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Ha Long Bay 5-Star vs 3-Star Cruises

Ha Long Bay 5-star vs 3-star cruises: Which to choose?

Planning a trip to Ha Long Bay? The next step is choosing your cruise. Do you opt for a 3-star experience or upgrade to a 5-star one? Both cover the bay’s highlights, but the inclusions and comfort levels differ. Read on to see which option is right for you.

What’s the difference between 5-star and 3-star Ha Long Bay cruises?

Routes covered

  • 3-star: Route 1 (Thien Cung & Dau Go caves, heritage islets) or Route 2 (Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Titop Island).
  • 5-star: Only Route 2, covering Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Titop Island.

Food

  • 3-star: Vietnamese buffet or seafood lunch (vegetarian/halal available).
  • 5-star: Vietnamese buffet lunch or an optional Indian set menu, plus sunset snacks.

Amenities

  • 3-star: Air-conditioned seating, sundeck with outdoor seating, dining area, and basic restrooms. Route 2 also includes a sunset party.
  • 5-star: Jacuzzi pool, live music, free Wi-Fi, upgraded dining area, spacious sundeck, and towel service.

Activities

  • 3-star (Route 1): Cave walks (Thien Cung & Dau Go), kayaking/bamboo boat ride, sightseeing islets.
  • 3-star (Route 2): Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave (kayak/boat ride optional, extra fee), swimming & hiking at Titop Island.
  • 5-star (Route 2): Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave (kayak/sampan included), swimming & hiking at Titop Island. Onboard extras include live music and a sunset party

So, which cruise should you choose?

  • If you’re after a budget-friendly way to see Ha Long Bay’s highlights, a 3-star cruise is ideal. Route 1 is best for those who want caves and heritage islets, while Route 2 is suited for first-time visitors who want the classic Ha Long Bay experience without overspending.
  • If you prefer comfort, amenities, and extra services, the Ha Long Bay 5-star cruise is a better fit. It combines the most popular route with added perks like a Jacuzzi, live music, and dining upgrades. 

Frequently asked questions about Ha Long Bay 5-star vs 3-star cruises

What is included in a Ha Long Bay 5-star cruise?

A 5-star cruise includes a Vietnamese buffet, optional Indian set menu, Jacuzzi, live music, kayaking/sampan rides, and visits to Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Titop Island.

What’s the difference between Ha Long Bay 5-star and 3-star cruises?

5-star cruises include added comfort like a Jacuzzi, Wi-Fi, Indian dining options, and entertainment, while 3-star cruises offer simpler facilities at a lower cost.

Which route is better for a Ha Long Bay cruise?
  • Route 1: Thien Cung & Dau Go caves + iconic islets. It’s quieter and more heritage-focused.
  • Route 2: Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Titop Island. It’s the most popular and scenic.
Do 3-star cruises in Ha Long Bay include kayaking?

Yes, kayaking is included on Route 1, usually around Stone Dog Islet, where you can paddle through hidden lagoons and limestone formations. On Route 2, kayaking at Luon Cave is available for a small extra fee.

How long is a Ha Long Bay day cruise?

Both 3-star and 5-star day cruises last around 6–8 hours, covering transfers, sightseeing stops, and onboard meals.

What is the best time to take a Ha Long Bay 5-star cruise?

The best time for a Ha Long Bay 5-star cruise is March to April and late September to November, when the weather is warm and visibility is clearer.

Do Ha Long Bay cruises include hotel transfers from Hanoi?

Yes, both 3-star and 5-star cruises offer round-trip transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter or Tuan Chau, depending on your chosen package.

Halong Bay Cruises
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