2 Days Tour of Halong Bay by Hera Cruise from Hanoi

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, a visit to Halong Bay is almost unavoidable—and for good reason. The Hera Cruise 2-Day Tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic experiences on the water. This particular tour has garnered a perfect 5.0 rating from 21 reviews, attesting to its popularity and quality.

One thing we love about this trip is how thoughtfully it’s designed. You get to explore iconic sites like Gia Luan, Ba Trai Dao Island, and Dark and Light Cave, all while enjoying first-class amenities onboard. Plus, the mix of active pursuits like kayaking and swimming with leisurely moments makes it appealing for both adventure seekers and those simply seeking serenity.

A potential consideration is the schedule’s intensity—if you prefer slow-paced, less packed days, this might feel a bit full. Also, keep in mind that this is a group tour with a maximum of 38 travelers, which is manageable but might not suit those craving complete privacy.

This tour suits travelers looking for a comprehensive, well-organized experience that mixes cultural highlights, natural beauty, and relaxing luxury. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer of Vietnam, you’ll find value in the blend of activities and the expert guidance.

Key Points

• Excellent guide service with knowledgeable, friendly staff who enhance the experience.
• Stunning scenery with crystal-clear waters, limestone formations, and caves.
• Delicious food options, including Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian dishes.
• Variety of activities such as kayaking, swimming, and cave exploration.
• All-inclusive value with meals, activities, and transfers included.
• Comfortable cabins and first-rate amenities on the Hera Cruise.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This 2-day tour of Halong Bay is curated to maximize sightseeing while allowing enough downtime to soak in the natural beauty. Let’s walk through what you can expect each step of the way.

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The adventure starts early, with pickup from your Hanoi hotel around 8:00 AM. The drive to Hai Duong province takes about an hour, with a short 20-minute break to stretch those legs. The transfer is smooth, and with pickup included, there’s no fuss about transportation logistics—something many reviewers appreciated, especially those who mentioned the “seamless” transfer from Hanoi.

Arriving at Tuan Chau harbor, you’ll board the Hera Cruise around noon. Guests rave about the warm welcome—“a welcome drink,” meeting the captain, and a brief safety introduction. Check-in to your cozy cabin, which many reviewers describe as “cute and comfortable,” making it easy to settle in quickly.

The Cruise & Ba Trai Dao Island

As the cruise begins, you’ll cruise past iconic limestone formations and islands, setting the scene for the next two days of spectacular views. About an hour after setting sail, the boat anchors at Ba Trai Dao Island. Here, the activities really pick up—swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and relaxing in the fresh air. Guests frequently mention the “wild and private” feel of this area—perfect for escaping crowds.

The lunch served here is a highlight for many, with reviews praising the “delicious Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian sets” that are substantial yet light enough to enjoy while taking in the bay’s scenery. The boat cruises through notable spots like Con Vit Islet, Thumb Islet, and Gia Luan Harbor—each offering unique photo opportunities.

Sunset & Evening Entertainment

By late afternoon, the boat resets its anchor near Lan Ha Bay. As day turns to evening, guests gather on deck for the sunset party, featuring fresh fruit, cake, and wine. The views are said to be breathtaking—“pink and orange hues reflecting on the water”—and many reviewers have remarked on how memorable these moments are.

Evening activities include games, music, squid fishing, or simply relaxing. Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, engaging staff who make the night onboard “extra special”. Overnight stays in the cozy cabins are described as “comfortable,” with some guests noting the peaceful atmosphere and star-studded skies.

Day 2: Exploring the Bay & Cave Adventure

The next morning begins early with a Tai Chi session on the sun deck—reviewers note this as a relaxing way to wake up and connect with the environment. Breakfast follows, and by 8:15 AM, you’re off to explore the Dark & Light Cave. The tender ride to a floating house sets the tone for a more intimate adventure, where you row bamboo boats into the caves—an experience many say is “full of charm” and “authentic” thanks to local rowers**.

Back on the cruise around 9:30, you’ll enjoy a late breakfast and prepare for checkout. Before leaving the bay, the cruise offers one last meal—“delicious and well-presented”—and a chance to enjoy the views one final time.

Return to Hanoi

By 11:30 AM, the boat docks near Tuan Chau Harbor, and you’re transferred back to Hanoi, concluding a well-rounded experience. Many reviewers mention how the organized transfer and timely schedule made the trip stress-free.

Why This Tour Works

This tour balances scenic beauty, active pursuits, and cultural highlights. It’s especially praised for guides like “friendly and knowledgeable” staff who share fascinating insights about the area, making the experience feel personalized and authentic.

The inclusion of meals, kayaking, and cave exploration means you get excellent value for the price—$304 per person. While that might seem steep, reviewers consistently mention that the quality of food, comfort of cabins, and variety of activities make it worth the expense.

The tour’s schedule is quite packed, which suits travelers eager to see as much as possible without sacrificing comfort. The group size (up to 38) tends to foster a lively yet manageable atmosphere, with many guests mentioning the “warm, friendly crew” that makes the trip enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized experience of Halong Bay, Hera Cruise delivers on all fronts. Expect breathtaking vistas, delicious meals, engaging activities, and professional guides who really know their stuff. The balance of adventure and relaxation makes it a solid choice for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

If you’re after a high-value trip that combines comfort, stunning scenery, and cultural discovery, this tour ticks most boxes. The only caveat is the busy schedule, so if you prefer a more leisurely, unstructured trip, you might find this a tad full-on. But for those seeking a holistic journey filled with memorable moments, Hera Cruise’s 2-day tour is hard to beat.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is offered as part of the package, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 38 travelers, allowing for a good social atmosphere without feeling crowded.

Are meals included?
Yes. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with special attention to Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian options praised by past guests.

Can I do activities like kayaking?
Absolutely. Kayaking is included, and reviewers have enjoyed paddling around secluded lagoons and caves. Swimming is also available at key stops.

What are the main highlights?
Expect to see stunning limestone formations, explore Dark & Light Cave, relax on Ba Trai Dao Island, and enjoy a sunset party with drinks and snacks onboard.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most reviewers mention a moderate physical fitness level is recommended, especially for activities like kayaking and cave exploration. It’s suitable for families and older travelers who are comfortable with active pursuits.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, comfortable shoes for exploring, and a camera. Optional items include a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the evening.

What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. It requires good weather to operate; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Final Words

This Hera Cruise 2-Day Tour of Halong Bay offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Vietnam’s iconic seascape. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full package of sightseeing, comfort, and activities with reliable guidance. Expect stunning views, tasty meals, and plenty of opportunities for adventure or relaxation—all in a manageable, group-friendly setting.

If you’re looking for a trip that balances natural beauty with cultural insights, and you value quality service, this tour could be your best choice for experiencing the magic of Halong Bay.