halong bay overnight tour

How to Choose the Best Halong Bay Overnight Cruises + 5 Hand-Picked Tours!

May 3, 2023

Paula Martinelli

If you’re planning that dream trip to Vietnam, and you’re having a hard time choosing the best option for your Halong Bay cruises overnight , you’re in the perfect place! I have been there and spent hours (if not, days) researching before deciding to choose the best option!

Let me start by saying that a cruise in Halong Bay is part of most Vietnam Itineraries , and certainly one of the bucket lists and highlights of your trip to the country. Halong Bay is a lovely bay in Northern Vietnam, where 1,900 islands and islets rise up from the stunning turquoise waters of the South China Sea .  

Your experience will vary tremendously based on the areas you visit, the time of the year you go, the number of days you visit, and the type of tour you book.

I am here now to share the best activities you will have during your Halong Bay overnight cruise, plus make expert recommendations on what are the best overnight cruises for you! So, without any further ado, let’s dive into this very helpful guide!

You may also want to read:

• 15 Essential Tips Before You Go Cruise in Halong Bay
• Top 10 Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• Ultimate 2-week Vietnam Itinerary

Tips to Choose a Perfect Halong Bay Overnight Cruise:

8. activities on the cruise boat.

Read More: The Most Amazing Halong Bay Luxury Cruises

Best Halong Bay Cruises Overnight Overview

There are hundreds of boats available to choose from, each with a different route, activities, and prices and it can drive us crazy! In this detailed guide, you will find everything you need to know to help you to choose the best Halong Bay cruises overnight, so let’s review some important information first. I also recommend you read the 15 essential tips you should know before you go cruise in Halong Bay .

If you’re looking for even more comfort or perhaps you’re celebrating a special occasion, I recommend you choose one of the incredible Halong Bay luxury cruises .

5 Best Halong Bay Cruises Overnight

You can choose from over 500 licensed junk boats to cruise , and there are options for every taste and pocket. The junk boats can be very simple to super luxurious, and don’t forget the simple rule just like anything else:  you get what you pay for ! The higher the price, the better quality and experience you will have. 

1 . La Pinta In Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay (3-Day & 1-Night)

I did extensive research before I decided on which cruise to choose, and I booked the Le Journey Cruise . I made my choice by reading a lot of reviews and looking at photos of the rooms. Also as it’s a smaller boat with only 16 cabins, I didn’t have to deal with the crowds.

Plus, they are a reputable and ethical tour. The staff does a phenomenal job caring for the hosts, as they are fun and extremely helpful. Cruising at Halong Bay was certainly the highlight of my trip to Vietnam . I chose the 3 days 2 nights overnight cruise , which allowed me to see more of the magnificent bay.

Le Journey Cruise – Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay 3 Days, 2 Nights

The Le Journey Cruise was my choice for an overnight cruise in Halong Bay, and I highly recommend it. The boat is great, the accommodations are very comfortable, and the service and food are outstanding. Besides exploring the best of Halong Bay, you will also sail on Lan Ha Bay, with a jaw-dropping landscape of towering karst, and it’s less crowded.

2. Halong Bay Cruise from Hanoi ( 2-Day & 1-Night)

• DAY 1: Tuan Chau Habor – Dog Head Islet – Swan Islet – Ba Hang Floating Village – Luon Cave – Ti Top Island
• DAY 2: Surprise Cave – Fighting Cock Island – Incense Burner Island – Stone Dogs Island – Tuan Chau Habor

Why Take This Tour:

This 2-day & 1-night Halong Bay Overnight Cruise is excellent if you’re short on time as you’ll still get to see plenty of the area’s highlights. Run by Phoenix Cruise, this cruise includes all entrance fees, all your meals, a double/twin cabin, and hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hanoi.

There are also other activities included with your cruises like a cooking class, squid fishing, kayaking, or a bamboo boat tour. If you’re still not convinced then you’ll get to visit a variety of beautiful islets, islands, and caves. This includes Surprise Cave which is the largest cave in Halong Bay!

This 2D/1N cruise will also take you to Ba Hang Floating Village and Ti Top Island so the itinerary is rather jam-packed. However, you’ll still have ample time to relax on the top deck, swim in the emerald waters, and enjoy the epic views.

3. Halong Bay Luxury Cruise (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Hon Gai Wharf – Thien Canh Son Cave –  Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Sung Sot Cave – Ti Top Island

Day 3:  Da Chong Islet – Con Vit Islet – Gia Luan –  Lan Ha Bay – Ba Trai Dao Beach/Tra Bau Area of Lan Ha Bay

This All-Inclusive 3-day & 2-night Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay route tour are one of the most amazing options out there! Not only will you get to visit a variety of destinations, but this cruise puts more of an emphasis on onboard activities and socializing.

The itinerary suggests that each night is full of activities such as cooking classes, karaoke, leisure time at the bar with your fellow passengers, and plenty of board games! Another great thing about this cruise is that you’re guaranteed an ocean-view cabin which is a huge bonus.

As well as the usual places, you’ll get to visit some more hidden gems as you’re staying on board an extra night. This includes caves, beaches, and stunning islets so what are you waiting for? Better yet, you’ll get to explore Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay as well.

4. Halong Bay and Ca Bat Island Cruise (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay – Cua Van Floating Village – Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Cat Ba Island/Pearl Farm – Viet Hai Village – Lan Ha Bay

Day 3: Kayaking/Bamboo Raft Trip – Dark & Bright Cave area/Ti Top Island

*This is a sample itinerary and can change based on which specific itinerary you choose when you go to purchase!

If you’re looking for a romantic time in Halong Bay, this 2-Nights on Best Balcony Cruise is the perfect option. Ran by Halong Bay Cruise Hunters, you know you’re in for a fantastic time as this company has thousands of reviews on Tripadvisor.

For starters, this 3D/2N cruise takes you to some of the most beautiful bays in the area including Halong, Lan Ha, and Bai Tu Long. You’ll also get to choose between some other popular locations depending on your itinerary. This includes the spectacular Cat Ba Island which you’ll be able to explore by bicycle.

All meals are included with this cruise as well as a cooking class, Tai Chi lesson, and kayaking. Just keep in mind that there’s a surcharge per person if you’re cruising during the Christmas season, Chinese New Year, or New Year’s Eve. You’ll also have to pay extra if you’re fancying a massage.

5. Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay (3-Day & 2-Night)

DAY 1: Halong International Cruise Port – Thien Canh Son Cave – Bai Tu Long Bay

DAY 2: Bai Tu Long Bay – Kayaking, Tai Chi, Swimming, & sightseeing

Day 3: Vung Vieng Fishing Village

This 3-day Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay overnight cruise is a great off-the-beaten-path option. Although many of the cruises simply stay in Halong Bay, this ship will take you on a more hidden path so you’ll have a quieter experience.

All meals are included with this cruise, as well as all entrance fees and activities such as the Tai Chi lesson, cooking class, and pre-dinner cocktail party.

The one thing to note with this cruise is that there doesn’t seem to be as much included on the itinerary. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing as you’ll have plenty of time to relax, admire the views, and get involved with the onboard activities. However, if you’d prefer an action-packed itinerary where you’ll get to see a lot within a short amount of time, you might want to go for one of the other options in this guide.

Top Activities To Do In Halong Bay

There are plenty of awesome things to do in Halong Bay. Whether you’re looking to explore by kayak, spend some time swimming, or take a trip on a bamboo boat, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also get to visit a variety of incredible places so let’s take a look at what you’ll be getting up to…

1. Sailing among the majestic limestone kasks

I spent a good amount of time on the boat, sailing, taking pictures, flying the drone or just relaxing on the roof deck while enjoying some very yummy (high alcohol content) cocktails. I felt that I was really on vacation and sometimes it’s so important to slow down and enjoy the magical view, especially if you’re in Halong Bay!

2. Boating on the floating Villages

The cruise line took us to a harbor near some small floating fishing villages. We got picked up by locals with their row boats and they took us along the bay. Each boat held 6-8 people.

We could see the beauty of the mountains very close up. It was intriguing to see the floating villages and be able to observe the families with their dogs living their normal lives in the same way, for so many generations. It was nice and relaxing, and I took many beautiful photos during the tour.

3. Visit a Pearl Farm

Halong Bay Cruises often include a visit to the area’s thriving Pearl Farm. This farm was originally opened in 1995 and owned by a Japanese company until it was sold to locals. Covering around 74 acres and home to around 3,000 cages, it’s rather impressive.

During your visit here, you’ll get to learn all about how pearl cultivation is done as it’s not a simple process. Throughout the tour, you’ll get to see the floating rafts where the pearls are grown, the processing rooms, and the showroom where you’ll see the final product.

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Halong so try to look for a company that includes it in their itinerary. As the Peal Farm is around 15 miles (24 km) from Halong City, you’ll need to be on a 2D/1N or 3D/2N package to visit this destination.

4. Visit Caves during your Halong Bay Tour

Depending on the cruise company you choose, most likely you will visit one of several natural caves on an island (weather permitting). It’s just amazing to think that some islands are hollow and there are lovely formations inside.

If you’re lucky to have a good tour guide, they will also give you an explanation of the history of the cave and an overview of the formations. The view from the top of the cliffside was outstanding, as we could overlook the whole bay and the junk boats.

5. Visit other islands in Halong Bay

Some overnight cruises in Halong Bay offer to visit other islands during the tour. If you want to experience more of the bays in this area, I’d recommend choosing a 3D/2N cruise as this allows you to travel a further distance.

To give you a rough idea, here are some of the other bays that are often included:

• Cat Ba Island : Cat Ba is the largest island in Halong Bay and is famous for its wild and rugged beauty. Half of the island is located within Cat Ba National Park and other areas are relatively untouched. Although not as popular as Halong Bay, tourism is starting to increase here and many tours now include a visit to this island in the package!
• Lan Ha Bay : This bay is located in the Gulf of Tonkin and is much less touristy compared to Halong Bay. However, it’s just as beautiful and if you can you’ll want to visit. Boasting undisturbed beaches, awesome hiking trails, and a unique ecosystem, Lan Ha Bay has a lot to offer. Some tours include a visit to both bays so I’d recommend choosing that option if possible.
• Bai To Long : Lastly we have Bai To Long – one of the largest bays in the area. Although relatively undeveloped compared to other bays in the area, the beauty here is breathtaking. Add that to the fact that you won’t have to share this place with hordes of tourists and you’ve got a sure-fire winner. The pollution here is very low too compared to other bays in the area which is another reason to visit!

6. Kayaking & swimming in Halong Bay

The Halong Bay cruise overnight tour I chose, offers kayaks and it was a highlight of my cruise, so I recommend taking advantage of it. They anchored the junk boat while we had the chance to explore the nearby area at our own pace. It’s an opportunity to see the limestone cliffs close up.

In some instances, you will be able to explore caves, which unfortunately didn’t happen for me in the area where our boat left us. I was able to go to different beaches and just admire the formations.

But please, make sure you are safe and that you have a good conditional kayak, you are offered a life vest, and that you are paddling your kayak in a safe area far from the big fish boats.

7. Taking a trip on a Bamboo Boat

There are plenty of kayaking opportunities on Halong Bay overnight cruises but this experience is something special. Many companies also offer you the chance to explore parts of Halong Bay via bamboo boat – a mode of transport that is often used by local fishermen.

Each bamboo boat can carry between 4-6 people and you’ll be maneuvered around the limestone caves by an expert. Although you can learn to do it yourself, it takes a lot of skill to avoid endless rock formations! As you cruise along Halong Bay you’ll also get to listen to the fisherman’s stories and connect with the locals on another level.

This may be a more suitable option for older individuals or families with small children who aren’t up for kayaking.

Aside from having an action-packed itinerary off the cruise, you’ll also have a variety of awesome activities onboard. No matter your hobbies or interests, you’re guaranteed to find something to your liking.

Here are some of the activities you can expect to find on Halong cruises:

Cooking Class: The cruise line offered a “cooking class” that was basically making summer rolls. It was entertaining, but I never really used my new expertise in my own kitchen.

Fishing Squid: Every night after dinner, if you’re interested, they will provide you with fishing poles and you can catch squid. I passed on the fishing but it’s a unique experience to have and the little ones tend to love it!

Sunrise Tai Chi on the Deck: This is one thing I can definitely get behind. Not only will you get to appreciate the beauty of Halong at sunrise but this martial art has a ton of benefits. It not only helps you physically but it’s thought to have emotional and mental benefits too.

Sunroof Bar: This is something you just have to do whilst on a cruise. There’s no better place to relax than at the Sunroof Bar as you can treat yourself to a cheeky cocktail or beer whilst admiring the epic views.

Spa Massages: This activity is an extra charge but it’s a great way to wind down after the day. The Halong Bay overnight cruises can be pretty taxing as there’s so much to do, so this is a great way to relax and recharge.

Local Wine Experience: Not all cruises will offer these so it will depend on your company. If your company does offer this then fantastic as you’ll get a better understanding of the local alcohol.

Vietnamese Cultural Films: Watching these types of films may not be to everyone’s taste but they’re a great way to learn about the country’s culture.

Music Entertainment: Lastly, many cruises will play music throughout the evening which only adds to the ambiance and location. I have done a Halong Bay overnight cruise during New Year, and we had a DJ with a dancing floor. Even the boat crew joined us, and boy, these guys can dance! We had a blast!

Halong Bay Cruise Overnight Conclusion

Halong Bay is the most frequented place in Vietnam and every year millions of people visit, and for a good reason. The opportunity to sail on a junk ship through hundreds of dramatic limestone mountains sticking up from a deep turquoise sea is like nothing else!

There are so many  karst islands  and rocks rising from the water in every direction that it looks mystic. There are caves, secret lagoons, and sea gypsies so you’ll have endless places to explore.

Not only is Halong Bay beautiful, but there are plenty of awesome activities waiting for you if you opt for an overnight cruise. These will give you a chance to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s culture so the cruises really do offer a bit of everything!

Hopefully, this guide has given you a good idea of what the most popular cruise options are, and what you can expect from your trip.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure you check out my other posts:

• Vietnam Travel Tips: Everything you need to know before your trip
• Best Hoi An itinerary
• Best Ho Chi Minh City Itinerary
• Best Hanoi Itinerary
• Best Da Nang itinerary
• Incredible things to do in Mui Ne
• 10 Most Incredible Halong Bay Luxury Cruises
• 15 Essential tips before you go on a cruise in Halong Bay
• Complete Guide to visit Marble Mountain
• Complete Guide to visit My Son Sanctuary
• 3-day in Sapa Itinerary + Authentic Homestay
• All you need to know before you go to Sapa Homestay with a Black Hmong family
• Sapa Ethical Travel: Why you should book with an independent guide

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Halong Bay Cruise Overnight Itinerary: Top Tips and Must-See Sights

Halong Bay boasts a spectacular tableau of towering limestone formations and tranquil green waters, and an overnight cruise is one of the best ways to truly revel in the splendor of this UNESCO-protected haven. This guide offers a curated Halong Bay cruise overnight itinerary packed with expert recommendations and essential stops so you can capture the essence of this natural wonder.

Weather and the best time for an overnight Halong Bay boat trip

Best time for Halong Bay cruise overnight

The weather patterns here can be broadly divided into a cooler, drier period from October to April and a warmer, rainier summer spanning the months of May through September. This split is attributed to monsoon seasons, a phenomenon common to tropical regions.

When planning a trip to Ha Long Bay, the optimal time to visit is from October to April. During this period, visitors can enjoy comfortable outdoor sightseeing, as the clear blue skies tend to be brighter and rainfall is minimal, with the exception of occasional light drizzle.

For those keen on trekking, cycling, or exploring rural villages, this period presents ideal conditions. The main drawback is that some water-based activities, like kayaking, may be limited during the colder period.

Experience the best Halong Bay overnight cruises in 2024

Paradise sails cruise - exquisite views of halong bay overnight cruise.

This overnight cruise is meticulously designed, echoing the charm of traditional Vietnamese junks yet infused with modern luxury at every turn. From the outset, guests are greeted by interiors adorned with rich sophisticated fabrics and wood, creating an atmosphere that’s both elegant and intimate.

With 16 cabins for 32 guests, it promises tailored services and an exceptional personal touch. Those aboard can indulge in a diverse fusion menu at the upscale onboard restaurant or immerse in authentic relaxation at the Le Parfum Spa, which provides a dedicated treatment room for holistic therapies.

With Paradise Sails, voyagers are treated to immersive excursions — from the royal-style dinner events reminiscent of Vietnam's regal past to insightful journeys uncovering Halong Bay's natural wonders.

A rejuvenating spa treatment during our overnight Halong Bay cruise with Paradise Sails

Paradise Peak Cruise - Enchanting Halong Bay cruise experience

This boutique vessel artfully combines Vietnam's timeless traditional aesthetics with avant-garde facilities, setting the gold standard for cruising in Halong Bay. 

Step aboard, and you'll quickly discern what sets Paradise Peak apart. With only 8 cabins, each boasting top-tier amenities like personal jacuzzis, dedicated dining areas, and bespoke butler service, you are guaranteed a premier voyage. Every cabin, from the Junior Suite to the Superior Suite or Premium Suite, exudes sophistication, offering a haven of relaxation amidst Halong's ethereal landscapes.

But Paradise Peak's luxury goes beyond its cabins. The ship boasts an array of facilities that cater to every whim and desire. You can maintain your fitness regimen while at sea with its state-of-the-art gym. If you fancy a tranquil evening with a book or a cocktail, the outdoor bar and library are at your service. And for those seeking holistic rejuvenation, the Le Parfum Spa offers three massage rooms, a sauna, and a jacuzzi.

An enticing feature of this Halong overnight cruise is its free-flow service. You can indulge in unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring that their culinary journey is as mesmerizing as the scenic one. Options abound at night, including engaging in a game of cards, or trying your hand at squid fishing.

Halong bay boat trip overnight - Paradise Peak Cruise

End your Halong bay cruise overnight by watching movies in our onboard lounge

Paradise Elegance Cruise - Tranquil charm of Halong Bay cruise

While the Paradise Sails and Paradise Peak offer intimate and boutique experiences, the Paradise Elegance takes luxury cruising to a grander scale. As one of the larger vessels in the Paradise Vietnam fleet, Paradise Elegance combines size with sophistication, presenting an all-inclusive luxury cruise that's undeniably among the world's best.

The Paradise Elegance showcases a masterclass in neo-classical design. The ship's expansive sundeck is graced with a contemporary jacuzzi, allowing guests to soak up the mesmerizing beauty of the bay.

Beyond its luxurious interiors, the Halong overnight cruise is dedicated to holistic wellness. The Le Parfum Spa is home to four treatment rooms, promising a tranquil haven where you can indulge in therapies crafted to rejuvenate both body and spirit. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in Halong Bay’s natural beauty by utilizing kayaking equipment or simply engaging in tranquil activities like squid fishing.

Read More:  Experience Halong Bay Cruise 2 days 1 night   with Paradise Elegance 

Image of Paradise Elegance Cruise - One of the Halong Bay Overnight Cruises

Spend an evening listening to live piano in our cozy onboard lounge

Trip highlights for Halong bay boat trip overnight

Despite the limited period of time, the best overnight cruise Halong Bay options offer an opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating splendor of this UNESCO-listed natural wonder. Here are some of the Halong bay tour highlights to anticipate during your journey.

Discover the renowned attractions of Halong Bay

An overnight cruise in Halong Bay promises awe-inspiring vistas of the bay's signature limestone peaks, karst outcrops, and scenic beauty.

Meanwhile, getting on a Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, or Paradise Peak walks you through the stunning charm of Titov Island, Tien Ong Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, the Trong Mai (Fighting Cock) Islet, and many others. 

Immerse yourself in the local culture with these overnight cruise itineraries, visiting Luon Cave and Cua Van fishing village. Here, you can learn about their work and kayak in the pristine waters. These waterborne communities provide an invaluable glimpse into the indigenous fishermen's daily lives, their quaint aquatic homes, and their water-centric livelihoods.

Halong bay boat trip overnight is the optimal way to explore Halong Bay's natural beauty

Sleep onboard the ship

Most cruises boast a selection of cabin choices, from standard rooms to lavish suites, ensuring every traveler finds their sanctuary with a range of cruise amenities. Here at Paradise Vietnam, you have various cabin choices, like Paradise Peak cruise with 8 cabins, Paradise Sails cruise with 16 cabins, and Paradise Elegance cruise with 31 cabins, with each cabin accommodating 2 cruisers.

Their rooms are designed for utmost comfort with air-conditioning, plush bedding, en-suite facilities, and a private balcony, making for an idyllic choice for you to stay at a Halong Bay junk boat overnight . The 5-star Paradise Peak cruise, for instance, also treats you to the relaxing Jacuzzis, a well-equipped fitness room, butler service, and michelin-quality meals at a private dining area.

Read more:  Experience Paradise Vietnam Cruise On Halong Bay Day Cruise Adventure Travel

Sleeping onboard the Halong Bay cruise accommodation boat trip overnight

A variety of cabin and suite options for an unforgettable Halong Bay overnight cruise

Savor flavorsome marine cuisine

With fresh catches made by the bay's dedicated fishermen, the onboard menu invariably takes you on a delectable voyage. It features dishes like succulent grilled prawns, aromatic steamed crabs, and exquisite fish preparations.

Many cruise itineraries enhance this dining experience by organizing alfresco seafood feasts. The silhouettes of limestone formations and emerald waters form the perfect backdrop, enhancing your meal experience manifold.

Feasting on delicious seafood

Savor high-quality dishes at the restaurants on overnight cruise

Kayaking and swimming

Halong Bay's exploration takes on a new dimension when experienced from a kayak. Offering you the chance to navigate its clear waters, kayaking is your ticket to the hidden gems of the bay.

During your cruise activities, you can venture into untouched caves like Sung Sot, Dark and Bright cave, and the enchanting Luon Cave. Each stroke of your paddle brings you closer to nature, allowing the sheer cliffs, vast lagoons, and iconic limestone pillars to paint a mesmerizing picture around you.

You can also step into the soothing embrace of the bay's waters for a swim. Surrounded by green islands and tall, shadow-casting karsts, you'll truly understand why Halong Bay remains a top destination.

Read More:  Halong Luxury Cruise - Experience the Ultimate in Lavish Comfort

Kayaking is one of the most breathtaking ways to explore Halong Bay

Visit fishing villages

Deep within Halong Bay's stunning confines lies Viet Hai village, a beacon of simplicity and tradition in an ever-changing world. When stepping into this enclave, you'll explore homes crafted from palm and bamboo, each telling stories of generations that have lived there.

The emerald rice fields stretch endlessly, a testament to the village's agrarian roots, while the towering limestone mountains stand as ancient guardians.

Beyond its scenic allure, Viet Hai floating village calls out to the adventurer in you. Guided treks into the dense jungles, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna, promise exhilaration. Meanwhile, boat rides to the serene Lan Ha Bay offer a different, equally stunning scenery.

Explore caves

Explore caves in Halong Bay boat trip overnight

The subterranean world of Halong Bay presents an opportunity to witness the geologic marvels that have, over time, earned this region its esteemed recognition.

Here, within the intricate labyrinth of limestone, each of these caves echoes its own tale of time and nature:

• Sung Sot Cave : Often referred to as the 'Surprise Cave,' Sung Sot never fails to astound visitors. The cave unfolds into vast chambers with gigantic hanging and rising mineral formations mimicking a stony forest. The gentle illumination within the chambers accentuates the details, casting ethereal shadows and presenting an almost dreamlike ambiance.
• Dark and Bright Cave : The journey, whether by boat or kayak, introduces travelers to a world of natural wonders. Here, light playfully dances upon stone, and stalagmites and stalactites gleam under the gentle sunlight piercing through the cave's mouth.
• Thien Canh Son Cave : The cavern, bathed in a soft luminescence, displays rock formations so intricately formed they appear to echo tales of mythical beasts and ancient legends. Every corner of this cave evokes a feeling of stepping into pages of a legendary tome, rich with lore and enchantment.
• Luon Cave : A trip to Luon Cave is not merely an exploration but an adventure. The entrance is snug and demanding, but what lies beyond is breathtaking - a verdant amphitheater encased by looming limestone walls, cradling crystal-clear waters that reflect the vibrant greenery overhead.

Discovering Halong Bay's magnificent caves is a highlight of many cruises in the area

Squid fishing

Amid the serene stillness of Halong Bay's overnight stay, a unique experience awaits the eager traveler—squid fishing.

The vast expanse of the dark sky, peppered with stars, stretches endlessly above, casting a shimmering reflection upon the gentle waves below. The blend of this celestial spectacle with the rhythmic motion of the fishing rod creates an atmosphere of tranquility, punctuated by bursts of excitement with every catch.

Read More:  Experience Unmatched Luxury - The Most Luxurious Halong Bay Cruise

Experience local squid fishing first-hand on your Halong Bay overnight cruise

Cooking class

The Paradise Vietnam cooking classes on cruises as part of a travel package will give you an immersive dive into the rich tapestry of Vietnam's culinary heritage. Guided by seasoned chefs, you'll uncover the secrets behind the country's iconic dishes, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the delicate art of presentation.

Once the class concludes, you'll have a piece of Vietnam that you can recreate in your kitchen, sharing its flavors with loved ones and reliving the memories of your Halong Bay tour adventure.

Master traditional Vietnamese dishes yourself through an immersive cooking class

Paradise Vietnam’s Halong Bay overnight cruise itinerary

Experience luxury, entertainment, and breathtaking nature all in one package with our luxury Halong Bay overnight cruise options.

2-Day-1-Night Trip

Day 1: The Halong cruise adventure kickstarts at Tuan Chau Island , where guests embark on the cruise.

The first day unfolds with an immersive visit to Titov Island. The island offers two exhilarating choices: ascend its peak to marvel at the panoramic vistas of the sprawling Halong Bay or enjoy the pristine beach's crystalline waters. The journey then navigates through the Halong Bay's iconic landmark - Luon Cave. 

As evening descends, the luxury cruise anchors in a serene bay, setting the scene for a night of leisure and luxury.

Day 2 : The second day on the Halong cruise begins with an invigorating session of Tai Chi  on the L’Odyssée Sundeck. As the sun's first rays paint the bay, guests are invited to embrace tranquility and harmony through this ancient martial art form.

Following a light breakfast, the journey sails towards its final exploration point – the awe-inspiring Sung Sot Cave.

Upon returning to the cruise, guests are treated to a sumptuous breakfast buffet at Le Marin restaurant. Concluding the memorable journey, by late morning, the cruise docks back at Tuan Chau Island.

Ease into the day on Halong bay cruise with an invigorating Tai Chi session 

3-Day-2-Night Trip

Day 1 : With itinerary planning in mind, Day 2 follows the same schedule as Day 1 in our 2-Day-1-Night trip

Day 2 : The day begins with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck, welcoming the first rays of the sun and embracing the tranquility that the morning offers.

Following this calming routine, you can relish a luxurious buffet breakfast at the Le Marin restaurant. The next phase of exploration entails boarding the Paradise Explorer. The vessel steers towards the most picturesque hotspots of Halong Bay, including Dong Tien Lake, Trong Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, and various other captivating sights.

The journey takes them to the mesmerizing Tien Ong Cave, renowned for its intricate stalactites and stalagmites. Within the cave, there's an archaeological exhibit showcasing relics from prehistoric times, evidence of life existing thousands of years ago.

By noon, the luxury cruise anchors in the scenic Deu Cave area. Here, you are treated to a lavish lunch amidst the unparalleled serenity that only Halong Bay can offer. The afternoon beckons with a visit to Cua Van floating village. You have the choice to navigate the waters using kayaks or to tour the village in traditional bamboo boats.

As the day progresses, everyone returns to the main cruise to continue their journey through the enchanting Halong Bay. Late afternoon, the vessel anchors once more, presenting you with the opportunity to witness the bay's mesmerizing sunset.

The evening offers another unique culinary lesson with the head chef–a splendid time to enjoy a live band performance and indulge in the gourmet dinner.

An overnight Halong Bay cruise allows you to get up close to the islands scattered 

Day 3 : As dawn breaks, you are greeted with another invigorating Tai Chi session on the L’Odyssée Sundeck, allowing them to feel connected with the serene environment of Halong Bay.

A light breakfast is then served to energize you for the upcoming exploration. The highlight of the morning is to visit Sung Sot Cave, the largest and arguably the most magnificent cave in Halong Bay.

Returning to the cruise, a lavish buffet breakfast awaits at the Le Marin restaurant. The journey then continues with the cruise once again passing by iconic landmarks such as Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, and Fighting Cock Islet.

As the voyage nears its end, guests proceed with the checkout formalities at the reception desk, settling any bills and preparing for disembarkation. By mid-morning, the cruise ship docks at Tuan Chau Island, marking the end of an unforgettable Halong Bay boat trip overnight .

Departure time and location for Halong bay boat trip overnight

Multi-day Halong Bay cruises typically set sail around noon

Your chosen cruise option dictates both the time and place of departure. The primary point of embarkation is Tuan Chau Wharf, found just 8 kilometers outside of Halong City. Cruise operators may also alternatively depart from other locations in Hai Phong or Quang Ninh.

It is highly advisable to confirm your cruise's precise departure time and location directly with the provider well in advance.

Most of these Halong cruises have their boarding times set for early afternoon, usually around noon. Paradise Elegance, Paradise Sails, and Paradise Peak all depart at 12 p.m., and you can check in at their Paradise Suites Hotel.

Make transportation plans to arrive comfortably ahead of schedule, accounting for traffic or other potential delays. Arriving early eliminates any risk of missing your scheduled departure.

Costs of Halong Bay cruise overnight

The cost of an overnight cruise in Halong Bay can vary significantly based on several factors, including the cruise operator, the level of luxury, the duration of the cruise, the type of cabin. It's essential to research and compare options to find one that fits your budget and preferences.

Cost of Paradise Peak 2 days 1 night for single or double and children

Table price of Paradise Elegance 2 days 1 night

Table price of Paradise Sails 2 days 1 night 

Typically, costs may vary between $100 to $300 each person. There are cruises tailored to provide a comprehensive Halong Bay experience without the premium price tag. These budget-friendly options prioritize essential amenities, often featuring shared accommodations.

For those seeking a more opulent experience, there are premium cruises available. They offer enhanced amenities like private balconies, specialized spa treatments, and gourmet dining experiences. These luxury options can command prices of up to more than $500 per person.

Be aware that even with the established price, some cruises might levy additional charges for specific activities or premium services.

Read More:  Escape to Paradise: Halong Bay Cruise 3 days 2 nights Experience

Ready for your Halong Bay overnight cruise?

Is it worth staying on a cruise in halong bay.

Absolutely, it is worth staying on a cruise in Halong Bay. The pristine beauty of Halong Bay, with its towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, is best experienced from the deck of a cruise ship.

With a Halong Bay boat trip overnight, you will get the chance to witness the bay's splendor up close, navigate through its islets, and discover hidden lagoons and caves that are otherwise inaccessible. Staying overnight on the calm water also lets you soak in the breathtaking sunset and sunrise and make the experience truly unforgettable.

Sundecks on Halong bay cruise overnight provide vantage points Halong Bay's scenery

How many nights do you need in Halong Bay?

Two or three nights should give you enough time to capture the essence of Halong Bay tourist experience. This duration ensures that guests can explore significant landmarks, partake in enjoyable activities, and still have moments of relaxation amidst the bay's serene setting.

Which option is preferable: an overnight cruise or a day cruise in Halong Bay? Whichever kind of immersion you like, an overnight or day cruise in Halong Bay is what you should do. Halong bay boat trip overnight offers a more tranquil experience with activities like night squid fishing, allowing you to take in the beauty of the bay between dusk and dawn. A day cruise gives you a peek but not enough time to explore. If you have the time, staying overnight offers a more in-depth, relaxed experience of the breathtaking scenery.

What should first-timers keep in mind when choose overnight cruise in Halong Bay? When embarking on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay for the first time, it's critical to take into account the cruise operator's reputation, the itinerary, cabin comfort, and included activities. Make sure the trip suits your interests for leisure and activities, and keep an eye out for any hidden fees.

Do all overnight cruises in Halong Bay provide meals as part of the package? Yes, meals are included in the price of most overnight cruises in Halong Bay. They usually serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on regional Vietnamese cuisines and fresh seafood.

Paradise Vietnam specializes in offering world-class Halong Bay overnight cruises that epitomize luxury and comfort. Tourist reviews rave about the enchanting Halong Bay cruise overnight with Paradise, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes and impeccable services that make it an unforgettable experience. For those interested in immersing themselves in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we would be delighted if you could contact us for further details or to make a booking.

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Embark on a 2-day-1-night voyage aboard the internationally acclaimed 5-star Paradise Elegance in Ha Long Bay and Paradise Grand in Lan Ha Bay for a dream-like holiday experience combined with Paradise Suites Hotel Ha Long.

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AMBASSADOR OVERNIGHT CRUISE HALONG BAY

Ambassador Cruise I is the largest 5-star overnight cruise in Halong Bay, featuring 46 opulent cabins with a private balcony/terrace, twin 360-degree sundecks, a deluxe restaurant, a piano lounge, bars, an open-air Jacuzzi pool, and a spa. It is state-of-the-art facilities, first-rate services, and stunning entertainment that offer passengers an extraordinary indulgence in the World’s Heritage line.

LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Ambassador Deluxe

• Cabin location: Main deck
• Average room size: 30 sqm
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• Cabin location: Upper deck

Ambassador Suite

• Average room size: 42 sqm
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• Average room size: 45 sqm
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The Presidential Suite

• Average room size: 90 sqm
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Welcome aboard this sumptuous floating hotel for a journey through the world’s most magnificent seascape. The luxury cruise enjoys 46 elegant and well-appointed cabins, a deluxe restaurant, two capacious 360-degree Sundecks, an outdoor Jacuzzi pool, and a Spa lounge. Featuring exceptional cuisine, live music, private butlers, disabled-friendly access, and the most generous cabins in Halong Bay, Ambassador Cruise offers an experience par excellence .

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The cabin was spacious and well-equipped. Andrew was kind and very helpful. The Vietnamese food was great. Kayaking was nice.

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The food was exceptional, especially the dinner with lobster. The staff, especially Camille, went above and beyond. The activities were …

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The bay is picturesque. Our cabin was beautiful with a balcony to watch the view. The staff was caring and …

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Overall a nice experience. The cabin was chic and spacious. The view was amazing. The staff (Kent, Jimmy in particular) …

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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

Capella Cruise

Launched: 2020    Rooms: 26   

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 39   

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 10   

Orchid Premium Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 5   

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 46   

Luxury Halong Bay Cruises

Launched: 2016    Rooms: 14   

Essence Grand Cruise

Launched: 2023    Rooms: 56   

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 31   

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 20   

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 20   

Deluxe Halong Bay Cruises

Mila Lux Cruise

Launched: 2012    Rooms: 22   

Paradise Sails Cruise

Launched: 2009    Rooms: 17   

Sena Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 16   

Renea Cruise

Launched: 2015    Rooms: 11   

La Regina Royal Cruise

Launched: 2015    Rooms: 20   

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

JadeSails Day Cruise

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 48   

Serenity Luxury Day Cruise

Rooms: 60   

Cong Day Cruise

Launched: 2019    Rooms: 30   

L'Azalee Day Cruise

Rooms: 40   

Halong Sen Day Cruise

Launched: 2017    Rooms: 50   

Paradise Explorer Day Cruise

Launched: 2018    Rooms: 50   

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Halong Bay Cruise Destinations

Halong bay travel guide & news  .

Recent Reviews About Halong Bay Cruises

Elite of the Seas - Seamlessly organised by Sophie

The Elite of the Seas 3 day/2 night Halong Bay cruise organised by Sophie at Inside Travel was just about perfect. The vessel is... Elite of the Seas Cruise

Unforgettable trip!

We had a great experience booking Hermes halong bay cruise with Inside Travel. The entire trip was very well organized and truly... Hermes Cruise

Amazing Ha Long Bay Cruise

We booked 2 night/3 day luxury Ha Long Bay Cruise on Venus Cruises. We booked Via Inside Travel. Sophie arranged... Venus Cruise

the trip is nice

... Ambassador Cruise

Great Ha Long Bay trip booked.

A big thank you to Ms Sophie from Inside Travel who was so professional and service focused in helping us book our recent Ha Long... Orchid Trendy 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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THE 10 BEST Halong Bay Tours & Excursions

Halong bay tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
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• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Chinese (Simplified)
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Top 1 Tier: All-Inclusive OVERNIGHT Halong Cruises - many options

2. Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour - best selling: Kayaking, Swimming, hiking & Lunch

3. CozyBay Cruise-The Best Small Group 2D/1N inHalong-All inclusive

4. Halong Dragon Bay 5 Star Cruise 2D1N-All Inclusive,Cave,Transfer

5. PRIVATE TOUR HALONG BAY ONE DAY with Cave, Kayaking, Bamboo Boat

6. Halong Pandora 5 Star Cruise 2D1N-All Inclusive, cave, transfer

7. BEST SELLER- 3 Day/2 Night Cruise with All-Inclusive in Halong

8. Cozy Bay Halong 5-Star Day Cruise, Buffet, Cave, Kayak, Swimming

9. Top Vip 5 Star Day Cruise in Halong Bay with Sunbeds and Jacuzzi

10. Lan Ha - Ha Long Bay 1 Day boat trip - Kayaking from Cat Ba, avoid the crowds.

11. Lan Ha - Ha Long Bay - Dau Be island 2D/1N from Cat Ba in less touristy areas.

12. 3-Day Hanoi-Ninh Binh-Halong-Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise & Balcony

13. Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour - Cave, Kayaking, Swimming & Lunch

14. Aspira Cruises 02 Days 01 night - private balcony and bathtub

15. All-Inclusive 3 Day/2 Night Halong Luxury Cruise Meals, Cave, Kayaking, Swimming

16. Halong Bay Full Day With Cave, Kayaking And Swimming - Highway Transfer

17. All Inclusive 2D1N - 4 Star Le Journey Cruise - Ha Long Bay

18. Lan Ha Bay day tour from Cat Ba Town - Serenity Premium Cruise

19. Halong Bay Full Day With Cave, Kayaking , Swimming&Seafood Lunch

20. Top 1 Ha Long-Lan Ha Bay Luxury 5 Star Cruises & Balcony Cabin

21. The Halong Catamaran Premium Cruise - Full Day Cruise Trip

22. Halong 6 hours Boat tour with Cave, Kayak, lunch, transfer high-way from Hanoi

23. Full-Day Halong Bay 5 Stars Luxury Cruise Tour with Buffet Lunch

24. From Cat Ba island: full day boat tour to Lan Ha bay - Ha Long bay

25. LEADING: All inclusive 3D/2N on cruises in HALONG - many options

26. Halong Bay Deluxe Day Tour

27. BEST SELLER 3-Day Halong Bay Cruise, Lan Ha, Cat Ba National Park

28. BEST SELLER - Halong 5 Star Day Cruise: Buffet Lunch, Wine& Fruit

29. CozyBay Boutique 2D1N Kayak, Swiming ,Titop, Cave, Expressway way

30. Best seller Halong Bay Day cruise: Sung Sot cave, Titop, kayaking

What travelers are saying.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour - best selling: Kayaking, Swimming, hiking & Lunch
• Top 1 Tier: All-Inclusive OVERNIGHT Halong Cruises - many options
• Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour - Cave, Kayaking, Swimming & Lunch
• Lan Ha - Ha Long Bay 1 Day boat trip - Kayaking from Cat Ba, avoid the crowds.
• CozyBay Cruise-The Best Small Group 2D/1N inHalong-All inclusive
• Elite of the Seas
• Paradise Cruises
• Oasis Bay Party Tours
• The Halong Catamaran
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• Authentic Sail - Luxury Small Group Day Tour
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Discover Halong Bay by overnight cruises

Halong Bay is definitely a must-see when it’s come to travel Vietnam. Traveling by overnight cruises will be the best way to fully explore this stunning UNESCO sites.

Let’s CruiseInHalongBay.com guide you on the magical journey through breathtaking scenery, stunning limestones karst islands and tranquil atmosphere with our best Halong Bay Overnight Cruise collection!

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With 2 offices in Hanoi & Halong, our local staff are willing to support at anytime during your cruise trip!

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BEST HALONG BAY OVERNIGHT CRUISES IN 2024

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Halong Bay?  Our 2024 best Halong Bay overnight cruise collection guarantee the best experience, from the comfy  facilities to friendly staff and delicious food. Experience the unique beauty of Halong Bay and its rugged limestone cliffs with our hassle-free and affordable cruise packages today!

Crown Legend Cruise

9.5 Excellent | 37 reviews

Destination:  Halong Bay – Sung Sot Cave – Ti Top Island

Private Balcony in all rooms

Le Journey Luxury Cruise

9.8 Excellent | 23 reviews

Destination: Halong – Lan Ha – Dark & Bright Cave

Private Balcony in all cabins – Only from $131/person

Scarlet Pearl Cruise

9.7 Excellent | 32 reviews

Destination: Halong – Lan Ha Bay –  Dark & Bright Cave

Superb Early Bird Promotion – Only $170/person

Lan Ha Bay Overnight Cruises

A rising stars in Halong Bay. 

Dragon Bay Cruise

9.8 Excellent | 25 reviews

Destination : Lan Ha Bay – Halong Bay – Dark & Bright Cave

Private Balcony in all cabins

Rita Cruise

9.8 Excellent | 32 reviews

Destination: Lan Ha Bay – Halong Bay – Cat Ba Island

Free Kayaking, Private Balcony

Halong Bay Attractions

Why taking Halong Bay Overnight cruises

Travel Halong Bay will never be completed without an overnight stay in a cruise. These cruises, just like floating hotels in the middle of the sea, will offer everything you need for a memorable experience, from comfy accommodation, tons of interesting activities and of course, a magnificent beauty of Halong Bay.

See magical moments

Overnight cruises will allow you to see Halong Bay at different times of the day, like sunset or sun rise

Comfort at its best

Leave your worries away! Ha Long Bay overnight cruises offer a full comfort like every hotels, with full amenities and modern equipment cabins

As the ride between main cities like Hanoi or Ninh Binh to Halong is nearly 3 hours, staying overnight on board will make you feel not too hectic.

More time, more activities

You could also attend in many interesting activities like cave visiting, kayaking or cycling which others 1 day cruise don't have. 

About CruiseInHalongBay.com

CruiseInHalongBay.com  is an one-stop online platform for booking overnight cruises in Halong Bay with best price guarantee & flexible cancellation.

• Easy booking: Reserve your Cruises with just a few clicks.
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Learn more about us

Meet Our Team

Professional Tour Guide

Hari nguyen.

Exploring the Halong Bay with me at a time! With 10 years experience as a tour guide, I'm here to show you the beauty of this UNESCO and its hidden charms. Let's get exploring!

Tour Consultant

Vincent tran.

Taking the stress out of travel for you! I'm a tour consultant who loves to help people explore Halong Bay  in style and comfort. Let's make your next trip unforgettable! 

Victor Vuong

Let me show you the hidden beauty of Halong Bay! Exploring and discovering the unique natural wonders of Halong, share the culture and experience true tranquility.

TRAVEL GUIDE

Get update about Vietnam Travel News

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Wondering whether Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay is right for your next cruise in

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Tien Ong is a famous natural cave lying between the stunning limestone of Halong Bay.

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Water puppet is a special cultural show in Vietnam. It's a showcase of the traditional

Frequently Asked Questions

The answer is completely yes.  Halong Bay has an area of 1,553 km 2   and make it quite big to fully explore in 1 day. 

Besides, the distance between the bay  and Hanoi is about 200km, make the journey to get there take at least 3 hours. So the time to travel back and forth is already about 6 hours.  

Another reason to stay overnight in Halong Bay is the cruise experience . An overnight cruise not only take you to all of the attractions but also bring you an unforgettable experience of sleeping over in the middle of an UNESCO Heritage Sites. 

The best time to visit Halong Bay is from October to December as it offers pleasant weather conditions with less humidity.

The temperature ranges between 15°C-25°C making it ideal for water based activities such as kayaking, swimming,… It’s also considered as the peak season in Halong Bay. 

If you’re plan to travel Halong Bay in others months, take a look at our detailed article:

Best Time to visit Halong Bay

2 days and 1 night is the most popular options. The Halong Bay 1 night is able to cover most of the famous attractions of the area, such as Sung Sot cave, Ti Top Island or Luon Cave.

However, if you’re into exploring the off-the-beaten track, then Halong Bay 3 days 2 nights cruises should be an ideal options for you. 

Detailed guide at:  https://cruiseinhalongbay.com/before-you-go/how-many-days-in-halong-bay/

There’s so many overnight cruises in Halong Bay. As a result, there’re also many price ranges, depend on the cruises class, destination bay and quality.

However, you could reference 3 most popular cruise categories in Halong Bay: 

Budget Cruises : 110USD – 120USD per pax

Mid Range Cruises:   120USD – 160USD per pax

Luxury Cruises: 160USD up

These rates normally included everything on board, from meals, activities, tour guide and cabins.

*The rate above is for 1 night schedule. The 2 nights normally will cost double of 1 night rate.  

It’s really hard to choose the best out of more than 100 cruises around Halong Bay. However, based on our customers reviews and feedbacks, we’ve selected some of the best as below:

Best budget overnight cruise: Crown Legend Cruise

Best mid range overnight cruise: Le Journey Luxury Cruise

Most luxury overnight cruise: Scarlet Pearl Cruise

Please be advised that all the cruises in this list meet our standards of 5 core factor:

• Price: These cruises have high value for money
• Itinerary: They covered most of the famous attractions in Halong Bay such as Titop Island, Sung Sot Cave, Dark & Night Cave,…
• Cabin size: All these cruises’s cabins are at least 25m2 above and have private balcony.
• Food: They could cater to all of your dietaries: Vegan, vegatarian, non-gluten,.. please kindly advise our travel expert during booking session.
• Reviews: They’re acquired at least 500 excellent reviews from our customer and others review platforms like Tripadvisor.

Got questions? Let our travel expert help you to find your right cruise!

We are always here to help you. Please kindly tell us the requirements for your ideal overnight cruise in Halong Bay: Style, Destinations, Duration, Departure date… and our travel experts will be right there to consult!

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Lan Ha & Halong Bay Cruises

Why Visit Lan Ha & Halong Bay?

The World Heritage Site of Halong Bay (‘Bay of Descending Dragons’) is one of Vietnam and Southeast Asia’s most magnificent natural splendors, 2,000 verdant limestone islands and islets jutting out of the Gulf of Tonkin’s emerald waters. Halong Bay cruises are an unforgettable way to experience this ethereal seascape and explore its mythical caves, grottoes and lagoons full of legend and adventure.

The extraordinarily beautiful Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, southern and north-easterly extensions of Halong Bay respectively, share similar karst-studded scenery as their celebrated neighbor. However, as a relatively new cruise destinations, these bays offers travelers more tranquil and remote voyages, where fewer tourist boats frequent. Pristine attractions include Cat Ba Island – Halong Bay’s largest island – and dazzling coral beaches. For an unrivaled Halong Bay overnight cruise experience, choose from one of our luxury Halong Bay cruises , including traditional-style junk vessels.

Halong Bay Cruises

Our hand-picked portfolio of Lan Ha and Halong Bay traditional junk boats has been carefully chosen to include remarkable vessels operated by only the most trusted of partners, preeminent pioneers in the region who offer exceptional itineraries, unrivaled knowledge and utmost levels of service.

Bhaya Legend I

Bhaya Legend II

Angkor Pandaw

Bhaya Premium

Halong Bay Experiences

Luxury Cruises

Family Cruises

Adventure Cruises

Honeymoon Cruises

Charter Cruises

Solo Cruises

Cruise packages.

Our custom Halong Bay tours  seamlessly combine bay cruises with bespoke Vietnam tours featuring private expert-led excursions and curated accommodations. Browse our best-sellers below and begin an unforgettable journey tailored uniquely to you.

Hanoi, Halong Bay & Ho Chi Minh

14-day tour from $10,450 usd.

Classic Vietnam

14-day tour from $5,125 usd.

Best of Vietnam

10-day tour from $2,900 usd, travel guide.

Want to know more about cruising Halong Bay? Our destination specialists have compiled the definitive Halong Bay travel guide to help you plan your cruise. Find out when and where to go, what to see and do, where to eat and sleep, and more below.

Halong Bay Food: 12 Local Dishes You Should Eat

When Is The Best Time To Visit Halong Bay?

18 Best Places To Visit In Halong Bay

Sung Sot Cave: Halong Bay’s Grotto Of Surprises

Where To Stay In Halong Bay: The Best Hotels & Areas

14 Halong Bay (Vietnam) Tourist Attractions You Must See

Do i need a visa to travel to the halong bay.

You do need a visa to enter Vietnam. Subject to your nationality and having the requisite forms filled in in advance and “approval letter” issued, you may be able to obtain an e-Visa or visa on arrival. Your passport will need to have more than 6 months to expiry date left in order to get a visa.

Please note that the e-Visa and visa on arrival are not valid if you are entering the country by river cruise from Cambodia – in this case you need to have the visa stamped in your passport before travel.

Do I Need To Get Any Vaccinations Or Malaria Tablets Ahead Of Travel?

You should be vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis A. Depending on where you are staying, you may also need to be vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis B, or rabies. Be sure to see your doctor about a month before your trip for the latest recommendations and requirements.

Some doctors recommend that visitors start taking malaria tablets before entering Vietnam, but it is not a very common practice.

What Is One Thing I Shouldn’t Miss Near Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is an unmissable experience in and of itself, with many great places to visit . But the most intriguing of all Halong Bay attractions are the caves, with Sung Sot cave undoubtedly the most impressive with its huge chambers, stalactites and stalagmites and amazing stone formations.

Caves are well prepared for tourists and you only need a basic level of fitness to explore them. Check your Halong Bay cruise itinerary for the caves visited.

What Is The Local Cuisine Like?

Halong Bay is renowned for its local cuisine . Unsurprisingly, much of this includes fresh seafood and shellfish. You can find fresh squid, crab, clams, and even sea worms called sipunculus. You may also want to try the local special wine made from fermented rice.

Is Halong Bay Safe?

Both Halong Bay and its nearby namesake city are tourist hubs and generally very safe. Halong Bay is one of the best places to swim in Vietnam thanks to the very calm waters which also makes boating and kayaking popular. Be aware that the water can get cold at the cooler times of the year.

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Go To Halong Bay?

The best time of the year to go to Halong Bay are the dry and temperate seasons between September and November, and March and May. Avoid May and August when hurricanes occasionally affect the area. This is also the time when many cruises are unavailable as boats take time off for maintenance.

If you are considering a Halong bay cruise please check your desired boat’s schedule with your agent to avoid disappointment.

Is Halong Bay A Good Family Destination?

There are many great family activities in Halong Bay. Between the opportunities for boating, swimming, and exploring, there are no end of things to do. There are also many resorts and hotels in the area that cater to families and tourists.

When planning a Halong Bay cruise, please check with your agent as some boats don’t allow toddlers onboard.

Is Halong Bay A Good Honeymoon Destination?

If you enjoy outdoor exploration and spending time on the beach, Halong Bay could be a perfect honeymoon destination. There are some very luxurious honeymoon cruises available and sunsets in the bay are very romantic, especially from a private jacuzzi or your very own terrace!

How Much Does A Halong Bay Cruise Cost?

The cost of a Halong Bay cruise typically depends on itinerary length, boat comfort level and cabin category, although seasonal and single supplements may also apply. More luxurious overnight cruises of 2 days cost between $150 – $300 pp, and longer cruises of 3 days from $300 – $700 pp based on double occupancy.

To help reduce the cost of your overnight cruise, keep apprised of the latest Halong Bay cruise deals , or if traveling with a group, you may like to consider a Halong Bay private cruise charter , which can actually work out cheaper per person if your group fills the boat. Alternatively, you could consider only doing a day cruise in Halong Bay.

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Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

Halong bay overnight cruise essentials: what to expect on this unforgettable voyage.

It's a 4 Hour Ride Each Way from Hanoi to Halong Bay

You Get What You Pay For On Your Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

Make sure to investigate the safety record of the tour companies you are considering. How old is the boat? Are there fire extinguishers on board? Do they stock enough life jackets for everyone?

Our Experience Aboard Paloma

Amazing Vietnamese cuisine

The food near hanoi is world renowned . we enjoyed amazing cuisine onboard paloma. upon arrival, we were treated to a multi-course feast of vietnamese dishes., halong bay cave walking, after lunch, the passengers accompanied our guide "justin" as we tendered to a nearby cave. here we enjoyed spectacular views of the rock formations that are halong bay's claim to fame. we were even able to walk up to the water's edge on the island. positively stunning., nighttime squid fishing in halong bay, after dinner once the sun went down, we crept back down to the tender. the staff shined big lights on the water and we went squid fishing, vietnamese-style  the experience was oddly soothing. you essentially have to bob a lure up and down to attract the squid and repeat the motion until you get a nibble.  i didn't end up catching anything but many people on the boat did. you could tell someone had hooked something when a stream of black ink shot into the water., sunrise tai chi on halong bay, the program aboard paloma continued with a sunrise tai chi session. it was amazing to slowly and methodically stretch and move while peering out at the rock formations of halong bay.  such a peaceful scene. sidewalk safari spotlight:  southeast asia is an amazing part of the world to travel, but where should you go might i suggest: head south from halong bay in vietnam where you can go on a  bicycle tour in hoi an , check out the dragon bridge and other  things to do in danang  and discover  vietnam war sites  plus  non-touristy things to do in ho chi minh city . did you know that you can get around vietnamese cities easily using  grab vietnam cambodia is another important destination in southeast asia. discover  things to do in phnom penh  and learn about cambodia's tragic history with a visit to the  killing fields and tuol sleng genocide museum . there are plenty of  things to do in siem reap city . discover the mysterious  angkor wat temples  with a private car and driver and then take a  siem reap food tour . find out the plusses and minuses of visiting cambodia during the  khmer new year . if city breaks are more to your liking, discover things to do in singapore ,  activities to do in kuala lumpur , and  bangkok ., visit a halong bay fishing village and pearl farm, after breakfast, we rode by tender again to a floating fishing village. we got into small local boats and were paddled around by a local woman wearing a traditional vietnamese sun hat. we also had the opportunity to visit a nearby pearl farm. a grain of sand is carefully inserted into an oyster and then the oysters are put back underwater for many months. at the appropriate time, the pearl is carefully harvested and crafted into a beautiful piece of jewelry., a vietnamese cooking class, back aboard paloma, we had one final activity planned, a cooking lesson the paloma cruises staff taught us how to make and wrap spring rolls  they even had a contest for the prettiest spring roll. sadly, i didn't win. all of our creations were whisked away, deep-fried, and served with lunch., this halong bay cruise runs like clockwork.

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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.

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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 .

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What to expect on an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, Vietnam

• July 27, 2023
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Halong Bay is one of the most popular and well known sites in Vietnam. It is considered a spectacle of natural beauty and has been awarded Unesco world heritage status due to its dramatic scenery and biological importance. The area consists of over 1600 small islands and inlets, most of which are uninhabited.

As soon as I started planning our month-long trip to Vietnam, Halong Bay was at the top of my list of places I wanted to visit. It is one of those ‘Bucket list’ places to see in Vietnam. The best way to see Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise, but there are so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming.

If you’re thinking of booking an overnight cruise to Halong Bay, you might be wondering exactly what that entails. I know I did! Let’s be honest, the cruises are not cheap and if you’re like me, who was on a backpacking budget, you’ll want to know what you are getting for your money.

In this post I’ll be sharing all the details of my overnight cruise in Halong Bay, including my honest review and opinion of the whole experience.

1. How to pick the best Halong bay cruise for you? 2. What is the Athena cruise ship like? 3. What is the itinerary for a 1 night / 2 day Halong bay cruise? > Itinerary Overview > Detailed Itinerary 4. My review of the 1 night, 2 day Halong bay cruise with Athena 5. Was it worth the price we paid? 6. Final thoughts of our Halong bay cruise

How to pick the best Halong bay cruise for you?

There are three main options available for cruising Halong Bay: a day cruise, a 1 night / 2 day cruise and a 2 night / 3 day cruise. Most of the cruises offer a hotel transfer from Hanoi (either included in the price or as an extra cost). You can easily reach Hanoi from many places in Vietnam, by train, plane or bus . The time allowed for the journey from Hanoi to Halong bay is around 2 hours and so if you chose a day trip, you would spend half of your time in the coach, rather than on the boat.

There are also lots of places to stay in Halong Bay , so you can also take a cruise directly from there.

There are many different cruise companies operating in Halong bay , each of them have slightly different itineraries – they may also change their itinerary slightly throughout the year. Therefore, if you want to see a specific attraction in Halong Bay, make sure you read the itinerary before booking.

There are also some budget cruises, so if you are travelling or backpacking on a budget in Vietnam, there are still some great options available for you.

The cruise I selected was a 1 night, 2 day cruise on the Athena cruise ship, which I booked via Azotour. I travelled to Vietnam in May 2022, which was not long after the country re-opened to tourists. This meant that not all of the cruise companies were back up and running yet, so Azotour helped to find me a cruise that fitted my dates and requirements.

(Disclaimer: the Athena cruise itinerary may have changed slightly since I took this cruise, so again, check before booking, but hopefully this post will still give you a good idea of what to expect when cruising in Halong bay).

What is the Athena cruise ship like?

The ship I was on was the Athena. It has 21 bedrooms, most of which are standard bedrooms, but there are also some suites too. All of the rooms have balconies and en-suite bathrooms, as well as a kettle and fridge. The bedrooms are small but very luxurious and the beds were so comfortable! It was definitely a nice change to the firm mattresses we had been used to in our budget hotels! We were lucky enough to be upgraded to a Premium Suite, located at the back of the ship. The suite was only a little bigger than the standard sized rooms, but it didn’t matter as we weren’t in the room that often. The main advantage of the Premium Suite was that it had a much larger balcony off the back of the boat, perfect for watching the sunset and sunrise.

Most of the rooms are located on the ground floor and the first floor. The ground floor is also where you also get on and off the ship. The dining room is located on the first floor, with floor to ceiling glass windows on three sides and on the third floor you will find the sundeck, with a bar, seating and a small hot tub in the centre (there are also two further suites on this level).

Everything about the cruise ship felt plush, new and well looked after and maintained. The staff were incredibly friendly and professional and the cruise manager kept us updated with the activities and made sure we had everything we needed.

Our Premium Suite and balcony on the Athena cruise ship

What is the itinerary for a 1 night / 2 day Halong bay cruise?

As I mentioned previously, each company has different itineraries, however this was our itinerary on the Athena at the time of cruising.

Itinerary overview:

08.30 Transfer from Hanoi

12.00 Welcome at cruise port

12.30 Transfer to cruise ship via tender boat and check in

13.00 Depart Halong bay harbour and enjoy buffet lunch in the restaurant

14.45 Transfer by tender to Sung Sot Cave (surprising cave)

15.45 Transfer to Titov Island – option to climb to viewpoint and swim

17.15 Return to cruise ship

17.30 Option to take part in Vietnamese cooking demonstration

18.00 Happy hour on sundeck

19.00 Dinner in the restaurant

20.30 After dinner, option to try squid fishing

06.15 Option to take part in Tai Chi on sundeck

06.45 Light breakfast in the restaurant

07.30 Transfer by tender to Luon Cave for kayaking or trip in bamboo boat

09.00 Return to cruise ship

09.30 Check out of rooms and enjoy buffet brunch in restaurant

10.45 Transfer by tender back to Halong bay port

12.00 Board bus back to Hanoi

Detailed itinerary

Below I’ve shared the full details of my 1 night / 2 day cruise of Halong Bay so you know what to expect before booking your trip:

Day 1 on board the Athena Halong bay cruise

Day 1 on board the Athena cruise was a busy day, jam packed with delicious food and great activities.

Checking in and setting sail

The luxury bus picked us up from our hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter at 8.30am. We stopped to pick some more people up, then we were on our way. The journey from Hanoi to Halong bay cruise port is just under 2.5 hours, but we stopped three times on the way there for a rest break / toilet break! It did feel a bit like the driver was trying to stall a little bit to slow down and stick to the schedule.

Once we were at the cruise port, we were greeted by the cruise manager who checked dietary requirements with us, then we waited for about 30 minutes in the cruise terminal before boarding the tender boat which would take us to the cruise ship.

We left our bags on the tender and made our way to the dining room for a welcome drink – a refreshing watermelon juice – and a safety briefing. After the short welcome, we collected our bags and checked into our rooms.

After checking into our rooms, we set sail to Halong bay and it was time to head back to the dining room to check out the buffet lunch! The lunch was really nice. Options included fried rice, chicken wings, fried sweet potatoes, spring rolls, salad, steamed fish, stir fried vegetables and chicken soup. There was also a selection of fresh fruit and desserts such as sweet coconut rice, profiteroles, and a little coconut cream sponge cake. Tea, coffee and water were also available. If you wanted any other soft or alcoholic drinks you just ordered them with the waiter and charged it back to your room.

The ship stopped and anchored up in Halong bay around 13.45, but we weren’t due to start the first afternoon activity until 14.45, so we weren’t sure what to do with ourselves at first! But we spent the time just relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the view of being surrounded by beautiful limestone island mountains.

Excursion 1: Sung Sot Cave

At 14.45 (they were very punctual throughout our trip!), we boarded the tender boat and went to the first stop which was Sung Sot cave (known as ‘Amazing’ or ‘Surprising’ cave). The cave is one of the biggest attractions in Halong bay. It consists of 3 chambers with the last one being quite large. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much after seeing the Marble Mountains in Da Nang, and the Paradise cave in Phong Nha but it was quite impressive and much bigger than I had anticipated.

There’s 118 stairs to walk up to reach the entrance of the cave and once you’re at the top you’ll be greeted with gorgeous views across the bay. You follow the path around the cave in a big U shape. At times we felt a bit herded through by other people. We like to take our time to really look around and stop to take photos, but it seemed some people just weren’t as interested and marched through. We just let them pass so we could enjoy looking around. The path through the cave is quite smooth and you can easily wear flip flops. It won’t take long to visit the cave and soon we arrived at the tender pick up point, where we were taken to our next stop – Titov Island.

Excursion 2: Titov Island

Titov Island is a small island with a beach and a viewpoint. The walk to the viewpoint is 400m up a set of stairs. It is a steep, but short climb, and there is a handrail to help. Again, wearing flip flops is fine. At the top of the viewpoint you will be rewarded with almost 360 degree views of the bay.

Although the view was impressive, I was a bit disappointed by the number of boats I could see. Not just cruise ships and day trip boats but also huge freight boats and oil tankers. It was a shame really because it kind of ruined the scenery. You could also see the outline of the buildings in the city on the mainland, which was when I realised that we were not actually as far out as I had thought.

The small beach on Titov island was rough sand and the water was murky and not that clean, it was possibly quite polluted from all the boats and oil tankers around the bay. Titov Island is very much there for tourists. There are toilets, showers and several snack bars as well as beach chairs which you can rent. It’s so hard not to make comparisons when you are travelling but I was expecting it to be similar to Nang Yuan Island, off the shores of Koh Tao in Thailand, which although had amenities, felt cleaner, more natural and less commercialised. Despite the boats, the view was really the highlight of this island. I was a bit disappointed with the beach itself if i’m honest.

Back to the ship

After our afternoon visiting Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island, we arrived back on the ship at around 5pm, where we had some free time until dinner. There was an option to take part in a Vietnamese cooking lesson to make fresh spring rolls but we decided to skip that and enjoy relaxing in our room and on our balcony. We surfaced from our room at 6pm, in time for happy hour (of course!). All the drinks were buy one, get one free, except for wine. We were lucky enough to have gorgeous weather during our trip and sitting on the sundeck watching the sunset over Halong bay was just perfect.

Evening meal

The evening meal was a 5 course set menu and was pretty much all seafood! Luckily, at the start of the day, the cruise manager checked with us if there was anything we didn’t eat because my husband, Lee, doesn’t eat seafood! We didn’t think to tell them when we made the booking as normally there’s always a couple of options to choose from and there’s almost always a chicken or vegetarian dish! Luckily they swapped the seafood elements for beef or chicken for him.

Our dinner menu

Course 1: Seafood soup (chicken soup for Lee)

Course 2: Papaya salad with squid cake (breaded chicken for Lee)

Course 3: Beef noodles

Course 4: Seabass with 2 large shrimps, 2 oysters and rice (Lee had chicken, beef and vegetables with rice)

Course 4: Melon and dragon fruit (unless it’s covered in pastry or sat on top of a cheesecake, fruit is not a dessert!)

Course 5: Tea and Coffee (not really a ‘course’)

Apart from the disappointing ‘desert’, the evening meal was nice. The presentation was lovely, as you would expect from a luxury cruise, and it tasted good. However, I think I preferred some of the buffet food we had at lunch!

After dinner there was an option to do squid fishing, which to be honest, I forgot about because we were enjoying ourselves chatting to other people we had met on the ship. Some of the Vietnamese guests did karaoke on the sundeck after dinner too (you’re never far away from a karaoke machine in Vietnam, even on a luxury cruise in the middle of the sea it seems!).

The odd thing on our ship was that half of the guests were foreigners and half were Vietnamese and they pretty much kept us apart the whole time. I suppose on the tender boats it made sense so that the cruise manager could give instructions to them in Vietnamese and to us in English. But for the evening meal, instead of being given individual plates of food like we were, they had everything served to them as big sharing portions. Perhaps it was because they were in big groups, and most of the foreigners were in couples, or maybe it’s just because that is how Vietnamese food is often served. I’m not sure, but it felt weird that there was this segregation.

Day 2 on board the Athena Halong bay cruise

Day 2 started with an option to do Tai chi at 6.15am on the sundeck, although I skipped it, deciding to enjoy the comfortable bed for just a bit longer! A buffet breakfast was served at 6.45am and was a selection of cereals, pancakes, pastries, toast and fruit.

Excursion 3 – Kayaking

At 7.30am we got on the tender to Luon cave to do some kayaking (if you didn’t want to kayak, there were some bamboo rowing boats you could take instead. You would need to pay for the driver to take you, but I think it was only 30k vnd pp). The cave is actually only 35m long so more of an arch to be honest! You go under the arch and you are in a small circular lagoon in the bay. Although the bay is very pretty with limestone cliffs covered in trees and calm, green-blue water it was quite small and once you’d seen it there wasn’t much else to do or see.

We were given 45 minutes for kayaking, which was more than enough given the size of the lagoon. Back on the ship, we had 1 hour of free time before check out. It was weird that we had to get up so early for kayaking when we then had an hour of free time before checking out. We sort of felt like we were just hanging out, but it was nice to sit on the balcony as the sun started warming up.

Kayaking in the small but pretty Luon cave

Time to check out

At 9.30am we had to check out of the room leaving our bags outside of our door. We had a buffet brunch, which was a selection of bacon, sausage, fried chicken, bread dumplings, noodles, salad, fried rice and fruit with juice and tea and coffee.

After brunch we relaxed on the sundeck as we sailed back to the port. We had to wait for the tender boat and then once we were in the cruise terminal we waited another 30 mins for the bus.

The bus took about 3 hours and stopped halfway for a rest. It felt like a long day since we got up at 6am and left the boat at 10.45!

My review of the 1 night, 2 day Halong bay cruise with Athena

Staying on the Athena ship did feel like a real treat, particularly for us as we had spent the previous 5 months backpacking on a budget. It was really luxurious and the staff and service was really good.

The food we had was delicious, particularly the buffet lunch and the two breakfasts. The additional drinks we ordered were more expensive than what you might pay in a typical bar on land, but this wasn’t a typical bar and I didn’t think the drinks were as expensive as I had anticipated.

The excursions were really good. We managed to fit a lot into the 2 days (or 2 half-days if you think about it!) and the itinerary and organisation of everything was really smooth and professional.

It did feel like there was a lot of waiting around, which is a shame because I would rather be on the boat for longer, after all that’s what I’d paid for! It would have been better if we hadn’t had so many rest stops on the way to Halong bay. This would have meant we could have boarded sooner and also not have to get up so early on the second day to fit everything in before having to check out.

However, I do understand that they need to do this in order to have back to back bookings. As soon as we checked out of our rooms at 9.30am, housekeeping were straight in turning it around for the next guests to board.

Was it worth the price we paid?

We paid £270 for our 1 night, 2 day cruise with Athena for two people. The actual cost was £250 but we ended up having to pay a bit more as we didn’t want to pay by bank transfer (we prefer to pay with credit card so that we have added protection). The only way to pay by credit card was via paypal, which meant we were charged a credit card fee and also had to deal with paypal’s rubbish exchange rate!)

If you break down what we got for our £270, we had one night of luxury accommodation, 4 meals for two people, 3 excursions on the ship, transfers to and from Hanoi in a luxury bus, plus the experience of cruising around Halong bay. So although it blew our £60 per day backpacking budget, I think it was actually good value for what we got and the experience we had.

Final thoughts of our Halong bay cruise

Although Halong bay is beautiful, it is nowhere near as beautiful and untouched as Phang Nga Bay in Phuket , or Ang Thong Marine park near Koh Samui, Thailand (in my opinion). To be honest, I think it will be hard to beat the Phang Nga bay tour we did, it is one of my personal favourites from our travels in Asia!

All that being said, I did have a great time on our Halong Bay cruise. It was one of the things I really wanted to do when visiting Vietnam and I’m so glad we did. It was a great experience and I really enjoyed it. We saw some beautiful scenery, enjoyed some delicious food and were spoiled with a bit of luxury and great service – what more could you want from a little trip?!

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Halong Bay day cruise or overnight cruise: which one should I choose?

• Have a glimpse of Halong Bay
• Capture fantastic bay views from the seaplane

Halong Bay day cruise opportunities

A day trip on Halong Bay normally lasts from 4 to 6 hours. The time is short but still adequate to visit some of the best parts of Halong Bay.

If you’re traveling on a tight budget and a shortage of time but still want to explore Halong Bay, you’ll definitely love the economically day cruise program. Most day cruises go to prominent attractions such as Sung Sot Cave , Thien Cung Cave , Titop Island so you can have an overview of the bay as well as join some typical activities such as swimming , kayaking , and climbing .

One-day tour with Phoenix Day Cruise: you will be transferred from Hanoi to Halong Bay then embark on the Phoenix Day Cruise at noon. The traditional wooden junk sails through beautiful islets such as Fighting Cocks, Incense Burner, and stopover Thien Cung Cave – one of the most famous caves in Halong Bay.

One-day tour with L’Azalee Classic Cruise: after lunch, you will reach Sung Sot Cave – the biggest cave in Halong Bay and then try kayaking at Luon Cave. The experiences are very interesting and memorable!

Admire the spectacular Halong Bay view from the top view

For those who want to reach Halong Bay in the most unique and time-saving way, getting aboard a seaplane is the best choice. Instead of 4 driving hours, a seaplane , operated by Hai Au Aviation will take you only a 60-minute scenic flight to Halong Bay. Don’t miss the chance to take stunning photos of the bays from the height of hundreds of meters.

Flight schedule

At present, L’Azalee Classic Cruise is the only day cruise that provides a flight in combination with a 1-day itinerary .

• For visitors with a shortage of time and a tight budget, spending a day tour on Halong Bay is the optimal way to capture the views.
• Day cruises specialize in well-researched itineraries that take you to the worthiest places.
• Those who have seasickness and kids should also choose this kind of program.
• With only 4 or 6 hours onboard, you won’t be able to delve into the local culture and visit all tourist destinations. 
• You do not have a chance to take part in beach sports and overnight entertainment activities onboard.

Why should you choose Halong Bay overnight cruise?

Unlike the rush one-day tour, an overnight cruise program opens up many opportunities for travelers with plenty of time to experience all fascinating and thrilling activities.

At present, there are two overnight cruises namely L'Azalee Deluxe Cruise and Emeraude Cruise that cooperate with Hai Au Aviation to provide tour packages including an overnight program and a 25-minute scenic flight over Halong Bay.

A lot of fun-filled activities await you both onboard and offshore!

The most significant benefit when you take an overnight cruise is that you can enjoy Halong Bay at its fullest.

A 2 day 1 night tour with Pelican Cruise : At noon, you’ll check-in the cabin and then have lunch at the restaurant. Interesting activities on day one are visiting the Tung Sau area, swimming on Titop Beach , cooking class, Happy Hour, and evening entertainment onboard. On the second day, you will go to Sung Sot Cave and have a brunch buffet before disembarking the ship.

A 2 day 1 night tour with Margaret Cruise : start from Tuan Chau Harbour, Margaret Cruise glides to the pearl farm village and Titop Island where you have time to swim and climb on top of the mountain. Next, join the sunset party and cooking class on board. Day one is complete with evening entertainment activities like squid fishing. On day two, you’ll visit Sung Sot Cave and back to the ship to have brunch.

• Grasp the in-depth knowledge about Halong Bay
• Participation in an abundance of activities
• An overnight cruise is not suitable for those who lack traveling time.
• Some budget-minded travelers cannot afford the program.

Both day cruises and overnight cruises have their own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, depending on your situation in terms of time, money, and preference, you should choose the program that suits you the most.

See more: Best cruises in Halong bay

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