Halong Bay Cruises




































































 Why take a day trip to Ha Long Bay?

A day trip from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular experiences in northern Vietnam, and for good reason. In just a few hours, you travel from the capital’s bustling streets to a dramatic seascape of limestone karsts, caves, and emerald waters.

With guided cruises, logistics are effortless. Transfers, boarding, sightseeing stops, and lunch are all handled for you, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than planning. Even with limited time, a full-day cruise covers Ha Long Bay’s top highlights comfortably.

Hanoi/Ha Long City to Ha Long Bay at a glance

DetailsHanoiHa Long city

Distance

173 km

29km

Travel time (one way)

2.5–3.5 hours

42min

Typical duration

10–12 hours (round trip)

7-8 hours

Best transport

Guided cruise with transfers

Guided cruise with transfers

Ideal for

First-time visitors, short stays

First-time visitors, short stays

How to get to Ha Long Bay

What you’ll see on a Ha Long Bay cruise

Ha Long Bay cruise route map

Ha Long Bay cruise route map highlighting key stops and scenic views in Vietnam.

Route 1 vs Route 2: What’s the difference?

Explore different parts of Ha Long Bay depending on the route you choose. Both are full-day cruises, but each has its own unique stops.

Which Ha Long Bay cruise ticket is ideal for you?

Ticket typeBoat typeDurationInclusionsDining experienceActivitiesIdeal forBook here

Standard

Traditional sightseeing cruise

4 hr. 30 min. - 13 hr

Full-day cruise, bilingual guide, island & cave entry, Vietnamese buffet or seafood lunch, sunset snacks

Vietnamese buffet or premium seafood lunch

Cave exploration, island visits, scenic cruising, kayaking or bamboo boat

First-time visitors, families, couples

₫649,998

Deluxe

Modern multi-story day cruise

6.5–12 hours

Full-day cruise, cave & island entry, expert bilingual guide, fine-dining lunch (Vietnamese & Indian options), Jacuzzi access, sampan boat ride, canapé sunset party

Vietnamese set menu

Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Ti Top Island, kayaking/bamboo boat, sunset tea party

Couples and families wanting comfort

₫877,500

Premium

Refined multi-deck cruise with leisure zones

6 hr 45 min – 13 hr 30 min

Full-day cruise, cave & island entry, English-speaking guide, Vietnamese lunch, kayaking or bamboo boat, sunset tea party

Premium buffet lunch

Sung Sot & Luon Caves, Ti Top Island, kayaking, sunset party with drinks

Sightseeing-focused travelers

₫1,035,938

Luxury

Luxury cruise with Jacuzzi & resort-style design

6 hr 45 min – 13 hr 30 min

Transfer, fine dining buffet, cocktail

Buffet or set lunch (Vietnamese / Indian veg & non-veg)

Cave visits, island swimming or hiking, sun party, relaxed scenic sailing

Couples, small groups, comfort-seekers

₫1,035,938

Ultra-Luxury

Flagship mega cruise with resort-style design

6 hr 30 min – 13 hr

Round-trip transfer (optional), Vietnamese set menu lunch, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, kayaking or bamboo boat, sunset tea party

Gourmet, chef-curated dining with bar service

Multi-island cruising, live entertainment, swimming pool, sunset celebrations

Honeymooners, luxury lovers, special occasions

₫1,337,001

Things to know before booking your Ha Long Bay cruise

  • Pricing: All cruises include a scenic route through Ha Long Bay, cave visits, a local lunch, and an English/Vietnamese-speaking guide. The Standard cruise starts at ₫649,998, perfect for essential sights and activities. Most of the cruises come with luxury perks like a welcome drink, towel service, live music, and Jacuzzi access
  • Choice of cruise: Choose from Standard, Deluxe, Premium, Luxury, or Ultra-Luxury day cruises. Each tier offers a different level of comfort, onboard space, dining quality, and entertainment, allowing you to match the experience to your budget and travel style.

  • Hotel transfers: Hotel transfers are not included in all cruises. Please check your tickets carefully and confirm whether your selected cruise includes hotel transfers.

  • Meals on board: All cruises offer lunch on board. The cruises serve a Vietnamese or seafood lunch, with vegetarian and halal options available on request. The Standard star cruise features a Vietnamese buffet, and guests can opt for an Indian set menu if preferred.

Your Ha Long Bay cruise options

Best time for a Ha Long Bay day trip

  • The best time to cruise Ha Long Bay is during the high season, from June to mid-September and mid-December to late December, when the weather is warm, skies are clear, and waters are calm—perfect for outdoor dining, kayaking, and sunset views. Cruises fill up fast during this period, so booking in advance is recommended
  • The shoulder and low seasons can be quieter with cooler weather and occasional showers, which some travelers enjoy for a more peaceful experience, but swimming and some activities may be limited.

Your visual guide to Ha Long Bay cruises: karsts, cabins & coastal charm

Dragonfly Cruise boat with tourists in Halong Bay, limestone karsts in background.

Scenic sundeck views

Enjoy uninterrupted views of Ha Long Bay’s towering limestone cliffs from your cruise's open-air sundeck.

Emotion Cruise ship on Halong Bay with limestone karsts in the background.
Kayakers explore limestone arch in Halong Bay on Dragonfly Cruise tour.
Woman floating in clear turquoise sea
Ha Long Bay cruise boat on emerald waters with limestone karsts, Vietnam.

Top landmarks to spot on your Ha Long Bay cruise

Frequently asked questions about Ha Long Bay cruises

Pack light, comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes for excursions. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings on the water.