Halong Bay Cruise 2 Days 1 Night with 4 Star Luxury

Taking a cruise through Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay sounds like a dream—especially when that cruise boasts a luxurious 4-star setting, modern design, and a well-curated itinerary. Many travelers have raved about this experience, highlighting the stunning scenery, tasty Vietnamese cuisine, and attentive service. That said, it’s not without its minor considerations, like the potential expense of drinks or the group size.

But if you’re after an authentic, comfortable way to explore one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes, this tour is a good option. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a blend of relaxation, scenic views, and cultural highlights—all wrapped in a touch of luxury.

What We Love About This Experience

One of the standout features of this cruise is the carefully designed ship. With three decks measuring 28m x 6m, crafted from wood and iron, it strikes a lovely balance between modern comfort and cozy charm. The spectacular sundecks offer perfect spots for lounging and snapping photos, while the elegant dining areas keep you well-fed with Vietnamese seafood and international favorites.

The itinerary itself is well-paced, offering a good mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural stops. Plus, the knowledgeable guides are often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the journey much more engaging.

A possible drawback? While the included meals are plentiful and tasty, drinks are not included, so expect to pay extra if you want wine, beer, or soft drinks. Also, the group size is capped at 20 travelers, which means a more intimate experience but might feel crowded if you’re expecting complete privacy.

This tour suits travelers who want a luxurious taste of Vietnam’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort, and those who appreciate well-organized trips with authentic local touches.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: The cruise combines modern design with traditional Vietnamese touches, ensuring a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.
• Stunning Scenery: From limestone karsts to tranquil waters, the views are described as “spectacular” and “a feast for the senses.”
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Stops include Lan Ha Bay, Cat Ba Island, and visits to caves and a lighthouse, offering a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation.
• Authentic Cuisine: The onboard meals showcase fresh seafood and Vietnamese flavors, with reviews praising both the quality and variety.
• Guides and Service: Guides like “Taller” and crew members receive high marks for friendliness and knowledge, adding value to your experience.
• Additional Costs: Drinks are not included, so budget accordingly if you want wine, beer, or other beverages.

Booking and Pricing: Good Value for a Luxurious Cruise

Costing around $196.16 per person, this cruise represents quite a bit of value considering the luxury offered. For that price, you get pick-up and drop-off, meals for two days, a guide, and all entrance fees. It’s a package that balances comfort with affordability, especially when you consider the quality of the ship, food, and activities included.

While not the cheapest option out there, the 4-star rating means that the level of comfort and service is a step above basic tours. Many reviewers have mentioned that the food was plentiful and delicious, with one noting it as “excellent,” describing the meals as a highlight of their trip.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Journey

Day 1: Scenic Cruising and Islet Exploration

Your adventure begins around 9:15 am with a shuttle pickup from Hanoi, which takes you to Got Ferry Terminal. The journey itself is smooth, with a short stop halfway to stretch. Once at the terminal, you’ll transfer to the Venezia Cruise by tender—this is where the luxury kicks in.

After a warm welcome with drinks and a briefing, you’ll check into your cabin and set sail through Ha Long Bay. As you cruise, you’ll pass by the Da Chong Islet, famous for its lighthouse built by the French over 100 years ago—a perfect photo op. The lunch on board features Vietnamese seafood, fresh and flavorful, served while gliding past Islets of Con Vit.

In the afternoon, the cruise moves into Lan Ha Bay, a quieter, less crowded part of the water, renowned for its serene beauty. Reviewers mention that this area feels “extraordinary” and offers an immersive experience away from the busier parts of Halong Bay.

Day 2: Cat Ba Island and Cave Visits

Early risers are rewarded with sunrise views and an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sun deck—an ideal way to start the day. After breakfast, you’ll arrive at Gia Luan pier on Cat Ba Island, where a bus transports you to the Medical Military Cave. This site surprises many with its massive scale and historical significance as a mountain field hospital, providing a meaningful cultural stop.

Back on the boat, you’ll relax until lunchtime, enjoying more Vietnamese cuisine. Around noon, you’ll disembark and transfer back to Hanoi, arriving by around 3 pm.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out

The Ship and Facilities

The Venezia Cruises ship’s three decks are well-sized, offering plenty of space for lounging, dining, and socializing. The wooden and iron design lends an authentic yet modern feel, with the spectacular sundecks serving as a highlight—perfect for soaking up the scenery or enjoying a drink (which, again, you’ll purchase separately).

The Food and Drink

Guests consistently praise the quality of meals—a combination of fresh seafood and Vietnamese favorites. Reviewers mention that the food is plentiful, delicious, and well-presented. One noted that the wine selection is good but a little expensive, so consider bringing some if you prefer to sip during the sunset.

The Guides and Service

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Taller are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and helpful. They go above and beyond by explaining the history of sites like the lighthouse and the cave, making the experience both educational and engaging.

The Weather and Scenery

Most travelers recommend visiting during dry seasons to enjoy clear skies and calm waters. The views of limestone formations and tranquil waters are described as “spectacular” and “a feast for the senses,” with some reviewers mentioning that even cloudy or foggy weather can add a mysterious atmosphere perfect for photographs.

Potential Drawbacks

While many rave about the experience, a few mention that drinks are not included, so you should budget extra for wine, beer, or soft drinks. The group size—maximum of 20 travelers—can feel a little crowded for those seeking complete privacy or a very intimate setting, but it does foster a friendly, social environment.

Cabin size is described as small but comfortable, with some reviewers mentioning the luxurious amenities, even a bath in the suite. However, if you prefer larger rooms or private balconies, it’s worth confirming the cabin details before booking.

This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a luxurious yet authentic experience in Vietnam’s famed bay area. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic beauty, appreciate good Vietnamese cuisine, and want a well-organized tour with knowledgeable guides.

It’s also well-suited for couples and small groups who want a comfortable, memorable stay on the water without the hassle of managing logistics themselves. Though a bit on the pricier side, the value comes from the quality of service, scenery, and culinary experience.

This 2-day, 1-night luxury cruise through Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. The ship’s design and onboard amenities make it a pleasure to spend time on, while the itinerary covers key highlights like caves, islands, and viewpoints.

The food is consistently praised, and the guides like Taller bring local history and stories to life, making the experience richer. While drinks cost extra and cabins are cozy, the overall value comes from the stunning views, luxurious setting, and the chance to relax in style.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and indulgent way to explore Vietnam’s iconic waters, this cruise ticks all those boxes—and then some.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or private address in Hanoi is included and arranged via shuttle bus.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience is approximately 2 days, with daily activities and sightseeing.

Are meals provided?
Yes, meals are included for both days, featuring Vietnamese seafood and local favorites.

Can I book this tour as a group?
Yes, group discounts are available, and the tour accommodates up to 20 travelers maximum.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you’ll need to purchase beverages separately onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a camera, sun protection, and extra cash if you want to buy drinks or souvenirs.

In summary, this cruise offers a luxurious, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Vietnam’s most famous bay area. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort, great food, and authentic landscapes, all wrapped in a friendly, intimate setting.