2 Days 1 Night Rita Cruise Best Luxury Cruise in Halong Bay

Experience the Best of Halong Bay with the 2 Days 1 Night Rita Cruise

Setting out on a cruise through Vietnam’s iconic Halong Bay is a bucket-list adventure—yet not all rides are created equal. The Rita Cruise offers a luxurious, thoughtfully curated experience that balances comfort, exclusive sights, and authentic moments. This 2-day itinerary takes you far from the crowded tourist spots into the untouched beauty of Lan Ha Bay, with special features like a private swimming pool and a soundproof karaoke lounge that add a modern twist to traditional cruising.

We love how this cruise emphasizes smaller, less touristy routes—you’re not just another face in a packed boat, but a guest in a private haven with stunning ocean views from every cabin. The inclusion of a private balcony, gourmet Vietnamese food, and activities such as kayaking and cooking classes makes it clear that this experience is designed for those who want a touch of luxury without losing the local charm.

One potential consideration is the price point, which is on the higher side—yet, for the level of exclusivity, comfort, and unique scenery you gain, many travelers find it to be a great value. This cruise suits those who prioritize quality over quantity, enjoy fine details, and are eager to explore Lan Ha Bay’s quieter, more enchanting corners of Halong Bay.

Key Points

• Luxury in a smaller package: Private cabins with ocean-view balconies and high-end amenities.
• Unique itinerary: Less crowded areas of Lan Ha Bay and exclusive activities like kayaking.
• Modern features: Swimming pool, karaoke lounge, cooking classes, and sunset parties.
• Well-organized logistics: Convenient pickup, flexible options for those already in Halong Bay.
• Authentic local cuisine: Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian set menus, cooked onboard.
• Value for money: All major sight fees, activities, and meals included with optional transfer.

Detailed Review of the Rita Cruise Experience

A well-rounded introduction to Halong Bay’s wonders

The Rita Cruise promises to elevate your experience of Vietnam’s famed bay by focusing on luxury and authenticity. It’s a newly launched vessel, meeting international 5-star++ standards, with standout features that most other cruises don’t offer—namely, a swimming pool and a private soundproof karaoke lounge. These amenities hint at a cruise designed for comfort and fun, blending leisure with exploration.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing is its careful itinerary. Instead of following the typical crowded routes, Rita Cruise takes you to Lan Ha Bay, a less-touristed but equally stunning part of the area. This means fewer crowds, more natural beauty, and a more intimate experience—ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds while still enjoying all the sights and activities.

The itinerary in detail

Day 1: From Hanoi or Halong Bay to Lan Ha Bay

The day begins early, with pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter at around 8:00 AM if you’re booking their transfer service. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours via a new expressway, with a restful stop along the way, making the trip manageable and comfortable. For those already in Halong Bay, check-in begins at Tuan Chau Marina around 11:30 AM, where you’ll meet the group and board the cruise.

Once onboard, the crew welcomes you with drinks and safety briefings. The ship’s interiors are luxurious, and the cabins boast private balconies with ocean views—expect to feel pampered from the start. The cruise begins with a gentle passage through Halong Bay into Lan Ha Bay, where you can settle into your cabin, explore the ship, or simply relax as the scenery slides past.

Lunch on the water is a highlight—fresh Vietnamese seafood or vegetarian options served as you cruise past iconic limestone formations and secluded islands. The scenery is mesmerizing, with towering rocks and hidden lagoons, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking it all in.

In the afternoon, the ship anchors near Con Vit Islet (Duck Island) and Thumb Islet, both part of the Cat Ba area. Here, the options are swimming, kayaking, or relaxing on deck. The highlight for many is dropping anchor at Tra Bau Island, where you can swim in natural lagoons or sunbathe in wild, unspoiled air.

As the sun begins to set, the cruise hosts a sunset party with fruits, cake, and wine—ideal for unwinding and capturing that perfect golden hour shot. The evening continues with a Vietnamese cooking class—try your hand at spring rolls or other traditional dishes. Dinner follows, offering a buffet of seafood and Vietnamese specialties.

Day 2: Morning activities and return

Wake up with optional Tai Chi on the sundeck, then enjoy breakfast with views of the bay. The morning is dedicated to visiting Frog Pond, a filming location for the Hollywood movie King Kong. Here, you can try sea swimming or kayaking for about 45 minutes—an active, fun way to experience the bay’s natural beauty.

Afterward, the cruise begins its return to Tuan Chau Harbor, with a buffet lunch served onboard as the ship makes its way back. Disembarkation occurs around 11:00-11:20 AM, and those with the hotel transfer option will be returned to Hanoi’s Old Quarter by mid-afternoon.

What makes this cruise stand out?

Exclusive access to Lan Ha Bay is one of the biggest draws. Unlike the main tourist areas, this part of the bay is less developed, more pristine, and filled with serene landscapes. You’ll enjoy natural lagoons, quiet beaches, and less commercialized scenery—perfect for those seeking peace and authenticity.

The luxury features—private balconies, swimming pool, and karaoke lounge—are designed for comfort and fun. The cuisine is another highlight: Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian options served in elegant settings, making meals something to look forward to.

Activities like kayaking and swimming are included, giving you the chance to get close to nature without the crowds. The cooking class adds a cultural touch, letting you learn a traditional Vietnamese recipe under the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Authenticity and comfort go hand-in-hand

Throughout the journey, guides and crew are noted as friendly and professional, with some reviews mentioning the cruise manager’s attentiveness and knowledgeable explanations about the bay’s geology and history. This adds a layer of authenticity and educational value to your trip, making it more than just sightseeing.

Practical considerations

The cruise’s pricing at $199 per person includes most of what you need: meals, activities, entrance fees, and transportation (if you opt for their Hanoi transfer). While this is a premium price, it’s reflected in the quality of accommodation, the inclusiveness of meals, and the exclusivity of the itinerary.

If you’re already in Halong Bay, the cruise offers flexibility, but if you’re coming from Hanoi, the transfer adds convenience, especially for first-timers unfamiliar with local transport.

The experience for different travelers

This cruise suits travelers who value luxury, comfort, and unique scenery. It’s perfect for couples celebrating special occasions, honeymooners, or anyone wanting a high-end experience without sacrificing authenticity. The quieter routes are especially appealing to nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Adventurers and activity enthusiasts will enjoy kayaking, swimming, and cooking classes. Meanwhile, those who love relaxing in style amid breathtaking landscapes will find the amenities and scenery a perfect match.

Budget travelers might find the price steep, but the inclusive nature of the trip—meals, entrance fees, activities—means good value for a comprehensive, luxurious experience.

The Sum Up

The 2 Days 1 Night Rita Cruise stands out as a luxurious yet authentic way to explore Halong Bay’s lesser-known corners. Its combination of modern amenities, scenic routes, and cultural activities offers a well-rounded experience that balances comfort with adventure. The private balconies, swimming pool, and quiet Lan Ha Bay routes make it a fantastic choice for travelers craving exclusivity and high-quality service.

While the price might be higher than more basic options, the overall value—especially considering the inclusiveness of meals, activities, and scenic exclusivity—is hard to beat. Expect a smooth, well-organized trip that takes you beyond the crowds into the peaceful, stunning waters of Vietnam’s most famous bay.

This cruise is ideal for lovers of comfort, scenery, and culture who want a memorable, luxurious getaway with plenty of authentic touches. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a quality escape, you’ll leave with beautiful memories—and some fantastic photos.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $199?
The price covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), entrance fees for sightseeing in Halong and Lan Ha Bay, kayaking, activities like cooking classes, and transportation if you book their Hanoi transfer. It also includes crew services and drinks onboard.

Can I join the cruise if I am already in Halong Bay?
Yes, the cruise accommodates guests already in Halong Bay. You would meet the group at Tuan Chau Marina at 11:30 AM and proceed with the itinerary.

What amenities are available onboard?
The cruise features en-suite cabins with private balconies, a swimming pool, a soundproof karaoke lounge, and a sun deck. There’s also a restaurant for meals, and activities like kayaking, swimming, and cooking classes.

How long is the transfer from Hanoi?
The transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes approximately 2.5 hours via a new expressway, with a stop for resting. Transfers are included if you choose the Hanoi pickup option.

What activities are available during the cruise?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming at Tra Bau Island, participating in a Vietnamese cooking class, sunset parties, Tai Chi, and visiting Frog Pond for a quick swim or sightseeing.

Are drinks included?
Basic drinks like water are provided in cabins, and welcome drinks are offered onboard. Beverages, tips, and personal expenses are not included and are payable separately.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 120 travelers, but with the focus on smaller, more intimate experiences, the group size often feels more manageable.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes. You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before the trip are not eligible for refunds.

Who would enjoy this cruise the most?
Travelers who seek a luxurious, authentic, and peaceful experience, with a penchant for scenic beauty, good food, and exclusive activities. It’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, or anyone wanting to indulge in style and tranquility.

This detailed look at the Rita Cruise highlights its unique blend of comfort, scenery, and local charm—an excellent choice for travelers craving a memorable, high-end adventure in one of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes.