La Stella Cruise 2 Days from Halong bay to Lan Ha bay

Taking a cruise through Vietnam’s famed waters is high on many travelers’ bucket lists, and the La Stella Cruise 2-Day Tour from Hanoi promises a luxurious way to soak in the stunning scenery of Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay. With rave reviews, top-tier amenities, and carefully curated activities, this experience seems like a fantastic choice for those who want comfort, adventure, and a taste of authentic Vietnamese hospitality.

What really catches our eye is the spacious, well-appointed suites that come with private balconies—perfect for relaxing while taking in the views. The delicious Vietnamese cuisine, including seafood and vegetarian options, is frequently praised, making the onboard dining a highlight. That said, the tour’s price point of $197 per person is reasonable considering the level of luxury and extensive itinerary—though some might see it as slightly pricey compared to more basic options.

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and adventure, especially those who enjoy guided activities, scenic beauty, and authentic local flavors. If you’re looking for a first-class experience with attentive staff and stunning landscapes, this tour could be just what you need. However, if you prefer a more budget-friendly or flexible adventure, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Luxury Suites with Private Balconies: Spacious and beautifully designed for comfort, offering panoramic views.
• Full-Day Itinerary: Combines scenic cruising, swimming, kayaking, and cultural activities like cooking classes and Taichi.
• Excellent Food: Fresh seafood, Vietnamese dishes, and cooking classes that let you try your hand at local cuisine.
• Top-Notch Service: Friendly, attentive staff praised for going above and beyond, including knowledgeable guides.
• Ideal for Relaxation and Exploration: Plenty of opportunities to sunbathe, swim, and enjoy sunset parties.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Most activities, meals, and entrance fees are included, providing a hassle-free experience.

An In-Depth Look at the La Stella Cruise Experience

The Booking and Logistics

Starting from Hanoi, the tour offers a pickup option from the Old Quarter, typically between 8:30 and 9:45 am, which is perfect for those staying centrally. The transfer to Tuan Chau harbor takes about an hour, giving you a scenic drive through the countryside, and sets the tone for a smooth start to your adventure. The tour operates with a maximum of 56 travelers, giving it a semi-intimate vibe without feeling crowded—a good balance for socializing or enjoying some solitude.

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

Your day begins with a welcome drink as you board the La Stella Cruise at No. 35 Tuan Chau harbor. The crew quickly makes you feel at home, and the captain introduces safety guidelines—important in case you plan to swim or kayak later.

The first stop, Ba Trai Dao, is where the magic begins. While cruising through the bay, you’ll be captivated by limestone formations rising from emerald waters. The lunch onboard is a highlight, with Vietnamese seafood and vegetarian options served as you glide past Con Vit Islet, Thumb Islet, and Gia Luan Harbour. Reviewers frequently emphasize the quality of the food, with many describing it as delicious and plentiful, often citing the seafood as especially fresh.

Once dropped anchor at Ba Trai Dao, there’s time for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on deck. The natural lagoon area of Lan Ha Bay offers wild, less touristy scenery, perfect for those seeking tranquility. Reviewers note the private, unspoiled air as a big plus, making it feel like discovering a secret paradise.

As the sun begins to set, guests gather for the sunset party, a relaxing moment to photograph the changing sky. Later, the cruise’s cooking class offers a chance to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese spring rolls—an activity praised for its engaging and hands-on nature. Dinner is a seafood BBQ, with reviewers raving about the freshness and flavors.

Evening Entertainment

Evenings onboard are lively but relaxed, with options like karaoke, card games, or squid fishing. Many mention the friendly, attentive staff, who make sure everyone has a good time. The onboard massage service is also a hit for those craving extra relaxation after a busy day.

Day 2: Exploring Lan Ha Bay

The next morning kicks off with Tai Chi on the sundeck, a peaceful way to start your day. Breakfast is served as the boat continues its cruise through the bay’s stunning limestone islets.

The highlight of the morning is visiting Dark & Bright Cave, a natural spectacle where you can explore on kayak or bamboo boat. Reviewers appreciate the variety of ways to experience the caves, with many noting the local rowers’ friendly guidance. The calm, emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs make for incredible photo opportunities—something you’ll want to savor.

After checkout around 9:30 am, a late-morning brunch rounds off your scenic cruise. The boat then transfers back to Tuan Chau harbor, concluding your journey around noon.

The Value of the Experience

Considering the price of $197, the experience offers excellent value. It includes luxury accommodation with private balconies, all meals, sightseeing fees, and activities like kayaking and cooking classes. The reviews highlight the quality of service and facilities, emphasizing that the staff’s friendliness and professionalism significantly enhance the experience.

What We’re Loving

• The spacious suites with private balconies transform your cruise into a floating retreat; many reviewers mention how this added a luxurious touch to their trip.
• The delicious, authentic Vietnamese cuisine consistently earns praise, with many guests appreciating the fresh seafood and the opportunity to learn cooking tricks.
• The knowledgeable guides and attentive staff make a noticeable difference; some mention guides like “super friendly, organized, and attentive,” which adds to the relaxed, enjoyable vibe.
• The scenery—from limestone karsts to pristine lagoons—is breathtaking, and the flexibility to kayak, swim, or simply sunbathe makes the experience versatile.

Things to Consider

• The tour is non-refundable and can’t be changed, so if weather conditions are poor, your plans might be affected. However, the company offers a full refund or alternative date if canceled due to bad weather.
• The boat, while luxurious, might be older than some other options; some reviews allude to a slightly aged vessel, but this doesn’t seem to detract from the overall experience.
• The group size can be up to 56 travelers, which is moderate but still might feel crowded during popular activities or mealtimes for some.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a comfortable, well-rounded experience. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to combine scenic beauty with quality accommodation and gourmet food. The inclusion of cultural activities, such as cooking classes and Taichi, appeals to those seeking a more engaging, hands-on holiday.

If you prefer a luxury-focused trip with all logistics handled and don’t mind paying a bit more for comfort, this tour hits the mark. It’s also excellent for couples, honeymooners, or small groups looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible schedule, you might find other options more fitting. The 2-day format does require a commitment to the fixed itinerary and schedule, but most reviews suggest it’s well worth it.

Final Thoughts

The La Stella Cruise 2-Day from Hanoi offers a fantastic blend of luxury, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. The spacious suites with private balconies allow you to unwind in style, while the delicious Vietnamese cuisine and engaging activities keep the journey lively and memorable. The attentive staff and picturesque scenery make this a standout choice for travelers craving a high-quality adventure in one of Vietnam’s most stunning areas.

While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the value for money is clear—especially considering the included meals, activities, and high standards of service. It’s well suited for those who want a hassle-free, immersive cruise with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and indulge.

If you’re after a luxurious escape with authentic local flavors and spectacular views, this tour could be just what you need to elevate your Vietnam trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, there is an optional pickup service from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, typically between 8:30 and 9:45 am, making the start of your trip convenient.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 2 days, with a detailed itinerary including multiple stops, activities, and meals onboard.

What types of activities can I expect?
You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, a cooking class, Taichi lessons, sunset parties, and exploring caves by kayak or bamboo boat.

Are meals included?
Yes, all main meals are included, featuring Vietnamese seafood, vegetarian options, and a BBQ dinner. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are part of the package.

What’s the accommodation like?
Guests stay in spacious, luxury suites with private balconies, offering panoramic views of the bay.

Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a fixed tour with set activities, customization options are limited, but the itinerary offers a good variety of experiences.

What if the weather is bad?
The trip requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour is non-refundable otherwise.

To sum it up, this tour is an excellent pick for those wanting to combine comfort, stunning scenery, and culture. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable escape, La Stella Cruise delivers a well-rounded and genuinely enjoyable experience.