Are you a first-time traveler to Halong Bay? Read this and find out your best Halong Bay cruise!

First-time travel to Halong Bay, you must feel overwhelmed by the endless cruise options. From day cruise, overnight cruise to the cruise style and itinerary, it can be daunting to figure out which is the perfect fit. But do not worry, in this guide, we will give you all information we have collected of the top Halong Bay cruises! 

Why go on a cruise in Halong Bay

A trip of a lifetime, northern Vietnam’s number one tourism hub – Halong Bay is globally famous ever since its World Heritage Site designation in 1994. Located in Gulf of Tonkin in northeastern Vietnam, the legendary bay is around 3-hour driving from Hanoi and perfect for a day trip, or a slow-down relaxed 1-night or 2-night Cruise trip.

There are three reasons why you should do a cruise trip in Halong. One, these cruises are a complete package with accommodation, meals, transportation and activities floating on one of the most beautiful bay in the world. Second, they allow you to see Halong Bay from where it is truly powerful, from the sea. Last but not least, the cruises navigate to remote areas you would never reach on your own. Hence, it is obvious that most visitors out of the 6 million travelling to Halong per year opt for a cruise tour. 

Halong Bay map (Cre:Halonghub)

If you are short on time, you might only be able to enjoy a day cruise on Halong Bay, but be prepared for a hectic day if you are planning to travel from Hanoi. The best way to see Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise, because it allows you time to enjoy some activities, travel deeper into the quieter areas of the bay, as well as enjoy some down-time.

You can choose from either a 2 day 1 night or 3 day 2 night cruise depending on your time in Vietnam. Although the whole area is mostly known as Halong Bay, there are also newer routes to be explored in other bays which are Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and even the nearby Cat Ba Island. Nevertheless, go on board for majestic and breathtaking views of thousands of islands, wind- and wave-eroded grottoes and caves, all among the emerald waters of Gulf of Tonkin.

Our Halong Bay cruise recommendations

Depending on your budget and preferred cruise style, we come up with the 5 best Halong Bay Cruises that best suit your requirements:

1. Era Cruise

Era Cruises are the ultimate in world-class service and style! You will forget that you are even on a boat aside from the amazing bay views from your private soaking tub. Rooms are huge and elegantly decorated, there is an onboard fitness center and spa, the food is delectable, and you will be well taken care of by the staff.

Category: 5 star
Cruise style: Luxurious artsy concept with contemporary and graceful decoration
Number of cabins: 18
Activities: kayaking, squid fishing, taichi session, cooking class, visiting Viet Hai village etc.
Language on board: English and Vietnamese
Program: Day cruise, 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights. 

Era Cruises disembark from Lan Ha Bay, the 2 to 3-day cruise tours explore the waters and famous attractions of both bays.
 

2. Dynasty Cruise 

“Royal experiences, global services” is Dynasty Cruises’ slogan. They take pride in their cozy restaurant space, a diverse drink menu and an international standard spa system. You will feel and actually be treated like royalty when staying in one of their Dynasty Suite.

Category: 5 star

Cruise style: Luxury boutique cruise designed in European royal style, combining classic elegance and nobility with deep wood furniture

Number of cabins: 22

Activities: Taichi class, visiting Cave by bamboo boat, Vietnamese cooking demonstration, kayaking, swimming, squid fishing

Language on board: English and Vietnamese

Program: 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights

Dynasty Cruises disembark from Tuan Chau Harbor, Halong Bay and visit Sung Sot Cave, Pearl Farm, Dong Tien Lake and many more attractions.

3. Ancora Cruises

Ancora Cruises are where Halong Bay becomes the most memorable and ¬nest luxury experience of your lifetime. If it is your first-time journey, the sweet combination of luxurious world-class cruises and top-notch service quality brings you an unforgettable Halong Bay in a cultural voyage in the UNESCO Heritage Site.

Category: 4 star

Cruise style: Natural wood-paneled cabins in exquisite and elegant design

Number of cabins: 24

Activities: kayaking, swimming, cooking class, bamboo boat etc.
Language on board: English and Vietnamese
Program: 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights

Ancora Cruises disembark from Tuan Chau Harbor, Halong Bay and visit Fighting-Cock and Finger Islet Sung Sot Cave, Titov Island, Luon Cave and other attractions.

4. Bai Tho Junks

Inspired by the classic beauty of ancient junks of Halong Bay, all of Bai Tho boats are designed in respect of traditional features while being equipped with modern amenities and ensuring the safety of passengers. The traditional Vietnamese detailing combined with onboard personalized service will bring to you the traditional, local Vietnamese vibes without skimping on comfort and luxury. Authentic Vietnamese cuisines onboard are also one of the top highlights not to be missed while you are their guest.

Category: 3 star
Cruise style: Wooden junk with traditional Vietnamese detailing
Number of cabins: 9 to 13
Activities: kayaking, sampan, cooking, squid fishing, taichi, sunset cocktail party
Language on board: English and Vietnamese
Program: Day cruise, 2 days 1 night and 3 days 2 nights

For overnight trip, Bai Tho Junks disembark from Halong International Cruise Port and cruise the “off the beaten track” Bai Tu Long Bay. You will be amazed by Thien Canh Son Cave, Cong Do area and Vung Vieng Fishing Village.

Hopefully with our guide, you can choose the best Halong Bay Cruise and have an authentic experience in this natural wonder of the world!

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