2 Days, 1 Night Aboard La Stellar Cruise in Halong from Hanoi

A Review of the 2 Days, 1 Night Aboard La Stellar Cruise in Halong from Hanoi

Travelers seeking a blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic natural beauty will find this 2-day cruise aboard La Stellar an appealing option. With a 5-star yacht equipped with top-tier amenities—from panoramic dining rooms to outdoor pools—the experience promises both relaxation and exploration. It’s an ideal trip for those wanting a taste of luxury while discovering some of Vietnam’s most iconic sights, all in a manageable two-day package.

What really draws us to this tour is the attention to detail. Expect gourmet Vietnamese and international cuisine, smooth logistics, and activities designed to showcase Halong Bay’s best features. However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary is quite packed, and some travelers may prefer a slower pace or more time at each stop. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, all-inclusive adventure with a touch of luxury, this cruise should definitely be on your radar. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy comfort, appreciates scenery, and isn’t shy about a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Luxury with convenience: A fully equipped yacht offering premium amenities and all-inclusive packages.
• Varied itinerary: Includes visits to Luon Cave, Titov Island, Sung Sot Cave, and other famous spots.
• Active options: Kayaking, swimming, hiking — perfect for adventure lovers.
• Gourmet dining: Enjoy Vietnamese and international dishes with special dietary accommodations.
• Relaxing extras: Spa treatments, swimming pool, gym, and sunset viewing make for a well-rounded experience.
• Efficient organization: Pickup, transfers, and guided tours streamline the journey.

Luxury Meets Adventure on a Fully Equipped Yacht

This cruise offers more than just a boat ride; it’s a floating resort packed with high-class facilities. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll notice the sleek design and thoughtful amenities, such as a panoramic restaurant, outdoor bar, swimming pool, gym, and even a children’s playground. These features make it suitable for families, couples, or even solo travelers looking to indulge a little while exploring.

We loved the way that the yacht balances comfort with activities. For example, during the day, you can choose between kayaking (included in the price), swimming, or just relaxing on deck with a drink in hand. The inclusion of a spa and massage services can add a nice touch of pampering after days of exploring, especially if you opt for some of the wellness treatments. And, with the option to accommodate special diets like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, this cruise caters well to guests with specific needs.

The onboard guide seems knowledgeable, providing safety instructions and insightful commentary about Halong Bay’s significance, which adds a layer of depth to the experience. Reviewers have mentioned that the staff is attentive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and well-cared-for throughout.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay’s Wonders

The tour kicks off early with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, ensuring you’re on the boat by midday. The drive to Tuan Chau Island is approximately 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Once at Tuan Chau Marina, you’re greeted with drinks and a brief safety briefing. This is a good time to settle in and get a sense of what’s coming up. The first major highlight is lunch aboard the cruise, served at the restaurant with panoramic views. The dishes are described as a mix of Vietnamese and international fare, which means you’ll likely find flavorful local specialties alongside familiar comfort foods.

After lunch, the boat heads deeper into the bay, and your first stop is Titov Island. At around 3:30 pm, you’ll land here for about 30 minutes. The island hosts a well-maintained trail leading to a viewing platform—perfect for snapping photos of the bay’s thousands of limestone karsts and emerald waters. The climb is manageable for most, and the view is worth the effort, especially during sunset.

Next, you’ll explore Hang Luon Cave, where you can kayak or take a bamboo boat to navigate through the narrow, scenic waterway. This activity is included and gets praised for the chance to see Halong Bay from a different perspective. Reviewers mention that the kayaks are stable and easy to handle, even if you’re a beginner.

By late afternoon, you return to the yacht, which is an ideal time for photography—watching the sun dip below the limestone peaks. Then, it’s happy hour at the bar, followed by a cooking class and a group dinner featuring local ingredients. Guests can relax afterward with movies, games, or even try squid fishing, adding a fun, interactive element to the evening.

Day 2: Exploring the Depths and Farewell

Early risers can enjoy the sunrise or take advantage of the gym or deck views. After a light breakfast, the day continues with a visit to Sung Sot Cave, a highlight for many. The cave’s impressive formations and size make it a must-see, and the guide’s descriptions help you appreciate its natural artistry.

Post-cave, the boat departs for the pier, passing notable sights like Stone Island and Hon Ga Choi. Lunch on board features more local flavors while soaking in the bay scenery. Afterward, guests disembark at Tuan Chau Island, completing the trip by around 11:30 am.

This itinerary packs in a lot, aiming to balance sightseeing, activities, and relaxation. The inclusion of sightseeing tickets and kayaking fees is convenient, and reviews note that the schedule is well-organized, reducing downtime or confusion.

What It Means for You

This cruise offers excellent value for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience in Halong Bay. The included activities—kayaking, swimming, hiking—allow you to engage with nature actively, while the gourmet meals and luxurious amenities ensure you do so in style.

Given the length and broad scope of the itinerary, expect a relatively busy schedule. If you’re someone who prefers a slow pace or more time at each site, this might feel a little rushed. However, for travelers who want a fuller experience with minimal planning, this tour delivers.

The tour’s focus on safety, comfort, and quality makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from families to couples and solo adventurers. The small group size (up to 56 travelers) feels intimate enough, yet lively enough to foster camaraderie, especially during meals and activities.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers who crave luxury without sacrificing adventure, this cruise packs a punch. The thoughtful inclusion of gourmet meals, spa treatments, and active pursuits like kayaking makes it a well-rounded experience. The beautiful scenery of Halong Bay combined with the comfort of a high-end yacht creates a memorable escape that balances relaxation and exploration.

If you’re after a well-organized tour that covers the highlights while offering some indulgence, this cruise is a solid choice. Keep in mind that the schedule is packed, so if you prefer a slower, more leisurely pace, you might want to consider fewer stops or a different itinerary.

For those eager to see iconic sites like Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, enjoy excellent Vietnamese cuisine, and indulge in some luxury, this trip provides great value for the price.

FAQs

Is pickup from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from the Old Quarter Hanoi, making the start of your journey hassle-free.

What’s included in the price?
The $270 per person covers meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), shuttle bus to and from Hanoi, sightseeing tickets, kayaking fees, and access to amenities like the gym and pool.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely. The cruise can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs—just specify your requirements when booking.

What activities can I do on board?
You can enjoy kayaking, swimming, hiking, relaxing at the spa, or partaking in games like karaoke and chess. Squid fishing is also available in the evening.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts about 2 days and 1 night, with most activities scheduled within this time. It’s designed to give a comprehensive experience within a manageable timeframe.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes for daytime activities, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a light jacket for the evenings. Don’t forget your camera for capturing those unforgettable sunsets and vistas.

This cruise stands out as a luxury-focused, activity-rich journey through one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural sites. Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or culinary delights, it’s a package that aims to satisfy a variety of tastes, all within a beautifully curated experience.