2 Days Halong Bay Cruise Tour from Hanoi

Taking a cruise through Halong Bay is often considered a must-do for anyone visiting northern Vietnam — and for good reason. The chance to float among thousands of limestone islets, enjoy delicious fresh seafood, and experience the comfort of a luxury ship makes this trip memorable. We’ve reviewed a 2-day tour offered by Asia Tour Booking, which promises a well-rounded experience on the biggest ship in Halong Bay.

What we love most about this tour is its blend of comfortable amenities, diverse excursions, and the opportunity to soak up some of Vietnam’s most iconic scenery in style. The luxury cabin, with en-suite bathroom and air conditioning, ensures you’re well-rested for each day’s adventures. However, the tour is quite structured, which might feel a bit rushed for those who prefer total flexibility. This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of leisure, scenic beauty, and guided exploration—perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and UNESCO World Heritage recognition make Halong Bay an unforgettable destination.
• Well-organized itinerary with a mix of sightseeing, activities, and leisure time.
• Comfortable onboard experience with a luxury cabin, good food, and engaging activities.
• Value for money considering the included meals, excursions, and transportation.
• Limited group size (max 15 travelers) for a more intimate experience.
• Weather-dependent activities may affect some outdoor plans.

Introduction to the Tour

This 2-day cruise tour offers a comprehensive way to experience the highlights of Halong Bay without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. From the moment you’re picked up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’re transported into a world of towering limestone karsts, floating villages, and tranquil waters. The tour balances guided excursions with plenty of time to relax, making it ideal whether you’re in Vietnam for a short trip or looking to indulge in a luxurious getaway.

One of the standout features is the luxury ship, the largest in Halong Bay, which provides a stable, spacious, and comfortable base. The onboard amenities include an elegant dining area, a sundeck for lounging, and even spa treatments—though we recommend booking those early if you don’t want to miss out. The inclusion of a cooking class, live music, and optional activities like kayaking ensure there’s more to this tour than just sightseeing.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is weather-dependent, especially for outdoor activities like kayaking, and the schedule can be quite full. This means packing some flexibility in your expectations. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy structured tours but still want time to take in the scenery and unwind.

The Itinerary Unpacked

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The trip begins early, with pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 8:15 and 8:45 am. This timing is typical for tours that aim to maximize time on the water, though it does mean an early start after possibly a late night. The drive to Bai Chay takes around 2.5 hours, giving you a chance to see some of the countryside along the way.

Once you arrive at 35 Bai Chay, the check-in process at the cruise dock is smooth, and you’re promptly transferred to the International Port for boarding. The welcome drink, often a local specialty, sets the tone for a relaxing cruise. The ship’s interior boasts a stylish Piano Lounge and dining area, which really adds to the upscale feel.

Lunch is served buffet style, with views of limestone formations providing a stunning backdrop. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for the afternoon’s activities. One guest noted that the food was delicious, and the buffet offered a good variety of local and international flavors.

First Excursion: Pearl Farm and Kayaking

After lunch, your first stop is the Tung Sau Pearl Farm. Here, you’ll learn about pearl cultivation techniques that combine Vietnamese tradition with Japanese technology. Visitors often find this educational and interesting. Kayaking is also available here, which many consider a highlight—being able to paddle through the calm waters with limestone cliffs around you. The admission is included, and the experience offers a closer look at the bay’s serene beauty.

Titov Island and Relaxation

By late afternoon, you’ll go to Titov Island, famous for its panoramic views. Climbing the 100-meter ascent rewards you with sweeping vistas of Halong Bay’s limestone formations. Swimming or sunbathing on the beach are popular options. For those who prefer relaxing onboard, homemade cakes are served in the Piano Lounge, and the outdoor Jacuzzi or spa treatments are available—though booking them ahead is advisable. One guest mentioned enjoying the live music and canapes on the sundeck at sunset, which truly captures the relaxing vibe of this cruise.

Evening Activities

As the sun sets, the ship anchors for the night, creating a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. The tour includes a cooking class, where you can learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes, and happy hour with canapes. The live band, Midnight Buzz, provides a lively soundtrack, although it’s worth noting that live music is available from Tuesday to Saturday, not on Mondays.

Dinner is a special menu prepared by onboard chefs—most guests agree it’s tasty, with one noting it felt quite refined for a cruise. Afterward, the night offers options like squid fishing, spa treatments, or simply relaxing in your cabin.

Day 2: Early Mornings and Cave Exploration

Tai Chi and Light Breakfast

Day two kicks off early with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, an activity appreciated by guests for its calming effect and gentle physical activity. The light breakfast of pastries, coffee, and tea fuels you for the day’s excursions.

Sung Sot Cave: The Bay’s Largest Marvel

Next, you’ll visit Sung Sot Cave, renowned as the biggest and most impressive in Halong Bay. As one reviewer mentioned, the cave is marvelous, with thousands of stalactites forming strange and captivating shapes. The cool air inside offers a pleasant break from the heat outside, and the guided walk provides interesting facts about the limestone formations.

Departure and Return to Hanoi

After the cave exploration, you’re served a full breakfast, then prepare for checkout. The cruise departs around 9:30 am, and you’ll arrive back at the port for disembarkation around 10:15-10:30 am. The return to Hanoi is usually smooth, with the tour ending around 3:00-3:30 pm, refreshed and full of new memories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are all meals (dinner, breakfast, optional lunch), the luxury cabin, transportation, sightseeing fees, onboard insurance, and some gentle activities like Tai Chi. Bottled water in the cabins, a sightseeing program, and access to onboard amenities like the spa are also part of the package.

Extras that aren’t included are beverages—expect to pay extra for drinks from $20 onwards—massage treatments, kayaking (if you want a private paddle), tips, and personal expenses. Kayaking and bamboo boat rowing are additional at $20, which is reasonable considering the experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Timing matters: The tour starts early, so be prepared for an early wake-up and a full day of activities.
• Weather impacts activities: Outdoor activities like kayaking depend on good weather. If rain or wind is forecasted, some options may be limited or canceled.
• Packing essentials: Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a camera. Also, pack some cash for drinks or optional extras.
• Group size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a more intimate experience, but this also means spots for activities like spa treatments or kayaking might fill quickly.
• Comfort level: The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness—climbing Titov Island is optional but worth it for the view.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and leisure. The ship’s luxury amenities make it a step above many standard tours, while the included excursions add depth to your experience. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you see some of the bay’s most iconic spots, like Titov Island and Sung Sot Cave, while also giving you time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The value for money is clear when you consider what’s included — meals, transportation, sightseeing, and comfortable accommodation — all wrapped into a single, organized package. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of luxury on the water without sacrificing authenticity or adventure.

If you enjoy gorgeous scenery, good food, and a touch of guided comfort, this tour will likely satisfy your expectations. Just remember that outdoor activities are weather-dependent, and the schedule can be quite full, so a flexible attitude helps.

Who Would Appreciate This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a luxurious experience but also want to see the highlights of Halong Bay. It’s perfect for first-time visitors keen to tick this UNESCO World Heritage site off their list, as well as seasoned travelers who enjoy guided trips with comfortable accommodations. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a small group environment for a more personal touch.

While it’s a good choice for families or couples, solo travelers will find the group size manageable and friendly. Adventure seekers who love kayaking and outdoor activities will enjoy the options, but should be aware that some outdoor plans depend on weather.

FAQs

Is transportation from Hanoi included? Yes, pickup from the Old Quarter Hanoi is provided, and it’s included in the package. The transfer to Bai Chay and back is part of the tour.

How many days does the tour last? The tour runs for approximately 2 days, including one overnight stay onboard the ship.

What’s the best time to go? While the tour operates year-round, good weather is essential for outdoor activities like kayaking and sunbathing. Check the forecast before booking.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast, lunch (optional), and dinner are all included, with the menu featuring a mix of local and international dishes.

Can I do kayaking? Yes, kayaking is available at Tung Sau Pearl Farm and costs around $20 if you choose to rent a kayak separately.

What about spa treatments? Spa treatments are available onboard starting from $20, but should be booked early as spots are limited.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but consider the early start and full schedule if traveling with young children.

In summary, this 2-day Halong Bay cruise offers a blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences that make it a worthwhile addition to your Vietnam itinerary. It strikes a good balance between guided activities and free time, ensuring you leave with lasting memories of one of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.