Halong Bay Cruises 2Day/1Night 5 Star All included

Travelers dreaming of floating among limestone karsts, exploring caves, and indulging in gourmet Vietnamese cuisine might find this 2-day, 1-night Halong Bay cruise a compelling choice. Marketed as a luxurious all-inclusive adventure, this tour promises a blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural exploration, all while whisking you through some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking waters. From the moment you book, you’ll notice the emphasis on style—think wood detailing, brass fixtures, and elegant decor—making the cruise feel more like a floating boutique hotel than a typical boat trip.

One aspect we particularly like is the well-thought-out itinerary that balances sightseeing with leisure. The inclusion of activities like kayaking, Tai Chi, and cooking classes ensures you’re actively engaged without feeling rushed. Plus, the luxurious amenities—jacuzzi, spa, gym—make it easier to unwind after a day of exploring. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a group tour with a maximum of 34 travelers, which might not suit those seeking total privacy or a more independent experience.

If you’re after a premium, all-inclusive tour with attentive guides and delicious food, this cruise is likely to suit your needs well. It’s ideal for travelers who want comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural indulgence wrapped into one seamless package.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: The cruise’s decor and amenities elevate the usual Halong Bay trip into a five-star adventure.
• Active & Relaxing Activities: Kayaking, Tai Chi, sunset parties, and spa services balance adventure with relaxation.
• Gourmet Dining: Enjoy buffet brunch, set menus, and high-quality Vietnamese cuisine with drinks available for purchase.
• Comfortable Accommodations: All cabins feature both a bathtub and standing shower, ensuring a restful sleep.
• Efficient Transportation: Pickup in Hanoi and a smooth 2-hour transfer via new highway save valuable time.
• Authentic Insights: Friendly guides and carefully curated excursions make the experience of exploring Cat Ba Island, Trung Trang Cave, and Lan Ha Bay memorable.

The Booking and Overall Value

For $360 per person, this all-inclusive package offers a lot of value. It includes pickup from Hanoi, all meals, the overnight cruise, guided excursions, entrance fees, and activities. This makes it a convenient option for travelers looking to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and meals separately. While drinks are extra, the quality of the included food—buffet and set menus—is highly praised, with some reviewers noting the high standard of the cuisine and attentive service.

Considering the price, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a budget tour; it’s designed for those seeking comfort, style, and a curated experience. The luxury touches—like the wood-paneled library, ornate paintings, Jacuzzi, and spa—add to the perceived value, especially when compared to more basic cruises.

Starting the Journey: Transfer from Hanoi

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup between 7:00 and 9:00 am in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The cruise’s use of a luxury limousine for the transfer is a definite advantage—a smoother, faster journey via the new highway cuts down the typical 4-hour drive to just about 2 hours. As you settle into the vehicle, it’s a good time to relax and anticipate the scenic views ahead. Reviewers have raved about the efficiency and comfort of this transfer, which sets a relaxed tone for the trip.

Your arrival at La Regina Legend’s private lounge around 11:30 am means you’re well on schedule to start exploring the stunning waters by early afternoon. A welcome drink welcomes you onboard, and a safety briefing ensures everyone feels prepared.

The First Day: Cat Ba Island & Trung Trang Cave

The real highlight of the first day is visiting Cat Ba Island, a lush green paradise with rugged coastlines and vibrant local life. The cruise anchors at Tra Bau area in Lan Ha Bay, close to the island, allowing for a seamless transition from land to water activities.

One of the standout excursions is Trung Trang Cave, which is included in the itinerary. Tourists often find caves fascinating—these natural formations offer a glimpse into the geological history of the region and provide excellent photo opportunities. Reviewers mention that the guide, Mr. Dai, was “extremely entertaining,” adding a personal, engaging element to the visit, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Lunch is served at the La Corona restaurant, with a set menu showcasing Vietnamese flavors and fresh ingredients. Reviewers praise the quality—”delicious” and well-prepared—and appreciate the attentive service during mealtimes. The ship’s interior, with its elegant decor, complements the dining experience, making every meal a pleasure.

The Second Day: Lan Ha Bay & Activities

Waking up early, you’ll start your day with Tai Chi on the sun deck, a peaceful way to greet the morning and take in the expansive views. The boat then anchors at Tra Bau area, a prime spot for kayaking or swimming among grottoes. Kayaking often gets special mention from travelers, who enjoy the chance to get close to the limestone formations and explore hidden caves at their own pace.

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are knowledgeable and well-versed in the area’s natural history, which enriches the experience. The crew is also helpful in assisting with luggage and organizing activities, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable.

Mid-morning, you’ll check out of your cabin, leaving your luggage outside for crew assistance, and prepare for the journey back. The ship departs Lan Ha Bay around 9:45 am, with a brunch served en route to the harbor. The relaxing, scenic cruise back offers time for reflection and enjoying the view one last time.

Onboard Amenities and Comfort

Every cabin features both a bathtub and standing shower, ensuring comfort after a day of activity. The ship’s four decks host facilities like a Jacuzzi, gym, massage, and spa services—perfect for unwinding in style. According to reviewers, the massage and spa services are well worth indulging in, providing a luxurious end to each day.

Throughout the trip, the crew maintains a friendly, attentive vibe, with guides like Mr. Dai praised for their entertaining and informative commentary. The atmosphere on board is both relaxed and upscale—think elegant decor, soft lighting, and attentive service—making every moment feel special.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is tailored for travelers who value luxury, convenience, and authentic experiences. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to combine scenic exploration with comfort and gourmet food. The inclusion of activities like kayaking and Taichi allows for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a small group setting, as the tour accommodates up to 34 people, fostering a more intimate atmosphere. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a touch of elegance will find this cruise hits the right spot.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is highly rated, some might find the group size a little larger than ideal if they seek complete privacy. Also, drinks other than water and the included meals are paid separately, which could add up if you indulge in multiple beverages. Finally, as with any guided tour, flexibility is limited, so if you prefer to explore entirely independently, this might not be the best fit.

This 5-star Halong Bay cruise truly offers a refined way to experience Vietnam’s iconic waters. It balances luxurious amenities with engaging activities and scenic sightseeing, making it suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free, upscale adventure. The delicious food, attentive guides like Mr. Dai, and well-curated excursions make the trip memorable, especially if you love combining comfort with discovery.

If you’re after a relaxed yet premium experience that includes all the essentials—meals, activities, and comfortable accommodations—this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a high-end escape in one of the world’s most stunning natural settings.

However, if your priority is complete privacy or a very flexible schedule, you might prefer more independent options. Overall, for a balanced, well-rounded, and luxurious Halong Bay adventure, this cruise stands out as an excellent choice.

What is included in the price?
The $360 fee covers pickup and drop-off in Hanoi, all meals (buffet brunch, set menu), the overnight cruise, guides, entrance fees, and activities like kayaking and Tai Chi.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase separately, so you should budget extra for beverages beyond water.

How long is the transfer from Hanoi?
The journey takes approximately 2 hours via the new highway, which is faster and smoother than the traditional 4-hour drive.

What kind of accommodations are available onboard?
All cabins are equipped with both a bathtub and a standing shower, offering comfort and style after a day of exploring.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and activities like kayaking and sightseeing are suitable for all ages.

What activities are included?
You can enjoy kayaking, swimming, Tai Chi, fishing, cooking classes, sunset parties, and relaxing spa or Jacuzzi services.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 34 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are refundable if made at least 3 days in advance, with full refunds issued.

What should I bring on this cruise?
Bring comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and any personal items you might need for activities. Drinks beyond water are paid separately.

Is there flexibility in the itinerary?
The schedule is fixed, but guides are experienced and friendly, making the experience enjoyable and well-organized.

This comprehensive review highlights how this cruise combines luxury, natural beauty, and cultural activities—making it an excellent choice for travelers who want it all.