Capella Cruise 3-Day Explore Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi

Traveling through Vietnam often involves exploring its vibrant cities or historic sites, but nothing quite compares to the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. The Capella Cruise offers a luxurious, well-rounded way to experience these iconic waters over three days, blending stunning natural vistas with comfort and fun activities. This review will walk you through what it’s like, highlighting the standout features, some potential considerations, and who will benefit most from this experience.

One thing we really appreciate about this cruise is its attention to detail—from the thoughtfully curated itinerary to the variety of onboard entertainment options. The inclusion of water activities like kayaking, swimming, and mini-golf, combined with cultural experiences such as Vietnamese cooking demonstrations, makes it feel both fun and authentic. Plus, with all meals included and access to several recreational facilities, you leave feeling satisfied and relaxed.

A possible consideration is the price point—at $1,315 per person, it’s definitely a premium experience. While the value is high, particularly with luxury accommodations and a range of included activities, budget travelers might find it a bit steep if they’re looking for a more budget-friendly option. However, for those seeking a comfortable, all-inclusive escape with a touch of luxury, this tour hits many marks.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a stress-free way to see some of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes, it offers plenty of value—especially for those who appreciate good food, scenic views, and attentive service.

• All-Inclusive Comfort: From fine dining to recreational facilities, nearly everything is covered for a hassle-free experience.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect some of the most captivating limestone formations and island views in Halong and Lan Ha Bay.
• Variety of Activities: Kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, cave visits, and cultural demonstrations are included, ensuring there’s always something to do.
• Quality Food & Drinks: Gourmet meals, a wine selection, and a sunset happy hour enhance the experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: The crew and guides are praised for their professionalism and helpfulness, making navigation and sightseeing smooth.
• Authentic Cultural Touches: Cooking demonstrations, local village visits, and traditional boat rides add depth beyond the scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown: How the Days Unfold

This 3-day cruise is packed with a well-considered schedule designed to maximize your time on the water while offering plenty of downtime. It balances sightseeing with relaxation, ensuring you’ll come away with memorable moments—and plenty of photos.

Day 1: Setting Sail from Hanoi

The adventure begins early, with a pickup from the Old Quarter of Hanoi around 8 am. This is quite convenient if you’re staying centrally, and it helps set the tone for a hassle-free start. The transfer to Tuan Chau International Port takes about 25 minutes, with the first impression being the impressive scale of the cruise center and the smooth check-in process. Guests praise the friendly staff, making check-in feel quick and fuss-free.

Once onboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and a short safety briefing. The first meal is a lunch served at the Harmony of the Sea Restaurant, where you can enjoy dishes while gazing at limestone karsts drifting by. The scenery here is already stunning, with limestone formations rising from emerald waters.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Lan Ha Bay, with activities like relaxing at Frog Lagoon, where the cruise anchors to give you access to water-based fun. The Infinity Oasis Pool and Jacuzzi are popular spots, offering a luxurious way to cool off after a day of sightseeing. Water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are also available, with many guests noting the high-grade entertainment facilities make for a fun, active afternoon.

As the sun sets, there’s a happy hour with a buy-one-get-one-free drinks deal at the Spirit of the Sea Lounge, complemented by snacks and a view that’s hard to beat. Dinner is a gourmet fusion cuisine served in the restaurant, often described as both delicious and beautifully presented.

Evenings are lively, with options including movie nights, karaoke, or simply relaxing on your private balcony. Guests highlight the cozy ambiance of the Cigar & Poker Room and the chance to catch the bay’s nightfall—an enchanting experience.

Day 2: Exploring Local Life and Hidden Beaches

The second day kicks off with Tai Chi at sunrise, offering a peaceful start with panoramic views. The early morning exercise is well-reviewed for its invigorating effect and the scenic backdrop.

After breakfast, the cruise takes you to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island via speedboat. Here, the chance to explore traditional village life adds an authentic touch. Visitors can choose to bicycle or take an electric car to explore the lush lagoon, ancient houses, and local craft workshops—an experience praised for its genuine cultural insight. One guest shared, “It was fascinating to interact with locals and learn how they make rice wine.”

Lunch at a local restaurant on Cat Ba Island is another highlight, offering fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes. The afternoon involves a visit to Ba Trai Dao beach, famous for its pristine sands and tranquil atmosphere—ideal for swimming or simply relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

Later, as the day winds down, guests enjoy sunset drinks on the deck, with many noting how the views during happy hour are a great way to unwind. The evening repeats many of the previous day’s leisure options, with movie nights and karaoke to keep the energy lively.

Day 3: Cave Visits and Returning to Hanoi

The final day starts early again with Tai Chi at sunrise, setting a serene tone. The highlight of the morning is a visit to the Dark & Bright Cave, accessed by traditional bamboo rowboats. Guests are often fascinated by the angled passageway and serene lake, as one reviewer put it, “It’s like stepping into a fairy tale with the bamboo boats gliding through the caves.”

After the cave visit, there’s a light breakfast before heading back to the cruise. The return journey includes a brunch as the cruise slowly makes its way back to Tuan Chau port, giving you one last chance to enjoy the views and reflect on your trip.

You’ll arrive back in Hanoi by around 2:30 pm, concluding the journey with the option to transfer directly back to your hotel or stay in the city.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

Luxury and Comfort: The cruise’s suite accommodations are notably spacious, with many guests appreciating the high-quality bedding and modern amenities. The onboard facilities like the Infinity Oasis Pool, Jacuzzi, and mini-golf elevate the experience from merely scenic to indulgently fun.

Culinary Excellence: Every meal was described as delicious, with some guests praising the fusion cuisine for its creativity and flavor. The drinks selection and happy hour promotions are a bonus, making it easy to unwind by the deck with a glass of wine.

Activities Galore: From kayaking to cave visits and local village interactions, there’s a strong emphasis on making the experience active and engaging. The water activities are accessible and well-organized, with many guests noting the well-trained guides and safety measures.

Cultural Touches: The cooking demonstrations and local village visits give you a taste of authentic Vietnamese life, which many guests find adds depth to the trip. It’s not just about scenery but about connecting with the region’s culture.

Entertainment & Relaxation: Beyond sightseeing, the cruise offers lounge areas, movie nights, karaoke, and gaming rooms, ensuring there’s entertainment for all moods—whether you’re energetic or just want to relax.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While the overall experience is positive, some guests mention that the price might be a barrier—$1,315 per person is certainly an investment. Given the inclusions—meals, activities, accommodations—many agree it offers good value for a luxury experience, but budget travelers may prefer more economical options.

Plus, the group size is capped at 70 travelers, which can lead to a lively, social atmosphere but might feel crowded for those seeking more intimacy. The timing of activities requires some early mornings and late evenings, which could be tiring if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Weather can also impact the day-to-day experience, especially for outdoor activities like kayaking or cave visits. The tour’s refund policy states that poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds, so travelers should be prepared for variable conditions.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and leisure, all wrapped into a luxury package. It’s ideal for those who appreciate gourmet dining, water sports, and engaging activities, as well as travelers craving a comfortable base to explore one of Vietnam’s most photogenic regions.

Couples celebrating special occasions, families seeking fun, or groups of friends looking for a memorable getaway will likely find this cruise ticks all the boxes. However, those on a tight budget or seeking a more secluded, less lively atmosphere might want to consider alternative options.

The Capella Cruise 3-Day Explore Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay provides a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see Vietnam’s iconic waters in style. Its combination of luxurious accommodations, diverse activities, and authentic cultural experiences makes it a compelling choice for those willing to invest in a memorable escape. With high praise for its scenery, food, and guides, it’s a tour that delivers both relaxation and adventure in one of Southeast Asia’s most stunning settings.

For travelers who prioritize comfort, variety, and quality, this cruise offers excellent value. If you’re after a stress-free, immersive experience with plenty of options for fun and relaxation, this could be your perfect getaway.

What is included in the price?
The price covers 2 nights of accommodation in a luxury suite, all onboard meals, activities like kayaking and village visits, and access to recreational facilities such as pools and mini-golf.

Are transfers from Hanoi included?
No, the round-trip transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau port costs approximately $41 per person (round trip) or $30 one-way, and should be booked separately.

What activities are available onboard?
Guests can enjoy water activities like kayaking and swimming, participate in cave visits, take part in cultural demonstrations, or relax at the lounges and enjoy movies or karaoke.

How much free time will I have?
There’s ample downtime, especially in the evenings for relaxing, watching the sunset, or enjoying the cruise’s entertainment options.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness, especially for activities like cycling or walking through villages.

What about vegetarian or special dietary needs?
While not specified, most cruises catering to international travelers tend to offer vegetarian options—it’s best to confirm in advance.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is generally fixed, but some optional activities and dining choices are available. Be sure to check with the provider for any personal requests.

What is the weather like during the cruise?
Vietnam’s weather varies, and the tour’s policy states bad weather might lead to rescheduling or refunds. It’s wise to check the forecast before booking.

In all, the Capella Cruise offers a seamless blend of scenery, culture, and comfort—perfect for travelers wanting to indulge in Vietnam’s natural beauty without sacrificing convenience or quality.