2 Days Ha long Sapphire Cruise

Discovering the 2-Day Ha Long Sapphire Cruise: An Authentic Vietnamese Bay Experience

The 2-Day Ha Long Sapphire Cruise offers travelers a chance to explore one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites with comfort, style, and plenty of activities. This well-reviewed tour combines scenic cruising, delicious local cuisine, and engaging onboard experiences, making it a popular choice for those wanting a taste of Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort.

One of our favorite aspects? The comprehensive itinerary, including kayaking, cave exploration, and sunset parties, ensures you get a well-rounded experience. But, like many tours, it’s important to be aware of the schedule’s flexibility—weather conditions can sometimes cause changes. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate guided, all-inclusive experiences and are keen to relax while soaking in stunning views.

If you’re after a smooth, well-organized adventure with friendly guides and authentic activities, the Sapphire Cruise delivers. It might not be perfect for those seeking complete independence or very low-budget options, but for most, it strikes a good balance of value and quality.

Key Points

• Comfortable accommodations with air-conditioning and en-suite bathrooms.
• All-inclusive meals featuring Vietnamese, seafood, and international dishes.
• Engaging activities like kayaking, swimming, tai chi, and a cooking class.
• Round-trip transfers from Hanoi, simplifying logistics.
• Expert guides who are appreciated for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Flexible schedule with some activities weather-dependent.

Exploring the 2-Day Ha Long Sapphire Cruise: An In-Depth Look

The Booking and Planning Experience

Booking this cruise generally requires planning about two months in advance, reflecting its popularity. The cost is $155 per person, which covers most of what you’d want—meals, accommodations, activities, and transfers. The value here is quite good considering the inclusions and the comfort level of the boat. Plus, the reviews highlight that most travelers feel they received good value for money, especially given the quality of the onboard meals and guided activities.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour starts in Hanoi, with a pick-up from your hotel in the Old Quarter or nearby. The transfer to Hai Phong takes about 2.5 hours on a comfortable coach, which is included in the price. This transfer is a significant plus, removing the hassle of organizing your own transport. The shuttle bus service is valued at around US$10 per way, so it’s nice to see it included. The meeting point is at Heritage Westlake Apartment, and the return is straightforward, ending right back at the starting point.

The Journey to Halong Bay

Once in Hai Phong, travelers board a tender to reach the Sapphire Cruise vessel. The first impression upon arrival is the luxurious feel of the boat, which is clean, tidy, and well-maintained. Guests are greeted with a complimentary drink, and a safety briefing is conducted—important for peace of mind before setting sail.

The First Day: Navigating Lan Ha Bay

By around 13:15, you’ll enjoy a fresh seafood lunch onboard while cruising past Da Chong Islet, a highlight for many. The boat’s route through Lan Ha Bay, less crowded than Halong itself, offers a quieter, more intimate experience of the karst formations and turquoise waters. During this first day, expect to see incredible views, some of the best you’ll get in the region, according to reviews.

Guests loved the service onboard, with reviewers like Rohit praising the “very good gestures from the Vietnamese people” and the “amazing tour guide Lucas.” The crew’s friendliness and attentiveness are often mentioned as what elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Activities on the First Day

• Kayaking and swimming are available, with safety and cleanliness in mind—something most travelers appreciate. Keep in mind that weather can impact these activities; poor weather might mean cancellations.
• You can also explore a beautiful cave, adding a touch of adventure and discovery.
• The onboard sunset party is a relaxing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with many guests noting how the views come alive at dusk.

The Second Day: Early Mornings and Cave Exploration

Waking up early for Tai Chi on the upper deck is a highlight for many. The calm morning atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a peaceful start. Light breakfast is served at 07:00, followed by a visit to the Dark & Bright Cave, where local rowers navigate you through the narrow waterways—an experience many describe as “wild and mysterious.”

The Cooking Class and Final Moments

Back onboard, a cooking demonstration allows you to learn a Vietnamese dish, adding a cultural element to your trip. As the cruise draws near to the mainland, you’ll check out of your cabin around 09:30, with ample time to reflect on the journey.

The Return to Hanoi

The tour ends with a drop-off back in Hanoi, usually around early afternoon. This timing gives you the rest of your day free for exploring or relaxing after your adventure.

Why This Tour Works Well

The all-inclusive package is ideal for travelers who value convenience—meals, transfers, and guided activities are covered, which means fewer surprises along the way. The friendly guides, especially those like Lucas, are frequently praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, ensuring you get a meaningful experience. The variety of onboard activities, from kayaking to cooking, caters to different interests, making the trip engaging without being overwhelming.

Most reviews emphasize the stunning scenery—an undeniable highlight—and the boat’s cleanliness and comfort. The option to partake in activities like squid fishing or Tai Chi adds to the authenticity and relaxation of the experience.

What to Keep in Mind

A few reviewers mentioned that weather can affect activities like swimming or kayaking, so flexibility is key. Also, the schedule is quite packed, which is typical of a two-day cruise, but it means you should be comfortable with early mornings and a full itinerary. Costs exclude drinks during meals and tips, so budget accordingly if you indulge or want to tip well.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise offers a balanced blend of comfort, activity, and scenery—making it perfect for travelers who want an authentic, hassle-free experience of Halong Bay. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate guided tours, good food, and a variety of onboard activities, all within a moderate price point. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy social atmosphere and scenic beauty will find plenty to love here.

However, if you’re seeking a very independent or budget-focused trip, you might find the all-inclusive setup slightly restrictive or pricey. Still, for most, the convenience, quality, and authentic experiences make this a highly recommended choice.

FAQ

Is the transfer from Hanoi included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter are included. The shuttle bus service is valued at about US$10 per way, and it makes the logistics much simpler.

What meals are provided?
All onboard meals are included, with options that feature Vietnamese, seafood, and international cuisine. Guests have praised the quality and variety of these meals.

Can I participate in kayaking and swimming?
Yes, kayaking and swimming are part of the activities. However, weather conditions could lead to cancellations, so flexibility is advised.

What is the cruise’s accommodation like?
The cabins are deluxe, with air-conditioning and en-suite bathrooms, providing a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploration.

What kind of guides will I have?
The guides are English-speaking and friendly, with reviews highlighting their knowledge and helpfulness. Lucas received particular praise for his professionalism.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the early mornings and full schedule. The boat’s facilities are accessible, but always check personal comfort levels.

How flexible is the schedule?
Activities and schedule are subject to weather conditions. While the itinerary is well-planned, some activities like kayaking or cave exploration might be canceled if weather is poor.

This 2-Day Ha Long Sapphire Cruise offers a fantastic way to see the beauty of Halong Bay without feeling rushed. With excellent reviews, friendly guides, and a mix of scenic cruising and engaging activities, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a memorable Vietnamese adventure.