3 Days Ha Long Bay Cruise from Hanoi

Exploring the 3 Days Ha Long Bay Cruise from Hanoi: An Honest Look at a Popular Adventure

Taking a 3-day cruise through Ha Long Bay is often touted as a must-do experience when visiting Vietnam, and for good reason. This particular tour, offered by Alotour, promises a comprehensive journey that combines scenic views, cultural touches, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. The entire trip is designed to balance sightseeing with leisure, making it ideal for travelers looking to unwind while soaking up some of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.

One of the things we love about this cruise is its thoughtfully curated itinerary. From the moment you’re picked up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the last farewell at Tuan Chau Harbor, there’s a steady flow of memorable sights and engaging activities. Plus, the inclusion of activities like kayaking, cycling, and even Tai Chi means you get more than just picture-taking—the trip invites you into the experience. That said, a potential drawback is the price point; at over $1,200 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see Ha Long Bay, but many find the value justifies it considering the amenities, guided insights, and additional excursions.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate a well-organized, all-inclusive experience that combines comfort with adventure. If you’re traveling with a moderate fitness level and enjoy authentic, lightly guided excursions, this could be a perfect fit. But if you’re looking for a budget option or prefer solitary exploration, you might find some parts less tailored to your style. Overall, it’s a great pick for travelers who value quality, convenience, and immersive scenery.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: The tour includes hotel pickup, transfers, and a smooth logistics flow, meaning less hassle and more focus on enjoying the scenery.
• Immersive Activities: Kayaking, cycling through Viet Hai Village, swimming, and even Tai Chi sessions provide active ways to engage with the environment.
• Scenic Highlights: Expect views of Lan Ha Bay, Ba Trai Dao, and Dark and Light Cave—some of the most photogenic spots in the region.
• Quality Dining: Multiple meals featuring seafood and Vietnamese cuisine are included, with options for dietary restrictions, adding to the overall value.
• Authentic Experience: Meeting local families in Viet Hai village adds a genuine touch, giving insight into local life beyond tourist spots.
• Guided Expertise: An English-speaking guide ensures you gain context and enjoy smooth navigation throughout.

A Deep Dive into the 3-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise

The Booking and What You Should Expect

The tour costs around $1,286 per person, which is on the higher end for similar cruises, but this includes almost everything from transfers, activities, meals, and entertainment. The small group size—max 15 travelers—means you’ll get a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or relax at your own pace.

Pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is seamless, with the guide arriving between 8:30 and 8:45 am. The drive to Ha Long Bay takes roughly two hours, giving you time to settle in and prep for the adventure ahead. The transportation is via a comfortable limousine bus, ensuring a smooth start.

Day 1: Setting Sail and Taking in Nature

Upon arriving at Tuan Chau harbor around noon, you’ll transfer onto your cruise boat, which is a highlight in itself. This boat, called the Apricot Cruise, offers a cozy yet well-appointed environment—think spacious cabins, a bar, and plenty of outdoor decks to soak up the views.

Your first stop is Ba Trai Dao, a stunning island known for its distinctive rock formations. Here, you’ll enjoy a Vietnamese seafood or vegetarian set menu, all while drifting through the spectacular vistas of Halong Bay. After lunch, you have the chance to swim or sunbathe on the deck, with the option of kayaking for a closer look at the limestone karsts and secluded lagoons.

In the late afternoon, the cruise anchors in Lan Ha Bay, where a sunset party with fruit, cake, and wine sets a relaxed tone for the evening. Reviewers mention how the sunset here is breathtaking, and the vibe on deck is peaceful. Nighttime onboard is spent playing games, listening to music, or squid fishing—simple, genuine ways to wind down.

Day 2: Active Exploration and Cultural Encounters

Early risers can participate in a Tai Chi session on the sun deck—something we found surprisingly calming amid the dramatic scenery. Breakfast follows, with a panoramic view of the bay, helping you start the day on a high note.

The highlight of the day is a visit to Viet Hai Village, a local community accessible via a short boat ride and bike tour. Cycling through the village roads offers an authentic glimpse into rural life, with some reviews praising the opportunity to visit a local family’s house—an experience that adds depth to your trip. The landscape is lush and inviting, making the biking easy and scenic.

Later, in the afternoon, the cruise takes you to Van Boi Beach for swimming or kayaking, with a chance to see floating fish farms and the quiet charm of Lan Ha Bay’s floating villages. The sunset party continues onboard with drinks and music, maintaining the laid-back atmosphere.

For dinner, the cruise features seafood and Vietnamese dishes, which guests report as delicious and well-prepared. The onboard bar serves a variety of cocktails, and some reviews highlight how enjoyable the wine selection is, especially paired with the stunning nighttime views.

Day 3: Final Sights and Farewell

On the final morning, early Tai Chi sessions and breakfast set a peaceful tone. The cruise then heads toward Dark and Light Cave, where you can explore either by kayak or on a local bamboo boat. Here, the scenery is as spectacular as you’d hope, with limestone formations creating a dramatic backdrop.

After exploring the caves, the cruise begins its return to Tuan Chau Harbor. The last lunch onboard is a relaxed affair, offering one last taste of Vietnamese cuisine before disembarking around noon.

What You’ll Love and What to Keep in Mind

What stands out is the combination of well-organized activities and the stunning natural landscape. The guides, like “Mr. Linh,” are known for their friendly and informative approach, often sharing little stories about the bay’s formations and local life. The kayaking and cycling options are especially praised for their authenticity and scenic value.

However, this tour isn’t for travelers seeking complete solitude or those on a strict budget. It’s a fairly full schedule with some early mornings and a fair amount of time spent on the boat. Also, at over $1,200, it’s an investment, but many find that the included activities, quality meals, and guiding expertise justify the expense.

The meals are another highlight. Guests mention the “delicious seafood and Vietnamese dishes,” with some noting that the options cater well to dietary restrictions like vegetarian or vegan diets. The onboard wine and cocktail selection is also appreciated, especially during sunset.

Group size keeps it intimate, allowing for a more personal experience, and the small number of travelers means the crew can cater more attentively to individual needs.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This 3-day Ha Long Bay cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy active exploration and appreciate comfort. It suits those who want a balanced itinerary filled with sightseeing, cultural encounters, and relaxing downtime. If you’re looking for a well-organized tour with knowledgeable guides, gorgeous scenery, and authentic local interactions, this experience offers good value—particularly considering the included meals and activities.

Travelers who value quality over budget will find this cruise a worthy splurge, especially if they’re keen to avoid overly crowded, rushed tours. The small group size and attentive service ensure a more personalized feel, making it a memorable way to experience Vietnam’s renowned bay.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?
Yes, the tour includes a shuttle bus transfer from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Tuan Chau Harbor, making the journey straightforward and comfortable.

What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming, cycling in Viet Hai Village, Tai Chi sessions, and optional cave exploration by kayak or bamboo boat.

Are meals provided on the cruise?
Yes, the tour offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring Vietnamese cuisine, with options for dietary restrictions. Beverages like drinks in the restaurant and mini bar are extra.

What’s the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, promoting a more intimate experience.

Can I join the sunset party?
Absolutely, the sunset party with fruit, cake, and wine is a memorable highlight of the cruise, occurring in the late afternoon.

What if the weather is bad?
This experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Overall, this 3-day Ha Long Bay cruise provides a well-rounded and scenic adventure for those looking to explore Vietnam’s iconic bay with comfort, authenticity, and a touch of luxury. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided activities, good food, and a relaxed pace amid some of the world’s most striking natural formations.