How to choose your cruise in Halong Bay? [2024]

I. Ha Long Bay Cruise: Why Visit the 8th Wonder of the World?

Why is a visit to Ha Long Bay a must on any trip to Vietnam? Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1994 and 2000, this Vietnamese landmark has become a must-see for any traveler exploring Vietnam or Southeast Asia. 

More than just a geological marvel, Ha Long Bay offers an immersive experience of the country’s natural beauty and rich history. However, to ensure a successful cruise trip, several questions need to be answered: Is Ha Long Bay worth it? How to get to Ha Long Bay? How much time to spend to it? Or what budget to expect? 

This article, providing answers to all these questions, is an impeccable guide for your unforgettable cruise on Ha Long Bay. 

II. Bai Tu Long Bay, Ha Long Bay, or Lan Ha Bay? Guide for an Ideal Cruise in Vietnam

Bai Tu Long Bay, Ha Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay have long been renowned attractions in Vietnam for international tourists. If an authentic experience away from the crowds is what you wish for, Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha are ideal choices. Ha Long Bay, despite the crowds, remains a must for a first visit, owing to its global notoriety and exceptional services for tourists. While these three bays are adjacent and share similar characteristics, they each have their own distinct charm that appeals to travelers. Choose the one that best suits your expectations for a memorable exploration in Vietnam. Keep on reading to find out what sets them apart! 

Ha Long Bay: Magnificently vibrant

Ha Long Bay covers an area of approximately 1553 km2, encompassing around 2000 islands and islets. The central area of Ha Long Bay spans 335 km2 and is home to 775 islands and islets. However, only a few of these islands are open to tourism; the others are preserved for scientific purposes. Renowned for its magnificent landscape and twice listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is the most popular out of the three bays, offering a wide range of captivating activities. 

Unfortunately, Ha Long Bay is now facing a pressing challenge: overcrowding. Every year, this natural marvel attracts millions of visitors, resulting in the saturation of the main tourist sites. Problems regarding degradation in infrastructure and environment, caused by the massive influx, are considerably altering the tourist experience and jeopardizing the preservation of this wonder of the world. Local authorities and tourism operators now face the urgent need to find sustainable solutions to promote tourism and protect the ecosystem in Ha Long Bay in tandem.

What to see and do in Ha Long Bay?

Sung Sot Cave

Located on Bo Hon Island, Sung Sot Cave is undoubtedly one of the must-sees when visiting Ha Long Bay. Like its name suggests, Sung Sot Cave (literally Surprise Cave) will amaze you with its surprising beauty. This cave is reputed to be the largest and most stunning in the region and often astounds visitors with its splendor interior formations. The French explorers who found the cave were so taken aback by its majesty, hence the cave’s name.

Thien Cung Cave

Nestled in Dau Go Island, southwest of the bay, with its entrance located about 25 meters above sea level, Thien Cung Cave is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Ha Long Bay. Covering an area of 10,000 square meters, the cave features a diverse natural architecture, adorned with uniquely shaped stalagmites and stalactites. Not only famous for its striking scenery, Thien Cung Cave is also valued for its profound historical and cultural significance, associated with the Soi Nhu culture of prehistoric populations.  At the entrance and the bottom of the cave, archaeologists have found deposits of Melanie snail shells, testifying to the presence of carbonated freshwater snails. There are also traits of stone tools found on the cave wall, probably spears used by the ancient inhabitants for hunting and defense. 

To reach Thien Cung Cave, visitors must cross the dense foliage and sheer cliffs of Dau Go Island. Once inside, they will be awestruck by the magical splendor of the stalactite and stalagmite columns in their varied and fascinating forms. Under the natural light filtering through the skylight, the entire space glistens, forming an unforgettable vision of enchantment. 

Titov Island

Titov Island, named after the famous Russian astronaut Ghernam Stepanovich Titov, who visited it with President Ho Chi Minh in 1969, is another of Ha Long Bay’s must-visit destinations. This island boasts a long, white-sand beach where visitors can relax after swimming. Furthermore, the peak of the island allows for panoramic views over a large area of Ha Long Bay.

Luon Cave

Just 1 kilometer from Sung Sot Cave is another of Ha Long Bay’s top destinations: the Luon Cave. This cave is an ideal spot for a two-day, one-night tour of Ha Long, especially for kayakers. Luon Cave is distinguished by its 60-meter-long arch, which, due to its low height above the water (between 2.5 and 4 meters depending on the tidal range), allows only small boats and kayaks to pass through. The intriguing shape of the cave resembles an archway connecting two worlds, adding mystical appeal.

Pearl Farm

Nestled in a secluded aquatic area called Tung Sau, Ha Long’s only pearl farm is a popular destination for foreign visitors. During a visit to the pearl farm, tourists can witness the process of pearl cultivation, harvesting, and jewelry-making. 

Bai Tu Long Bay: Savage and Original Beauty

Bai Tu Long Bay, which was featured in the French film “Indochine” starring Catherine Deneuve, has gained worldwide attention since the film’s release in 1992. The bay, chosen by French director Regis Wargnier for its spectacular scenery and tranquility, perfectly captured the exotic and mysterious ambiance sought for the film. This special association with the famous French film has propelled Bai Tu Long to the top of the list of destinations for those seeking authenticity and unspoiled natural beauty. 

Bai Tu Long represents three-quarters of the Ha Long Bay World Heritage Area and is the largest of the three bays. In order to preserve the ecosystem, the bay has transformed into a wildlife reserve, which limits tourist activities; even swimming is prohibited. This conservation, however, strengthens Bai Tu Long’s wild beauty, making it one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and famous bays.

What to see and do in Bai Tu Long Bay?

Thien Canh Son Cave

On your visit to Bai Tu Long Bay, make sure you don’t miss Thien Canh Son Cave, famous for its impressive stalactites and sweeping views over the bay. Though smaller than Sung Sot Cave in Ha Long Bay, Thien Son Cave offers a remarkable diversity of stalactite formations evoking images of elephants, lotus, and groups of birds in reunion, which are sure to delight visitors. 

Traditional Fishing Villages

For those wishing to discover the daily lives of the locals, an excursion to traditional fishing villages is highly recommended. Vung Vieng, Cap La, and Cong Dam fishing villages are some of the few remaining small fishing villages in Bai Tu Long Bay, where the tradition of fishing and seafood farming thrives against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. 

Lan Ha Bay: Nature’s Peaceful Haven

Lan Ha Bay is the smallest among the three, yet offers unforgettable experiences for those seeking seaside tranquility.

With around 400 limestone islands and 130 pristine beaches, Lan Ha Bay is an ideal resort for swimming and water sports such as diving and windsurfing. Unlike Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha is much less crowded, allowing visitors to take full advantage of the vacation.

What to see and do in Lan Ha Bay?

Monkey Island

Monkey Island, located around 1 kilometer from Cat Ba Island, was formerly known as Pineapple Island due to the abundance of wild pineapple bushes that surrounded it. Well-known for the presence of monkeys, this island attracts not only for this feature but also for its long stretch of fine white sand, excellent for relaxing or a picnic.

Ba Trai Dao Islet

Situated on the east side of Cat Ba Island, Ba Trai Dao Islet boasts some of the most romantic and pristine beaches in Lan Ha Bay. This islet is the perfect place for sunbathing, photography, and sports activities.

Cat Ba National Park

Set in the middle of Cat Ba Island, Cat Ba National Park spreads over 26 240 hectares, encompassing marine ecosystems, insular forests, and mangroves. Established in 1986, the park is home to a unique biodiversity that draws tourists and science enthusiasts.

Dark and Light Cave

The Dark and Light Cave, on the border between Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay, has a similar structure to the Luon Cave in Ha Long Bay. Accessible only by small boats or kayaks, this cave is a delight for adventurous travelers in search of natural wonders.

Viet Hai Fishing Village

Nestled in the mountains of Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai fishing village captivates tourists with its original beauty and unique indigenous culture. This village is ideal for those wishing to relax, cycle, and discover peaceful island life on a three-day two-night tour at Cat Ba.

III. Guide to choosing the perfect cruise

First step: Determine the length of your trip

Here are some options:

*One-day cruise: an option for short-stay

This option is designed for travelers with limited time, providing a navigation time of around 4 to 6 hours. If you are not under the pressure of time, we don’t recommend this option since the round-trip transfer from Hanoi takes around 6 hours, which means you will spend more time on the road than exploring the bay. Moreover, with this option, you won't be able to reach the core of the bay and risk missing out on some of its most spectacular scenery. Finally, you should take into account that some of the companies offering day cruises don't always provide an optimal level of service. 

*Two-day one-night cruise: a short yet rewarding getaway

For a more enriching experience, we suggest a 2-day 1-night cruise. With this cruise, you will spend one night on board, discover remote landscapes, and take part in various activities such as cave visits, kayaking, or swimming. While the program depends on the package chosen, most two-day one-night cruises in Ha Long Bay follow a similar outline, guaranteeing a memorable stay. 

Day 1: Departure from Hanoi and first discoveries

Pick-up in Hanoi: The journey commences from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. After a 3-hour drive, you will reach the harbor where you will board your boat.

Boarding and lunch: Greeted by the crew with a welcome drink, you will then settle into your cabin. As the sailing begins, a lunch with seafood will be served. While enjoying local specialties, don’t forget to admire the seascapes.

Afternoon activities: After relaxing in your cabin or on the deck, participate in the various activities offered by your chosen cruise.

Sunset at nightfall: Witness an unforgettable sight of the sunset against the stunning seascape backdrop while sipping an aperitif. To round off the day, depending on your chosen cruise company, relaxing massage sessions and/or a cooking class to learn how to prepare local specialties are offered.

Dinner and night activities: Dinner is an opportunity to enjoy a new seafood feast and discover other Vietnamese culinary delights. After dinner, you might like to try squid fishing or simply karaoke with the crew.

Day 2: Morning activities and return to Hanoi

Tai Chi and Sunrise: The day begins with a Tai Chi class as the first rays of sunshine slowly appear. After breakfast, an activity is proposed, such as a visit to one of the many caves in the bay to admire the spectacular geological formations.

Lunch and Return: Enjoy a moment of relaxation on the upper deck, taking in the breathtaking scenery as the ship makes its way back to port. After lunch, it's time to say goodbye to the crew and join the vehicle that will take you to Hanoi or another destination of your choice.

*Three-day two-night cruise: A complete immersion

For an in-depth experience, a 3-day, 2-night cruise is just right. With this option, you'll have time to explore more thoroughly, visit less-frequented sites, and take full advantage of the tranquility and beauty of the area. Also, the 3-day, 2-night cruise allows you to take part in more activities and savor more local cuisine on board.

At the end of the cruise, our chauffeur or the cruise bus will be waiting to take you on a comfortable drive back to Hanoi.

Next up: Choose the bay you want to visit 

Once you've gathered information on the features and differences of the three bays, take the time to choose the one that best suits your desires. 

Finally: Select the right cruise to your preferences and budget

With hundreds of junks plying Ha Long Bay, choosing the right one can be difficult due to the diversity of sizes, styles, and quality levels. Here's our guide to help you select the perfect cruise to suit your preferences and budget.

***List of Ha Long Bay cruises

*One-day cruise in Ha Long Bay

Ambassador Day Cruise

Known as the largest and most opulent day cruise in Ha Long Bay, theAmbassador Day Cruise boasts a lavish two-story sundeck, exquisitely appointed restaurants capable of accommodating up to 400 guests, a refreshing open-air jacuzzi pool, and top-tier facilities. As you cruise with Ambassador, indulge in a plethora of entertainment activities and create unforgettable memories, all while taking in the awe-inspiring beauty of Ha Long Bay. For an even more exclusive experience, consider selecting a private room with an unparalleled, breathtaking view.

*Ha Long Bay 3 Star Cruises

Cozy Bay Cruise

Cozy Bay Cruise operates 9 cabins (Cozy Bay Classic has 11 boutique-style cabins), with a maximum capacity of 19 to 22 guests, guaranteeing a warm and friendly atmosphere for a relaxing voyage on Ha Long Bay. 

Rate
Day cruise: $70-75/pax
2-day, 1-night cruise: $140-145/pax

Mila Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Mila Cruise, where the rich heritage of Vietnam seamlessly blends with contemporary luxury. The ship boasts 22 elegantly furnished cabins, each designed to provide the utmost comfort and style. With Mila Cruise, you can choose from three distinct cabin types, thoughtfully crafted to cater to your preferences and budget. 

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $130-310/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: double price

Syrena Cruise

Syrena Cruise Ha Long offers an exceptional experience aboard a traditional junk with 17 cabins able to accommodate 34 passengers. This ship presents a perfect blend of Vietnamese inheritance and modern conveniences, as all the cabins are air-conditioned and feature a balcony overlooking the ocean.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $110-155/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $220-350/pax

Lavender Elegance

Lavender Elegance offers an intimate and elegant cruise aboard a traditional wooden junk. Set sail on Ha Long Bay, discovering its spectacular scenery while enjoying the charm of an old-style boat. Optional activities available are kayaking, cave tours, and swimming.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $115-145/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $270-320/pax

*Ha Long Bay 4 Star Cruises

Indochina Sails

The Indochina Sails, a haven of peace where tradition and modernity meet harmoniously, offers travelers an unrivaled experience of luxurious relaxation. This four-star junk, with 23 elegantly appointed cabins, each with its own private balcony, promises unforgettable moments in the heart of majestic Ha Long Bay.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $160-195/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $318-394/pax

*Ha Long Bay 5 Star Cruises

Paradise Peak

Paradise Peak, Ha Long Bay's most luxurious wooden boat, offers the most lavish cruising experience with its 8 extravagant cabins. Each grand cabin boasts a spacious balcony or private dining area, along with a luxurious Jacuzzi, ensuring an indulgent and exclusive stay. With its unparalleled service, Paradise Peak guarantees an unforgettable escape in one of the world's most breathtaking bays.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $275-298/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: double price

Paradise Cruise

Paradise Cruise has established itself as one of the most famous cruise lines in Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, signifying its quality by gaining TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellent for many consecutive years. The cruise line's fleet includes the 31-cabin Paradise Elegance, the 39-cabin Paradise Grand, and the traditional 16-cabin Paradise Sails wooden junk. Recently, Paradise Cruise expanded its offerings with the launch of the beautiful Delight restaurant, providing a unique culinary experience at sea.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $122-255/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: double price

Athena Cruise

Launched in 2017, Athena Cruise is a spacious ship crafted for voyages in Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. The vessel boasts 22 luxury private cabins, making it a great option for solo travelers, families, and large groups. This three-story junk consists of a lower deck with a reception area, cabins, restaurant, and bar, while the upper deck features an open-air bar, coffee lounge, spa, and sauna, offering a truly remarkable cruising experience.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $165-225/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $330-450/pax

Alisa Cruise

Alisa Cruise, a new 5-star cruise, is one of the largest and most luxurious steel ships in Ha Long Bay. Alisa Cruises offers a high-quality experience with exceptional gastronomy concocted by talented chefs, authentic experiences, and a warm, luxurious atmosphere on board.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $155-295/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $310-675/pax

***List of Bai Tu Long Bay cruises

*Bai Tu Long 3 Star Cruises

Renea Cruise

Renea Cruise is a 3-star wooden junk boat that navigates in Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. With its classic design, cozy cabins, and warm, professional crew, Renea Cruise promises an authentic and unforgettable exploration of the breathtaking islets that adorn the less-traveled paths of Bai Tu Long Bay. Offering competitive rates, this enchanting vessel is the perfect choice for memorable vacations with family and friends. 

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $135-335/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $275-585/pax

Garden Bay Classic

Garden Bay Classic embodies the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Inspired by local craftsmanship, this cruise ship features touches of fine wood, marble, and copper. With 12 well-appointed cabins, a spacious restaurant that serves refined specialties, and a large sun deck, Garden Bay Classic invites you to take full advantage of the spectacular scenery of Bai Tu Long Bay.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $115-222/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: double price

Swan

Established in 2015, Swan is a small 3-star wooden junk that impresses with its traditional design and quality service. With Swan Cruise, visitors can discover the highlights of Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. Committed to social responsibility, Swan Cruise supports the local community by providing jobs to the locals and offering the best of their ability.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $115-170/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $228-340/pax

Oriental Sails

Oriental Sails invites you to indulge in unforgettable cruises aboard its two elegant ships. Each vessel features exquisitely designed cabins that incarnate the classic Vietnamese elegance. This cruise, which boasts a thoughtfully planned itinerary, promises a wide range of thrilling activities that will arouse your senses and leave you with lifelong memories in the heart of Bái Tu Long Bay.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $115-120/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $228-235/pax

*Bai Tu Long 4 Star Cruises

La Regina Classic

The 3-story La Regina Classic promises an unrivaled glamorous cruise, featuring a beautiful symphony of old-world charm with wood and brass details and contemporary comfort and luxury. Sophisticated down to the smallest detail, this ship distinguishes itself with paintings of Vietnamese queens in its refined restaurant and wooden library. 

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $125-160/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: $228-235/pax

Dragon’s Pearl

Introduced in 2010, Dragon’s Pearl beautifully captures the essence of traditional Indochinese charm. Whether you're savoring a meal in the elegant restaurant, basking on the sun deck, or unwinding in your cabin, you'll be enveloped in the warmth of meticulously crafted teak and oak. This remarkable sailing yacht is an ideal choice for gatherings of up to 20 guests, be it for festive celebrations or professional seminars. Each cabin is tastefully adorned in a classic style, featuring expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of the sea. The sun-drenched terrace serves as a perfect vantage point to relish the stunning beauty of the bay at sunset, creating unforgettable moments with loved ones.

As with all vessels in the Indochina Junk fleet, the Dragon's Pearl Junk promises an enchanting journey through the lesser-known wonders of Bai Tu Long Bay, where captivating landscapes and exhilarating activities await.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: ~$170/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: ~$330/pax

*Other junks in the same class:

Indochina junks - Prince: 4 cabins
Garden Bay Legend: 10 cabins
Signature: 12-16 cabins
Lily: 20 cabins

*Bai Tu Long 5 Star Cruises

Dragon’s Legend: A legendary cruise on Ha Long Bay

Launched in 2010, Dragon Legend Cruise is among the best 5-star cruises in Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. Sailing through the heart of the bay, the cruise reveals secluded beaches and remote fishing villages. The four-story vessel beautifully marries ancient feudal architecture with modern style, providing exceptional splendor yet home-like comfort.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: from $130/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: from $230/pax

***List of Lan Ha Bay cruises

*Lan Ha 3 Star Cruise

Sunlight Boutique

Sunlight Boutique guarantees a luxurious and comfortable cruise experience. Select from their 5-cabin junk, tailored for large families, or opt for the spacious 9-cabin junk, designed to accommodate groups of friends. Embark on a truly unforgettable maritime adventure that promises to be as unique as it is enchanting.

Other junks of the same class:

Sunlight Premium: 9 cabins

Cozy 07: 7 cabins

*Lan Ha 4 Star Cruise

Peony

Embark on Peony, where Vietnamese tradition and Western sophistication are beautifully blended. Renowned for its elegance, each cabin features a private balcony offering breathtaking views of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and other modern conveniences, the cabins guarantee a pleasant and relaxing stay.

Rate
2 days, 1 night cruise: $150-250/pax
3 days, 2 nights cruise: double price

Cozy boutique

Cozy Boutique Cruise, a traditional wooden junk with 11 luxurious cabins, is perfect for those looking for medium-sized junk. Each cabin features an oriental design, large windows or a balcony, and an en-suite bathroom. A pleasant and well-organized cruise experience to the center of Lan Ha Bay is guaranteed with Cozy Boutique, owing to the professional and friendly crew members.

Port: Ben Beo
Price range: $115-200/pax (2 pax/cabin)

*Lan Ha 5 Star Cruise 

Mon Chéri: Unforgettable experience

Launched in 2018, Mon Chéri presents two exquisite cruise ships—one featuring 18 cabins and the other 24. Each vessel perfectly embodies a marvelous blend of timeless European elegance and Vietnamese essence. Every detail is thoughtfully curated to ensure unparalleled moments, framed by stunning views of limestone formations, awe-inspiring caves, and pristine beaches. Additionally, Mon Chéri is the first cruise in Ha Long Bay to provide certified halal cuisine, catering to diverse dietary preferences with grace and thoughtfulness.

Port: Tuan Chau Marina

Number of cabins: 18 cabins and 24 cabins

Price range: $205-368/pax (2 pax/cabin)

Orchid: First- class services and facilities

Orchid Cruise, renowned for upscale services and facilities, offers three types of luxury junk.

Orchid Trendy Cruise (20 cabins)

Perfectly suited for travelers seeking an affordable yet enchanting cruise experience in La Ha Bay, Orchid Trendy Cruise boasts a private balcony that offers breathtaking views in each cabin. Indulge yourself in the exquisite restaurant, where they serve a delightful fusion of Vietnamese and European cuisine.

Rate: $175-310/pax (2 pax/cabin)

Orchid Classic (14 cabins)

Orchid Classic offers timeless charm with its classic Indochinese architecture and wooden interior decoration, guaranteeing a high-class experience.

Rate: $205-360/pax (2 pax/cabin)

Orchid Premium (5 cabins)

Orchid Premium boasts spacious cabins that feature private panoramic balconies and large bathtubs, with 24-hour butler service for the ultimate lavish experience.

Rate: $595-717/pax (2 pax/cabin)

Other junks of the same class:

Scarlet Pearl: 23 cabins

La Regina Grand/ Legend: 27 cabins

Nostalgia: 11 cabins

Sena: 16 cabins

***List of private cruises

*Luxury private junks on Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Bhaya (1 to 5 cabins)

Embrace the epitome of opulence and sophistication as you embark on an extraordinary journey with Bhaya Junks. With configurations ranging from 1 to 5 lavishly appointed cabins, each meticulously tailored to cater to your discerning tastes, revel in expansive spaces, sumptuous suites, and flawless service on board.

Rate: From $900/boat/night

Indochina Junks - Prince (4 cabins)

Featuring 4 opulent cabins, Prince of Indochina Junks is perfect for families or groups of friends searching for comfort and touches of tradition. Revel in its authentic décor crafted from rare wood and bask in the warm, luxurious atmosphere. 

Rate: From $250/pax

Indochina Junks - L’Amour

A true celebration of romance, L’Amour offers an exclusive cabin for total privacy, perfect for a honeymoon or an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Rate: From $640/pax

Valentine Premium (2 cabins)

Boasting 2 elegantly appointed cabins, Valentine Premium is perfect for couples seeking romance and serenity. Indulge in special moments on the upper deck and candlelit dinners under the star!

Rate: From $350/pax

*Private Junks in Cat Ba (Lan Ha Bay)

Ocean Junks (06, 08, 09)

Exuding an intimate and friendly ambiance, Ocean Junks are ideal for families or small groups. You can choose between the Ocean 08 with 4 cabins, the Ocean 09 with 3 cabins, or the Ocean 06 with 2 cabins for an excursion suitable for couples or families.

Rate: From $120/pax

Sunlight Boutique (5 cabins)

The Sunlight Boutique, boasting 5 comfortable cabins, guarantees a relaxing and private experience. Explore the breathtaking scenery of Lan Ha Bay, a less-visited gem than its famous neighbor, Ha Long Bay while benefiting from exceptional service. 

Rate: From $120/pax

Venezia (10 cabins)

The Venezia Cruise offers a combination of oriental style and modern amenities, featuring 10 spacious cabins, a restaurant, bars, an elegant dining room, and stunning terraces. The three decks are exquisitely designed with upscale wood and iron elements, offering opulent comfort while uncovering the hidden charm of Lan Ha Bay.

Rate: From $120/pax

IV. How to get to Halong from Hanoi and Ninh Binh?

From Hanoi

Option 1: Cruise Company Shuttle Bus departing from Hanoi Old Quarter

Most Halong Bay cruise companies offer shuttle bus services to pick you up from specific locations or your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. For day trips, pickup times are usually between 7:30 and 7:45 a.m., while for longer itineraries, it's between 8:30 and 9:00 a.m. The journey from Hanoi to Hai Phong to Ha Long takes approximately 2.5 hours for day cruises and around 3 hours for longer cruises before reaching Tuan Chau Harbour or Ha Long International Cruise Port, respectively. If you're not staying in Hanoi Old Quarter, be sure to arrive at the pickup point on time.

Option 2: Local bus Hanoi-Ha Long 

For those who prefer traveling by bus, here is some practical information for getting from Hanoi to Ha Long:

Departure points: Buses leave from some capital’s main stations, including My Dinh Bus Station and Gia Lam Bus Station.

Drop-off point: In Halong, buses stop mainly at Bai Chay station.

Main route: Hanoi- Hai Duong- Hai Phong- Bai Chay (Ha Long)

Duration: The journey takes around 4 hours, which offers a good balance between comfort and speed.

For a comfortable, worry-free trip between Hanoi and Ha Long, here are a few reputable bus companies:

NOTE: Taking a local bus is not recommended. These buses only drop off passengers at the station, requiring you to take a cab and wasting time getting to the harbor. This detour could risk missing your cruise.

Option 3: Limousine Hanoi-Ha Long

Limousines are an excellent option for a comfortable and advanced trip from Hanoi to Ha Long, as these vehicles offer elegantly designed and refined interior space featuring supple seats and a range of services such as wifi, water, and a large-screen TV, all without additional cost. 

Fares range from 150,000 to 240,000 dong, depending on the service provider and seat. 

Recommended companies:

Kumho Viet Thanh
Phuc Xuyen
Anh Huy
Van Don Xanh
Luxury Transport

Option 4: Private car

For families traveling with small kids and/or elderly members, a private cab is an ideal option to ensure a stress-free journey tailored to each family member's needs while keeping costs reasonable.

Advantages:

Comfort and privacy: Ideal for families, this private, comfortable drive allows you to carry as much luggage as you wish without disturbing other passengers.

Flexible schedule: Organize your itinerary in complete freedom and arrange times with the driver to visit the planned tourist attractions.

Practicality: A private cab offers a practical and personalized solution, especially for those traveling with small children or elderly people requiring special care. 

Option 5: Travel by motorbike from Hanoi to Ha Long

For adventurous travelers, a motorbike trip between Hanoi and Ha Long can be an unforgettable experience. This mode of transport offers unrivaled flexibility and independence, allowing you to discover the countryside at your own pace. 

Safety advice:

Caution on the road: The Hanoi-Ha Long route is very busy and potentially hazardous. Hence, it's crucial to remain vigilant and respect road safety rules. 

Health and well-being: Long-distance riding can be tiring. Make sure you take regular rest and hydration breaks to stay energized throughout the journey. 

Option 6: Seaplane Hanoi-Halong

For a quicker but pricier mode of transportation, you can opt for a seaplane. This option provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the Red River Delta and Ha Long Bay from the air. Presently, Hai Au is the sole airline that provides this distinctive experience of direct flights from Hanoi to Ha Long.

Choose the option that best suits your trip to discover the wonders of Ha Long Bay from Hanoi.

From Ninh Binh 

Unlike the Hanoi to Ha Long route, there are fewer direct buses between Ninh Bình and Ha Long. However, The Long Company provides a convenient solution with its collective bus transfer service. This service picks you up directly at your hotel in Ninh Bình and takes you directly to the cruise office in Ha Long, which facilitates your trip.

V. Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay: Best Time to Visit

The key to an unforgettable experience has to do with choosing the best time to visit. Here are some weather guides to keep in mind to make the most of the marine life exploration and the breathtaking scenery on a cruise of Ha Long Bay, La Ha Bay, or Bai Tu Long Bay.

Seasons in Ha Long: There are 4 different seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.

From April to September: This period is characterized by hot weather and occasional precipitation, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the turquoise waters.

From October to March: The weather is pleasant and cooler compared to the aforementioned period, which provides ideal conditions for sportive activities.

Best time to visit Ha Long Bay

When it comes to planning a visit to Ha Long, it's crucial to choose the right period, taking into account weather conditions and tourist numbers.

From January to February, the climate is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for open-air excursions. However, this is also the time when Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, occurs, which means an increase in prices due to festive extras should be expected. 

The months of March and April mark the high season of tourism. The weather is generally fine and favorable for tourist activities, attracting many visitors. Early booking is therefore highly recommended to guarantee accommodation and excursions.

The temperatures rise in May and June. If you have a plan to visit Cat Ba Island, it is suggested to avoid weekends to stay away from the crowd and price increase.

From July to September, the region is prone to storms and typhoons, which can occur over one or two days, resulting in navigational restrictions imposed by the authorities on the eve of a forecasted storm. In the event of bad weather, it is advisable to readjust your itinerary and visit other attractions until the weather calms down.

Characterized by pleasant weather, October and November are also high tourist season months; hence, booking in advance is advisable.

December witnesses a relatively significant drop in temperatures. In case you are planning to visit Ha Long over Christmas or New Year, it's essential to plan and book early to avoid the inconvenience of high demand.

By planning your cruise during the best period of the year, you can maximize your chances of taking full advantage of Ha Long Bay's spectacular scenery and making lasting memories. Whether you're traveling with your family, as a couple, or with friends, a cruise in this magnificent region will be an experience you will never forget.

VI. Frequently Asked Regarding Ha Long Bay Cruise

Q: Are the cruise ships obliged to follow set itineraries in the bay?

A: Yes. Every cruise company must register to operate on set itineraries and cannot sail outside the permitted area.

Q: Why do cruise ships often gather in an anchorage area for the night?

A: According to the authorities' regulations, cruise ships must return to the assembly points to anchor, usually in airtight areas, to ensure safety. 

Q: What to do when the bay is closed due to storm conditions?

A: Be sure to check the authorities’ announcements regularly. In the event of storms, navigational activities are restricted or prohibited for 1 to 2 days. In this case, change your itinerary. For example, Mai Chau or Ninh Binh can be reached before heading for Ha Long.

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