Erina Cruise Lan Ha Bay Halong Bay 3 days 2 nights depart from Hanoi Old Quarter

Travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic experience of Vietnam’s iconic bay area will find this 3-day, 2-night cruise aboard the Erina Cruise a compelling option. Blending luxurious comfort with engaging activities, this journey promises to unveil lesser-visited spots like Lan Ha Bay and Viet Hai Village, giving you a taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty away from the usual crowds.

What we love most about this cruise is its focus on unique destinations and personalized experiences. The inclusion of activities like kayaking, cycling, and bamboo boat rides, combined with a well-balanced itinerary, ensures you get a genuine feel for the region.

A possible drawback? While the itinerary offers an excellent variety of sights, some reviews hint that the dinners might not always meet everyone’s expectations and that the boat’s age can be noticeable. Still, the overall value, especially with attentive staff and excellent guides, makes this an attractive choice for those looking to explore in comfort and style.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a blend of adventure and relaxation, appreciate authentic cultural interactions, and want the most out of their time in Lan Ha and Halong Bay. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer small group tours with attentive service, good food, and a flexible, engaging itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic Destinations: Focus on less touristy spots like Viet Hai Village and Dark & Bright Cave.
• Active & Relaxing: Kayaking, cycling, swimming, and jacuzzi options balance adventure with comfort.
• Luxury Comfort: Spacious, air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities ensure a restful stay.
• Engaging Activities: Tai Chi, cooking demos, squid fishing, and local bamboo boat rides make every day memorable.
• Great Value: The overall price of $425 offers an all-inclusive experience with meals, transfers, and excursions.
• Exceptional Staff: Reviewers highlight the friendliness and helpfulness of guides and crew, making the trip smooth and enjoyable.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting the Journey: Comfortable Transfers and First Impressions

From the moment you book, the experience begins with a roundtrip shuttle from Hanoi’s Old Quarter—a thoughtful touch that takes away the hassle of organizing transport. The limousine bus offers a smooth 2.5-hour ride to Ha Long City, giving you time to relax and anticipate what’s ahead. Several reviewers have praised the comfort of these transfers, describing them as “space age” and “ridiculously comfortable,” which sets a positive tone for the trip.

Day 1: Cruising Lan Ha Bay and Stylish Relaxation

After arriving at the dock, the journey kicks off with a short boat ride to the cruise. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a delicious lunch and the chance to settle into your cabin. The cruise boasts spacious, modern rooms with air-conditioning and showers, often with views that reviewers say are “large and clean,” adding to the feeling of luxury.

The afternoon is dedicated to water-based fun—kayaking at Tra Bau, known for its cinematic backdrop from the Kong Skull Island movie, or swimming. The cruise offers life jackets, dry bags, and towels, making water activities easy and safe. Many guests enjoy the jacuzzi on the third deck, perfect for unwinding while watching the sunset.

The sunset party features cakes, fruits, and tea, complemented by a cooking demonstration—a chance to learn local culinary tricks. Dinner follows, and evening activities include squid fishing and relaxed socializing. Reviewers frequently mention the helpfulness of staff, particularly highlighting servers like Sophie and Kim for their attentive service and friendly demeanor.

Day 2: Exploring Viet Hai Village and Hidden Beaches

Wake-up calls include a Tai Chi session on the sundeck—a calming start praised for its professionalism by reviewers. The morning breakfast offers eggs, cakes, and coffee. Then, a transfer boat whips you over to Viet Hai Village, a highlight for many.

Here, guests can choose between cycling or electric car tours. Reviewers love the cycling around the village, describing it as a chance to see authentic rural life, with some noting the electric car as an easier alternative. The village itself is a quiet, scenic spot with traditional houses and lush scenery, often cited as a “must-do.”

Lunch is served back on the cruise, followed by an afternoon of kayaking around hidden islands and swimming at Ba Trai Dao beaches. These secluded spots are praised for their natural beauty and tranquility, providing a stark contrast to the busy city life.

The evening repeats the sunset party, with more opportunities for cooking demonstrations and socializing. Reviewers appreciate the balance of activities and downtime, allowing for genuine relaxation.

Day 3: Dark & Light Cave and Farewell to the Bay

On the final morning, guests can enjoy Tai Chi again or a leisurely breakfast. The trip’s highlight is a visit to the Dark & Bright Cave—a tranquil spot accessible by tender boat, with the option of rowing by local boatmen. This stop is particularly loved for its serene atmosphere and authentic experience, offering a glimpse of traditional boat rides.

Afterward, guests return to the cruise for lunch, then disembark and transfer back to Hanoi in time for early evening arrivals. The reviews consistently mention the helpful guides and efficient transfers as key to a smooth end to the trip.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The roundtrip limousine transfer is a highlight, especially for those who dislike long bus rides. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring personalized service and a more intimate atmosphere. From reviews, this small group setting fosters camaraderie and makes the experience more engaging.

Accommodation & Facilities

Rooms are generally described as large, clean, and comfortable, with many guests noting the balcony views. The cruise offers A/C, showers, and basic amenities, creating a cozy retreat after a day of activities. Reviewers appreciate the helpful staff who are always available for extra requests or assistance.

Food & Drinks

The cruise provides three lunches, two dinners, and two breakfasts, with some reviewers praising the delicious, well-presented meals. However, a few mention that the dinner options could be improved. Drinks in the restaurant and minibar are not included, so budget accordingly. Many guests enjoy the cooking demonstrations, which add a cultural touch to the experience.

Activities & Excursions

Expect a mix of water activities, cycling, Tai Chi, and cave visits. The kayaking gear is provided, and the local guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The hidden beaches and villages are the real gems—quiet, scenic, and perfect for unplugging from the modern world.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $425 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience with luxury accommodations, engaging excursions, and attentive guides. The value is enhanced by the inclusion of meals, transfers, entrance fees, and activities, making it a comprehensive package.

While some reviews note that the dinners could be more impressive and that the boat’s age might be noticeable, most agree that the overall experience exceeds expectations for the price. The fact that it’s booked 17 days in advance on average indicates strong demand and confidence in the quality.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see lesser-visited parts of Lan Ha Bay, along with those who enjoy active pursuits like cycling and kayaking. It’s also great for food lovers, thanks to the cooking classes and tasty meals.

If you’re after a small, friendly group experience with high-quality service and authentic sights, this cruise checks all those boxes. It’s less suitable if you’re looking for ultra-luxury (though it is quite comfortable) or if you prefer a more luxurious, mature cruise experience with more emphasis on fine dining.

FAQ

Is pickup from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour offers roundtrip shuttle bus transfers from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making logistics hassle-free.

How long is the cruise?
The full experience lasts 3 days and 2 nights, with most activities scheduled during daylight hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and explore.

What activities are available?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, swimming, biking, Tai Chi, and cave visits. There are also cooking demonstrations and squid fishing.

Are meals included?
Yes, the package includes three lunches, two dinners, and two breakfasts. Drinks in the restaurant and minibar are not included.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, encouraging a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Is the cruise suitable for families?
While not explicitly advertised as family-specific, the activities like kayaking and biking are generally family-friendly, and the small group setting suits most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, cameras, sunglasses, warm clothes depending on weather, and cash for drinks or souvenirs. Flip flops or sandals are best for water activities.

Final Thoughts

The Erina Cruise offers an authentic, activity-rich experience of Lan Ha and Halong Bay that balances luxury comfort with engaging adventures. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and friendly service, making it a reliable choice for those wanting a memorable trip without breaking the bank.

While some may find the dinners a bit average and the boat’s age slightly noticeable, these are minor points compared to the stunning scenery and personalized touches that truly stand out. This cruise is best suited for travelers who value authenticity, small group intimacy, and active exploration. It’s a fantastic way to discover the quieter, more enchanting parts of Vietnam’s famed bay area.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat amidst breathtaking views, this tour delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that you’ll be glad to have booked.