Mon Cheri Cruise Ha Long Bay Lan Ha Bay 2 days 1 night depart from Ha Noi

Exploring the Mon Cheri Cruise Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay 2-Day, 1-Night Tour: An Authentic Dive into Vietnam’s Natural Beauty

If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines stunning scenery, comfort, and authentic Vietnamese hospitality, the Mon Cheri Cruise offers a compelling way to experience Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. This 2-day, 1-night tour from Hanoi is designed for travelers who want a relaxing escape without sacrificing comfort or adventure. From meticulously curated routes to delicious local cuisine, this cruise aims to showcase the best of Vietnam’s limestone karsts and emerald waters.

What really catches the eye is their promise of less time on the road—a thoughtful touch that means more hours enjoying the scenery and activities, rather than sitting in transit. However, as this is a boutique-style cruise with a maximum of 15 travelers, it might not suit those seeking a bustling, large-group experience. This tour is ideal for those who value personalized service, scenic tranquility, and authentic local encounters, all wrapped in a luxurious package.

Key Points
– Luxury and Comfort: Spacious, air-conditioned en-suite cabins with private balconies offer a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
– Authentic Experiences: Kayaking, bamboo boat rides, cooking classes, and water sports add a hands-on element to your trip.
– Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of limestone islands, caves, and the Gulf of Tonkin, often described as jaw-dropping.
– Excellent Food & Service: Multiple reviews highlight the delicious meals, attentive staff, and knowledgeable guides.
– Efficient Travel: Shorter transfer times from Hanoi maximize your time on the bay, making it particularly appealing for those with limited time.
– Intimate Atmosphere: Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe onboard.

The Journey Begins: What to Expect from the Itinerary

One of the biggest selling points of the Mon Cheri Cruise is its thoughtfully planned itinerary, which aims to balance sightseeing, activities, and relaxation. Starting from Hanoi early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in the Old Quarter around 9:00-9:30 am. The transfer to Cat Hai Port in Hai Phong is streamlined—an important detail that means fewer hours en route compared to other tours. This means more time to enjoy the bay rather than sitting in transit.

Day 1: From Hanoi to the Emerald Waters of Lan Ha Bay

Upon arrival at the port, the crew greets you with a warm welcome—think refreshing drinks and cold towels to kick off the experience. Once onboard Mon Cheri, you’re introduced to your luxurious surroundings before the cruise sets sail. Immediately, you’ll notice that the onboard dining is a highlight: a multi-course lunch served in a stylish restaurant, with views of the waterways.

Expect to arrive at Three Peach Beach in Lan Ha Bay around mid-afternoon, a top spot for swimming and kayaking. According to reviewers, this area boasts about 400 limestone islands and caves, offering excellent photo opportunities and a chance to cool off in the crystal-clear waters. Kayaking here is often praised, with many describing it as a highlight—though some mention that the weather can sometimes be cool, which might cut short your plans for outdoor water activities.

In the late afternoon, you’ll witness a spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin—an unmissable moment, especially if you enjoy peaceful, picturesque vistas. The cruise offers a complimentary sunset party, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel and exploration. For those interested in extra relaxation, onboard massages are available (book directly with the crew).

Dinner on the boat is usually a carefully prepared menu showcasing local flavors. Reviewers echo that the food is delicious and beautifully presented, with some mentioning that even vegetarian options are well catered for. After dinner, you can choose to relax on the upper deck with romantic music, try squid fishing in the quiet night waters, or simply enjoy the tranquility from your cabin’s private balcony.

Day 2: Scenic Discoveries and Return to Hanoi

The second day begins early with optional activities like Tai Chi to start your day peacefully. Watching the sunrise from the top deck is another favorite among guests, often described as a calming but awe-inspiring experience. After a light breakfast, the cruise heads toward Dark and Bright Cave (Sang Toi Cave), accessible via bamboo boat—a more traditional, charming method of exploring the caves that keeps the experience authentic.

The highlight here is the cave visit, which many reviews note as fascinating—though some mention the cave tour might be shorter than expected. Following this, the cruise navigates back toward the port, with a buffet brunch served onboard, giving you a last taste of Vietnamese cuisine.

Before disembarking, there’s a cooking demonstration revealing how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls, adding a fun, interactive element to your trip. The ride back to Hanoi is smooth, with a private limousine or van service delivering you comfortably back to the city by mid-afternoon.

The Experience in Detail: What Makes It Special

The Accommodation: A Sanctuary on the Water

Guests consistently praise the luxurious cabins—spacious, immaculately clean, and equipped with private balconies. One reviewer described their room as “beautiful and huge,” with a “private balcony and spacious ensuite,” making it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The rooms are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort in Vietnam’s tropical climate, and the beds are often described as “very comfortable,” contributing significantly to the overall experience.

The Food: A Culinary Highlight

The onboard meals seem to be a standout feature. With two lunches, one dinner, and a breakfast included, the menu is thoughtfully crafted to highlight local flavors and seafood. Reviewers mention that the dishes are delicious, beautifully presented, and that vegetarian options are available, which is a plus for more diverse dietary needs. The cooking demonstration on the second day adds a fun, educational twist that many travelers find engaging and memorable.

Activities & Water Sports: Balance Between Adventure and Relaxation

Most guests appreciate the variety of included activities: kayaking at Ba Trai Dao beach, bamboo boat rides to caves, swimming, and even squid fishing. These experiences are often described as fun and authentic, offering a glimpse into local life at sea. That said, some reviewers note that unseasonably cool weather can impact outdoor activities, especially kayaking—the water might be colder than expected, so packing a wetsuit or prepared for cooler conditions is wise.

The Guides & Service: Knowledgeable and Attentive

Many reviews sing praises for the staff and guides, mentioning names like Alex and Tammy as especially kind and helpful. The crew is noted for their professional yet warm hospitality, with staff like Harry, Ducky, and Jimmy going above and beyond to make guests feel comfortable. Reviewers appreciate the personalized service, which makes the experience feel more intimate and special.

The Scenery: Breathtaking & Photogenic

Expect spectacular views of limestone islands, caves, and the Gulf of Tonkin, often described as “jaw-dropping” by travelers. Many mention that photos and videos can’t fully capture the beauty—seeing it in person is truly one of those moments that sticks with you. Even in less-than-ideal weather, the scenery retains its enchanting quality, offering endless opportunities for memorable photos.

Practical Considerations

Travel Time & Transfers: The cruise’s shorter transfer from Hanoi—departing around 9-9:30 am and arriving at the port by late morning—means you spend less time in transit and more on the bay. This is especially appealing for travelers with limited days or those wanting maximum time on the water.

Price & Value: At approximately $385 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the inclusion of luxury accommodation, all meals, guided activities, water sports, and the small group size, many find it offers good value for the experience and comfort provided. Several reviews highlight the quality of the food, the attentive staff, and the scenic beauty that justify the cost.

Group Size & Atmosphere: With a maximum of 15 travelers, the cruise maintains an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. This setup encourages meaningful interactions and personalized service, contrasting with larger, more commercial boats.

Additional Costs: Extras like massages, drinks (beyond bottled water, coffee, and tea), and tips are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, if you’re thinking about private transfers or visa arrangements, those are separate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers looking for a luxurious, well-organized experience that combines scenic beauty with comfort. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a more personalized, boutique feeling. If you’re after authentic water activities like kayaking and bamboo trips, along with delicious food and attentive service, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer a bustling vibe or larger group tours with less intimacy, you might find this experience a bit too quiet. It also might not be ideal if you’re very sensitive to weather, as some outdoor activities depend on good conditions. Still, the short transfer time and thoughtful itinerary make it a very compelling way to see Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay.

Final Thoughts

The Mon Cheri Cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic way to experience Vietnam’s stunning coastal landscapes. It balances luxury and adventure, with a strong emphasis on excellent service, delectable local cuisine, and scenic tranquility. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and carefully curated activities make it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just a boat ride—they want a true taste of Vietnam’s natural charm.

If your idea of a holiday involves beautiful vistas, relaxing days on the water, and genuine hospitality, this cruise is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfort without sacrificing authenticity, and who enjoy the intimacy of a smaller, more personalized trip.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, the transfer from Hanoi to Cat Hai Port in Hai Phong is included, and the journey is shorter than most other cruises, allowing more time on the bay.

What is the group size?
The cruise hosts a maximum of 15 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for personalized service.

Are meals included?
All onboard meals—2 lunches, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast—are included, with a focus on Vietnamese cuisine and seafood.

Can I do water activities like kayaking?
Absolutely. Kayaking is included and highly praised, especially at Ba Trai Dao Beach. Bamboo boat rides to caves are also part of the experience.

What’s the accommodation like?
Guests stay in spacious, air-conditioned en-suite cabins with private balconies—ideal for relaxing and enjoying the scenery in comfort.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Extra costs include beverages beyond water, tea, and coffee, spa services, tips, and personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age policies aren’t detailed, children under 5 sharing a cabin with parents are free, but additional children under 5 are charged 25%. Children from 5 to 12 pay 50-75% of the adult rate if sharing or with separate beds.

What is the best time to go?
While not explicitly specified, most reviews suggest the experience can be enjoyed year-round, though weather conditions might affect outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the trip, with full refunds provided if canceled in time.

To sum it up, the Mon Cheri Cruise is a thoughtfully designed, high-quality way to explore Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays. It offers a rare blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and engaging activities, making it a strong choice for travelers who want an authentic and memorable Vietnamese adventure.