Halong Bay 2 Days 1 Night – AMANDA CRUISE 5-star

Travelers dreaming of seeing the iconic limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay in style will find this 2-day, 1-night cruise on the Amanda Cruise an appealing option. As the only 5-star vessel offering a carefully curated itinerary that explores unspoiled spots like Surprise Cave and Trinh Nu Beach, this experience promises a blend of luxury, scenic beauty, and authentic Vietnamese hospitality. From the moment you arrive at Tuan Chau Port to the peaceful night on deck, every detail seems designed to create memorable moments.

What we really love about this cruise is how it balances the grandeur of Ha Long Bay’s scenery with thoughtful touches like a cooking class and herbal foot baths. However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary involves quite a packed schedule, which might feel a little rushed for some. That said, this cruise suits travelers who want a taste of luxury combined with active exploration—perfect for those who love stunning views, good food, and a well-organized adventure.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: The Amanda Cruise is the first and only 5-star vessel in Ha Long Bay offering this specific itinerary, emphasizing comfort and style.
• Unspoiled Spots: It explores lesser-visited sites like Surprise Cave and Trinh Nu Beach, rather than only the most popular tourist spots.
• Well-Organized Schedule: The itinerary covers multiple activities, from kayaking to hikes, with seamless transitions.
• Authentic Touches: Cooking classes, herbal foot baths, and traditional entertainment help create a memorable cultural experience.
• High Customer Satisfaction: With a perfect rating from two reviews, the cruise clearly delivers on service and overall experience.
• Value for Money: At $189 per person, considering 4 full meals, guided activities, and luxury accommodation, this cruise offers solid value—especially if you appreciate comfort and curated experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Amanda Cruise Experience

Starting Strong: Transfer and Check-in

The journey begins early, with pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter around 7:30 am. The transport option is flexible—guests can choose a limousine or shuttle bus—making logistics smoother. Once at Tuan Chau International Cruise Port, the check-in process is straightforward, with a warm welcome from the crew. Notably, this cruise tends to be booked well in advance, on average 78 days prior, which signals its popularity and the value placed on this particular route.

The Luxury on Board

Amanda Cruise’s design fuses modern aesthetics with a hint of European classic styling. It’s evident that this vessel aims to be more than just a boat—it’s a floating boutique hotel. The cabins are well-equipped with amenities like fruit, herbal foot baths, and complimentary WiFi, which add a touch of convenience and relaxation.

The First Day: Scenic Cruising and Active Adventures

Midday Arrival and Lunch: Upon boarding, guests are treated to a refreshing drink and cold towel—a small but appreciated gesture. As the boat departs Tuan Chau Marina, the ship’s panoramic windows frame the limestone formations, making the 4-hour cruise to Luon Cave a visual feast.

Luon Cave Kayaking: The highlight for many is kayaking around the ancient rock formations. Reviewers mention how peaceful and scenic this activity is, with one noting the “thousand-year-old rock formations.” It’s a chance to get up close to the limestone cliffs and enjoy some light adventure.

Titop Island Stop: In the late afternoon, the tender takes guests to Titop Island, famous for its sweeping views and inviting waters. Visitors can hike to the summit for panoramic views of Ha Long Bay, or slip into the water for a swim. The hike is generally manageable, even for those who aren’t avid hikers, and the view from the top rewards your effort.

Sunset and Cooking Class: As the boat cruises towards the shore, guests gather on the sun deck for a sunset party and a hands-on cooking class—making fresh spring rolls. Reviewers love these intimate, cultural moments, especially noting the chef’s instructions that make it easy for anyone to replicate the dish later at home.

Evening Entertainment: If weather permits, dinner is served on the sundeck—an experience that combines fine dining with stunning scenery. Post-dinner, the boat offers relaxing activities such as herbal foot baths and traditional performances, adding an authentic touch without feeling touristy.

Second Day: Early Mornings and Cave Exploration

Sunrise Tai Chi: Starting the day with Tai Chi on the deck is a wonderful way to wake up, with the morning light and cool breeze setting a tranquil tone. It’s one of those moments that, if you love mindful beginning, you’ll cherish.

Sung Sot Cave Visit: The highlight of the morning is exploring Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most spectacular in Ha Long Bay. The walk through the canopy-lined path and steep stone steps gives a sense of adventure, and the cave’s unique rock formations are mesmerizing. Reviewers say that this is a must-see site, with one describing the experience as “climbing on mountains and feeling like stepping into the sky.”

Return and Relax: After the cave exploration, guests have some free time to sunbathe, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a herbal foot bath—another relaxing touch appreciated by travelers.

End of the Journey

By late morning, it’s time to check out. The crew handles luggage transfer and provides a chance to shop for last-minute souvenirs. The included early lunch buffet offers a final taste of Vietnamese cuisine before disembarking at Tuan Chau Marina.

The Value of This Experience

At $189 per person, this cruise packs a lot into two days. From luxury accommodations, expertly guided activities, and authentic cultural experiences like the cooking class, to the chance to see some of Ha Long Bay’s less crowded spots, it offers excellent value. The included meals—four in total—are noted for being delicious and plentiful, with reviewers specifically mentioning “wonderful sightseeing, delicious foods, and friendly service.”

The service quality seems to shine through, with a reviewer praising “excellent service,” and others highlighting the crew’s attentiveness. The onboard guides are knowledgeable, ensuring guests understand what they’re seeing, and the small group size (up to 50 travelers) fosters a more intimate atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

While the schedule is packed, it’s designed to maximize your experience and cover the highlights efficiently. The early start and long day might be tiring if you prefer a slower pace, but for those eager to see as much as possible, it’s an efficient itinerary. The weather-dependent nature means that if storms or heavy rain cancel activities, the cruise operator offers alternatives or full refunds.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who appreciate luxury combined with adventure and want to explore Ha Long Bay beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s suited to those who value good food, cultural activities, and comfortable accommodations. If you prefer a more relaxed, leisurely pace, this might feel a little busy, but for active travelers or those eager to pack in sightseeing, it’s perfect.

Families, couples, and small groups will find the experience enjoyable, especially given the well-curated activities and the beautiful scenery. The inclusion of special touches like a birthday setup or honeymoon decor makes it even more appealing for celebrating special occasions.

The Sum Up

The Amanda Cruise offers a well-balanced mix of luxury, scenic beauty, and culture. It’s a particularly good choice for those who want to experience Ha Long Bay’s hidden gems with a touch of elegance and personalized service. The high reviews from past travelers underline its reputation for reliability, excellent food, and knowledgeable guides.

While the packed schedule might not suit travelers seeking total relaxation, it offers incredible value for those eager to see the highlights in style. The combination of active exploration—kayaking, hiking—and cultural activities like cooking class ensures that you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s natural and culinary delights.

For travelers looking to indulge while discovering some of the most stunning aspects of Ha Long Bay, this cruise is a smart pick. Authentic, comfortable, and thoughtfully curated, it hits the sweet spot between adventure and luxury.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is offered, either via limousine or shuttle bus, making the journey seamless.

How long is the cruise each day?
The first day involves about 4 hours of cruising before activities, with additional time for kayaking, hiking, and dinner. The second day starts early with Tai Chi and cave exploration, then returns to port by 11 am.

What meals are included?
You get four meals in total—lunch and dinner on day one, breakfast and lunch on day two—featuring delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

Are activities suitable for all ages?
Most activities, such as kayaking, hiking, and exploring caves, are suitable for moderate fitness levels. Children and seniors should consider their comfort with physical activity.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, complimentary WiFi is provided, allowing you to stay connected during your trip.

What is the capacity of the boat?
The cruise accommodates up to 50 travelers, ensuring a cozy, less crowded experience.

Can I customize special occasions?
Yes, the cruise offers complimentary setup for birthdays, weddings, or honeymoons, adding a personal touch.

Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, the Amanda Cruise’s combination of luxury, scenic exploration, and cultural experiences makes it a compelling choice for a memorable Ha Long Bay adventure.