Luna Cruise: A Premium Luxury Day Cruise from Port to Halong Bay

Traveling to Vietnam and seeking a day trip that combines luxury, breathtaking scenery, and authentic experiences? Luna Cruise offers just that — a lavish way to explore the legendary Halong Bay. This cruise promises an elegant ride through one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, complete with modern amenities, gourmet dining, and unique entertainment options.

What really sets Luna apart is its impressive design, including Vietnam’s first outdoor glass-bottom pool and a double 360-degree sundeck that offers panoramic views. The pricing is quite competitive for what you get, and the experience is geared toward travelers who want a touch of luxury without sacrificing authenticity. However, keep in mind that this is a group tour, so if you’re after complete privacy or a more intimate setting, it might not be your first choice. Still, if you’re after a well-rounded, high-end day in Halong Bay, this cruise is likely to check your boxes.

This tour is particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate comfort and style but also want to see the highlights of Halong Bay like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island. It’s perfect for those who prefer a full-day itinerary with all essentials included, from gourmet meals to guided visits. Now, let’s explore what makes Luna Cruise such an appealing option and what to expect along the way.

Key Points

• Luxury and comfort are central, with modern amenities and scenic design.
• The itinerary covers major highlights — Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Hang Luon Cave.
• The outdoor glass-bottom pool offers a unique way to view the bay.
• Includes gourmet lunch blending Asian and European flavors.
• The cruise features stunning 360-degree views from the double sundeck.
• Group size up to 500 travelers offers a lively, social vibe but may lack intimacy.

Exploring the Luna Cruise Experience

An Impressive Start at Halong International Cruise Port

Your journey begins at the Halong International Cruise Port, where check-in takes about 45 minutes. The process is straightforward, especially if you arrive a little early, allowing you to settle into the relaxed atmosphere before boarding. The welcome drink sets the tone, making you feel like a guest of honor from the moment you step aboard.

The Ship: Modern Luxury on the Water

Once on board, you’ll immediately notice Luna Cruise’s large, elegant design. The ship boasts a double 360-degree sundeck—a rare feature that gives you unobstructed views from every angle. Whether you want to soak up the sun or capture photos of the limestone karsts, you’ll find plenty of space and comfort.

One of the most talked-about features is Vietnam’s first outdoor glass-bottom pool. While smaller than a resort-style pool, it provides a thrilling view of the bay below, making it a fantastic photo spot and a fun way to enjoy the scenery while cooling off.

The Itinerary: Top Highlights of Halong Bay

The day is thoughtfully packed with several key stops that showcase the best of Halong Bay. The first stop is Sung Sot Cave, often called the “Surprise Cave,” one of the most beautiful and expansive caves in the area. Guided tours inside reveal stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and the experience is elevated by the fact that the cave is easily accessible from the dock, which makes the visit comfortable and relaxed.

Next is Ti Top Island, famous for its spectacular panoramic views and sandy beaches. You can hike up the hill for a postcard-worthy shot or simply enjoy swimming and lounging on the beach. Reviewers appreciated the well-managed access and the opportunity to relax in nature’s embrace.

For a more serene experience, you might choose to explore Hang Luon Cave by bamboo boat or kayak. The cave’s calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a peaceful retreat, perfect for a quick paddle or a calming boat ride. Although kayaking incurs an extra cost and isn’t included, many reviews note that it’s well worth the small extra expense.

Gourmet Dining and Refreshing Amenities

A standout feature of Luna Cruise is its gourmet lunch, which features over 100 premium dishes blending Asian and European flavors. The five-star restaurant setting means you can enjoy your meal in comfort, with a view of the bay through large windows. The menu includes a variety of options, catering to different tastes and dietary needs.

The outdoor relaxation area and the outdoor swimming pool are perfect spots to unwind after exploring. As one review mentioned, “The outdoor pool is a great way to cool off and enjoy the views without leaving the boat.”

The Return and Farewell

Your cruise concludes back at the port after roughly seven hours of sightseeing, relaxation, and indulgence. Guests are warmly bade farewell, often with a sense of having experienced a luxury day in nature that balances comfort with adventure. The entire experience is designed to leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of stunning photos.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour starts at 8:00 am at the Halong International Cruise Port, with most travelers arriving via shuttle or private transfer from Hanoi. The group size is capped at around 500, ensuring a lively atmosphere but still manageable enough to feel organized and comfortable.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning roughly eight hours, the tour provides enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The itinerary is well-paced, with ample opportunities for photos, exploration, and relaxation. The 45-minute check-in and 15-minute disembarkation process are smooth, but arriving early helps avoid last-minute stress.

Cost and Value

At $98.10 per person, the tour offers considerable value, especially given the inclusion of meals, entrance fees, guide, and access to premium amenities. The luxury touches, such as the outdoor pool and panoramic sundeck, elevate the experience beyond typical day trips.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are light breakfast, premium lunch, entrance fees, guide, travel insurance, taxes, and service fees. Extra expenses could include kayaking (if you choose to do so), beverages outside the provided drinks, or personal expenses. The tour is flexible for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and free cancellation available up to 24 hours before.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While Luna Cruise hasn’t accumulated a large number of reviews yet, those available highlight the stunning views as a major highlight. One reviewer noted that “the panoramic decks give you perfect shots of the limestone formations,” and another appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and how the outdoor pool made the experience stand out.

Some reviews mention that the group size can feel lively but not overwhelming, and the menu quality was praised for its variety and freshness. The guide’s English and Vietnamese-speaking abilities also helped travelers feel confident navigating the stops.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love Luna Cruise?

This cruise offers a luxurious, well-rounded way to experience Halong Bay. It’s best suited for travelers who want a high-end day trip with comfort, great scenery, and good food. If you’re after stunning views from panoramic decks or a dip in Vietnam’s first outdoor glass-bottom pool, Luna delivers.

It’s also ideal for group travelers who enjoy social environments but prefer a more upscale setting. Families, couples, or friends with a taste for style will find this cruise ticks all the boxes. However, if you are seeking a more intimate, private experience or are on a tight budget, other options might be better suited.

In any case, Luna Cruise stands out as a top-tier choice for those wanting to blend sightseeing with comfort, in one of the world’s most photogenic locations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers a light breakfast, a gourmet lunch, entrance fees for attractions, a guide, travel insurance, taxes, service fees, and access to the outdoor swimming pool.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to see the highlights, relax, and enjoy the amenities without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Halong International Cruise Port at 8:00 am and concludes back at the same port around 3 pm.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, kayaking at Hang Luon Cave and beverages outside the included drinks are extra. Personal expenses are also not included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera, a hat, and possibly some cash for optional extras like kayaking or souvenirs.

Overall, Luna Cruise offers a luxurious, scenic, and well-organized way to explore Halong Bay, perfect for travelers who want comfort, stunning visuals, and a taste of Vietnam’s famed hospitality in one memorable day.