Halong bay deluxe cruise 2 days/ 1 nights: full meals, Kayaking & Swimming

Introducing the Halong Bay Deluxe Cruise: A Balanced Peek at Vietnam’s UNESCO Treasure

Taking a cruise through Halong Bay offers a chance to see one of Vietnam’s most iconic and breathtaking landscapes. This 2-day, 1-night experience aboard the Legacy Legend junk promises a blend of comfort, adventure, and authentic scenery. While I haven’t personally set sail on this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What many seem to appreciate most is the combination of scenic sightseeing and active excursions, with kayaking and swimming standing out as particularly loved features. The meal offerings, especially the seafood feasts, are often described as delicious and plentiful. A notable consideration is the potential for overcrowding in peak seasons, but this tour’s smaller group size helps mitigate that.

This experience is best suited for travelers who crave a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, who are eager to explore Halong Bay’s natural marvels without breaking the bank. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to see Vietnam’s most famous seascape, this cruise could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic & Scenic: Enjoy UNESCO-listed Halong Bay‘s iconic limestone karsts and islands.
• Active & Relaxing: Kayaking, swimming, cave exploration, and climbing to Ti Top Island‘s peak.
• Culinary Delights: Indulge in four meals, including a 4-course seafood dinner and hands-on cooking classes.
• Intimate Experience: Small group size enhances comfort and flexibility on this cruise.
• Value for Money: Competitive pricing around $140 per person offers good access to high-quality activities and accommodation.
• Additional Activities: Options for karaoke, squid fishing, and sunset parties onboard.

Discovering the Itinerary: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: Setting Sail and Exploring the Highlights

Morning Pickup & Arrival: If you’ve opted for the transfer, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or from the Opera House, making your start smooth and hassle-free. Expect to reach Halong Harbor around noon, where you’ll board the Legacy Legend. It’s worth noting that the shuttle bus is included if you choose the 8:00 AM pickup, a convenient way to avoid the chaos of trying to organize transport yourself.

Boarding & Welcome: Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with welcome drinks and a briefing about safety and the cruise plan. The cabins are described as private with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and air conditioning, which is quite a bonus for the price.

Lunch & Sightseeing: The first meal, served around 12:30 PM, is a Vietnamese seafood feast. Expect dishes of fresh fish, shrimp, and other favorites. While sailing through the bay, you’ll witness stunning views that just keep getting better. A review mentions the boat being very clean and comfortable, with a room offering great views of the bay.

Afternoon Excursion: The first stop is the Surprising Cave, one of the largest and most stunning caverns in the bay. Reviewers consistently highlight this as a must-see for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites — a natural sculpture gallery that’s both awe-inspiring and a bit of a climb. The cave’s vastness and formations draw praise, though some mention that the paths can be crowded.

Evening Fun: The afternoon continues on Ti Top Island, where you can swim in sandy waters or hike to the island’s peak for panoramic views. One reviewer loved the “brilliant” kayaking and swimming — it’s a chance to get closer to the scenery and enjoy the bay’s calm waters.

Sunset & Activities: As the day winds down, expect a sunset party and a cooking class on board, where you learn to make Vietnamese spring rolls. The onboard atmosphere is lively, with options for karaoke, squid fishing, or just relaxing over drinks at the bar. With a small group of around 25 people, the vibe is cozy and friendly.

Day 2: Sunrise, Kayaking, and Returning to Hanoi

Early Morning Views: Rising early, you’ll be treated to spectacular sunrises if the weather permits — a favorite among travelers. Many mention that the peaceful morning moments are some of the best, although during winter, the sunrise might be less dramatic.

Breakfast & More Exploration: After breakfast in the bay, there’s a trip to a Pearl Farm—a neat opportunity to see how pearls are cultivated in this region. This adds an educational touch to the scenic trip.

Self-Guided Kayaking: The highlight for many is the kayaking experience, where you paddle on your own around the bay, soaking in the calm waters and spectacular landscapes. One review emphasizes how much they loved kayaking and swimming at Lan Ha Bay, which suggests this activity truly stands out.

Check-out & Lunch: Check-out is around 11:00 AM, followed by a hearty onboard lunch. The boat then heads back to the harbor, and from there, you’ll transfer to Hanoi, arriving around 5:00 PM.

Experience Quality & Value

For $140, this cruise offers good value, especially considering the full meals, private cabins, and activities like kayaking, cave visits, and island climbs. The reviews consistently praise the delicious food, with some noting the fresh seafood and engaging cooking classes as highlights.

The small group size (maximum 25 travelers) means a more personalized experience, less crowded scenic spots, and better interaction with guides. Reviewers have appreciated the knowledgable guides, who help make the journey both enjoyable and informative.

Pros & Cons

Pros:
– Comfortable cabins with private bathrooms and air-conditioning
– Delicious, plentiful meals, including seafood and Vietnamese favorites
– Active excursions like kayaking, swimming, and cave exploring
– Small group enhances intimacy and flexibility
– Well-organized with reliable pickup and drop-off options

Cons:
– The boat might feel older than some pictures suggest, according to one review
– Overcrowding can still occur at popular spots during peak seasons
– Surcharge fees apply on specific holidays, so check before booking

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cruise?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, affordable introduction to Halong Bay that balances scenic views, active adventures, and comfortable accommodations, this cruise is a solid pick. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their time exploring without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The inclusion of kayaking, swimming, and a cave visit makes it suitable for travelers craving a touch of adventure.

On the flip side, if you prefer ultra-luxury or are concerned about crowds, you might want to consider other options. But for anyone seeking friendly service, delicious food, and a chance to see some of Vietnam’s most famous sights up close, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

Is pickup from Hanoi included?
Yes, pickup is offered from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or the Opera House, depending on the option you select. The pickup time is typically around 8:00 or 8:30 AM.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring essentials like an umbrella or hat, shirts for sun protection, comfortable shoes or sandals, swimming suits, towels, sunglasses, suncream, camera, small water bottles, snacks, raincoats, insect spray, and jackets if visiting in winter.

Are the cabins private?
Yes, each booking includes a private room with an en-suite bathroom, hot shower, and air-conditioning.

Can I do kayaking and swimming?
Absolutely. These activities are highlights, with many reviewers raving about kayaking in Lan Ha Bay and swimming on the sandy beaches of Ti Top Island.

What are the meal options?
The cruise provides four meals, including a seafood-heavy 4-course dinner and a Vietnamese cooking class. Vegetarian options aren’t explicitly mentioned, so check with the provider if needed.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the activity nature might be better suited for those comfortable with some physical activity like climbing and paddling.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Words

This Halong Bay cruise offers a well-balanced, value-packed experience for those eager to see the natural wonders of Vietnam without the hefty price tag. The combination of delicious food, active pursuits, and comfortable accommodations makes it an attractive choice for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers alike. Its small group size ensures a more personal and flexible adventure—perfect for making the most of your time on the water. Whether you’re into kayaking, climbing for panoramic views, or simply soaking up the scenery, this cruise is designed to leave you with memorable moments and plenty of Instagram-worthy vistas.

For anyone who values authenticity, comfort, and a touch of adventure, this tour could be just what you need to tick Halong Bay off your bucket list.