Apricot Cruise Tour 3 Days Explore Ha Long bay from Hanoi

Exploring Halong Bay on the Apricot 3-Day Cruise: An Honest Review

Taking a three-day cruise through Halong Bay offered by Apricot Cruise sets you up for a journey that combines natural beauty, cultural touches, and some well-deserved relaxation. This experience promises a blend of sightseeing, delicious food, and serene waters, making it a favorite for those wanting to enjoy Vietnam’s most iconic landscape without feeling rushed.

One of the standout features we appreciate is the way the itinerary balances boat time with opportunities for activity—like visiting Sung Sot Cave or hiking Titov Island—without overwhelming your schedule. The meals, crafted by talented chefs, serve up authentic Vietnamese flavors, turning every mealtime into a highlight.

A potential concern? The tour’s schedule is packed, especially with early starts and multiple stops in just three days. If you’re someone who prefers a looser pace or more free time, this might feel a bit brisk. Nonetheless, for travelers eager to pack as much into their trip as possible, it hits the sweet spot.

This cruise is ideal for adventurous spirits seeking genuine scenery, cultural experiences, and good value. It’s especially perfect if you want to see Sung Sot Cave, enjoy Titov Island, and sip cocktails on deck while gazing at the sunset—all in one well-organized package.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines sightseeing with leisure, including caves, beaches, and cultural spots.
• Authentic Food: Meals feature Vietnamese flavors, with a highlight being the cooking class for spring rolls.
• Multiple Activities: Kayaking, hiking, and swimming make each day lively and engaging.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup from Hanoi, WiFi on board, and inclusive tickets add to ease.
• Scenic Highlights: Expect stunning limestone formations, tranquil lagoons, and breathtaking sunset views.
• Value for Money: At $390 per person, this all-inclusive trip offers a comprehensive experience considering transport, meals, and sightseeing.

A Detailed Look at the Apricot 3-Day Halong Bay Cruise

Starting the Journey: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The adventure begins early, with a pickup from your Hanoi Old Quarter hotel between 7:45 and 8:30 am. The transfer to Tuan Chau International Marina is smooth, and we appreciated the included round-trip transportation, simplifying what can otherwise be a logistical headache for independent travelers. The drive provides a chance to start relaxing, even if it’s just by watching Vietnam’s countryside roll by.

Upon arrival at Tuan Chau, there’s a warm welcome with a refreshing drink and cold towel, which is both thoughtful and practical after the journey. The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff’s professionalism sets a positive tone for the days ahead.

First Day: Sights, Caves, and Sunset Views

Once onboard, the vessel departs Tuan Chau Marina, giving you an immediate taste of the majestic limestone islands that characterize Halong Bay. The cruise’s design ensures that you’re treated to plenty of scenic views during the journey, which lasts approximately 2.5 hours before reaching Sung Sot Cave.

Sung Sot Cave is a major highlight. As the largest and arguably most impressive in Halong, it offers impressive stalactite formations and vast chambers that feel almost otherworldly. You climb steep stone steps through lush foliage to reach the mouth of the cave, which makes for a bit of an adventure in itself. Guests describe it as “a truly breathtaking sight,” and “a must-see for nature lovers.”

After exploring the cave, the boat heads to Titop Island, where there’s the option to hike to a panoramic viewpoint or enjoy the beach. The hike up provides stunning vistas of the bay, and those who prefer relaxing can lounge on the sands, soaking up the sun. The quick stop at Titop is perfect for balancing activity with downtime.

As the sun begins to set, the cruise offers a Sunset Party and cooking class. Guests get to try their hand at making fresh spring rolls, which are then enjoyed with drinks during happy hour (2 for the price of 1). The peaceful atmosphere on deck, with the bay painted in sunset hues, makes for a memorable moment.

Dinner is served under the stars (weather permitting), with a gala dinner on the Sundeck—expect a mix of Vietnamese dishes and fresh seafood. The evening activity options include herbal foot baths, traditional dances, or just relaxing with a drink.

Second Day: Hidden Caves and Pearl Farms

The next morning starts early, with Tai Chi on deck at 6:15 am—an activity that lends a serene start to the day. After breakfast, the cruise departs for Lan Ha Bay, a quieter, less commercialized part of the archipelago.

The first stop is the Dark & Light Cave, where guests can kayak or raft through the calm waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and rock formations. This activity is well-loved, with many describing the experience as “peaceful and scenic,” and reviewers noting the calm lagoons are perfect for paddling.

Following a seafood lunch on board, the group heads to Ba Trai Dao Beach, a white sandy stretch ideal for swimming or simply relaxing in the sun. Clear waters and gentle waves make it a highlight, especially for beach lovers.

Later, a visit to the Pearl Farm Museum offers insight into the local industry. Guests can learn about pearl cultivation and even see how pearls are harvested. Reviewers appreciated this educational aspect, noting it’s a unique cultural insight many don’t expect.

The evening on the second day mirrors the first, with a sunset party, cooking class, and options for live entertainment or unwind on the deck.

Final Day: Early Morning Tai Chi & Luon Cave

The last day begins with a gentle Tai Chi session at dawn, providing a calming start. After a light breakfast, you’re taken to Hang Luon Cave for kayaking or rafting, navigating around rock formations that have stood for centuries. This activity is described as “a peaceful way to connect with nature,” with some reviewers mentioning it as a perfect way to say goodbye to the bay.

You have a relaxed morning, with time to sunbathe or take photos from the boat deck. As the cruise concludes, you’ll enjoy an early lunch before heading back to Tuan Chau Marina, with arrival around 11 am.

Practical Details & Overall Experience

The cruise is geared towards a diverse group, with a maximum of 38 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere. The inclusion of WiFi onboard is a bonus for those wanting to share their journey in real time, and the complementary room setup for birthdays or anniversaries adds a thoughtful touch.

The entire experience is priced at $390 per person, which covers almost everything—from transportation, meals, sightseeing tickets, to kayaking and cooking classes. While not including extras like spa treatments or personal drinks, the value is fair considering the comprehensive itinerary and quality of included activities.

What We Love & What to Consider

We loved the blend of active adventures and relaxing scenic moments, especially the chance to kayak in tranquil lagoons and hike to breathtaking viewpoints. The meals stand out as a real highlight—authentic Vietnamese flavors served in a luxurious setting—adding cultural richness to the trip.

A potential drawback is the packed schedule, which can feel rushed if you prefer a leisurely pace. Early mornings and back-to-back stops mean you’ll need to be ready for a busy few days, but it’s perfect for those eager to see the highlights.

This tour suits travelers who want value for money, enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, and appreciate well-organized trips that balance sightseeing with comfort. It’s especially good for first-timers to Halong Bay or those looking for a comprehensive adventure with cultural moments.

Final Thoughts

The Apricot Cruise’s 3-day tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Halong Bay. The combination of stunning landscape, interactive activities, and delicious Vietnamese cuisine makes it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to make the most of their time in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

While the schedule is busy, the thoughtfully curated stops ensure you see the bay’s best sights without feeling overwhelmed. You’ll leave with incredible photos, a taste of Vietnamese culture, and a true sense of the peaceful, majestic waters.

For anyone seeking a high-value, scenic, and culturally rich adventure, this cruise delivers on all fronts. The experience is as much about the journey as the destinations—making it perfect for curious explorers and nature lovers alike.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, making logistics easy.

How long is each day’s activity?
Day 1 involves about 5 hours of sightseeing and activities, Day 2 about 8 hours, and Day 3 around 4.5 hours, including travel and stops.

Are meals included?
Yes, all main meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, featuring Vietnamese cuisine prepared by talented chefs.

Can I kayak or swim?
Absolutely—kayaking is included at Dark & Light Cave and Luon Cave, and swimming is available at Titop Island and Ba Trai Dao Beach.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, WiFi is provided on the boat, which is handy for sharing your adventures or staying connected.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing for activities, swimwear, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

Are there any optional activities not included?
Spa, massage, and personal drinks are not included and are available at additional cost.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 38 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.

How do I get back to Hanoi?
The cruise provides a return transfer to Hanoi, arriving around 2 pm on the last day.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for early mornings and some physical activity. Always check with your health conditions.

In sum, the Apricot 3-Day Cruise combines spectacular scenery, engaging activities, and cultural insights at a fair price point. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting a well-organized, memorable journey through one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural wonders.