Stellar Cruise 2-day Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi

Travelers seeking a glimpse of Vietnam’s most iconic seascape will find the Stellar Cruise’s 2-day journey a tempting option. This tour offers a chance to sail on the largest vessel in Halong Bay, soaking in spectacular views, visiting hidden spots, and enjoying some well-curated activities and meals. With a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural moments, it promises a memorable escape.

One feature we really appreciate is the balanced itinerary—combining sightseeing, optional activities like kayaking and spa treatments, and free time to unwind. Plus, the onboard amenities, including a luxury cabin and live music, elevate the experience. However, the schedule is quite packed, and the early start on day one might be tiring for some travelers.

This cruise suits travelers who want a comprehensive Halong Bay experience without sacrificing comfort or authentic encounters. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor eager to explore this UNESCO site in style, the Stellar Cruise offers good value for the price, especially when you consider the included meals, activities, and transportation.

Key Points

• Comfortable Luxury: Enjoy a night in a well-equipped cabin with en-suite bathroom, air conditioning, and daily bottled water.
• Stunning Views: From the sundeck and during excursions, the scenery of limestone islets is breathtaking and ideal for photography.
• Diverse Activities: Options include visiting pearl farms, kayaking, swimming, and exploring caves—catering to different interests.
• Quality Dining: Savor buffet lunches and a special menu dinner, highlighting local flavors and fresh ingredients.
• Authentic Experiences: Activities like Tai Chi sessions and visits to traditional pearl farms create memorable cultural moments.
• Flexible Schedule: The itinerary balances scheduled activities with free time for spa treatments, relaxing, or enjoying live music.

The Experience: A Journey Through Spectacular Scenery and Authentic Encounters

The Stellar Cruise’s 2-day tour is designed to give a well-rounded view of Halong Bay’s incredible landscape while offering moments of relaxation and fun. It begins early, with a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 8:15am—conveniently organized with air-conditioned transport that gets you to the port comfortably. As we arrived at the port, the sight of the massive Stellar Cruise docked among limestone karsts set the tone for an impressive voyage ahead.

First Impressions: Spacious, Well-Equipped Vessel

Boardings are smooth, with check-in at 11:30am at 35 Bai Chay, Halong. The ship itself stands out for its size and modern facilities, including a Piano Lounge, outdoor sundeck, and spa. We loved how the staff welcomed us with a refreshing drink and a short briefing, easing us into the cruise atmosphere.

The First Day: Sights, Sampling, and Sunset Magic

After a hearty buffet lunch with views of limestone islets, the cruise starts with a visit to Tung Sau Pearl Farm. This stop is more than just a chance to see how pearls are cultivated—it’s a peek into a traditional Vietnamese industry that combines Japanese technology with local craftsmanship. Reviewers appreciated this stop, noting it’s a calm, educational experience without feeling rushed.

Next, we headed to Ti Top Island, a highlight for many. Climbing up to the viewpoint at about 100 meters offers sweeping vistas of Halong Bay’s jagged limestone formations and turquoise waters. Swimming here, or just basking on the beach, was a favorite activity, and the opportunity to take photos was abundant.

For those less inclined to excursions, there’s a cozy option: homemade cakes served on the lounge, or relaxing in the spa or Jacuzzi. The cruise staff are attentive, encouraging guests to tailor their experience, which many travelers found refreshing.

Evening Delights: Dining and Entertainment

As the sun set, Stellar Cruise anchored for the night, creating a picture-perfect setting. The evening begins with a cooking class or happy hour, where guests can sip drinks and nibble canapes while enjoying live music—an aspect that several reviews highlighted as a delightful surprise. The chef’s dinner menu features dishes crafted to showcase local ingredients, and the dress code leans towards semi-formal, adding to the special atmosphere.

After dinner, the options continue: drinks with live music, a spa session, or movies in your cabin. The ambiance is relaxed, with a sense of luxury and authenticity blending seamlessly.

The Second Day: Cave Exploration and Return

Day two starts with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck—an invigorating way to wake up, weather permitting. A light breakfast follows, setting the tone for more sightseeing. The key highlight today is Sung Sot Cave, the largest in the bay, with massive stalactites and stalagmites creating a mysterious, almost otherworldly scene. Visitors consistently mention the cave’s size and formations as impressive.

Post-cave, it’s time to disembark at Halong International Cruise Port around 10:15am. The entire experience is well-paced, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and reflect on the journey.

Practicalities and Value

The $268 per person price includes meals, sightseeing fees, onboard insurance, and a luxurious cabin, making it a fair value considering the quality of the experience. The cruise’s all-inclusive nature means you won’t be hit with unexpected costs, apart from optional extras like kayaking ($20), spa treatments, or beverages (from $10). The small group size (up to 120 travelers) helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, and the onboard staff are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.

Transportation from Hanoi is smooth, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle ensuring you arrive early in the port. The flexible schedule and optional activities mean you can tailor the experience to your tastes, whether that’s more sightseeing, relaxation, or culture.

What reviewers love

Many travelers appreciated the stunning views, especially from the sundeck and viewpoint at Titov Island. The delicious, well-presented food was frequently mentioned, with some describing the buffet and dinner as highlights. The visit to the pearl farm was seen as a cultural bonus, adding an educational dimension.

Considerations

The early start might be a challenge for night owls, and the packed itinerary leaves little room for long relaxation periods. The price does not include optional activities, so budget accordingly if you want to kayak or indulge in spa treatments.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive yet comfortable experience of Halong Bay in just two days. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a blend of sightseeing, cultural insights, and leisure. Travelers who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a lively onboard atmosphere will find this cruise hits the mark.

Those with limited time but a desire to see the highlights of Halong Bay will find this tour offers a good balance of activities and relaxation. If you prefer a more tranquil, less scheduled experience, you might want to explore options that include more free time or private arrangements.

The Sum Up

The Stellar Cruise’s 2-day exploration of Halong Bay combines scenery, culture, and comfort into a well-rounded package. The ship’s spacious cabins and multiple amenities make it a relaxing base, while the carefully curated stops give you a taste of the bay’s natural beauty and local industry. The meals, entertainment, and optional activities add layers of enjoyment, making the trip engaging and fun without feeling overwhelming.

This tour offers excellent value for travelers who want a taste of everything Halong Bay has to offer—without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those eager to tick off the major sights with a touch of luxury. If you’re after a scenic, comprehensive trip with good food and friendly service, this cruise delivers in spades.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter begins around 8:15am, giving you ample time to get ready and enjoy the scenic drive to the port.

What is included in the tour price?
The $268 fee covers meals (dinner, breakfast, optional lunch), sightseeing fees, onboard insurance, a luxury cabin, onboard entertainment, and transportation from Hanoi.

Are there optional activities I can pay extra for?
Yes. Kayaking costs about $20, and spa treatments start from $20. Beverages are also available from $10.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothes for daytime excursions, swimwear for swimming, a hat and sunglasses, sunblock, and some cash for optional extras.

Is there free Wi-Fi onboard?
The tour description doesn’t specify, so it’s best to assume Wi-Fi might be limited or unavailable during the cruise.

How physically demanding are the excursions?
Most activities like visiting pearl farms or sitting on the sundeck are relaxed. Climbing to viewpoints or swimming is optional and can be as easy or strenuous as you prefer.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Some activities, like climbing to the viewpoint or walking through caves, may pose challenges. It’s best to discuss specific needs with the tour provider beforehand.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. It requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Travelers seeking a well-rounded, scenic, and comfortable way to experience Halong Bay will find the Stellar Cruise to be a solid choice. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and onboard comfort, it offers a memorable journey worth considering for your Vietnam itinerary.