bay?

Two to three nights are the minimum recommended length of stay in Halong Bay, whether on a boat or in a hotel.

Is it better to have a room in the front or back of a cruise ship?

Avoid the front rooms if seasickness is a problem for you. A cabin towards the ship's middle is ideal, although a room at the ship's rear is acceptable.

Is it worth staying in Halong Bay?

There is a lot to see in Halong, particularly on the islands, so staying the night will maximize your sightseeing opportunities. However, a day excursion would suffice if you are familiar with the area and are just interested in seeing a particular island or cave.

The following video offers some helpful tips for organizing a vacation to these destinations.

I listed all my choices for the best Halong bay cruises above. I expect it to be helpful as you arrange your perfect vacation to Vietnam.

You can find all the information you need, from where to stay to which beaches are the finest, on Asia Tour Advisor. I recommend getting in touch with them so that they can provide you with direct guidance so that you don't have to deal with all of this on your own. 

Let's plan a lifetime vacation to Halong Bay and take a luxurious boat.

Many would-be tourists ponder whether they should purchase a prearranged vacation or go with the flow. You should take a guided tour of Vietnam because of the following reasons.

Inaccessible areas

Traveling with a tour group will allow you to see more off-the-beaten-path attractions than you can on your own. Jungle treks in some of the world's most unexplored and beautiful areas, homestays with mountain communities, visits to local houses, and artisan workshops are all part of the Vietnam tour package.

Less planning

Book a guided tour with a reputable organization if you want to spend less time arranging and more time exploring. When working with a reputable travel agency, there is a wide variety of tours.

Any reputable tour operator in Vietnam can help you plan the most fulfilling vacation based on your list of "can't-miss" attractions. They will be able to attach unique options to your plan.