Halong Bay Cruises 2 Days/1Night with 4 Star Cruise All Included

Taking a cruise through Vietnam’s most iconic waters is often high on travelers’ wish lists. The Halong Bay Cruises 2 Days/1 Night with 4 Star Cruise All Included promises a blend of comfort, authentic scenery, and the chance to escape the crowds—thanks to its visit to Bai Tu Long Bay instead of the more busy main bay. While this tour isn’t for those seeking a wild nightlife or nonstop adventure, it offers a peaceful, scenic, and well-organized way to experience some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes.

What we love about this cruise is that it combines modern comfort with a taste of local life, especially at the fishing village. The private balconies in every cabin really elevate the experience, allowing for quiet moments of reflection while soaking in views. One consideration is the somewhat structured schedule, which might feel rushed to travelers wanting more leisure time. This tour suits those who value scenic beauty, comfort, and a taste of local culture without the chaos of larger crowds.

If you’re looking for a well-priced way to see Bai Tu Long Bay, with the convenience of hotel transfers and all meals included, this cruise could be a standout choice. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to Halong Bay who want a mix of guided excursions and free time on deck.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a fishing village and explore daily life on bamboo boats or kayaks.
• Comfortable Cabins: All cabins feature private balconies—perfect for taking in the views.
• All-Inclusive: Meals, entrance fees, and transfers are included, making it straightforward and stress-free.
• Beautiful Scenery: Bai Tu Long Bay offers fewer crowds and equally stunning landscapes.
• Efficient Itinerary: Well-paced with a mix of cruising, exploration, and relaxation.
• Group Size: Max 30 travelers, providing a more intimate vibe.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Hanoi to Bai Tu Long Bay

Starting early, the tour kicks off with a pick-up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is convenient for most travelers staying in the city center. The modern transfer to Hon Gai Harbor is smooth, giving you a comfortable ride with scenic glimpses of Vietnamese life along the way.

Once at the harbor, the tender boat ride to the Cristina Diamond Cruise sets the tone for what’s to come—expect a warm welcome with a drink, followed by a quick check-in to your cabin. The cruise’s modern design, made of iron and steel but with a fresh, contemporary feel, is notable. The cabins are not only well-sized but also feature private balconies, allowing you to enjoy the surrounding views in privacy—something many travelers appreciate.

Lunch is a buffet spread, offering a variety of options to fuel your afternoon explorations. Post-lunch, the boat heads to Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Here’s where the authentic touch really shines—guests have the choice to explore by bamboo boat or kayak, offering an intimate look into local fishing life. Reviewers mention how this was a real highlight, with one noting, “It felt like a glimpse into a simpler world, away from tourism trap.”

Later, a swim or sunbathe at Ban Chan Beach is ideal for unwinding. As the ship cruises to a new anchoring spot, guests can enjoy the sunset happy hour, a relaxing way to toast the day while taking in the changing scenery—definitely a crowd favorite.

Day 2: Scenic Farewell and Return to Hanoi

The day begins early with Tai Chi at dawn—a peaceful way to wake up and connect with the natural surroundings. Following a buffet breakfast, guests visit Thien Canh Son Cave, a highlight that offers stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. Reviewers note that “the cave was well worth the early wake-up, with impressive natural formations,” making it a memorable part of the tour.

The cruise then begins to wind down, with the crew offering a fruits carving demonstration—an interesting cultural touch. After checking out, you’ll enjoy the last of the bay from the sundeck during lunch, a perfect moment to soak in the scenery one last time before heading back to shore.

The transfer back to Hanoi arrives around late afternoon, wrapping up this scenic adventure with plenty of memories—and photos.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This cruise packs in value with hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is crucial for a seamless experience. The meals, entrance fees, and guided activities are all covered, removing the hassle of extra costs. The group size of up to 30 travelers helps maintain a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.

However, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some bottled water or purchase beverages on board. The tour’s timing is well-arranged with pick-up around 7:30 am and return by late afternoon on the second day, making it suitable for most travelers’ schedules.

Transportation & Comfort

The transfer from Hanoi is by a modern coach, giving you a comfortable ride and some scenery along the way. The cruise itself is built of durable steel, with 16 stylish cabins—a good size that balances intimacy with ample space. The cabins are modern and clean, with private balconies, which is a standout feature for enjoying scenic views from your room.

The Cruise Experience

Guests often praise the delicious buffet meals and the relaxing ambiance onboard. The sunset party is a highlight, offering a laid-back social moment as the boat cruises to the overnight anchoring spot. The evening is peaceful, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Excursions and Activities

The excursions at Vung Vieng Fishing Village are designed to give insight into local life. Reviewers mention that the bamboo boat was a peaceful, authentic experience, while kayaking was a favorite for those seeking more active exploration. Visiting Thien Canh Son Cave adds a bit of adventure and natural wonder, with the impressive formations making the early start worthwhile.

Authenticity and Scenery

One of the most praised aspects of this cruise is the scenery. Bai Tu Long Bay’s less crowded waters provide a tranquil backdrop, with towering limestone karsts and emerald waters. Travelers report that the views are just as stunning as the more famous Halong Bay, but with fewer boats and less noise, creating a more peaceful experience.

In addition, the local fishing village visits give a taste of traditional Vietnamese life, which many find enriching compared to purely touristy activities. The fruits carving demonstration adds a cultural touch that enriches the experience without feeling forced.

Pricing and Value

At approximately $196 per person, this tour offers good value considering the all-inclusive nature—meals, entrance fees, transfers, and guided excursions are covered. The private balconies in each cabin elevate the experience, making the price quite reasonable compared to more basic offerings.

Given the smaller group size, modern amenities, and focus on Bai Tu Long Bay, this cruise provides a comfortable, scenic, and relatively authentic alternative to larger, more commercialized tours.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for first-time visitors to Halong Bay who want a hassle-free, comfortable experience with plenty of scenic time. It suits travelers who appreciate authenticity—like visiting fishing villages—and prefer a peaceful atmosphere over party-heavy cruises. It’s also good for those who value private cabins with balconies to unwind and take in views at their own pace.

However, if you’re looking for nightlife or non-stop activities, this might not be the tour for you. Its relaxed schedule and focus on scenery and culture make it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a serene escape.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day, 1-night cruise on the Cristina Diamond offers a balance of comfort, scenery, and cultural exposure at a reasonable price. The visit to Bai Tu Long Bay means fewer crowds and more peaceful moments, while the well-organized itinerary ensures you see key highlights without feeling rushed.

The private balconies and good onboard amenities make it a comfortable choice, and the inclusion of meals and transfers simplifies planning. If you’re after a scenic, authentic, and relaxed experience in northern Vietnam, this cruise stands out as a solid value.

For travelers eager to combine sightseeing with genuine cultural interactions and stunning natural views, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making it convenient to start and end your experience.

What time does the tour start?
The pickup generally occurs around 7:30 am, giving you plenty of time to travel to the harbor and start your cruise during the morning.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals onboard—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, with a buffet breakfast and a la carte lunch.

Can I participate if I am traveling alone?
Absolutely, solo travelers can join, and group discounts are available. The maximum group size is around 30, ensuring a friendly atmosphere.

What activities are available during the cruise?
You can explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village by bamboo boat or kayak, enjoy swimming or sunbathing at Ban Chan Beach, and visit Thien Canh Son Cave.

Is there free time during the cruise?
Yes, there are some relaxed periods, especially during the mornings and afternoons, allowing you to enjoy the scenery or unwind on your balcony.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you may want to bring your own water or purchase beverages onboard.

How long is the return trip to Hanoi?
The journey back to Hanoi arrives between 4 pm and 5 pm on the second day, giving you a comfortable window to plan your evening.

This cruise offers a fulfilling look at Vietnam’s stunning waters while providing the amenities and comfort that modern travelers seek. Whether you’re after peaceful scenery, cultural insights, or simply a comfortable way to see Bai Tu Long Bay, it’s an experience worth considering.