3-day Hera Cruise Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi

Traveling to Vietnam and craving a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and comfort? The 3-day Hera Cruise offers a thoughtfully curated journey through some of the most iconic spots in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Designed for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration, this cruise combines scenic vistas, cultural insights, and well-appointed amenities.

One of the standout features of this tour is the inclusion of kayaking, a cooking class, and Tai Chi sessions, giving you a more immersive experience beyond just sightseeing. The cruise’s well-planned itinerary ensures you see key attractions like Tuan Chau Island, Ti Top Island, and Sung Sot Cave, while also enjoying tranquil moments on private beaches and floating villages.

A potential consideration is the price point of $1,286 per person, which reflects a premium experience with luxury accommodations and inclusive meals. For budget travelers, this might seem steep, but the value lies in the quality of service, authentic experiences, and stunning vistas.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, luxury seekers, and those who want a balanced mix of guided activities and free time. It’s especially ideal if you’re looking for a small group experience (max 15 travelers), ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate vibe.

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to key sites like Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, and Viet Hai Village ensure a well-rounded experience.
• Luxury Accommodation & Services: A/C cabins with mini bars and included meals elevate the cruise experience.
• Active & Cultural Activities: Kayaking, biking, Tai Chi, and cooking classes add layers of engagement.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of limestone karsts, lagoons, and floating villages.
• Well-Organized Schedule: The itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and onboard entertainment.
• Good for Small Groups: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect personalized service and more meaningful interactions.

Traveling with the Hera Cruise, you’re signing up for more than just a boat ride. It’s a carefully curated voyage that combines natural beauty, cultural touches, and comfortable amenities. We’ll break down each day to give you a clear picture of what to expect and why it’s worth considering.

The First Day: Setting Sail from Hanoi

Your adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making the transition from bustling streets to serene waters seamless. The transfer to Tuan Chau Harbor is smooth, and once aboard the cruise, you’re greeted with a welcome drink and introductions to the crew and captain. This kind of warm, personal reception is typical of smaller luxury cruises, making you feel more like a guest than a tourist.

After checking into your luxury cabin—which is equipped with air conditioning, a bathtub, and a mini bar—the real fun begins. The cruise departs for Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded but equally stunning part of the region. As you glide through the bay, savor the Vietnamese seafood lunch while marveling at the dramatic rock formations.

A highlight of this day is the stop at Tra Bau or Ba Trai Dao Beach, where you can swim or sunbathe in secluded, pristine surroundings. The cruise also anchors near Con Vit Islet and Thumb Islet, offering postcard-worthy views and photo opportunities. In the late afternoon, the sunset party—featuring fruit, cake, and tea—sets a relaxing mood as you watch the fiery sky over the bay.

Authentic tip: According to reviews, the crew’s attentiveness during this part of the journey really stands out, making the experience feel personalized and welcoming.

Day Two: Active Exploration & Cultural Immersion

The second day is packed with activities that combine physical movement with cultural insights. The day begins at 6:30 am with a Tai Chi session on the sun deck—a calming way to start the day, especially with the limestone peaks as your backdrop. Many travelers appreciated this peaceful moment, with some noting that the instructor was knowledgeable and the session very relaxing.

Breakfast follows, offering a panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay—an ideal setting to enjoy coffee or tea while planning your day. Afterward, the cruise continues to Viet Hai Village, a traditional fishing village accessible by a scenic boat transfer. Here, you get to bike along the village roads, observing local life firsthand, which many reviewers say is a real highlight.

A visit to a local home allows you to see how residents live, adding authenticity and cultural depth to your trip. Returning to the boat, you’ll cruise to Van Boi Beach for swimming or kayaking—an excellent way to cool off and soak up the tranquil ambiance.

The afternoon involves more relaxation and fun at Lan Ha Bay’s floating fish farm and village, culminating in a sunset party that seems to be a favorite part of the experience. The onboard dinner features special seafood and Vietnamese dishes, with many noting the quality of the cuisine and the variety of drinks, including cocktails and local wines. After dinner, options like squid fishing or watching movies offer a laid-back end to your busy day.

Reviewer insight: Many guests loved the combination of active sightseeing and cultural discovery, with some mentioning the knowledgeable guides who enhanced their understanding of local life and geography.

Day Three: Wrapping Up with Nature’s Wonders

The final day begins early with Tai Chi on the sundeck, providing a peaceful start amidst the rising sun and limestone formations. After breakfast, the cruise heads toward Dark & Bright Cave, a highlight for many travelers who enjoy exploring caves by kayak or bamboo boat—an experience praised for its tranquility and unique scenery.

You’ll have the chance to explore caves, which can be done either actively or comfortably, depending on your preference. Afterward, the cruise returns to Tuan Chau Harbor, where you’ll disembark around 11:30 am. The transfer back to Hanoi makes for a convenient end to your adventure, arriving in the Old Quarter by mid-afternoon.

Reviewer note: Guests appreciated the smooth check-out process and the scenic final cruise, which gave a fitting conclusion to the trip.

Beyond the itinerary, what sets the Hera Cruise apart is the balance of luxury and authenticity. The luxury cabins and these well-chosen stops allow travelers to feel pampered while also engaging with local culture and stunning natural sites. The small group size means more personalized attention, with guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly.

We loved the way the cruise combines leisure and activity, offering options like kayaking and biking that cater to different energy levels. The inclusion of cooking classes and Tai Chi also gives the experience a more meaningful connection to Vietnamese culture and wellness practices.

The scenic stops at Tra Bau Beach, Viet Hai Village, and Dark & Bright Cave showcase a variety of environments—from quiet beaches to lively floating villages—ensuring you’ll never feel like you’re just ticking boxes.

The Cost & Value

At $1,286 per person, this cruise is an investment in a premium experience. It includes luxury accommodations, all meals, and many activities such as kayaking, biking, and Tai Chi. The all-inclusive nature means fewer worries about extra costs, and reviews highlight the quality of the food and the attentive service.

While this price tag might seem high compared to budget tours, the value lies in the comfort, intimacy, and quality of the experience. Travelers often mention the delicious, well-prepared Vietnamese cuisine and the excellent wine selection, which elevate the evenings onboard.

The 3-day Hera Cruise offers an appealing package for travelers who want to experience Halong Bay’s beauty without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. With a thoughtfully planned itinerary, a good mix of active and relaxing activities, and a small-group environment, it’s particularly suited for those who appreciate personalized service and scenic splendors.

If you’re a traveler craving a luxurious yet genuine experience that combines natural wonders, cultural moments, and top-notch amenities, this cruise deserves serious consideration. It’s ideal for those who value good food, engaging activities, and a laid-back yet adventure-filled atmosphere.

While the price reflects a premium experience, the attention to detail and quality of service make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable trip to Vietnam’s stunning waters.

What is included in the price of $1,286?
The price covers luxury accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), kayaking, cooking classes, insurance onboard, Tai Chi sessions, shuttle bus transfers, and guided sightseeing.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The cruise accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized service.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks cost an additional $20, but the cruise offers a large selection of cocktails, wines, and cigars for purchase.

What activities can I expect?
You can enjoy kayaking, biking, Tai Chi, swimming, and relaxing onboard. There are also optional activities like squid fishing and watching movies.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level as some activities like biking and kayaking involve physical movement.

What is the best time to book this cruise?
The tour operates with a good weather guarantee, but it’s best to check the weather forecast before booking. The flexibility on weather cancellations is helpful.

How do I get back to Hanoi after the cruise?
A limousine bus takes you from Tuan Chau Harbor back to your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel, arriving around 3:45 pm.

This detailed review should help you decide whether the Hera Cruise is the right choice for your Vietnamese adventure, blending comfort, culture, and natural beauty into a memorable three days.