3-Day Cruise Discovering Untouched Halong Bay Areas From Hanoi

If you’re dreaming of exploring the lesser-known, tranquil areas of Vietnam’s famous Halong Bay, a 3-day cruise on the La Pinta Luxury Cruise might just be your perfect getaway. This experience promises a combination of luxury, authentic scenery, and adventurous activities, all designed to reveal hidden gems away from the crowded tourist spots. The cruise boasts 18 spacious cabins with full windows, an ample deck space, and top-tier service, making it ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for a relaxed yet immersive escape.

What we particularly love about this trip is the balance between comfort and authentic exploration—you get the luxury touches without sacrificing the feeling of being close to nature. The journey includes visits to less-visited areas like Tra Bau and Viet Hai Village, offering a genuine encounter with local life and untouched scenery. One consideration for travelers is the price point of $438 per person, which reflects the quality, but it’s worth weighing if the value of private, well-equipped cabins, excellent food, and exclusive routes aligns with your travel style.

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a comfortable, all-inclusive experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and leisure. If your idea of a perfect vacation involves luxury accommodations, delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and outdoor activities, then this tour will serve you well.

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious, full-window cabins and well-equipped interiors
• Uncrowded Discoveries: Access to lesser-known areas like Tra Bau and Viet Hai Village
• Delicious Food: Vietnamese and international cuisines served onboard
• Varied Activities: Swimming, kayaking, cooking classes, and night-time entertainment
• Flexible Schedule: Plenty of free time and optional activities to tailor your experience
• Authentic Encounters: Meet local villagers and explore traditional lifestyles

Starting Your Journey from Hanoi

The adventure begins with an optional pickup around Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which adds convenience to your trip. The transfer via La Pinta Limousine is efficient, and the ride along the new national highway gives you a glimpse of Vietnam’s modern side. Once you arrive at Tuan Chau Harbour, you’re greeted with a quick tea or juice break before boarding your floating retreat—the La Pinta Luxury Cruise.

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

The first day is all about setting the tone. You’ll enjoy a welcome drink and a comprehensive safety briefing once on board, followed by a delicious Vietnamese lunch as you cruise through iconic sites like Da Chong, Con Vit, and Gia Luan. These places are well-known for their scenic beauty and unique formations—perfect for those Insta-worthy photos or simply soaking in the views.

One of the trip’s highlights is arriving at Tra Bau, a less-visited area of Lan Ha Bay, where the water is emerald green and remarkably peaceful. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim at Trai Dao beaches—a treat for anyone craving a quiet dip away from tourist-heavy spots. Later in the evening, the cruise hosts a cooking show, giving you a chance to learn how to prepare Vietnamese dishes, which adds a lovely cultural touch. After dinner, the top deck becomes your front-row seat to the nighttime bay views, with options for squid fishing, enjoying live music, or simply relaxing with a drink.

Day 2: Exploring Local Life and Adventure

The morning begins with a light buffet breakfast before heading out on a boat trip across Lan Ha Bay. The real charm of this day is a visit to Viet Hai Village, a place that offers a genuine look into local life within a lush valley. You can choose to explore on bicycles or electric cars, which makes the experience flexible and accessible. The village’s traditional houses, rice fields in summer, and limestone cliffs in winter provide fantastic scenery and photo opportunities.

For lunch, you’ll taste fresh seafood and local dishes, served amidst the quiet beauty of the village. In the afternoon, the adventure continues with kayaking or swimming at Van Boi beach, where you can get close to nature. The cruise then anchors again in Rang Dua for a relaxing session, and the evening features a second dinner onboard, with the option to unwind under the stars or enjoy the onboard entertainment like a magic show or karaoke.

Day 3: Sunrise, Cave Exploration, and Return

The third day dawns early, with passengers waking to spectacular sunrise views over the bay. The tender boats take you near a traditional fishing scene—an opportunity to see local fishermen at work, capturing the essence of life on the water. After breakfast, you’ll visit Dark & Bright Cave, where bamboo boats gently glide through the formations, offering a peaceful and scenic exploration of Vietnam’s natural limestone artistry.

By mid-morning, you’ll start packing up, and a farewell brunch gives everyone a chance to reflect on their experience while cruising past more islets. The cruise then returns to Tuan Chau Harbour, and after disembarkation, the transfer back to Hanoi completes your journey.

This experience is distinguished by its combination of luxury, intimacy, and authentic discovery. Unlike some larger cruise options, La Pinta’s mid-size boat allows for closer access to secluded areas, making the experience more personal and less crowded. The full windows in cabins ensure you’ll wake up with views of the bay each morning, and the ample deck space makes lounging, sunbathing, or just soaking in the scenery a real pleasure.

The itinerary is thoughtfully curated to include less-visited spots like Tra Bau, Viet Hai Village, and Van Boi Beach. These places offer a more authentic, less commercialized look at the region, making this cruise ideal for those wanting more than just picture-perfect postcard shots. The local food experiences and optional activities—kayaking, cooking lessons, fishing—add layers of engagement that elevate the trip beyond a simple cruise.

Food and Beverage: A Highlight

Dining onboard is often praised for its quality and variety. The menus feature Vietnamese specialties, with some international dishes, catering to diverse palates. Reviewers mentioned enjoying delicious seafood and traditional dishes, with some noting the cooking show as a fun and insightful activity. The bar and drinks service complement the laid-back evenings perfectly, whether you’re sipping cocktails on the deck or relaxing in your cabin balcony.

Service and Comfort

Guests frequently comment on the friendly and attentive staff, noting that the crew’s hospitality makes the trip more enjoyable. The well-maintained cabins and clean facilities reflect the high standards maintained by the cruise. With a maximum of 38 travelers, the experience feels more intimate, allowing for personalized service.

Practical Considerations and Value

At $438 per person, this cruise is an investment in comfort, exclusivity, and memorable scenery. When you factor in all meals, activities, and transfers, the value becomes clearer—especially for travelers who prioritize a comfortable, all-inclusive experience. However, the optional transfer fee of $30 per person adds to the cost if you don’t opt for the hotel pickup, so budgeting that in is wise.

The trip is moderately physically demanding—some walking, biking, or kayaking—so it’s suitable for travelers with average fitness levels. It’s worth noting that the tour is non-refundable once booked, so planning ahead and ensuring your weather window is clear is essential.

This cruise is perfect for couples wanting a romantic escape, families looking for a comfortable adventure, or travelers eager to see less-touristed parts of Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially suitable if you value luxury accommodations, good food, and a mix of relaxation and exploration. If you’re after a more personalized experience with fewer crowds and authentic local encounters, this cruise will meet those expectations nicely.

This 3-day cruise offers a wonderful balance between luxury, adventure, and cultural discovery. You’ll wake up to stunning views, enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes, and explore some of the quietest, most beautiful parts of Halong and Lan Ha Bay. It’s a trip that feels indulgent yet grounded in genuine experiences—perfect for those who want a memorable, comfortable escape with a touch of adventure.

While the price might be on the higher side, the quality of the cabins, the exclusive access, and the thoughtfully curated itinerary make it a worthwhile option for travelers who prize comfort and authenticity over budget travel. It’s a chance to unwind, explore, and truly soak in Vietnam’s stunning waterscape in style.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), kayaking, small boat visits to Sang & Toi caves, Taichi on the sundeck, squid fishing, karaoke, insurance, a local guide, and transfers from Hanoi if you choose the optional transfer.

Are transfers included?
Transfers are optional and cost an additional $30 per person if booked separately. The tour provides a pickup service around Hanoi’s Old Quarter if arranged.

What activities are available onboard?
Onboard activities include a cooking show, squid fishing, karaoke, Taichi, and optional activities like kayaking, swimming, and participating in a cooking class.

Is the cruise suitable for families?
Yes, families can enjoy the spacious cabins, outdoor activities, and engaging excursions. The tour’s moderate physical requirements make it family-friendly.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The cruise typically hosts a maximum of 38 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

What is the best time to go?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, the experience depends on good weather. Since it’s cruise-based, clear skies and calm seas generally make for the best experience.

What kind of food is served?
Guests rave about the Vietnamese specialties and international dishes, especially seafood, which is fresh and well-prepared.

Can I participate in night activities?
Absolutely. In the evenings, you can relax on the top deck with drinks, enjoy music, watch a magic show, or try squid fishing—activities that enhance the romantic, relaxed vibe.

What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and maybe a camera for capturing the views. Comfortable shoes for excursions are also recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This cruise offers a deeply relaxing way to discover the tranquil, untouched parts of Vietnam’s water landscapes. With its blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic sights, it promises a memorable journey for those looking to explore in style.