Amanda Cruise – Luxury Unique Halong Bay Cruise (2D1N Tour)

Traveling to Vietnam and craving an authentic yet comfortable way to experience Halong Bay’s breathtaking scenery? This 2-day, 1-night cruise with Amanda Cruise promises a blend of relaxing water-based adventures, cultural activities, and cozy accommodations—all with the convenience of round-trip transfers from Hanoi. With a perfect rating of 5.0 based on three reviews, this tour seems to be a hit among travelers seeking a well-organized and indulgent escape in one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes.

What we love about this experience is the inclusive nature—meals, activities, and transfers are all taken care of, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy Halong Bay. The deluxe cabins with sea views and the variety of water activities like kayaking and swimming are big pluses, especially for those who want more than just sightseeing. However, it’s worth noting that the overall price, at $195 per person, is on the higher side, but the value packed into this experience seems to justify it for many.

This tour is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, a structured itinerary, and cultural engagement, including Tai Chi, cooking classes, and cave visits. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those who want a comprehensive taste of Halong Bay without the fuss of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after a more adventurous, independent journey, this might feel a bit packaged-but for those seeking relaxing luxury, it hits the spot.

Key Points

• Inclusive package simplifies your trip with meals, activities, and transfers included.
• Comfortable cabins with sea views enhance the overall experience.
• Rich itinerary with visits to Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Trinh Nu Cave offers variety.
• Water activities like kayaking, swimming, and photo hunting provide engaging ways to enjoy the scenery.
• Well-organized schedule with early mornings for Tai Chi and leisure ensures you maximize your time.
• Group size capped at 50 travelers, maintaining a balance between social atmosphere and comfort.

The Experience in Detail

Convenient Transfers and Arrival

The tour begins with pick-up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 8:00 am and 8:30 am, saving you the stress of arranging transport. The nearly three-hour drive includes a short break, providing a chance to stretch your legs before the adventure begins. For those not opting for the transfer service, you’ll need to arrive at Tuan Chau Port by 11:30 am, ready to board the cruise. This flexibility ensures you can tailor your logistics if you prefer to navigate independently.

Day 1: From Hanoi to the Marvels of Halong Bay

The journey kicks off as you step onto the Amanda Cruise, greeted with a welcome drink and cold towel—small touches that set a relaxing tone. The deluxe seaview cabins with standing showers provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. As the vessel departs Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll start to feel immersed in the stunning limestone formations of Halong Bay.

Lunch on board features local cuisine, allowing you to enjoy views of the bay while indulging in hearty, well-prepared dishes. The highlight of the afternoon is a tender ride to Trinh Nu Cave, followed by kayaking around ancient limestone formations—an activity that both reviewers and guides praise for its intimacy and scenic beauty. One guest mentioned kayaking around “thousand-year-old limestone formations” before walking through Trinh Nu Cave to reach a pristine beach, a vivid reminder of the natural wonder awaiting you.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll participate in a sunset party and a cooking class—a chance to learn some Vietnamese culinary secrets while enjoying the spectacular colors of the evening sky. Dinner is served on the upper deck, with many comments highlighting how dinner here is a memorable, open-air experience.

Day 2: Sunrise, Caves, and Return

Wake early at 6:15 am for a Tai Chi session on the sun deck—ideal for stretching out and setting a tranquil tone for the day. After a light breakfast, you’ll explore Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most remarkable caves in the bay. The guest reviews repeatedly mention how impressive and expansive Sung Sot is, with some describing it as “beautiful” and “one of the highlights.”

Post-cave, you have some leisure time—a chance to sunbathe, take photos of the towering limestone karsts, or browse souvenirs from the ship’s shop. Check-out occurs around 9:30 am, with an early lunch buffet served before returning to Tuan Chau Marina around 11 am.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The all-inclusive nature removes much of the hassle—meals, snacks, activities, and even kayak equipment are provided, so you can focus on soaking up the incredible views. The quality of guides and crew, as highlighted by reviews, seems top-notch: friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, which adds a lot of comfort to your experience.

The scenic stops are well-chosen, offering a mix of caves, beaches, and viewpoints. Trinh Nu Beach, with its white sands and emerald waters, gets special mention from guests, who appreciated kayaking here and walking through the cave to access it. Sung Sot Cave, with its impressive size and formations, clearly leaves a lasting impression.

Dining and Onboard Amenities

The food receives consistently positive comments, with travelers citing “good food” and “delicious meals” as key highlights. The dinner on the upper deck is especially praised for its open-air ambiance. The cabins are described as spacious with sea views, providing a comfortable retreat after a busy day.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the cruise manages to strike a balance between a lively group and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. This size allows for shared experiences without feeling overcrowded, making it easier to connect with fellow travelers or simply enjoy solitude with a view.

Pricing and Value

At $195 per person, the price includes almost everything—meals, activities, and transfers. While this might seem steep compared to budget options, reviews suggest the quality of the experience and inclusiveness offer good value for those who want a stress-free, immersive trip. The comfort of the cabins and the variety of activities help justify the cost, especially for first-time visitors wanting a reliable, guided experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet practical way to experience Halong Bay, this cruise checks many boxes. It’s perfect for first-timers or those who prefer a guided, organized adventure with all logistics handled. The cultural activities like Tai Chi and cooking classes add engaging touches that deepen your appreciation of Vietnamese culture. Water lovers will enjoy kayaking and swimming, while those seeking comfort will appreciate the spacious cabins and quality meals.

However, if your travel style favors independence or you’re on a tighter budget, this tour might feel a bit structured. Still, for travelers valuing convenience, comfort, and a curated experience, Amanda Cruise offers a memorable way to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Sum Up

The Amanda Cruise 2D1N tour provides a well-rounded, indulgent way to experience Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Its inclusive package means less planning hassle, while the quality cabins, tasty meals, and varied activities add genuine value. The focus on engaging activities like kayaking, cave visits, and Tai Chi makes it suitable for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and exploration.

This cruise is particularly appealing for first-timers, couples, or groups seeking a stress-free, scenic escape. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a balance of guided structure and free time, with plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and local culture.

If you’re after a luxurious, organized, and authentic experience in Halong Bay that feels both special and manageable, the Amanda Cruise should definitely be on your shortlist.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Hanoi’s Old Quarter are included if you select the transfer option. The pickup is between 8:00 am and 8:30 am, making the start smooth and hassle-free.

What happens if I arrive late for the cruise?
Guests not using the transfer service need to arrive at Tuan Chau Port by 11:30 am. If you arrive later, you’ll have to pay extra for your own transportation to board the cruise.

Are activities like kayaking and swimming included?
Yes, all activities and equipment like kayaking are included in the package. You’ll kayak around limestone formations and visit beaches like Trinh Nu Beach, which guests find both scenic and fun.

Can I expect to stay in a sea-view cabin?
Absolutely. The cabins are described as deluxe with sea views and standing showers, offering a comfortable and picturesque retreat after a day of activities.

What meals are provided on this tour?
All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, with some reviewers highlighting the quality and taste of the food, especially dinner on the upper deck.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers or small groups?
Yes, with a maximum of 50 travelers, this cruise is friendly for solo travelers, couples, and small groups who enjoy socializing without feeling crowded.

In essence, the Amanda Cruise’s 2D1N tour offers a carefully curated taste of Halong Bay’s highlights packaged with comfort and convenience. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free, memorable experience in one of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes.