Halong Bay 2 day on Valentine 5 Stars Cruise from Hanoi

Introduction

Taking a 2-day cruise around Halong Bay is often considered a bucket-list experience for those visiting Vietnam. This particular option, the Valentine 5-Star Cruise, offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty that feels both indulgent and authentic. While we haven’t personally cruised this exact itinerary, the detailed schedule and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded voyage suitable for travelers seeking comfort and memorable scenery.

What we love about this experience is how it balances relaxation and exploration—from the gourmet dining to kayaking in crystal-clear waters—and the thoughtful itinerary that hits many of Halong Bay’s most famous spots. One consideration? The schedule can be quite packed, especially on Day 1, so if you’re after a slow-paced escape, it’s worth knowing that this trip is designed for active, engaged travelers.

This tour is ideal for those who want a luxurious, guided trip with plenty of opportunities for adventure, stunning photo ops, and a taste of Vietnam’s best sights. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just craving a scenic escape, this cruise aims to deliver a memorable experience with solid value.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: High-end cabins, gourmet meals, and onboard amenities create a comfortable, indulgent atmosphere.
• Well-Planned Itinerary: Visits to Luon Cave, Titop Island, and Sung Sot Cave showcase the diversity of Halong Bay’s natural wonders.
• Activities Included: Kayaking, swimming, hiking, and a cooking class offer engaging ways to explore.
• Authentic Dining: Multiple meals prepared by talented chefs provide a real taste of Vietnamese cuisine.
• Balanced Schedule: Combines sightseeing, relaxation, and entertainment, but can be busy with many activities in two days.
• Group Size and Service: With a maximum of 32 travelers, the experience feels intimate, and guides are knowledgeable.

Detailed Review of the Halong Bay 2-Day Cruise

The Booking and Overall Value

Priced at $239 per person, this cruise positions itself as a premium yet reasonably priced experience considering what’s included. The cost covers not only the accommodation in a luxury cabin with en-suite bathroom and air conditioning but also all the major excursions, meals, and activities. The inclusion of transportation from Hanoi and a comprehensive itinerary make it straightforward and stress-free, especially for first-time visitors.

For travelers who value comfort and convenience, this cruise offers excellent value. Gourmet meals, a cooking demonstration, and onboard entertainment add to the feeling of a luxury escape rather than just a sightseeing tour.

The Pickup and Transfer Experience

The tour kicks off early with a pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter—conveniently included, saving you the hassle of figuring out transport. After a short stop for refreshments along the way, the journey to Tuan Chau Island takes around 3-4 hours, which is typical for trips from Hanoi to Halong Bay. The coach is comfortable, and the pickup process is straightforward, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.

Arrival at Tuan Chau Island and Check-In

Once you arrive, you check into your suite at the Suites Hotel and transfer smoothly to the cruise on an electric cart. This transfer is quick and eco-friendly, offering a glimpse of the bustling harbor before you step aboard. The brief safety and itinerary briefing on the cruise sets expectations and gets you ready for the days ahead.

Day 1: Exploring the Highlights

Lunch with a view: As the cruise begins to glide past the iconic islets, you’ll enjoy a buffet-style lunch at the onboard restaurant. The scenery here is breathtaking—crystal-clear waters dotted with towering limestone formations—making the meal a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

Titop Island: Post-lunch, the boat anchors at Titop Island, famous for its panoramic views and sandy beaches. You can opt to hike up the mountain for a spectacular vista of Halong Bay or relax on the beach and swim. The hike isn’t overly strenuous but offers a rewarding perspective of the bay’s dramatic landscape.

Luon Cave: Later, the adventure continues with a visit to Luon Cave, accessible by bamboo boat or kayak. The natural wonder is a narrow, fascinating tunnel through the rock, surrounded by calm, clear waters. As one reviewer noted, “Traveling under the limestone cliffs in the kayak was surreal—very peaceful and photogenic.”

Sunset and Evening Activities: As daylight fades, the cruise anchors for the night, providing ideal conditions for happy hour and a Vietnamese cooking class. Guests enjoy a lively atmosphere with buy-one-get-one-free drinks, and the cooking demo offers insight into local cuisine. After dinner, the optional squid fishing and onboard drinks keep the fun going well into the night.

Day 2: Discovering More of Halong Bay

Early Tai Chi and Breakfast: The next morning starts peacefully with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, a perfect way to wake up. A light breakfast with baked goods, coffee, and tea prepares you for the day’s exploration.

Sung Sot Cave: The highlight is the visit to Sung Sot Cave, the largest and arguably most stunning of the caves in Halong Bay. Its stalactites and stalagmites create a surreal landscape, and the panoramic viewpoint offers sweeping views of the bay. Reviewers mention that “the cave’s size and formations are truly impressive,” adding to the awe of the experience.

Passing by Iconic Sites: After the cave, the cruise continues past Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, and the Fighting Cock Islet—each adding more visual interest and photo opportunities. The cruise then serves a final breakfast while passing these famous sites, providing a relaxing end to your time on the water.

Disembarkation: By mid-morning, it’s time to return to Tuan Chau Marina and bid farewell to the crew. The smooth disembarkation process allows you to reflect on your trip or squeeze in some last-minute photos.

The Experience Beyond the Sightseeing

This cruise also emphasizes culture with a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and Tai Chi, giving you insights into local traditions. The onboard guides are generally well-informed, providing helpful commentary about the sites and safety instructions—reviewers often appreciated the guides’ friendliness and knowledge.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s timing and group size contribute significantly to its appeal. With a maximum of 32 travelers, the group feels intimate enough for personalized attention but still lively enough to share the experience. The schedule is busy but well-structured, ensuring you see the main highlights without feeling rushed.

The meals are consistently praised—delicious, well-prepared, and a good variety of Vietnamese dishes. The availability of vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options demonstrates the tour’s attentiveness to dietary needs.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviewers highlight “the knowledgeable guides” and “stunning views” as key advantages. One mentioned that “the kayaking trip through Luon Cave was the highlight, peaceful and utterly beautiful.” Others appreciated the “fantastic food,” saying “the meals felt like fine dining, with fresh ingredients and creative presentation.”

Some feedback points out that Day 1 can be quite full, with a packed schedule of sightseeing and activities, so travelers seeking a more relaxed experience might find it a little intense. However, most agree the balance of activities is well thought out and rewarding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a luxury experience with plenty of activities. It suits couples celebrating a special occasion, solo travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration, or groups of friends looking to share a memorable trip. Those who value gourmet meals and comfortable accommodation will appreciate the thoughtful touches onboard.

If your goal is to see the iconic sights of Halong Bay with the convenience of guided tours and included activities, this cruise delivers. However, if you prefer a very slow pace or are on a tighter budget, this might feel a little indulgent or more structured than you’d like.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a luxurious, well-organized way to experience the stunning scenery of Halong Bay, this 2-day cruise ticks many boxes. From gourmet meals and comfortable cabins to visiting key sights like Luon Cave, Titop Island, and Sung Sot Cave, the experience feels both indulgent and authentic. The activities—kayaking, hiking, cooking—add layers of engagement, making the journey more than just a sightseeing trip.

The small group size and attentive guides ensure you get a personalized touch, while the beautiful natural scenery provides a breathtaking backdrop at every turn. This cruise is especially suited to travelers who want a balance of adventure, relaxation, and culture, making it ideal for special occasions or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable escape.

While the schedule can be quite full and activity-packed, the overall value and quality make it a worthwhile choice for those who want the full Halong Bay experience in comfort and style.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and transportation to Tuan Chau Island, making the start of your trip smooth and hassle-free.

What meals are provided?
You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard, with a variety of Vietnamese dishes prepared by talented chefs. A light breakfast is also served the next morning. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be accommodated if requested in advance.

Can I participate in water activities like kayaking?
Yes, kayaking is included as part of the itinerary. You can paddle through Luon Cave or enjoy swimming on Titop Island, depending on weather and your preference.

What should I wear during the trip?
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection are recommended. Bring a swimsuit for swimming, and an extra layer or jacket for cooler evenings.

How busy is the schedule?
The itinerary is quite packed, with sightseeing, activities, meals, and entertainment scheduled throughout the two days. Expect a lively pace, especially on Day 1.

What’s the group size?
The tour caters to a maximum of 32 travelers, which allows for a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

This detailed, balanced approach ensures you’re well-informed and ready to decide whether this luxurious Halong Bay cruise matches your travel style. Whether you’re after adventure, comfort, or a bit of both, it promises a memorable journey through one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations.