Cruising through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, past towering limestone cliffs and floating fishing villages, was easily one of the most magical experiences of our Vietnam itinerary. Waking up in the middle of the bay, surrounded by misty islands and calm blue water, felt completely surreal—and absolutely unforgettable. It was a major highlight of our three-month Southeast Asia trip. And even though Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most popular (and yes, touristy) destinations, we truly believe it’s an experience worth having. The best way to explore this otherworldly landscape? Hop on a Halong Bay cruise.
There are tons of options out there—everything from simple day trips to multi-day luxury cruises. But here’s the catch: not every cruise is created equal. The kind of cruise you choose will shape your entire experience. That’s why we’re sharing our full 3-day, 2-night Halong Bay cruise experience in this post—so you know exactly what to expect and what to look out for. We’ll show you what our boat and cabin looked like, and give you a real feel for the day-to-day rhythm onboard. We’ll also break down the key things to consider when picking a cruise—from budget and boat style to itinerary and vibe. And to make your planning easier, we’ve included some personal cruise recommendations based on different budgets and trip lengths. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a slow cruise through one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes, we’ve got you covered.
* Disclosure: This Halong Bay Cruise post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.
The Halong Bay Cruise that we booked!
After comparing multiple providers and diving deep into reviews, we finally booked a 3-day, 2-night Halong Bay cruise with Dora Cruises. It’s a mid-range option, but for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, we felt it was worth spending a bit more. We were looking for something quieter, more relaxed, and away from the crowds—and that’s exactly what we got.
If you have time in your Vietnam itinerary, we highly recommend staying two nights. It gives you enough space to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and explore without feeling rushed.
Here’s the exact Halong Bay cruise we booked and genuinely loved.
Keep reading to find out what to look for when choosing your cruise—and what our experience was really like.
How to choose the best Halong Bay cruise?
The number of cruise options for Halong Bay is honestly overwhelming. Just search “Halong Bay cruise” and you’ll see hundreds of boats pop up, each claiming to be the best. We spent hours researching, comparing, and asking fellow travelers for advice before finally booking our own overnight cruise.
So here’s a breakdown of what to look for, based on our experience and all the research we did beforehand —so you don’t have to go down the same rabbit hole. These are the key things to consider when choosing a Halong Bay cruise that fits your travel style and budget.
1. Duration: How many days should you cruise Halong Bay?
The first step in picking the right Halong Bay cruise for your Vietnam itinerary is deciding how much time you want to spend out on the water. Cruise durations vary—from a quick 4-hour day trip to extended adventures of up to 5 days and 4 nights.
Day Cruises
If you’re short on time, a day cruise might be your only option. It’s better than missing Halong Bay altogether, but be aware that it can feel rushed. Most day cruises depart straight from Hanoi and can last up to 12 hours including transfers. It’s a long day, but you’ll still get to see the stunning limestone karsts that make Halong Bay such a highlight of any Vietnam trip.
2-Day, 1-Night Halong Bay Cruises
We think staying overnight is the minimum for the effort it takes to reach Halong Bay. That way, you’ll get to see the bay during golden hour and experience the peaceful evening ambiance when the boats light up after dark. A typical 2-day, 1-night cruise starts around noon, with lunch on board, a short break, and then an afternoon excursion—usually by kayak or bamboo boat. After returning to the boat, there’s time to relax on the sundeck before dinner. The next morning starts early with breakfast and a visit to a cave like Thien Cung, before heading back to the port by 10:30 am. It’s a short and sweet experience, but you’re not even on board for a full 24 hours.
3-Day, 2-Night Halong Bay Cruises
If your Vietnam itinerary allows it, we highly recommend going for a 3-day, 2-night Halong Bay cruise. That’s exactly what we did, and it made a world of difference. Originally, we had planned just one night, but after reading loads of reviews, we realised many travellers felt rushed and wished they’d stayed longer. With two nights, you get to explore deeper into the bay, far from the day-trip crowds, and really soak up the peaceful scenery.
On the second day of our cruise, we kayaked in a secluded corner of Lan Ha Bay with barely another boat in sight. Most one-night cruises don’t go that far, so this added a completely different layer to our experience. Plus, having a full day without any transfers or check-outs meant we could fully relax and enjoy the pace of life on the water.
3+ Day Cruises
If budget isn’t a concern and you want to go all-in, there are longer private charters available—some lasting up to 5 days and 4 nights. These cruises venture deep into lesser-visited parts of the bay and offer more time for beach stops, quiet coves, and total relaxation. Perfect if you’re after that once-in-a-lifetime sailing experience.
2. Price: Budget, Mid-Range, or Luxury?
There’s a Halong Bay cruise for every kind of traveller. Prices vary widely depending on the level of comfort, length of the cruise, and what’s included.
Luxury cruises are at the higher end, offering beautifully designed rooms (some with freestanding bathtubs and huge bay windows), gourmet food, spa services, and impeccable service. You’re definitely paying for the full experience.
Budget cruises, while more affordable, often have older boats and simpler rooms. But the views are the same—and many of the activities overlap. If your goal is just to see Halong Bay without fuss, and you don’t mind sacrificing some comfort, a budget option might do just fine. Just make sure to manage your expectations.
We personally went for a mid-range cruise, which pushed us a little over our usual backpacking budget—but we don’t regret it for a second. We chose Dora Cruise, which has about 20 rooms, and it struck the perfect balance between comfort, space, and value. Our room was surprisingly large, with panoramic windows, a private balcony, and even a shower with a sea view! It felt serene, not crowded, and totally worth the splurge.
How much does a Halong Bay cruise cost?
Cruise prices vary depending on the time of year, day of the week, boat category, and what’s included. On average:
- Mid- to high-quality cruises range from US$130–450 per night (double occupancy).
- Extreme luxury options can go up to US$450 for one night and over US$800 for two nights.
- Day trips from Hanoi start around US$40–60, but don’t expect much comfort.
Be sure to check what’s included—most cruises cover meals, excursions, and activities like kayaking or cave visits. But extras like alcoholic drinks, spa treatments, or private excursions often come at an additional cost. On Dora Cruise, we loved the happy hour on the sundeck: buy one, get one free cocktails with sunset views!
3. Ambiance: What kind of experience are you after?
Think about what kind of experience you want to have on your Halong Bay cruise. Do you want a relaxing and romantic getaway? Or a lively boat full of young travellers and social vibes?
We knew we wanted a more peaceful, nature-focused experience, so we avoided party cruises altogether. Staying for two nights really helped with that, as most day trippers and overnight guests don’t venture far into the bay. On our second day, we had entire stretches of water almost entirely to ourselves.
Also, consider the size of the boat. Bigger boats with more rooms tend to feel busier. Our boat, Dora Cruise, had only about 20 rooms, which made everything feel more intimate. If you’re traveling as a couple, we recommend choosing a cruise with fewer cabins for a more romantic setting. Families might want to look into cruises that cater specifically to kids, with onboard entertainment and family-friendly staff.
4. Star Rating: What’s the quality like?
Don’t forget to check the star rating and online reviews of the cruise you’re considering. The biggest differences in price usually come down to the quality of the rooms, service, food, and amenities.
A 5-star cruise should (hopefully) live up to the rating, but keep in mind that promotional photos might not reflect current conditions. Boats age quickly due to saltwater and wear and tear, so it’s a good idea to read recent reviews to get a more accurate picture. There are lots of choices, but do your homework. A low-quality cruise can seriously dampen your experience.
5. Location: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, or Bai Tu Long?
When people say “Halong Bay,” they often mean one of three different bays: Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, or Lan Ha Bay. They all feature similar limestone scenery and are reached from the same harbor, but differ in crowd levels and cruise routes.
Halong Bay itself is the most famous—and also the most crowded. Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha Bay are quieter alternatives, and many newer or more premium cruises choose these routes to avoid the masses.
On our 3-day, 2-night Dora Cruise, we went further out into Lan Ha Bay on day two for kayaking. We barely saw another boat all afternoon—it was incredible. That area is too far for day trips or even many one-night cruises, so if you want more solitude, pick an itinerary that includes Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long.
6. Itinerary: What’s included?
Most Halong Bay cruises follow a fairly similar itinerary, with a mix of scenic cruising and guided activities. Here are some common experiences you’ll find:
- Kayaking or bamboo boat rides
- Visiting caves
- Cooking class
- Tai Chi on the sundeck
- Squid fishing
- Trekking or cycling on Cat Ba Island
- Visiting floating villages or beaches
Naturally, the longer your cruise, the more activities you’ll get to try. But even with just one or two nights, you’ll likely have a packed schedule. Just keep in mind that most cruises include similar stops, so don’t stress too much about the itinerary unless you’re after something really specific.
Before booking, always check the cruise itinerary online to see what’s included. This helps manage expectations and ensures you don’t miss out on places you’re hoping to visit.
Food is usually included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), but drinks—especially alcoholic ones—often aren’t. Our cruise had plenty of snacks in between meals and some really tasty cocktails during happy hour.
Where to book your Halong Bay Cruise
When it comes to booking your Halong Bay cruise, you have two main options. You can either arrange it in person through a local travel agency (usually in Hanoi), or book it online in advance.
Booking in person with a travel agency
Booking through a tour agency in Hanoi might sound appealing if you’re traveling without fixed plans and don’t mind spending time haggling. The typical strategy is to start with one agency, get a price, and then move on to a few others to compare and negotiate. The upside is that prices aren’t fixed, so you might score a great deal, especially if you’re good at bargaining. Agencies often include extras like hotel pick-up and drop-off in Hanoi, and you can ask any questions on the spot.
But to be honest, this method is getting trickier. We found that it’s not so easy to haggle in Vietnam anymore, and in the end, the price difference often isn’t worth the time and effort. Plus, during high season, you run the risk of tours being fully booked. You’re also limited to the cruise companies that the agency happens to work with, which might not be the best match for what you’re looking for.
Booking online
That’s why we recommend booking your Halong Bay cruise online. It’s much more convenient—you can compare tons of cruise options in one place, check real reviews, and get a clear idea of what you’re signing up for. No running around Hanoi, no guesswork, and no stressful negotiations. Just a simple, straightforward booking.
Also, keep in mind that cruises can sell out quickly, especially in the busy seasons. If you already have your eye on a specific cruise, make sure to book early to avoid missing out. We started looking about a month ahead, and even then, a lot of options were already gone.
Here are some trusted websites we recommend for booking your Halong Bay cruise:
- Booking.com – Great for reading real traveler reviews and seeing photos
- Get Your Guide – Easy to use and often includes extras like transfers
- Viator – Another solid option with verified experiences
If you’re interested in the same cruise we went on, look up Dora Cruise on Booking.com. It’s a solid mid-range option and we truly had a great experience. The room was super spacious, the food exceeded our expectations, the staff was friendly and helpful, and we had so much fun during the trip.
Our biggest tip? Book ahead! Especially if you’re set on a specific cruise. These tours fill up fast during peak season, and waiting too long might mean missing out on your top choice.
Top-Rated Halong Bay Cruises
With so many cruise operators offering trips around Halong Bay, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
We’ve broken down some of the best and most popular Halong Bay cruises by trip length and budget. Whether you’re just looking for a day trip or planning to splurge on a luxury getaway, this list will help you find the perfect match.
The great thing about booking one of these cruises online in advance is that it takes the stress out of planning. You can check honest reviews, compare prices, and lock in your spot before even landing in Vietnam.
Best Day Cruise
Full-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise with Titop Island & Luon Cave (by Cozy Bay)
If you only have one day to explore Halong Bay, this full-day cruise with Cozy Bay is a fantastic option. It’s packed with highlights, including a visit to the stunning Sung Sot Cave, time to swim at Titop Island, and kayaking around Luon Cave. Transfers from Hanoi are included, and lunch is served on board. Cozy Bay’s full-day tours are perfect for travelers short on time who still want to experience the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Budget Cruise (2 Days / 1 Night)
On a tighter budget but still dreaming of an overnight Halong Bay experience? Sunlight Cruise is a great pick. It’s a bit more social, with music and karaoke in the evening, making it ideal for meeting fellow travelers. The staff gets high praise for being friendly and attentive, and the activities—like kayaking, cycling, and bamboo boat rides—are a real bonus. The boat and rooms are clean and well-maintained, offering excellent value for money for a budget-friendly Halong Bay cruise.
Best Mid-Range Cruise (2 Days / 1 Night)
Mon Cheri Cruises hit the sweet spot between comfort and cost. Rooms are spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies, giving you front-row views of the limestone karsts. The two-day cruise with Mon Cheri takes you through Halong Bay and includes a stop at Cat Ba Island for cave exploring. You’ll enjoy fine dining, kayaking, swimming, squid fishing, and even cooking classes. It’s perfect for couples or travelers wanting more comfort without breaking the bank.
Best Mid-Range Cruise (3 Days / 2 Nights)
Dora Cruise (Our Personal Pick)
If you’re looking for a longer, more relaxing escape, we can personally recommend Dora Cruise—it made our Halong Bay experience unforgettable.
The food was a highlight, with buffet meals that changed daily and plenty of snacks like fruit platters and mini appetizers during happy hour (which, by the way, was 2-for-1!). Our room was surprisingly spacious, with massive windows, a private balcony, and even a bathroom view of the bay. The boat itself felt peaceful and never crowded—there are only about 20 cabins on board. We loved spending time on the sundeck, soaking in the views, and even enjoyed the jacuzzi.
The activities were well-organized but optional, so we could relax when we wanted or join in for kayaking and cave visits. Evenings were quiet—just squid fishing and some drinks under the stars, which was exactly what we were looking for. So if you’re after a calm, romantic, and scenic getaway, Dora Cruise might be your perfect fit. Just note, it’s not a party boat.
Alternative Mid-Range Option
Another fantastic mid-range cruise with a similar vibe to Dora. Halong Athena also has spacious rooms with big windows, private balconies, and elegant interiors. The decor has a charming, old-world luxury feel, and the sundeck is just as stunning—with a jacuzzi as its centerpiece. Like Dora, Halong Athena is a smaller cruise with only 20 cabins, which makes for a more intimate experience. It’s a great option for couples looking for romance and relaxation, without the chaos of a bigger boat.
Best Luxury Cruises in Halong Bay
If you’re ready to splurge, these two are among the most luxurious cruises in Halong Bay—and they definitely live up to the hype.
Stellar of the Seas is modern and stylish, with sleek cabins, spacious balconies, and top-tier amenities like a swimming pool with a view, sun terraces, a fitness room, and even a mini golf course. Reviewers often rave about the attentive service and delicious food. Activities include everything from kayaking to visiting floating villages, and there are wellness packages available for those wanting a more indulgent experience.
Paradise Elegance is just as impressive, offering a classic luxury vibe with five-star service. Each suite features tasteful interiors, panoramic windows, and a private balcony—some rooms even include butler service. The dining experience is next-level, with fine cuisine curated by top chefs. This cruise is all about elegance, relaxation, and soaking up the surreal beauty of Halong Bay in style.
Interesting things to know upfront
Before you hop aboard your Halong Bay cruise, there are a few interesting & helpful things to know upfront. These tips can help you prepare better and set the right expectations for your trip—especially if it’s your first time cruising in Vietnam.
1. The cruise ship barely moves – Our main boat only sailed for about two hours. Most of the time it stayed anchored in the Tra Bau area, and we took a smaller boat for all the excursions like kayaking or village visits.
2. Alcohol isn’t included- Drinks – even water often—usually cost extra. Most cruises only offer one free bottle per day and drinks during meals. Happy hours (like 2-for-1 cocktails) help, and we found the drinks on Dora Cruise to be both tasty and fairly priced. We personally found that our cruises provided plenty of drinks throughout the excursions as well, so this might depend from cruise to cruise.
3. There are small boats with vendors – Vendors sometimes approach your balcony selling snacks or alcohol. We didn’t buy anything, but overheard our neighbours buying overpriced wine, so don’t expect these things to be cheap!
4. Expect to see other boats – You won’t be alone out there. While Tra Bau was fairly calm, Halong Bay is popular. The further you go (like to Lan Ha Bay), the fewer boats you’ll see.
5. Some areas are polluted – We saw floating trash on the way back, especially near the busy routes. Most of the bay was clean, but it’s something to be aware of.
6. Prices go up in summer and weekends – Cruises are more expensive during the Vietnamese summer holidays and weekends. Book early if you’re going in peak season.
7. Book early, especially in autumn – Autumn is the best time to cruise—cool weather, clear skies—and the good boats fill up fast. Don’t leave it to the last minute.
8. Your boat name might change – We booked with Dora Cruises, but boarded the M’Gloria. Same company, same ship style. It’s common in Vietnam, so don’t worry if the name doesn’t match exactly.
Best Time to Cruise Halong Bay
Halong Bay has two main seasons: hot and humid summer, and cooler, drier winter. The best time to cruise is during spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November), when the weather is mild, skies are clear, and rain is minimal—perfect for kayaking, swimming, and sightseeing.
Tip: If you’re planning a full Vietnam itinerary, spring and autumn are also the best months to travel across the country.
Spring (March–May)
Mild and pleasant (18–30°C). Great for outdoor activities. Some misty days may affect views.
Summer (June–August)
Hot and rainy (above 30°C), with potential typhoons and cruise cancellations. However, it’s less crowded and cruise deals are easier to find. Good for swimming.
Autumn (September–November)
Ideal weather (25–30°C) with clear skies and light breezes. Peak season—expect higher prices and early sellouts.
Winter (December–February)
Cool and dry (15–20°C). Mist adds a moody charm, though it’s not warm for swimming. Still a busy tourist season due to holidays and lower humidity.
How to get to Ha Long Bay?
Halong Bay is in northern Vietnam, about 2.5 to 3 hours east of Hanoi. Depending on where you’re coming from, getting there may involve extra transport costs.
If you’re starting in Hanoi, the most common option is to book a shuttle service through your cruise company. Some cruises include transport or offer this service at an extra cost, but not all of them do—so double-check before booking.
If you decide or need to travel to Halong Bay independently, you can easily prebook this stretch from Hanoi or other destinations to Halong Bay in advance. We personally use 12Go.Asia to book most of our transportation in Vietnam and Southeast Asia—it’s reliable and easy to compare options. The stretch from Hanoi to Halong Bay usually costs around $25 USD per person for a round trip in a shared minivan from the Old Quarter. If you’d rather go by taxi, a one-way trip costs around $40 USD for the full vehicle.
There are two main cruise ports in Halong Bay: Halong International Cruise Port (also called Bai Chay or SunWorld Port) & Tuan Chau Port. If your cruise doesn’t include pickup, make sure you know which port to go to. Booking the wrong drop-off point can be an expensive mistake, especially since taxis at the ports charge steep rates. Cruises typically depart around noon, with check-in starting from 11 a.m. That’s when you’ll hand over your luggage before boarding. It’s good to know that many hotels in Hanoi will store your extra bags for free if you’re coming back after the cruise.
What to pack for your Halong Bay Cruise
What you pack depends a bit on the season—cooler months may call for an extra layer—but overall, you won’t need much for a one or two-night cruise. If you’re coming back to Hanoi afterward, check if your hotel can store your luggage so you can just bring the essentials.
Here’s what we recommend packing all year round:
- Light daypack – We used a Deuter, great for excursions.
- Dry bag – Handy for kayaking to keep valuables safe. You can also leave items on the transfer boat. We always bring a small lock for peace of mind.
- Sunscreen – Reef-safe if possible.
- Sunglasses ( his / hers )
- Sunhat or cap
- Beach towel – Most cruises provide towels though
- Swimsuit or swim shorts
- Scarf – Great for a quick cover-up or layering.
- Comfy beach slippers or sandals – We chose Birkenstocks ( his / hers ) for comfort instead of flip-flops, especially if you plan to walk around or hike to the viewpoint.
- Comfortable lightweight sneakers for everyday exploring
- Optional fancier outfit – If you want to dress up a little for dinner or happy hour.
- Extra layer such as Fleece or hoodie for the evening if it cools down
- Lightweight Rain Jacket depending on the season
- Portable charger for electronics – Cabins have outlets, but we always bring one for long days.
- A book / Kindle or e-reader – perfect for relaxing on deck
- Toiletries
What to Expect on a 3-Day, 2-Night Halong Bay Cruise – Our Experience
Now that you know what to look out for when booking your cruise, it’s time to share what it’s actually like on board. Here’s our full 3-day, 2-night Halong Bay cruise itinerary—personal impressions, funny moments, and all.
Day 1 – From the Port to Paradise
Getting to the Marina
If you’re coming from Hanoi or Ninh Binh, you can usually leave the morning of your cruise. Most boats start boarding around noon, and many cruise companies offer direct hotel pick-up for an extra fee.
We, however, were coming from Sapa, so we arrived in Halong City the day before. Spending a night there was… interesting. At the time of our visit, Halong City felt like a ghost town. Giant European-style resorts stood eerily empty, streets were quiet, and the whole place had an abandoned vibe. Even the cafes and restaurants were deserted. Not exactly lively.
The next morning, we grabbed a taxi to the marina and arrived around 11 AM—some of the first ones there. Important tip: each cruise company has its own terminal and pier number, so make sure you know exactly where yours departs from. Once at the correct pier, you check in, drop off your luggage, and wait in a sitting area until everyone else arrives. After that, you board a small transfer boat to reach the cruise.
Transfer to the Cruise
Around 12:30 PM, we hopped on the transfer boat and began our journey into Halong Bay. Already here, the views started getting incredible—limestone karsts rising from the sea in the distance. The closer we got, the more jaw-dropping it became.
Our cruise host introduced the itinerary while we cruised along. His name? Tom Cruise. Yup, apparently that’s a thing. Turns out a lot of hosts go by that stage name.
Boarding the Cruise and Lunch
At around 1:30 PM, we finally stepped onto the main ship. We were greeted with warm smiles and a fresh welcome drink. The crew was amazing from start to finish—friendly, helpful, and genuinely fun to talk to.
Lunch was served shortly after—a sit-down feast with loads of variety. Think seafood soup, mango salad, shrimp spring rolls, grilled chicken, steamed fish, rice, veggies, and fruit. Fresh and super tasty.
Checking Into Our Room
After lunch, we were shown to our room—and wow. Spacious, spotless, and surrounded by windows, including in the bathroom! We had a private balcony too, which was a must-have when picking our cruise. Waking up to ocean views? Priceless.
Free Time and Kayaking
The rest of the afternoon was yours to fill. You could relax on the sundeck, stay in your room, or borrow a kayak to explore the nearby Tra Bau area—famous as a filming location for Kong: Skull Island. Our boat even had a jacuzzi on deck and plenty of sunbeds.
We decided to just chill on the top deck. Most of the other passengers were on the 2-day, 1-night cruise, so they were off on an excursion—leaving us with the whole deck nearly to ourselves. It was so peaceful. March seemed to be a quiet season too—very few boats around.
Sunset, Snacks, and Happy Hour
In the late afternoon, we gathered on deck for sunset snacks—fruit platters, cake, and happy hour (hello, 2-for-1 cocktails!). Drinks were tasty and surprisingly affordable.
Honestly, you don’t need to pack extra snacks. There’s so much food throughout the day that you’ll never go hungry. And if you’re really craving something random, there are even little rowboats cruising by selling overpriced snacks and drinks.
The “Cooking Class”
Next up was the so-called cooking class. Spoiler alert: it was just spring roll assembly. All ingredients were prepped—you simply rolled them up. It’s a fun, light activity, but don’t expect to learn actual Vietnamese cooking. We’ve read this is the same on pretty much every Halong Bay cruise.
Dinner and Evening Vibes
Dinner was a buffet with loads of variety—salads, rice and noodle dishes, meats, seafood. We’d read some mixed reviews about cruise food, but ours was really good.
Afterward, there was optional evening entertainment: karaoke, squid fishing, jacuzzi time, or just hanging out at the bar. We tried squid fishing for a laugh (no luck catching anything), but the real fun was bonding with other travelers. We met a couple from England that night and ended up traveling alongside them throughout other parts of our Vietnam itinerary.
This cruise wasn’t a party boat, and that’s exactly what we were looking for. The vibe was perfect for couples and chill travelers—romantic, relaxed, and full of stargazing moments.
Day 2 – A Day Most People Miss
Tai Chi and Sunrise
We woke up early to join the sunrise Tai Chi session on deck. Peaceful, breezy, and a great way to start the day. Breakfast followed—a buffet with everything from eggs and sausages to croissants, yogurt, and tropical fruit like dragon fruit, passion fruit, and mango.
Why We Were Glad We Chose the 3-Day Halong Bay Cruise
Most guests left after breakfast—those on the 2-day, 1-night itinerary. That meant only a handful of us stayed onboard for the second full day. Just us and one other couple!
Visiting Viet Hai Village
At 8:30 AM, we got on the transfer boat again to head to Viet Hai fishing village. The ride alone was stunning, and the village itself felt like stepping onto the Jurassic Park set—mountains, jungle, and total quiet.
We explored by bike, rode past farms, tried local snake wine (weird), and Moritz befriended a cat. We also tried the classic fish foot spa, which tickled like crazy at first but turned out to be fun.
Lunch and More Exploring
Back on the boat, we were treated to another fantastic lunch—papaya salad, braised pork ribs, steamed fish, seafood galore.
Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay
In the afternoon, we kayaked around a floating village. From the water level, the limestone cliffs looked even more dramatic. We had time to paddle freely, explore hidden corners, and really soak it all in.
We also visited the Ba Trai Dao area for swimming and jumping off the boat—one of our favorite moments of the trip.
Happy Hour, Again
At 5 PM, we rejoined the main cruise ship. A new group of guests had arrived (doing their own 2-day cruise), so the evening followed the same rhythm as the first night—happy hour, snacks, spring roll class, and another buffet dinner. But the menu was slightly different, which we appreciated.
Day 3 – One Last Cruise Through the Karsts
Cave Visit and Breakfast
We had breakfast at 6:30 AM and then joined a group visit to the Dark and Light Caves. You transfer to smaller bamboo boats that take you through the bright cave (the dark cave was closed during our visit). It was a pretty spot, but very crowded—this activity is offered to all cruise guests regardless of duration, so expect a lot of people.
Wrapping Up the Trip
By 9:45 AM, we were back on the main cruise. Check-out was at 10:30 AM. We left our bags outside the room and enjoyed some final moments on the deck. At 11 AM, we had a buffet-style brunch before catching the transfer boat back to Tuan Chau harbor.
From there, you either hop in a limousine van (often arranged by the cruise company) or make your own way to your next destination. We booked our ride to Ninh Binh via 12Go.Asia and the crew kindly helped us with the logistics and even finding a taxi to our minivan.
Is it Worth it? Final Thoughts on Our Halong Bay Cruise
Booking a 3-day, 2-night Halong Bay cruise was hands down one of the best decisions we made on our Vietnam itinerary. Originally, we considered just one night, but after reading how rushed that felt for many travelers, we changed our plans. And we’re so glad we did.
It gave us time to slow down and take in the beauty of Halong Bay without feeling rushed. The second day especially made it worth it. Getting away from the busy day cruise routes and heading deeper into Lan Ha Bay showed us just how peaceful and untouched this place can feel. Kayaking in that hidden lagoon with no one else around was one of the highlights of our Vietnam trip.
Yes, it was a bit of a splurge. But if you’re going to treat yourself somewhere in Vietnam, we’d say Halong Bay is a great place to do it. And for what we got—great food, a stylish room with a private balcony, and a solid itinerary that felt relaxed but not boring—it felt like good value.
If you’ve got room in your itinerary and budget, we’d definitely recommend doing a 3-day, 2-night Halong Bay cruise. You’ll get to see more, relax more, and experience the bay in a way that most people don’t.
We chose Dora Cruise and had a great time, but the tips in this post should help you find the right Halong Bay cruise for your own travel style—whether you’re after luxury, something mid-range, or just looking for a peaceful way to experience one of Vietnam’s most iconic places. Yes, most cruises offer similar itineraries, but the difference lies in the service, quality of the ship, and little extras that make the experience unforgettable.
Vietnam Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | For booking boat, bus, and train rides online, we recommend using the website 12go.Asia. This platform has been our go-to across Asia, saving us from the hassle of queuing at travel agencies or bus stations. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider booking tickets ahead, some routes in Laos can get booked out quickly.
ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Vietnam is a breeze with Booking.com. It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Vietnam on Skyscanner. We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Vietnam, consider Heymondo. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
STAY CONNECTED | Secure reliable internet access for your Vietnam trip with Airalo. Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only).
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Laos, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com.
ONLINE PRIVACY | Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
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