Alisa Premier Cruise Halong Bay 5 Star Luxury 2 Days 1 Night Trip

An Honest Look at the Alisa Premier Cruise Halong Bay 5-Star Experience

Travelers eager for a taste of luxury in Vietnam’s iconic Halong Bay often ask about cruise options that combine comfort, authentic scenery, and a touch of class. The Alisa Premier Cruise offers a 5-star experience over two days and one night, promising spacious cabins, high-end amenities, and a well-curated itinerary. While reviews highlight its impressive facilities and friendly crew, it’s worth digging into what you really get for your money—and whether it suits your travel style.

What we love most about this cruise is the luxurious cabins with private balconies and Jacuzzi tubs—a real treat for relaxing after a day of exploring. Its comprehensive itinerary includes visits to stunning islands, caves, and beaches, along with plenty of opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and snapping photos of the breathtaking scenery. However, some travelers have mentioned that the balcony cleanliness could be improved, and the overall value for money depends heavily on your expectations of a 5-star experience. This trip is best suited for those seeking a blend of comfort, convenience, and authentic Halong Bay sights—all wrapped in a bit of luxury.

Key Points

• Luxury accommodations with private balconies and Jacuzzi tubs provide a relaxing retreat on the water.
• Well-organized itinerary with visits to iconic spots like Titop Island, Sung Sot Cave, and Luon Cave.
• High-quality food and drinks, including buffet breakfast, multi-course dinners, and a cooking class.
• Includes transfer services from Hanoi, making logistics simpler and more streamlined.
• A mix of activities such as kayaking, swimming, and hiking, catering to varied interests.
• Mixed reviews about balcony cleanliness and overall value highlight the importance of setting expectations.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The tour kicks off early from Hanoi’s Old Quarter—around 8:00 to 8:30 AM—via a shared limousine transfer (included in the price). This smooth door-to-door service is a major plus, especially if you’re not keen on organizing your own transport. The transfer takes approximately 2.5 hours along the new expressway, with a rest stop en route, which you’ll appreciate after an early start.

For travelers already in Halong Bay, the cruise boardings begin at Tuan Chau Marina around 11:30 AM. This is convenient for those who prefer to make their own way there or arrive directly. The guiding staff at the marina welcome you with drinks and safety instructions, setting a relaxed tone for the next two days.

The Ship: Comfort and Amenities

The Alisa Premier Cruise stands out thanks to its 22 luxurious en-suite rooms featuring private balconies with panoramic sea views and jacuzzi tubs—a real highlight for relaxing in style. Reviewers mention that the rooms are comfortable and well-equipped with satellite TV and two bottles of water daily.

Facilities on board are designed to cater to guests seeking both relaxation and entertainment. There’s a high-class restaurant with a panoramic view, an outdoor bar offering happy hour deals, and seasonal swimming pools. For wellness, there’s a beauty spa and massage services, and active guests can enjoy the gym or participate in morning Tai Chi on the deck.

The First Day: Exploring Halong Bay’s Highlights

The cruise departs around 12:30 PM, just in time for a delicious buffet lunch featuring Vietnamese and international cuisine. Reviewers mention the food as a high point—especially the seafood dishes, with one reviewer commenting, “the shrimp dishes during dinner were particularly good.” The scenic journey begins immediately, with views that truly showcase the natural beauty of UNESCO-listed Halong Bay.

The stops are thoughtfully planned to maximize sightseeing and fun. First, you visit Tuan Chau Island, where you can hop off the boat to explore or relax. Around 3:00 PM, the cruise takes you to Titop Island—famous for hiking and swimming. Travelers should bring swimwear, sun protection, and some cash for extras. The island offers a gentle hike with panoramic views and a sandy beach for cooling off.

Next, around 4:00 PM, the boat heads towards Hang Luon Cave. Here, you can choose to kayak or sit in bamboo boats, exploring the calm waters and stunning rock formations. Reviewers mention that kayaking is a highlight, giving a more intimate experience of Halong Bay’s scenery.

Sunset and Evening Activities

As the day transitions to evening, guests are encouraged to enjoy the sunset over the bay, perfect for photography. The cruise offers a happy hour (buy two, get one free) at the bar, which many find enjoyable after a day of sightseeing. The evening features a group dinner with local flavors, followed by optional activities like karaoke, card games, or squid fishing. Some reviews note that the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great social experience.

The Second Day: Cave Exploration and Return

Early risers can enjoy Tai Chi at dawn or a workout in the gym. Breakfast is light but satisfying—tea, coffee, fruit, and cereal—perfect for fueling the day’s activities. The highlight of the morning is the visit to Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), known for its impressive formations. The guided tour inside is about an hour, giving you time to marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites.

Following the cave visit, the cruise departs around 9:45 AM, with a scenic lunch onboard featuring dishes watching the bay’s iconic sights. The return journey to Tuan Chau Harbour takes roughly two and a half hours, giving you one last look at the bay’s stunning rock formations and islands.

The End of the Cruise

For those who booked the transfer from Hanoi, the trip concludes back in the Old Quarter around 3:00 PM. If you’re self-arranged, you can choose to stay longer in Halong Bay or explore the area further.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience more engaging. One traveler mentions that the crew was especially accommodating, even cooking special meals for a sick child—something you don’t always get on cruises.

The scenery and activities seem to satisfy most guests, with many praising the stunning views during sunset and the chance to kayak or hike. Food, particularly the seafood, gets positive remarks, and the luxury facilities impress those who expect a high-end experience.

However, one reviewer pointed out that the balcony wasn’t meticulously clean, which might disappoint those expecting spotless private spaces. Another noted that the overall value depends on your expectations of a 5-star cruise—at $199, it’s a fair price for the amenities and itinerary, but not a bargain.

Practical Considerations

The tour costs $199 per person, which includes most meals, activities, and transfers (if booked through the operator). This price offers a decent value considering the luxurious cabins, multiple excursions, and all-inclusive meals. Still, drinks beyond those included, spa treatments, and personal expenses are extra.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those looking for a comfortable, well-organized way to see Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort. It’s particularly good for couples, friends, or families who appreciate luxury amenities and a thoughtfully curated itinerary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect if you want to combine scenic beauty with comfort. It’s suited for travelers who prioritize relaxing in style, enjoy good food, and want to explore key sights without the hassle of organizing logistics. If you’re seeking an authentic, budget-friendly experience, this might not be the most economical choice, but for those who value luxury and convenience, it offers solid value.

Travelers with a sense of adventure but also a desire for moments of leisure will find this cruise covers the essentials beautifully. Keep in mind that some aspects, like the balcony cleanliness, could be improved, so manage expectations accordingly.

FAQ about the Alisa Premier Cruise Halong Bay Tour

Does the tour include transfers from Hanoi?
Yes, if you book through the tour operator, it includes a shared limousine transfer from Hanoi Old Quarter, making your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Can I join the cruise if I am already in Halong Bay?
Yes, for guests already in Halong, the cruise begins at Tuan Chau Marina at 11:30 AM, so you can join without needing the Hanoi transfer.

What meals are included?
All on-board meals are included—lunch and dinner on the first day, and breakfast and lunch on the second day. The food is generally well-reviewed, especially the seafood dishes.

Are drinks included?
Beverages are not included except for water in the cabins and welcome drinks upon boarding. The cruise bar offers happy hour deals, but extra drinks are paid separately.

What activities are available?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming at Titop Island, exploring Luon Cave, and visiting Sung Sot Cave. Nighttime activities include squid fishing and karaoke.

Is there Wi-Fi on board?
Wi-Fi availability isn’t specified, so it’s best to assume limited or no Wi-Fi during the cruise—perfect for disconnecting and enjoying the scenery.

What is the room like?
The cruise offers 22 luxurious en-suite rooms with private balconies and Jacuzzi tubs. Reviewers mention that the rooms are comfortable, but balcony cleanliness can vary.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 2 days and 1 night, with a full itinerary packed into this timeframe.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the date are subject to partial refunds or none at all.

Final Thoughts

The Alisa Premier Cruise offers a balanced mix of comfort, scenic exploration, and enjoyable activities suited for those wanting a slightly upscale experience in Halong Bay. Its spacious rooms, quality food, and well-planned itinerary make it a good choice for travelers willing to spend a bit more for convenience and luxury.

If you value ease and elegance over backpacker-style budget options, this cruise will likely meet your expectations. Just keep in mind that some details, like balcony cleanliness, have room for improvement, and manage expectations accordingly. Overall, it’s a solid, enjoyable way to experience one of Vietnam’s most beautiful natural wonders.