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Visiting Ha Long Bay | Everything You Need to Know

How to plan a day trip to Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a vast natural seascape of limestone islands, caves, and calm lagoons best explored on a guided day cruise. Most visitors arrive from Hanoi or Ha Long City and spend the day cruising between key highlights, kayaking, and enjoying onboard meals. Since attractions are spread across the bay, planning transport and cruise type in advance is essential to make the most of a single day.

Must-see places in Ha Long Bay

Surprise Cave (Sung Sot Cave)

One of Ha Long Bay’s largest and most famous caves, featuring vast chambers, towering stalactites, and well-lit walkways that reveal dramatic limestone formations shaped over millions of years.

Titop Island

A popular stop with a small sandy beach for swimming and a short but steep climb to a hilltop viewpoint, rewarding visitors with sweeping panoramic views across Ha Long Bay.

Kayaking lagoons

Sheltered lagoons surrounded by limestone karsts where visitors can kayak through calm waters, glide beneath rocky arches, and enjoy peaceful, close-up views of the bay’s unique formations.

Fighting Cock Islet

An iconic pair of limestone rocks rising from the sea, resembling two roosters facing each other, widely regarded as a symbol of Ha Long Bay and best photographed from passing cruise boats.

Thien Cung Cave

A beautifully decorated limestone cave known for its colorful lighting, intricate stalactites, and spacious interior chambers, often featured on alternative cruise routes departing from different areas of the bay.

Ha Long Bay cruises | Visitor information at a glance

Tour boat sailing in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, with limestone islands in the background.

What are the Ha Long Bay cruise timings?
Cruises typically run between 8am and 7pm, depending on the route and whether transfers from Hanoi are included. Morning and late-morning departures are most common.

Where is Ha Long Bay located?
Ha Long Bay is located in Quang Ninh Province, approximately 170 km (105 miles) east of Hanoi.

What types of Ha Long Bay cruises are available?
Both Route 1 and Route 2 offer full-day cruises. Route 2 includes a 5-star cruise option, which features upgraded amenities like a Jacuzzi pool and the choice of an Indian set menu, if preferred.

How do I get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi?
Most cruise packages include transport. You can travel by shuttle bus, limousine van, or private car. The drive takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the traffic.

Ha Long Bay cruise boarding points

Address: 9 Đường Hạ Long, Bãi Cháy, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

​Find on maps

  • Located in Bai Chay, right in central Ha Long City — ideal for nearby hotels.
  • Main departure point for Route 1 cruises.
  • Features indoor waiting lounges, modern facilities, and easy local access.

Closest landmark: Sun World Ha Long Complex

Address: Tuan Chau Island, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

​Find on maps

  • Situated on Tuan Chau Island, about 10–15 minutes from central Ha Long.
  • Serves both Route 1 and Route 2 cruises, including overnight itineraries.
  • Features a large marina area with visitor services, cafés, and a passenger lounge.

Closest landmark: Tuan Chau Park

How to get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi

Travelers pose by a red tour bus with Ha Long Bay's karst formations in the background.
  • Bus: Several daily departures from My Dinh, Giap Bat, and Nuoc Ngam terminals. Express buses like Kumho and Futa offer AC, Wi-Fi, and reclining seats. The journey takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours and costs around VND 200,000–350,000 (USD 8–14).
  • Car: Driving offers flexibility and speed. The fastest route is via Hanoi–Ha Long Expressway (QL5B and CT06), covering around 150 km in 2.5 hours.
  • Taxi: Taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab offer door-to-door service. Fares range from VND 2,000,000–2,500,000 (approx. USD 80–100), depending on pickup location and traffic.
  • Train: Departs from Yen Vien Station and takes around 6–7 hours. Tickets are VND 100,000–120,000 (USD 4–5), making it budget-friendly. Ha Long Station is near the Bai Chay area.

How to get around in Ha Long Bay

Cruise ship sailing in Ha Long Bay with limestone islands in the background.

Only way to move between attractions in the bay.

  • Time: Route-based
  • Cost: Included in cruise
  • Best for: All visitors
  • Cons: Fixed itineraries
Tourists in a rowboat with a guide exploring Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.

Used for lagoon exploration during stops.

  • Time: 30–45 mins per stop
  • Cost: Included
  • Pros: Quiet, scenic
  • Cons: Weather-dependent

More things to do in Ha Long Bay

Sunset Deck Cruising

As the sun dips behind Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, guests can relax on open sundecks and enjoy golden-hour views, soft sea breezes, and ideal photo moments, especially on premium and luxury cruise vessels.

Floating Fishing Villages

Select cruise routes pass traditional floating fishing villages, offering a glimpse of daily life on the bay, with colorful houses, fish farms, and boats showcasing Ha Long Bay’s long-standing maritime culture.

Onboard Entertainment

Luxury and ultra-luxury cruises often feature live music, DJs, or cultural performances, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere while guests enjoy drinks, socialize, and take in scenic views during the cruise.

Where to eat in Ha Long Bay

Sushi platter being prepared on Ha Long Bay 5-Star Cruise.
  • All cruises include meals, either buffet-style or plated multi-course menus, depending on cruise tier.
  • Menus vary slightly by operator and season.
  • A dedicated Indian set menu is available on 5-star cruises—ask for this option when booking.

Typical dishes include:

  • Starters: Fresh spring rolls, green mango salad, pumpkin soup
  • Mains: Stir-fried squid, grilled chicken, seafood rice, steamed clams
  • Sides: Jasmine rice, noodles, seasonal vegetables
  • Desserts: Tropical fruit, banana cake, caramel flan
  • Drinks: Soft drinks, beer, and wine are available for purchase

Tips from locals

  • Choose early departures to avoid marina queues.
  • Premium cruises feel far less crowded mid-day.
  • Sit on the upper decks for the best views of the limestone.
  • Bring light layers, breezes pick up on the water.
  • Avoid touching cave formations to preserve them.

Frequently asked questions about Ha Long Bay cruises

Wear light, breathable clothes and non-slip shoes. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket if you're visiting during the cooler months.