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Halong Bay Cruises

Top 10 Best Halong Bay Cruise Deals Recommended For You

The highly trusted collection of Best Halong Bay Cruises that is frequently updated by our Halong Cruise Experts depending much on the cruises' conditions: best facilities, unique experiences, best offers, high-end meals on board, professional staff, and especially excellent comments, feedback from our real valuable customers. We hope that you can select a suitable Halong bay cruise for your holiday and have unforgettable experiences beside your beloved ones. Save Time - Save Money - Travel more!

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Ambassador Signature Cruise

Style: Modern    Rooms: 39   

Step on board the elegant and opulent Ambassador Signature Cruise for an unforgettable journey as you discover Lan Ha Bay's magnificence. With 39 trendy and modern cabins and a capacity for 120 guests, this 5-star floating hotel has everything you need for a feel-at-home journey in the middle of the sea: air conditioning, private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, and bathtubs. Along with first-rate accommodation, Ambassador Signature also offers a premium Asian – European cuisine experience as well as a complete complement of modern facilities, including a luxury spa on board, a piano lounge, and a restaurant & bar.

Orchid Trendy Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 20   

Being a sister cruise of Orchid Classic Cruise, Orchid Trendy is also a luxurious overnight cruise accommodating 20 cabins on board with a private balcony on each cabin overlooking the World Heritage Site. Possessing the finest amenities with the most professional crew as her sister, Orchid Trendy Cruise is a promisingly great alternative of the luxury segment for those who wish to explore Lan Ha Bay with a first-class leisure trip.

Ambassador Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 46   

Launched in November 2018, Ambassador Cruise by now has been affirmed its notable reputation among Halong Bay luxurious cruises. Not only being the BIGGEST and NEWEST steel vessel in Halong Bay, but Ambassador Cruise also possesses distinctive highlights: signature Michellin menu with various options, finest amenities, one and only outdoor jacuzzi in Halong Bay Cruises, classy live music, and professional butlers; which make it exceptional to the others. Confidently proud as a top-notch cruise, Ambassador Cruise assures that every single moment of yours in Halong Bay would be the incredibly sumptuous experience ever. 

Orchid Classic Cruise

Style: Modern    Rooms: 14   

Being one of the best luxury 5-star cruises as well as the first cruise company to set up a newly overnight cruise itinerary throughout Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay, Orchid Cruise leads passengers to explore the pristine beauty of the Heritage Site which is less touristic and more wildly untouched. With only 14 spacious cabins, Orchid Cruise offers a really comfortable private space with an upgraded level of premium cruising services that make your discovery full of exceptional experiences.

Peony Cruise

Style: International & Boutique    Rooms: 20   

Peony Cruise is one of the luxury cruises of Big Bay Group launched in October 2018. Following the successful sister cruise ship,Mon Cheri Cruise, Peony Cruise brings to passengers the chances to explore the magnificent and pristine beauty of the cruising route through Lan Ha Bay. Housing 20 spacious luxury cabins artfully designed in the modern style, Peony Cruise promises to provide memorable voyages with a professional crew and premium cruising services.

Scarlet Pearl Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 23   

Being one of the newest and biggest 5-star cruises in Halong Bay, Scarlet Pearl Cruise guarantees passengers from all over the world the ultimately luxury experience from beginning until the end with spacious modern waiting lounge in Tuan Chau Port, luxurious and well-furnished steel main ship, as well as super-advanced Catamaran Sailboats used for day trip. Besides, with 2 days 1 night itinerary equivalent with that of 3 days 2 nights from other cruise lines and featuring unique route exploring untouched Lan Ha Bay, Scarlet Pearl Cruise confidently assures every single minute you experience onboard would be the most impressive moments in your lifetime.

Paradise Elegance Cruise

Style: Modern    Rooms: 31   

Managed by the pioneering cruising company in Halong Bay, Paradise Group, Paradise Elegance Cruise is an outstanding brand in Paradise Cruises Collection, which is renowned by its exquisite service and high-end professionalism among Halong Bay Fleets. This cruise is an ideal option for anyone seeking a luxurious experience to Halong Bay, which will definitely bring to guests the exceptional touch for their fantastic voyage amid the World Heritage Site.

Nostalgia Cruise

Style: Boutique    Rooms: 10   

Scheduled to set sail in December 2022, Nostalgia Cruise promises an exceptional voyage to amazing yet less touristy corners of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. With only 11 elegant cabins, this unique boutique cruise ship pays much attention to details of both interior and exterior, as well as always guarantee top-notch service. You will see traditional decor arts and well-designed wooden furniture that remind much of the royal Vietnamese architecture. If you are seeking serenity, peace and purity in the beauty of Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay, Nostalgia Cruise is surely the perfect option.

Mon Cheri Cruise

Style: Modern & International    Rooms: 18   

Mon Chéri Cruise offers 18 stylish cabins alongside the elegant restaurant and bars, fitness facilities and spa service. The cruise provides 5-star standard services with professional staff to guarantee that can satisfy even the most demanding guests. In addition, we absolutely serve the Western and Asian cuisines, and Mon Chéri Cruises is the first cruise in Halong bay having a separated kitchen for Halal foods which are cooked by foreign Chefs with well equipped Halal Cooking Certification. Moreover, unlike the classic Halong bay tour, Mon Chéri Cruise departs from Hai Phong city, which is approximately 1.5 hours driving from Hanoi, thus the transferring time from Hanoi to the harbor is considerably reduced. 

Paradise Grand Cruise

Expected to join the luxurious cruise segment in Lan Ha Bay at the beginning of 2020, Paradise Grand Cruise welcomes passengers to explore and discover the pristine natural beauty here on newly distinctive itineraries. Proudly managed by one of the pioneering cruise companies owning one of the best fleets in Halong Bay – Paradise Vietnam, Paradise Grand promisingly creates the incredibly sumptuous voyage to a mystic and tranquil Lan Ha Bay – another charming beauty amid the Heritage Site.

Newest Halong Bay Cruises

Catherine Cruise

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 39   

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 10   

Orchid Premium Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 5   

Hermes Cruise

Launched: 2022    Rooms: 18   

Luxury Halong Bay Cruises

Launched: 2016    Rooms: 14   

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 46   

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 20   

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 31   

Deluxe Halong Bay Cruises

Mila Lux Cruise

Launched: 2012    Rooms: 22   

Signature Royal Cruise

Launched: 2014    Rooms: 16   

Signature Cruise

Launched: 2013    Rooms: 12   

Renea Cruise

Launched: 2015    Rooms: 11   

Sena Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 16   

La Pandora Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 23   

Budget Halong Bay Cruises

Mila Cruise

Swan Cruises

Launched: 2015    Rooms: 18   

Sapphire Cruise

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 21   

Halong Bay Day Cruises

Halong Symphony Day Cruise

Ambassador Day Cruise

Launched: 2022    Rooms: 400   

JadeSails Day Cruise

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 48   

Halong Maia Day Cruise

Launched: 2022    Rooms: 99   

Queen Day Cruise

Launched: 2021    Rooms: 99   

Serenity Luxury Day Cruise

Rooms: 60   

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Recent Reviews About Halong Bay Cruises

INSIDE is a very good partner

We used INSIDE for our boat trip in Halong Bay, and Ms Rosie was very helpful and following up all the time and even after our... Grand Pioneers I Cruise

Orchid Cruise to Ha Long Bay

I booked a cruise to Ha Long Bay with them. The booking and payment were smooth and the instructions were clear all the time.... Orchid Trendy Cruise

Great experience

We booked a trip with inside travel ahead of our arrival. Rosie from inside travel gave us the right information at the right... Grand Pioneers I Cruise

Exemplary service

A great cruise with exemplary service. The staff was amazing. The room was the best on the... Orchid Classic Cruise

Ha long Bay & Lan Ha Bay Cruise Bookings

Had a great experience booking the Cruises to Halong Bay and Lan ha Bay through them. Special thanks to Ms. Sophie who handled... Ambassador Cruise

Official website of Halong Bay Cruises - The Best Choice to discover Halong Bay

Situated on the Gulf of Tonkin, Halong Bay - one of the World's New7Wonders of Nature is the perfect blend of aesthetic, geological and geomorphologic values. Experienced at least 500 million years in many different geological states, Halong Bay now is well-known as the paradise of sea and islands with thousand of lime-stone mountains and islets in various sizes and shapes. Furthermore, this is also a wonderful destination for cruising , kayaking and enjoying tropical charming beaches.

Coming to Halong Bay , one of the world's natural heritages and also among seven natural wonders, soon you will notice taking part in a Halong Bay cruise is the best way to completely explore the stunning beauty of this destination. The feeling of cruising through around 3,000 thousand islets of Halong Bay is definitely a fantastic experience to every tourist.

Being on Halong Bay cruises , along with embracing the wonders of nature , there is no doubt you will be indulge yourself in a strong sense a comfort - joint together by pleasant accommodations, dainty dishes as well as enthusiastic and dedicated services. Regardless whoever you are and how much money you have in your pocket, you still find your wishes fulfilled and your requirements met with a wide variety of Halong Bay cruises .

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Best Cruises in Halong Bay 2024

To help you make the best choice, here are our top picks for the best cruise trips in Halong Bay

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Cat Ba island

Bai tu long bay, sung sot cave.

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Halong bay is one of the must-visits for any world traveler. Recognized multiple times by UNESCO for its unrivalled beauty, the Bay is best experienced on a cruise trip, which will take you past the myriad of caves and grottos that emerge from emerald water. Consider a 2 day or 3 day 2 night trip, or even longer, to see the fullest of the Bay. With a range of cruises to choose from to meet every budget and preference, you can pick one that makes your fondest memory in Halong Bay.

Best Cruises for Large Groups

• Indochine Cruise

Best Budget Cruises

• Amanda Cruise
• Renea Cruise
• Alova Cruise

Best Cruises for Couples

• Orchid Classic
• Heritage Binh Chuan

Best Luxury Cruises

• Essence Grand
• Indochine Premium

Best Cruises for Families

• Genesis Regal
• Doris Cruise

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Questions and Answers (64)

Looking for quote on Oct 2024 trip - 3D2N and 2D1N on all-in price and full itinerary. What is included for the price, inclusive of activities eg kayaking, cooking class etc that are of party of 2 to a room. Does the cruise have complimentary karaoke sessions? How much it cost for round trip from hotel in Old Quarter. thx

@Johnson Chye, Thank you for contacting us. The all-in price, itinerary, inclusions and exclusions depend on each cruise policy. It will be helpful if you provide us with a specific travel date, preferred budget (cost-saving or luxury) or any preferences in mind. 

For inclusions and exclusions, you can refer to the following. However, please note that these are subject to change upon each cruise policy. We will provide you with the exact details when you have an interest in any cruise. Inclusions:

• 1 or 2 nights onboard with programs and activities
• Well equipped cabin with private bathroom, air-con and window or balcony
• All meals onboard (4 meals for 2D1N and 7 meals for 3D2N)
• Activities such as cooking class, kayaking/sampan boat, squid fishing, taichi, sunset party
• Cruise Itinerary and Program
• Entrance and Sightseeing Fees
• In-house English-speaking tour guide
• Onboard insurance

Exclusions:

• Transportation from your hotel to Halong Bay and back
• Visa arrangement, hotel, airfares
• Personal Expenses such as spa, massage, beverages, tips,
• Peak season surcharges
• All other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions

Some cruises offer karaoke sessions such as Catherine, Essence Grand, Capella Cruise. However, there will be a surcharge for that.

For transfer, the cost for the shuttle service ranges from US$20 to 40/person for round trip.

Please let us know if you have further concerns. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Visithalongbay Team

Hello! We are two teachers from Portugal and we would like to book a cruise in the Ha Long Bay region. Ideally, August 15-17, 2024. But there are so many cruises and different bays that we are very confused. We like the Peony Cruise but can be another similar and cheaper. We would like a good cruise, preferably with a pool or jacuzzi, but not too expensive. Best quality/price. 3 days 2 nights. We are leaving from Hanoi, so we need a transfer and at the end of the cruise (August 17th) we want to go to Ninh Binh. What can you suggest to us? Thank you

@Telmo, Thank you for your inquiry. If you prefer more activities and awesome attractions for high viewpoints and photo hunting, Halong Bay is the one. Otherwise, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are both captivating and perfect for a relaxing vacation.

Peony is one of the best cruises with a competitive price. Besides, you can consider some other options with jacuzzi pool and well-equipped accommodation below: (1) Peony: $560/Deluxe + $18/person/bus one way Hanoi - Halong (2) Mon Cheri: $590/Ocean Suite + $18/person/bus one way Hanoi - Halong (3) Orchid Classic: $590/Suite Balcony + $18/person/bus one way Hanoi - Halong (4) Orchid Trendy: $570/Deluxe Balcony + $18/person/bus one way Hanoi - Halong (5) La Casta: $590/Junior Suite + $15/person/bus one way Hanoi - Halong From Halong to Ninh Binh, you can book the bus at the cost of $20/person/way or a private car at $100/car/way for 2 persons.

Please consider and let us know if you want to process the booking or have any other concerns. Regards, Visithalongbay Team

I am a solo traveller and looking for 2D/1N cruise recommendations in 1st week of June and I have some questions:

1. I am interested in photography, so which area do you recommend? Bai tu long or Lan ha (cruising via Halong bay)? Which area has better views for photography?

2. Are there any 3 or 4 hours tours to Halong bay, e.g. to Titov island, which I can do before starting the cruise to Bai tu long or Lan ha?

3. What time usually the 2D/1N cruise finishes on 2nd day? I have flight at 6pm in the evening and want to know if there is enough time to reach Hanoi airport from Halong area.

Kind Regards, Virat

@Virat, Please find our answers below:

1. Halong, Lan Ha and Bai Tu Long Bay have the same landscape of majestic limestone islands. Lan Ha and Bai Tu Long have more tranquil scenery with poetic beauty. However, if you want to find the best area for photography, you can consider Halong Bay area. There are jaw-dropping attractions with breathtaking views such as Surprise Cave, Titov Islands, Thien Cung Cave, Luon Cave, etc. 2. You can consider Phoenix Day Cruise with 5.5 hour duration and the itinerary to the 3 most signature landmarks Surprise Cave, Luon Cave, and Titov Island. Otherwise, the same itinerary can be found on Ambassador Day Cruise and La Casta Daily Cruise for an 8-hour duration. 3. The 2d/1n cruises usually finish at 11:00 - 12:00 on the 2nd day. It takes you 2.5 hours from the port directly to the airport or 3.5 hours if you return to Hanoi center and take a taxi after that. Therefore, you will have enough time for your flight at 6 pm. Should you need further assistance, feel free to contact us.

Hello, I would like to book a 2 day one night trip on Catherine Cruise for 2 people around early July. I would like to know the costs as well as the itinerary please. Is there a pick up arranged from Hanoi? If so at what time? Is there a return arranged? Is it possible to arrange a return to Ninh Binh rather than Hanoi? Thanks in advance. Kind regards, Clara Lemaitre

@Clara Lemaitre, The rate for 2 day/1 night trip in July starts from US511/Premier Suite for 2 people. The itinerary will include kayaking/sampan boat at Luon Cave, hiking/swimming at Titov Island, and visiting Surprise Cave. You can check more details via: http://tinyurl.com/5n955wm8.

About transfer, we provide a shuttle bus service both from Hanoi to Halong and from Halong to Ninh Binh. The shuttle bus costs US$18/person/way for Hanoi-Halong and US$20/person/way for Halong- Ninh Binh. The pick-up time is 8:15 - 8:45 am in your location in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Please share your travel date so we can check the availability for you. Looking forward to hearing from you.

My husband and I are looking for a cruise in Halong bay (generally speaking) for 3 days/2 nights, from February 6-8. We are looking for beautiful scenery, some active excursions (kayaking, swimming, maybe hiking or biking). We prefer to be more off-the-beaten-path, instead of fighting tourists at the most crowded spots. I am open to less crowded areas like Bai tu long or Lan Ha. Do you have any recommended cruises?

@Felicia Tan, Per your requests, we would like to suggest you some options below: 1. Orchid Classic Cruise: https://www.visithalongbay.com/cruise/orchid-classic-cruise.html - Activities: Visit Trung Trang Cave, swim at Tra Bau and Ba Trai Dao beach, kayak at Ao Ech, and cycle at Viet Hai Village - Rate: $790/Suite Balcony + $36/pax/round trip shuttle bus

2. Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise: https://www.visithalongbay.com/cruise/genesis-luxury-regal-cruises.html - Activities: Take a rowing boat at Dark-Bright Cave, kayak at Tra Bau, cycle at Viet Hai Village, and swim at Ba Trai Dao Beach - Rate: $680/Junior Suite + $30/pax/round trip shuttle bus

3. Peony Cruise: https://www.visithalongbay.com/cruise/peony-cruises.html - Activities: Swim/kayak at Tra Bau, swim at Ba Trai Dao beach, cycle at Viet Hai Village, and visit Trung Trang Cave - Rate: $580/Deluxe Balcony + $30/pax/round trip shuttle bus

Hope one of these works for you. Please consider and let us know if you have further concerns. Regards,

Hello. We’re looking to book a 3D/2N cruise checking in on the 24th of Dec 2023. We would like a 5star boat through Halong Bay that includes Kyaking and night squid fishing. Please advise the availability for this trip. Thank you Deanna N

@Deanna Naphin, Per your request, there are currently some luxury cruises available for 3 days/2 nights as follows: 1. Peony Cruise: https://www.visithalongbay.com/cruise/peony-cruises.html Cost: $560/Deluxe room + $75/pax/peak season surcharge + $36/pax/shuttle bus round trip

2. La Casta Regal: https://www.visithalongbay.com/cruise/la-casta-regal-cruise.html Cost: $590/Junior Suite + $40/pax/peak season surcharge + $30/pax/shuttle bus round trip

3. Erina Cruise: https://www.visithalongbay.com/cruise/erina-cruise.html Cost: $580/Junior Suite + $30/pax/peak season surcharge + $30/pax/shuttle bus round trip

Please take a look and let us know if you are interested in any of them.

Hi, I am interested in a 2 day/1 night cruise of Halong Bay. We are arriving on the Celbrity Solstice to Halong Bay on Wednesday, 1/24/24 at 11:30 am. Is it possible to still make one of the 2 day cruises? Could you please send me some options? Thanks so much!-Lisa Anderson

@Lisa Anderson, Kindly note that most cruises depart at around 12:00 and it takes you 15 minutes from Cai Lan Port to Halong International Port or 20 minutes to Tuan Chau Port. Therefore, it will be best if you can leave the port in 5-10 minutes. Otherwise, you can consider some cruises departing a bit later from 12:15 - 12:30 such as Ambassador Cruise, Essence Grand, Doris Cruise, Erina Cruise.

In case you cannot arrive at the port on time, you can take a speed boat at the cost of around US$100 - 150 to make the trip (personal expense). Regards,

Hello, we don't have the exacts dates, but we are trying to figure out how the tours work. Here is may questions, 1. - The max amount of days is 3 days 2 nights, to you have any tours that are longer like 4 days 3 nights? 2. - At what time does the cruise start and what time does the cruise end? 3. - You can offer 1 day tour, 2 day and 3 day tours, do you have small boat that takes to and from the cruise from the port? 3 . - Do you offer transportation like a 7 passenger private van from Hanoi and back to Hanoi Airport? 4 . - What is your pick up times and drop off times from Hanoi and Hanoi Airport. Thanks in Advance, Ines & Noah

@Ines & Noah, Thank you for your questions. Please find the answers below: 1. Yes. There are up to 5 day/4 night tours in Halong Bay. For 4 day/3 night tours, you can refer to Heritage Binh Chuan Cruise, Stellar of the Seas, Elite of the Seas, or Capella Cruise. 2. The time depends on each cruise's schedule. However, overnight cruises usually depart at 12:00 - 13:00 pm and return at 10:30 - 11:30 am. 3. Some cruises have their own jetty while some don't. As a result, you can walk to the cruise if they have and you will be transferred by a small tender to reach the cruise. 4. We do provide private transfers from Hanoi and back to Hanoi Airport. The rate is around US$250/16-seat van for a group of 7 for 2 day/1 night trip ( The rate may change upon specific schedule and cruise port). 5. For a private transfer, the pick-up time from Hanoi is around 8:30 - 9:00 am. Depending on the disembarkation time of each cruise, the drop-off time at Hanoi Airport after the cruise could be 2 - 3 pm. If you have more concerns, we are happy to help. Regards,

Hi, we will be in Hanoi from Dec 21-29, and would like to do a trip to Halong Bay (our first) during our trip in the form of a 2-day/1-night cruise. Could you make a cruise recommendation (between 200-300 USD/ per adult) that would be good for first-timers to cover the main attractions and suitable for families with 2 young kids? Additionally, as we also need hotel in Hanoi. Are there any cruises that are connected to (family-friendly) hotels in Hanoi to make our trip smoother?

Dear Mr George, You can consider some luxury cruises at your budget such as Catherine, Indochine Premium, Ambassador, Ambassador Signature, Stellar of the Seas, Elite of the Seas, Capella, and Nostalgia Cruise. Among them, Catherine, Indochine Premium, and Ambassador visit Halong Bay while the others visit Lan Ha Bay. All the cruises promise a schedule covering the highlights of the bay. Cruises' shuttle buses pick you up at your accommodation in Hanoi Old Quarter. Hence, you can choose some hotels in this area upon your budget for more convenience. Regards,

Hi, Are you representing all of cruises or several cruises in Halong Bay? I would like to book a room for 3 adults in Dec. 2023. Would you please the name and price of available cruises? Are you offering free pick up and drop off service for any of your cruise? Could you give me information of transportation to Noi bai Airport of the same day? Price and transerring time? I need to book a flight to Ho Chi Minh City on the same day. Thanks and regards

@Kwang woo Nam, (1) We have different price ranges for cost-saving, middle-level, or luxury cruises, so please kindly provide your preference for better suggestions. (2) For transfer, most cruises do not include free pick-up service. The shuttle bus costs from $20-40/pax/round trip. (3) For airport drop-off after the cruise, if you have a tight time, you can book a private car at the cost of $100/4-seat car to go directly from the dock to the airport. If you have plenty of time, you can go back to Hanoi center by bus and then we arrange a 4-seat car to drop you off at the airport for an extra $20/car. Looking forward to hearing from you. Regards,

I want to take a day tour of a cruise on Jan last week from Hanoi and at the same day want to reach Hanoi. And want to visit Sungot Cave and go for a boat ride. Can you tell me the total price for two persons, and which is the best cruise for these and amenities also?

Dear Pragati Singh,

For a day cruise, we would like to suggest you 2 options below which will have a stop at Sung Sot cave:

1. La Casta Daily (https://www.flickr.com/photos/191454442@N03/albums) - Price is $55/person and shuttle bus round trip $30/person - The Departure time is around 9:30AM - 10:00AM

2. Ambassador Day Cruise: Price is $65/person and shuttle bus round trip $30/person - The Departure Time is around 8:30am - 9:00am.

Hi Halong Bay, my name is Stephanie, i am from Malaysia, My husband and i will be travelling in december to hanoi, may i know what are the packages you offer for halong bay cruise for 2 day 1 night. One more question, which routes do you recommend? i saw there are 4 different routes.

Dear Stephanie,

May I know if you are interested in 3 star, 4 star or 5 star cruising so we can recommend you the best cruise? Also, do you have a specific trip date? The period from 22 - 31 December many cruises are fully booked due to peak holiday season.

For your question about cruise routes, there are 3 routes in total including:

• Halong bay - Recommended if you wish to visit Ti Top Island and Sung Sot cave (the largest cave in Halong bay)
• Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island - Recommended if you want to see Viet Hai Village (for 3D2N itinerary only) or Dark and Bright Cave.
• Bai Tu Long Bay - Recommended if you want to go the "off-the-beaten" track where there are very few cruises operating.

We are looking for a 3 days 2 nights cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay or Halong Bay. Departure Date: 3 May 2024, until 5 May 2024. Preferably with a nice room or suite, with extra bed for our 10 yo daughter. So 2 adults and 1 child. We already checked out the high end cruises like Stellar of the Seas and Elite of the Seas. We like the luxury on those boats, but it seems they are too big and not feel very authentic. We also checked out Indochine and Orchid Cruises, but it seems they are all going to the very busy parts of Halong Bay. And also, it seems that after day 1, the boat is going back to pick up new guests. And the boat is always staying in the same area for the night. So we are looking for less big boats, more authentic, but also preferably travelling to more quiet areas of Halong Or Bai tu Long bay. And it would be great if we can travel for 3 full days with the same group, and sleep in different areas instead of the same area with many different boats. Hope you can help us with a nice suggestion and price?

Dear Mr. Rogier,

Thank you for your questions. There are many cruises options that work for your family and May is a deal-season too.  I am sorry that due to local regulations, there are only fixed area that the cruises can dock overnight so there are no cruises that can sleep in two different areas in the same trip. If you prefer a less crowded area, you can consider Bai Tu Long Bay such as Dragon Legend Cruise, which has its own unique 3 day 2 night route and does not return to pier to collect more guests.

A more well-rounded option, in my opinion, is Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan. With 20 cabins and a very different approach to cruising, which focus more indepth experience and story telling, I believe your family will have a memorable time in Halong and Lan Ha Bay Area. Should you need any further assistance please let me know any time!

Hi, my girlfriend and I are looking to take a Luxury Cruise but I am having trouble deciding which one I would like to take. My biggest concerns are cleanliness of room and quality + options of food (I'm lactose intolerant, she's allergic to crustaceans). Our budget is <$200 per person per night. Thanks!

• Frequently asked questions

1. How many cruises are there in Halong bay?

The number of cruises grow by month and at the moment there are over 500 boats operating in Halong Bay , both overnight and for day trip purpose. These boat spread over 2 different terminals/ piers (Tuan Chau Marina and Halong International Cruise Port) with different level of luxuries and capacities. It is advised that you read some online reviews to pick the best value one instead of waiting until the day before your trip and get a random choice.

2. How much money should I bring on board?

In general, all cruise fares already include transportation, accommodation, food and entrance fee. However drinks are not included and you may also take part in the paid activities on board such as spa or bar services. You may expect to spend extra US$20-100/person for your cruise trip. Also you do not need to bring too much cash as all cruises accept payment by credit card.

3. When is the best time to book a cruise?

Generally there are many cruise options and you do not have to book too long in advance. However December is the peak travel season in Halong Bay and the top choices are always fully booked well in advance so we recommend you to book your trip at least 3 months in advance to guarantee space.

4. We are travelling with young children and wonder which cruise is kid-friendly?

If you have the budget, we recommend you consider the cruises with butler service where the cruise staff can help you baby sit your kids and you can have some time on your own. Cruises with butler service includes Hera Cruise, Orchid Premium and Paradise Peak. However if you need a more budget-friendly option, you can consider Orchid Trendy Cruise - the only cruise that has both connecting cabins and kid play room.

5. What cruise is best for couples?

There are many luxury cruises in Halong Bay that parallel the intercontinental mega-cruise in terms of services and luxury. For best luxury cruise for couples , you can take a look at exclusive cabin on Orchid Classic Cruise , or senior suite on Stellar of the Seas. If you prefer a smaller cruise boat which allows better privacy and intimacy, you can take Nostalgia Cruise or Orchid Premium Cruise.

6. Are there any 6-star cruises in Halong bay?

Halong Bay is known for its luxury cruises, but there are no true "6 star" cruises in Halong Bay as there is no official rating system for cruise ships in Vietnam. However, there are several luxury cruises that offer high-end amenities and services that are comparable to those of a 6-star cruise.

These cruises generally feature spacious and well-appointed cabins, fine dining, spa services, and various recreational activities. Some of the best luxury cruise lines in Halong Bay include:

• Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan: Unveils the premier Vietnamese boutique cruise experience on the Red River and the Gulf of Tonkin.
• Orchid Classic Cruises: Offers an unparalleled experience with its 5-star services, allowing passengers to uncover the enigmatic charm of the bays.
• Stellar of The Seas: The pioneering cruise company that launched the exclusive cruise itinerary through Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
• Ambassador Cruises: The largest luxury cruise in Halong Bay, offers 46 top-notch first-class cabins complete with a magnificent collection of premium facilities.

7. What is the newest cruise in Halong bay?

Catherine Cruise is the latest luxurious cruise ship in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, which was launched in October 2023. In late 2023 several cruises will debut, promising guests even more luxurious choices. This includes Essence Grand Cruise (November 2023), Ambassador Cruise II (September 2023), to name a few.

8. Which cruises are sailing in Lan Ha bay?

Lan Ha Bay is a popular destination for a variety of cruise lines, such as Peony Cruises, Orchid Classic Cruises, Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan, and Mon-Cheri Cruises.

9. How much does it cost for a cruise trip in Halong Bay?

The cost for a cruise tour varies depending on season, trip duration, and travelers’ needs. For example, the average total cost of a 2-day-1-night Halong Bay cruise per person ranges between US$115 and US$325, while the 3-day-2-night trip may increase the entire price range by US$550 per person.

You can refer to the estimated price for a cruise trip in Halong Bay below:

• The tour price usually excludes the transfer service and some personal expenses such as visa and hotel arrangements, beverages, tips, etc.
• The shuttle bus cost ranges from US$30 to US$40 per person per round trip and usually remains unchanged in either low or high season.

10. Is Halong Bay cruise worth it?

Certainly, a cruise trip in Halong bay is definitely worth it! Joining a cruise is the best way to experience the best that Halong bay has to offer. Cruises are divided into many categories, either cost-saving or luxury, either daytime or overnight. However, they all bring you closer to nature, give access to landmarks such as caves, islands, beaches, fishing villages,... and offer a bunch of activities to fulfill your experience such as kayaking, swimming, hiking, boating, etc.

• Cruise by categories
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16 of the Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendations in 2024!

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Home » 16 of the Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendations in 2024!

Are you looking for the best Halong Bay cruise recommendation for your next holiday in Vietnam?

Join in with thousands of happy travelers on a trip of a lifetime to Halong Bay on the best Halong Bay tour in Vietnam !

The best way to see Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise.

There are so many Halong Bay tours to choose from, that it can be daunting to figure out which Vietnam Halong Bay cruise will be the perfect fit for you.

In order to make your planning that much easier, we have compiled a list of 15 of the best Halong Bay cruises.

But for those in a hurry here is our personal favorite cruise.

>>> Click Here to See the Best Selling Halong Bay Cruise  

Best Halong Bay Cruises & Our Halong Bay Cruise Reviews

In this Ha Long Bay cruise buying guide, we suggest you check out our comparison chart of Halong Bay's best cruises and then read our Halong Bay's best cruise review that best suit your requirements.  

10 Best Halong Bay Cruise 2024 Comparison Chart

Below is a helpful list of the top 10 Halong Bay cruise recommendations, which are mentioned in this article.

You can then read my reviews below featuring Halong Bay's best cruise in 2019.

Please scroll right to see full table on mobile.

Tips to Help you Choose the Best Cruise for Halong Bay

Let's face it!  There are SO MANY Halong cruises to choose from that it can get totally overwhelming.

To help you, I'm going to outline all the criteria that I was looking for when I chose my first Halong Bay Cruise and then I will share some recommended Halong Bay tours with you.

1. How Long Should the Cruise be?

Halong Bay Day Trip: If you are short on time, you might only be able to enjoy a day cruise on Halong Bay.

Be prepared for a hectic day if you are planning to travel from Hanoi (around 3.5 hour journey one-way).

You can find transfer info here .

Halong Bay Overnight Cruises: You can choose from either a 1 night or 2 night cruise.

The Halong Bay 2 night cruise option is the most popular as it allows you time to enjoy some activities, travel deeper into the quieter areas of the bay, as well as enjoy some down-time.

2. Traditional Halong Bay Junk Boat or Newer Boat?

Next question is whether you prefer to enjoy the older traditional junk boats or if you love newer and more lux boats.

The Junk Boats are gorgeous, but you need to be prepared for older style boats and smaller rooms.  

Our favorite Halong Bay Junk Boat Overnight Cruise is the Indochina Sails Cruise .

If you prefer newer boats with more luxurious spacious rooms that offer terraces and balconies, you might prefer researching a company such as Signature Royal Cruises .

3. Size of Boat and Number of Rooms on Board

Your next consideration is to look at the number of rooms on board. 

If you are young and love to party, you will most likely enjoy the larger boats with more people.  

But for most of us after relaxation, it would be wise to book a room on a smaller boat.

Our second best selling cruise, the  Aphrodite Cruise  is a nice sized boat with only 17 cabins.

For a much more intimate cruise experience, L Azalee has a 4 person boat available.

4. Included Activities

Look out for 'cheaper' boats that might come across as a bargain, but then charge an arm-and-leg for any activities.  

We prefer cruises that offer free water activities such as kayaking. 

5. Itineraries

Most itineraries of the cruise companies are pretty much the same.  

You will typically visit a Pearl Farm, a Fishing Village, a Cave, as well as get the opportunity to climb to the top of TiTov Island and enjoy a bit of swim (typical 2-night itinerary).  

The difference in the itinerary is when a cruise company makes the effort to avoid the crowds from the other companies.

Indochina Sails might be an older style boat and rooms might be small, but we always arrived at our sights before and after the crowds.  

We were the only group exploring the Cave, we were the only ones in sight kayaking and we enjoyed TiTov island with only a small group of other travellers.

I really appreciated the fact that they went out of their way to give us a more relaxed and peaceful experience.

6. Destinations Included

Everyone knows about Halong Bay, and it is no surprise that over the years this beautiful heritage site has become pretty polluted and littered with trash.

Many travellers leave disappointed after experiencing dirty water and masses of crowds.

Look for a cruise that ventures into both Halong Bay as well as Bai Tu Long Bay.  

There are only a few cruise companies that head towards Bai Tu Long Bay, which means that this part of the Heritage Site is still pristine and much less crowded.

I know that both  Indochina Sails  as well as Bhaya Cruises  include both Bays in their itineraries, but you better book way ahead of time as they sell out very quickly!

7.  Which Cruise Company do we Personally Prefer?

I'll be honest with you, our best selling cruises by our readers are both the Pelican Cruises and the Aphrodite Cruises .

They are both great cruises, but we personally love Indochina Sails .  

The trick is to find availability on the Indochina Sails Cruise as they are typically booked out way ahead of time.

Watch our video of our time on our Indochina Sails Cruise .

>>> Check Prices and Availability for Indochina Sails.

Reviews of the 15 Best Overnight Halong Bay Cruises 

In order to make your Halong Bay cruise planning a little easier, I’m going to give you all the information I’ve collected on the top Halong Bay cruises.  

Please find below both the positives and the negatives of these popular Ha Long Bay cruises.

1. Pelican Cruise Halong Bay Review 

* BEST SELLER *

From $210+ p/n 

This Pelican Halong Bay Cruise is by far our best selling cruise .

The combination of a 5 star luxury boat, together with the affordable price tag makes this cruise hard to resist!

The boat is an older style boat (which is why the price is so fabulous!), but the rooms are lovely, the food is yummy and the itinerary is full of included excursions and activities.

The boat is also brilliant for families, as it is one of the few boats that caters for families with their gorgeous 2 bedroom deluxe room.

Many travelers argue that Pelican Cruises is the best cruise on Halong Bay!

Length: 1 or 2 Night Cruises Available

Transfer from Hanoi Included: No

Activities Included:

• Sunrise Tai Chi Class
• Cooking Class
• Local rowing boat

Rooms Available: They have standard deluxe rooms, some truly beautiful suites, as well as a stunning 2 bedroom family deluxe room.

Star Rating: 5

Click the the button below to check the rates and availability:

2. Aphrodite Cruise Halong Bay Review

From $275+ p/n 

Aphrodite Cruise Halong Bay is our second most popular cruise and definately belongs on the list of best cruises in Halong Bay. This cruise also sells like hotcakes! 

It is more expensive than the Pelican Cruise, but you can often find this cruise marked down to much more affordable prices.

Aphrodite Cruises provides you with a 5 star experience and all the bells and whistles that you would expect from a luxury junk boat. It has an exceptional review rating from past travellers.

This cruise is one of the best Ha Long Bay cruise options if you are after a relaxed and laid-back itinerary (but probably not the best pick if you prefer to stay active with loads of activities due to the extra charges)!

Length: 1 or 2 Night Options

• Sampan boat trip
• Tai Chi session
• Kayaking (at extra cost)

Rooms Available: Standard rooms, luxury rooms with balconies. triple rooms for small families and a family suite for families of 4. 

3. Bhaya Cruises Halong Bay Review

From $245+ p/n 

Bhaya Cruise Halong Bay offers 2-day Halong Bay tours for travellers who wish to experience the natural wonder of this World Heritage site.

What we love about this company is that it ventures out into both Halong Bay as well as Bai Tu Long Bay (less touristy but equally beautiful - and much cleaner).

We definitely recommend you choose a cruise that includes Bai Tu Long Bay!

Not only is this cruise cheaper than Aphrodite Cruises, but the activities are all included with your room fee.

Bhaya Cruise Vietnam offers a variety of Halong Bhaya cruise options. These include Bhaya Classic Cruise Halong Bay, Bhaya Premium Cruise (Bhaya Classic Premium) as well as a luxury The Au Co Cruise and a private Bhaya Legend Cruise.

Length: 1 or 2 Nights

• Morning Tai Chi
• MasterChef Competition
• Visit to a Fishing Village by Rowing Boat

Rooms Available: Standard deluxe rooms, rooms with balconies or terrace suite.  Rooms can accommodate 2 pax max.

Star Rating: 5 Stars

4. Signature Royal Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $615+ p/n 

The Signature Royal Cruise is the perfect cruise for those of you after something extra special. It might just be the most luxurious Halong Bay cruise in 2019! 

True 5 star quality with rooms that offer a touch of royalty, together with ample space. These suites are to die for!!

This Halong luxury cruise is absolutely brilliant for honeymooners or couples celebrating a special occasion. It is also the best Halong Bay cruise for family travellers due to their spacious family rooms together with their baby sitting services!

The only negative? Not only are these beautiful rooms pretty highly priced, but you will also need to pay extra if you wish to enjoy water activities such as kayaking.

• Kayaking, Swimming and Snorkeling Equipment (at extra cost)
• Cooking Demonstration (bad weather only)
• Tai Chi Session
• Entertainment Activities and Happy Hour
• Movie Nights, Board Games and Squid Fishing

Rooms Available: Executive rooms, beautiful suites, family connecting rooms or a family suite, rooms with terraces & jacuzzi suite.

5. Royal Palace Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $200+ p/n 

If you are after a really affordable option to explore Halong Bay, then the Royal Palace Cruise is for you!  

This boat is an older style boat and some aspects of it might be in need for a bit of a refurbishment. But we often find that traditional architecture often adds to the atmosphere of a cultural experience.

The boat is great for those after an affordable option. It also has a large room that can fit families of 4.

We only wish that there were a few more activities and excursions included with this cruise.

Rooms Available: Deluxe rooms, suites, family rooms

Star Rating: 4 Stars

6. Silversea Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $180+ p/n 

Halong Silversea Cruises are a great super affordable option for your cruises on Halong Bay. Not only are the rooms really affordable but your activities are free and included with your room price.  

You will love the spacious rooms, the delicious food and the sunset drinks. The boat is great for couples as well as families.

• A cooking class
• A sunset party
• Leisure time (karaoke, dancing, card games)
• Squid fishing

Rooms Available: Deluxe rooms, premium rooms, suites & family rooms

Star Rating: 4.5 Stars

7. Alisa Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $500+ p/n 

The Alisa Halong Bay Cruise Boat is a really popular cruise. The boat is newer than the traditional junk boats, so the rooms are lux and spacious.

The price is a bit steep, but if you are after rooms with their own balcony and really large windows, then this is the cruise for you.

The cruise includes a lot of activities and sightseeing destinations. Be prepared though for crowds as the boat tends to arrive with all the other masses of tourists.

The boat is great for couples as well as for families.

• Te Top Island Visit
• Visit to a Pearl Farm
• Visit to Suprise Cave

Rooms Available: Suites, Suites with Balconies, Family Suites & Family Connecting Rooms

8. Paradise Cruise Halong Bay Review

From $250+ p/n 

From the classic wooden interiors down to the touch of modern conveniences, the Paradise Cruise Halong Bay collection is already a destination in itself waiting to be discovered. A premium experience that’s incomparable to any other.

With a fleet of 7 vessels, Paradise luxury cruise Halong Bay offers 3 different cruises to explore Halong Bay.

These include Paradise Luxury Halong Bay Cruise , Paradise Halong Bay Elegance Cruise and Peak Paradise Halong Bay Cruise.

Whilst they are all fabulous cruises Paradise Luxury cruise is the one most loved by our readers here at Wanderlust storytellers.

Length: 2 Days - 3 Days

Rooms Available: Depending on the Ship, whether you choose to go on a Paradise Luxury Cruise, Paradise Elegance Cruise or Paradise Peak Cruise, the accommodation slightly varies.

Majority of the rooms can accommodate 2 adults and 1 child on additional bed, when requested. If you are travelling with a large family, you can book two rooms next to each other.

9. Indochina Sails Halong Bay Review

- EDITOR’S CHOICE - 

This is my pick for the best cruise in Halong Bay!

From $320+ p/n 

Indochina Sails Cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay takes you to a less visited and very beautiful part of Halong Bay.

The fleet of ships includes Dragon Legend Cruise, Red Dragon Junk, Dragon's Pearl Junk, Princess Junk as well as Prince Junk.

Indochina Junk Cruise is our top pick and the best way to see Halong Bay.

This is the cruise that we have experienced first hand and we absolutely loved every minute of it! You can read more about our Halong Bay trip with Indochina Sails here !

If you are after the best Halong Bay overnight cruise, best luxury cruise Halong Bay has to offer or even the best one day Halong Bay tour, then Indochina junk cruise has got you covered!

Length: 2 Day - 3 Day

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

• Visit to Pearl Farm
• Visit to a Cave
• Visit to a Fishing Village
• Visit to Ti Top Island
• Squid Fishing

Rooms Available: Indochina Halong Bay ships are predominantly designed for couples. However some of the ships accommodate 2 adults and one child in one room.

Alternatively, it is best to book two rooms next to each other, for when travelling with large families.

When we were on our Indochina Cruise Halong Bay, we were on a parent only getaway and we chose to stay with Indochina Sails.

Our room was very much luxurious and included all the bells and whistles! Loved it! This was the best Halong Bay Cruise ever!

10. Rosa Cruise Halong Bay Review

From $150+ p/n 

The Rosa Cruise Halong Bay proudly offers the new premier cruise experiences in Halong Bay which combines the most modern and greatest comfort.

Wishing to provide customers the best culinary and premium cruise experiences.

Rosa Cruise are proud to bring visitors the most exciting experiences in Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay with many unique destination attractions such as: Pearl Farm Village, Amazing Cave, Dark Cave and Bright Cave.

• On Board Activities

Rooms Available: Perfect for couples and romantic getaways. If you are travelling as a family you can choose to book two rooms with connecting doors.

Star Rating: 3.5

11. Oasis Cruise Halong Bay Review

The Oasis Cruise Halong Bay offers you a selection of One Day Tour or Two Day Tour options. This is a great cruise to discover Halong Bay, one of the World Heritage sites.

Oasis Halong Bay Tour also offers a wonderful day cruise. If your time is limited, then the Oasis Bay Cruise Halong Bay is the best choice for you.

That way you can venture out a get a feel for the famous bay, relax with a cocktail or two and spend a great couple of hours with your significant other.

This cruise is also known for its Oasis party cruise Halong Bay and the Oasis Bay Classic Cruise Halong Bay .

• Cooking Demonstration

Rooms Available: Varies

Star Rating: 4

12. Indochina Junk Dragon Legend Cruise Review

Venture out on a Dragon Legend Cruise Halong Bay into the beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay.

This is the less crowded of areas of Halong Bay. Here you can check out the stunning World Natural Heritage site and experience relaxation like never before.

Dragon Legend Halong Bay is regarded as one of the best Halong Bay luxury cruise options.

This is an experience of the highest standard and comes with tones of satisfied and happy Halong Bay cruise reviews.

Dragon cruise Halong Bay is one of the best value Halong Bay cruise and best Halong Bay cruise for couples.

• Cave Exploring

Rooms Available: Dragon Cruise Halong Bay accommodation includes 24 luxurious and very spacious cabins. Only two of the cabins have connecting rooms for families with kids. We would strongly advise to make sure and reserve those rooms well in advance.

13. V Spirit Cruise Halong Bay Review

A day cruise with V Spirit Cruise Halong Bay is the best choice for you to experience the magnificent Halong Bay with our ‘all-in-one’ itinerary for those with a limited time schedule.

You will not only explore one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay, but will also have the chance to go kayaking or bamboo boat rowing, as well as visiting and interacting with people at a local fishing village.

Holiday with V Spirit Halong Bay is a great option for travelling with a family.

Activities Included: The V Spirit Classic Cruise Halong Bay has plenty activities on offer for all young and mature kids.

Rooms Available: V Spirit Cruise ships are perfect for all travelers, singles, couples and families.

14. L Azalee Cruise Halong Bay Review

L Azalee Cruise Halong Bay is a smaller and a more boutique Halong Bay cruise company.

You can choose from 3 different types of cruises, including L Azalee Classic Cruise (day tour boat, no private rooms), L Azalee Deluxe Cruise (larger couples rooms available) and the L Azalee Premium Cruise (a more private 4-person boat for a more luxurious experience).

Length: 1 - 3 Nights

Rooms Available: L’Azalee Deluxe Cruise has rooms suitable for couples. If you are travelling as a family or a group, you can book two or more rooms next to each other.

15. The Au Co Cruise Halong Bay Review

The Au Co Cruise Halong Bay is the first and only luxury cruise operator offering unique day cruises and overnight voyages through world-renowned Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island and the Gulf of Tonkin.

The Au Co Halong Bay ship features the very latest safety standards and represents Vietnamese and Oriental culture at its best.

Each of her 32 spaciously-designed private cabins boasts luxurious bathrooms and panoramic balconies.

Length: The Au Co Day Cruises or Overnight

Rooms Available: One of 32 private cabins with balconies and luxurious bathrooms. Best for couples. Alternatively book two rooms to accommodate larger families.

16. Orchid Cruises Halong Bay Review

The Orchid Cruises on Halong Bay offer a super-luxurious experience and a 5-star relaxation and treatment. 

Make sure to check out the variety of amazing cabins, including the Exclusive Suite with private terrace, so that you can take a more educate choice of which cabin to stay at.

This cruise boat is perfect for either couples or families. There are plenty of choices of cabins (36 in total) sleeping two, three and even four passengers in each. 

Length: The   Orchid Cruises offer 2-Night Stays or Overnight

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Available

• On Board Activities & Spa

Rooms Available: One of 36 private cabins with balconies and luxurious bathrooms. Best for couples and perfect for families. There are 2 Exclusive Suites with private terraces.

The Best Halong Bay Day Tour 

Short on time and trying to find the best day cruise on Halong Bay? Find below the best company to make the most out of your short time at Halong Bay.

Alova Cruises Halong Bay Review

If you are looking for a perfect one day cruise on the Halong Bay, then Alova Cruise Halong Bay are your specialists in the area. These guys are here to indulge you with all the yummy drinks, whilst you enjoy the unforgettable cruising around the beautiful Heritage Site.

This cruise is ranking on many review websites as the best way to visit Halong Bay and the best Halong Bay 1 day tour.

Length: 1 Day (Best Halong Bay Day Tour and one of the Best Halong Bay Tours for Backpackers!)

Activities included:

Rooms Available: Halong Alova Cruise is a day tour and there are no rooms available.

FAQ about Halong Bay Cruises

1. what are the best prices for halong bay cruise.

Prices for Halong Bay cruises vary greatly, and although you can get some for very cheap, more often than not you’ll get what you pay for.

This is why you will want to make sure that you take a cruise that has a great reputation, and has been proven to be safe while also providing an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

2. What to know before going for a Halong Bay cruise?

The best way to prepare yourself for the trip to Halong Bay is to check out what available Halong Bay cruises there are, how to get there, and when is the best time to go.

In this post, you will find all the necessary information and more!

3. How to choose the best cruise in Halong Bay?

Since most of the Halong Bay cruises have the same kind of events and activities, you will want to choose the cruise that is right for you and your family on other criteria besides the events.

The best way to find the most suitable cruise for you is to look into the Star Rating, Price Point and Size of the Rooms. In our reviews, you will find all the necessary information.

To check out the prices and the cruises in more detail, please click the links in the Halong Bay Cruise you like the most.

4. What is the best time to go to Halong Bay?

The best time to go to Halong Bay is in Spring ( February to April) and in autumn ( August to October).

We ventured out to Vietnam and the amazing Halong Bay in September and the weather was sunny and beautiful. The temperatures are pleasant and there is not much rain.

However, if you would like to ensure that you visit Halong Bay in the lowest rain season, then you should book your adventure between March and April.

5. Which airport is closest to Halong Bay?

The closest airport to Halong Bay is the Hai Phong Airport.

6. What is the best way to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi?

One of the best ways of how to get to Halong Bay is by bus. You can take a Mini Bus from Gia Lam (Hanoi) to Bai Chay ( Ha Long ) which will cost about $ 6 USD and it will take around 4-5 hours.

We have a full post on how to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay which you can read here .

7. Is it safe to go to Vietnam?

Vietnam is a very safe country to travel in.

Although it is an extremely safe country for holidaymakers, you can expect some degree of hustling by the shop or street vendors.

This is a usual way of sales in the area and it is especially noticeable in large cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Nha Trang.

We have traveled throughout the country with ease and we have never felt in danger or otherwise uncomfortable. You can read our full guide on what you should know before traveling to Vietnam here .

8. Can you swim in Halong Bay?

You can definitely swim in Halong Bay, however, the water in the main parts of the bay is pretty polluted.

We did enjoy kayaking and swimming in the clear water of Bai Tu Long Bay (only some cruise boats go here so the water is less polluted – check the reviews above to find a cruise company that ventures into this area).

We also swam in the beach off one of the islands in the bay. The water was definitely murkier there, but it might be due to the rainy weather we had.

9. What is there to do in Halong Bay?

There are loads of things to do in Halong Bay . From caves to explore, kayaking to try out, swimming and hiking. You can also visit a floating fishing village as well as a pearl farm.

We loved climbing up millions of stairs to get a lookout over the area as well.

The cruises also offer classes such as squid fishing, cooking, tai chi and more.

Tip: Check out the best places to travel in Vietnam here.

Andrzej Ejmont

13 thoughts on “16 of the absolute best halong bay cruise recommendations in 2024”.

Hi. Nice article. Just one correction. The closest airport to Halong Bay is Hai Phong.

Thanks for the update! 🙂

Thank you so much for sharing Halong Bay. Halong is a must when traveller visit Hanoi. Overnight cruises are good but if you do not have much time so the day trip will be fine. Besides that Ninh Binh will be a good place to visit, being a local i really recommend it.

Yes, I think 2 nights is the perfect length! Ninh Binh is gorgeous too, but also quickly becoming touristy.

For the day cruise, Incredible Asia Journeys Cruise must be a good option with good reviews.

Thanks for the tip Tony 🙂

Now more and more people visit Lan Ha Bay as it is less touristic. Escape Sails Lan Ha Bay Luxury will be good as they use the expressway and Limousine bus/van so travellers have more time on the cruise and less time on bus.

Hi, Which is a goodd cruise for a family of 5 (kids 17, 15 and 11) Thanks

If you have 1 day you can take Escape Sails Luxury Cruise. If you have more than 1 day you can take Vspirit Premier or Perla Dawn Sails. They are all good cruises in Lan Ha Bay – The new trend from 2019 as it is less touristy part of Halong Bay.

We are planning on taking a cruise next February and were thinking of choosing a cruise boat that goes to Bai Tu Long Bay as we have read that it is just as beautiful and interesting as Halong Bay and is less crowded. When I wrote to the cruise company they said that the Bai Tu Long Bay route is now considered to be the more crowded route and they are now directing customers to their Halong Bay route. Have anyone else heard this?

Halong Bay Cruise is the best option for vacation. I like the beauty of Vietnam. It looks so peaceful; everyone must consider this option, especially the rates are very affordable for a two days trip. Anyone, please guide me regarding the starting destination of the next trip and how to reserve a room? Thanks!

Amazing! Thank you for your share. Unluckily, Most of cruises @ Halong now are getting in big trouble due to Covid :((

Yes, it is really heart breaking to see a lot of businesses on pause these days.

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Halong Bay Cruise (How To Choose The Best Tour)

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: March 24, 2024

Categories Vietnam

A Halong Bay Cruise was definitely a highlight of our 3-month trip to Southeast Asia. The “floating” limestone islands are like a fantasy world in real life.

In this guide, we will share all the details for the best time to visit, duration, how to book a cruise, and the best choice overall for a Halong Bay Cruise, etc.

There are tons of different companies that offer a Halong Bay Cruise. And not every cruise is equal. There are more budget-friendly overnight cruises and day trips, up to luxurious cruises that can extend to 5 days or more.

Additionally, many cruises will provide transportation to and from Hanoi, which can be super convenient. 

So let’s dive into all the details so you can have the best Halong Bay Cruise!

This post may contain affiliate links. Disclosure policy .

What is Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and covers over 107,000 acres. There are 1600 islands and islets that are made up of limestone pillars. Most of the islands and islets are uninhabitable to humans and serve as a home to birds and marine creatures. 

Halong Bay is used for tourism, marine transport, fisheries and the daily activities of people living and conducting their business in Halong Bay.

While the landscape is stunning to any passersby, there is even more than meets the eye. Due to coastal erosion many of these natural limestone islands have formed arches and caves. And depending on the tide, there are beaches people can hang out on.

Best Time To Visit Halong Bay

Fall season (September-November) is the best time to visit Halong Bay.

• September: 77 – 98°F (25 – 37°C)
• October: 71 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• November: 66 – 77°F (19 – 25°C)

Weather is pretty moderate with a lower chance of rain and storms. But you can expect this time to be the most crowded and peak pricing. Temperatures can be relatively hot and rainy in early September and will start to get a bit more chilly toward the end of November. So ideally, October is the best month for a Halong Bay Cruise.

Spring season (Mar-May) can be another great time to visit Halong Bay. Temperatures tend to be 65 – 90°F (18.5 – 32°C) While temperatures start out moderate in March and will gradually become more hot and humid toward the end of May. It’s typically less crowded and you can snag some great deals on a Halong Bay Cruise during this time.

Winter season (December-February) is the second busiest time for Halong Bay cruises. This is mainly due to the holidays like Christmas, New Years, & more importantly, Tet (Vietnamese New Year) Temperatures during winter can range between 58 – 68°F (15 – 20°C). But because of the temperatures, swimming is less ideal during this time.

Summer season (June-August) is the least popular time to visit Halong Bay. It is considered the rainy season in Halong Bay and you can expect heavy rainfall and possible typhoons. 

Summer temperatures range from 78 – 98°F (25.7 – 37°C) and are very humid. But with that being said it can also be the least crowded, you can find some great prices on cruises, and warm temperatures for swimming in the bay. 

If you can time the weather correctly to avoid rain, summer season has the longest daylight hours. Plus less pollution and fog for the clearest blue sky days. Therefore, it can also be a great time for photography.

How Long On A Halong Bay Cruise?

There are tons of different cruise lines and durations for Halong Bay cruises. With cruises as short as 4 hours long to extended trips of 5 days/4 nights out on the water. 

If you are short on time, then you might choose a half-day cruise. But for the effort to get to Halong Bay, it is likely you might want to explore the area for longer.  

We would highly suggest at least doing an overnight cruise in Halong Bay. And personally, it felt very rushed on our overnight cruise, so I think we would have enjoyed the 3-day, 2-night cruise better, just to be able to enjoy the scenery a little more.

And if budget isn’t an issue, there are private charters that go for 5 days/4 nights. These charters get to explore deeper into the bay and escape the crowded areas. 

How Much Is A Halong Bay Cruise?

The price for a Halong Bay cruise differs significantly depending on the season you choose to go. Plus the further in advance you book, the better pricing you are likely to get. 

Jake and I visited in January 2023 & paid $169 USD per person for a 2-day/1-night cruise . 

For a half-day cruise in non-peak season, you can expect to pay as low as $20 per person. And upward to thousands of dollars for a 5-day cruise in peak season. But in general, I’d say it’s typical to pay around $150 per person for an overnight Halong Bay Cruise.

There is an additional surcharge for single cabins. It’s typically around $50 and due at the time of cruise check-in.

Also if you are planning to cruise on Christmas, New Year, and National Holidays, there is typically a surcharge of 15%. 

How To Choose A Halong Bay Cruise

There are a few different factors when choosing a Halong Bay Cruise. Such as duration, price, star-rating, and experiences on board.

First, start with the duration you want for the cruise. We suggest at least an overnight 2-day cruise. But if you have the time and money, you might splurge for a 3-5 day trip instead. And if you are short on time, the half & full-day cruises still pack in a lot of adventures and sightseeing that will be worth the money. 

Next is certainly price. As I mentioned above, the earlier you book, the cheaper the cruise tends to be. And if you visit in non-peak season, you can likely grab a great deal. If you book during holidays, do expect an additional surcharge. 

Check the star rating of the boat. The lower the star rating, likely a lower quality boat that maybe needs some updating. And you will likely get a more inexperienced crew (this isn’t always bad). Obviously, if you choose a 5-star boat, the rooms and service should hopefully reflect the star rating. 

It can be hard to find the “star rating” on websites like Viator and Get Your Guide. Although if it is a 5-star boat, then the tour company will likely add it to the title. Otherwise, you can expect many of the cruises to be 3 or 4-star ratings. 

Do be a little wary about the pictures shown of the boat and rooms. These pictures were likely taken before much wear and tear from guests. You will be traveling on salt water and on a moving vessel. Therefore, some of the rooms and other features on the boat might be a little worn out. 

Our room was pretty well kept, but the exterior of the boat looked in rough shape. There are also tons of different room options, such as having your own private balcony or private suite room, etc. Obviously, the nicer the room, the higher the price.

Lastly, you might choose a certain cruise ship depending on the onboard experiences. It is likely your cruise will do a kayaking trip, cave exploration, cooking demonstration, and exercise class. 

Most of the places visited are the most popular tourist attractions. But if there are certain areas you really want to see over others, then you might need to explore deeper into the details of a specific cruise ship. (More details below about popular stops on a Halong Bay Cruise).

How To Book A Halong Bay Cruise

There are tons of helpful Halong Bay tour companies that can help you book a Halong Bay Cruise. Our personal favorite websites for choosing local tours are Viator and Get Your Guide. These websites help set up transportation, provide local tour guides (typically an English-speaking guide), and communicate well before the tour starts. 

Top Halong Bay Cruises:

Half Day (4-Hours) Halong Bay Boat Tour from Halong City

This is one of the cheapest cruises through Halong Bay and only lasts about 4 hours long. While this tour might be short, it certainly is not a lazy cruise ride. Guests will have the opportunity to kayak, visit Dong Thien Cung Cave, and pass by Hon Ga Choi Island (aka kissing rock). If you are looking for one of the best budget cruises, this might be your best option. 

Transportation from hotels in Halong City is included. If traveling from Hanoi or another nearby city, you might need to find your own transportation. We use 12GoAsia for the best prices on buses, trains, and taxis. 

Do note there is an additional entrance fee for Halong Bay which is 290K VND ($12.50 USD) per person. Plus 142k VND ($6 USD)/person if you want lunch on board. 

Full Day – Ha Long Bay Cruise w/ Titop Island & Luon Cave

If you are looking for a full-day adventure in Halong Bay, then this might be the best cruise for you. This action-packed cruise line offers transportation to & from Hanoi. Plus a kayaking adventure at Luon Cave, swimming at Titov beach, a visit through Sung Sot Cave, and Ti Top Island. 

2-Day 1-Night Cruise From Hanoi: Ha Long – Bai Tu Long Bay

This is the cruise Jake and I went on when we visited Halong Bay. It is action-packed and you get to see so many of the best attractions in a short time. You get to go kayaking, squid fishing, visit a local cave, spend time at a beach, have a happy hour sunset party, do an early morning Tai Chi class, and enjoy a cooking class. 

The trip is all-inclusive, but there is an additional charge for transportation to and from Hanoi, plus alcoholic beverages. 

3-Day Lan Ha Bay 5-Star Cruise & Private Balcony Room

This 3-day cruise is on a 5-star cruise ship and offers all the bells and whistles. With a luxury balcony room and more. Day 1 follows a similar itinerary to other overnight cruises.

But on day 2, guests board a smaller boat to explore some of the areas that the cruise boat cannot go through. Then, you head to Viet Hai Village and take a bicycle ride to enjoy the scenery along the village roads and rainforests.

Later, you visit a local family’s house to see the daily life of the local people. Then, guests head back to the boat and continue cruising further into Lan Ha Bay.

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly 3-day cruise, consider the Halong Explorer 3-Day 4-Star Cruise .

Do note some 3-day cruises will pair with overnight guests. Therefore, the day you go explore via a small boat, the larger boat is picking up new guests. This is dependent on whether or not all the guests choose 2 or 3 days.

4 Days Cruise: Halong, Bai Tu Long, Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island

This cruise is a great option if you want to explore the Halong Bay area immensely, and just have time to enjoy the area on water. There is also a swimming pool on board. 

This trip is all-inclusive, but additional costs apply for transportation and alcoholic beverages. Do note this Halong Bay tour leaves from Tuan Chau Marina.

5 Days Bai Tu Long – Lan Ha – Halong Bay on Private Cruise

This luxury cruise can accommodate up to 9 guests in 3 different rooms on your own private charter. It’s one of the best options to get off the beaten path and explore some of the less crowded areas in the bay. 

This trip is all-inclusive but does not include airfare & transportation to and from Hanoi. This trip is certainly the most expensive, but you will get to explore the best attractions along Halong Bay. Do note this tour leaves from Tuan Chau International Marina.

Popular Stops On A Halong Bay Cruise

• Sung Sot Cave (aka Surprise Cave)
• Thien Cung Cave
• Ti Top Island
• Dark and Bright Cave
• Thien Canh Son Cave
• Dau Go Cave
• Kayaking or bamboo boat trip in Cong Do and Cap La Islands
• Hon Ga Choi Island (aka kissing rock)
• Ba Trai Dao Beach
• Fighting Cock Islet
• Tung Sau Pearl Farm
• Explore floating fishing villages

How To Get To Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is located in Northern Vietnam, about 3 hours East of the city of Hanoi. Many tours will provide transportation or offer assistance for how to get to the cruise port. 

Do note there are a few different starting locations. The two most popular harbors are Halong International Cruise Port (aka Bai Chay or SunWorld Port) & Tuan Chau Port . There are a couple more around the bay, but tourism cruises most likely won’t leave from those ports. 

If transportation isn’t included in your cruise tour package, then make sure you are going to the right port when booking your own transportation. Taxis will be very expensive at the ports. 

If traveling from Hanoi or a nearby city, use 12GoAsia to book your transportation. You can also book transportation from other nearby cities. 

What To Wear On A Halong Bay Cruise

Refer to the “best time of year” segment of this post for the appropriate clothing depending on the temperatures you might encounter. But here are items you should bring year-round.

• Rain jacket
• Swimsuit (depending on time of year)
• Sunglasses (Croakies optional)
• Fancier outfit for happy hour party/dinner (optional)
• Hiking outfit
• Hiking shoes/Sneakers

Should You Tip On A Halong Bay Cruise

While tipping isn’t customary in Vietnam, Halong Bay Cruises are looked at as luxury travel. Therefore, it became very apparent toward the end of the cruise that tipping is well accepted on the boat. 

The tipping brackets on our boat were broken down into a few different categories: 

• Staff (servers, bartenders, boat drivers, etc)

I’d say 5-10% is a decent place to start if you want to give a tip. Then, you can divvey this up to the staff members. If you feel like they did an exceptional job, you can tip upward of 20+% (this will certainly make their day!).

Is A Halong Bay Cruise Worth It?

Our Halong Bay overnight cruise was a memorable experience. If you are traveling around northern Vietnam, then a tour should certainly make the bucket list.

While we got to experience a lot of the bay in just a 2-day, 1-night cruise, I would highly suggest extending it to a 3 or 4-day cruise if you have the time and money.

Cruising in Halong Bay isn’t as cheap as many of the other places in Vietnam. But the natural beauty and panoramic views of the limestone cliffs are not to be missed.

Related Posts

If it’s your first time traveling to Vietnam, check out these helpful tips to know before traveling to Vietnam .

A similar, yet unique experience to Halong Bay is a boat tour in Ninh Binh . They call Ninh Binh the “Halong Bay on Land”. And if you enjoy the mountains, you certainly can’t miss Sapa, Vietnam .

Check out our countries page for other awesome travel plans.

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