2 Day Camellia Cruise In Hanoi

Introduction

Taking a 2-day cruise on the Camellia Cruise through Lan Ha Bay and Hạ Long Bay offers a blend of elegance, scenic beauty, and authentic Vietnamese hospitality. While we haven’t personally set sail on this vessel, the detailed itinerary and positive reviews suggest it’s a luxurious way to explore Vietnam’s famed waters without the crowds.

One of the standout features is the attention to detail in the boat’s design, inspired by the delicate Camellia flower. The vessel’s exquisite interiors and spacious cabins promise a comfortable, indulgent experience—perfect for travelers seeking a refined escape.

A possible consideration is the cost—at $175 per person, it’s a notable investment, but many will find the value justified by the inclusions, scenery, and service. This trip suits those who want a blend of luxury and adventure, with enough flexibility for relaxation and activities like kayaking or sunset parties.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: The vessel’s design and service focus on comfort and elegance.
• Scenic Beauty: Expect breathtaking views of Lan Ha Bay and Hạ Long Bay’s rock formations.
• Variety of Activities: Kayaking, squid fishing, Tai Chi, and cave explorations add diverse ways to enjoy the trip.
• Culinary Delights: Multiple meals, including seafood and vegetarian options, showcase Vietnamese flavors.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Carefully planned stops balance sightseeing, relaxation, and fun.
• Group Size & Accessibility: Limited to 38 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience, though moderate physical fitness is recommended.

A Closer Look: What to Expect from the Cruise

The Pickup and Start of the Journey

The tour begins early with a hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or from Opera Theatre House at 8:00 am. This convenience saves you from arranging your transport, and the small group size helps keep the experience intimate. From the start, you get a sense of professionalism, with the guide and crew ready to greet you warmly.

Arriving at Tuan Chau Harbor

Once at the harbor, you’ll check into the waiting area, then board a tender boat to reach the cruise vessel. The welcome drink and briefing on safety guidelines set a relaxed yet attentive tone, signaling that your comfort and security are priorities.

The First Day: The Heart of Lan Ha Bay

Around noon, you’ll enjoy a Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian lunch as the boat cruises through Halong-Lan Ha Bay. The scenery here truly is impressive—the towering limestone formations and peaceful waters create a perfect backdrop for your meal. The fact that admission to the bay is free is a bonus, allowing you to focus on the views rather than extra costs.

After lunch, you’ll have the choice to relax on the sun deck or explore the Ba Trai Dao area and its natural lagoon. Kayaking here is included, which offers a wonderful way to get close to the scenery and feel more active. Reviewers mention the kayaking experience as “peaceful and scenic”, with the opportunity to navigate through calm waters and see the natural formations up close.

The Sunset and Dinner

As the day winds down, participants gather for a sunset party, a relaxing chance to unwind, take photos, and soak in the sunset’s changing colors. Dinner follows—an opportunity to indulge in more Vietnamese cuisine or perhaps toast with a glass of wine from the bar. Guests have noted the “delicious food” and “amazing wine selection”, which elevates the entire experience.

Evening Activities & Night on Board

Even after dinner, the cruise offers options like squid fishing or simply relaxing on deck under the stars. Some guests appreciated the “friendly, attentive crew” and the chance to chat and share stories. The vessel’s design, inspired by the Camellia flower, creates an elegant ambiance that enhances the overall mood.

Day Two: Cave Exploration and Return

Morning begins with a breakfast while enjoying bay views—a peaceful start to the day. The highlight is visiting Dark and Light Cave, where kayaking or bamboo boat rides let you explore the caves and surroundings at your own pace. Reviewers have described this part as “refreshing and photogenic”, with clear blue waters inviting you to dip in.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise back towards the harbor, with lunch served onboard. This relaxed pace allows you to savor the scenery one last time. You then disembark and take a high-speed canoe back to Tuan Chau port, arriving in Hanoi around 4:00 pm.

The Value of This Tour

At $175 per person, the pricing reflects the inclusions—meals, kayaking, activities, insurance, and the luxurious vessel. While the optional bus transfer costs an additional $45, many travelers find that the convenience justifies the expense, especially if they prefer a guided, all-inclusive experience.

The itinerary is thoughtfully laid out, balancing sightseeing with downtime. The inclusion of activities like kayaking, squid fishing, and Tai Chi adds genuine value, offering more than just sightseeing. Plus, the small group size enhances the sense of intimacy and personalized service, which is often lost on larger tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise caters to travelers who appreciate a touch of luxury and comfort paired with immersive natural beauty. It’s ideal for those who want a well-organized itinerary with diverse experiences, from scenic views to engaging activities. Because of the moderate physical fitness requirement (kayaking, cave exploring), it’s better suited for active travelers or those comfortable with some light adventure.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a high-quality, hassle-free way to explore the bay will likely find this tour well worth the investment. Families with older children could also enjoy the peaceful environment and activities.

The Sum Up

The 2 Day Camellia Cruise presents a sophisticated way to experience Vietnam’s stunning waters. From the beautifully crafted vessel to the included activities and delightful cuisine, every aspect seems designed to create a memorable, comfortable escape. Whether you’re looking for scenic photography, gentle adventure, or simply a luxurious retreat, this cruise offers all that and more.

Those who value personalized service, scenic beauty, and authentic culinary experiences will find it particularly rewarding. While it’s a bit of an investment, the blend of comfort, stunning views, and engaging activities makes it an experience worth considering for your Vietnam trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Pickup is offered from Hanoi Old Quarter or Opera Theatre House, making early morning logistics hassle-free.

How long is each day on the boat?
The first day features about 6 hours of cruising, activities, and dinner, while the second day includes about 4 hours of activities and cruising back to Hanoi.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard, with options including Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian dishes.

Can I do kayaking and cave exploring?
Absolutely. Kayaking and bamboo boat rides in Dark and Light Cave are included, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace.

What should I prepare for?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for activities like kayaking and cave exploring. Comfortable clothing and a camera are must-haves.

Is there an option for additional transportation?
Yes, the bus transfer costs an extra $45, which can be convenient if you prefer a guided transfer rather than arranging your own transport.