‌

Ha Long Bay Cruise Routes | Everything about Route 1 & 2

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most celebrated natural wonders, and choosing the right cruise route can shape your entire experience. The two main sightseeing itineraries — Route 1 and Route 2 — each offer different highlights, durations, and activity levels. Understanding the difference can help you pick the best option for your time, interests, and travel style in Halong Bay kayaking and cruising.

Route 1

Route 1 is a short, focused Halong Bay kayak and sightseeing experience, ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want a taste of the bay’s beauty without committing to a full day. It typically departs from Tuan Chau or Ha Long Port and includes:

  • Kayaking or rowboat rides in the Ba Hang area
  • The Fighting Cock Islet and other scenic limestone formations
  • The Thien Cung (Heavenly) Cave and historic caves
  • A condensed view of classic karst scenery

This route keeps things simple and rewarding, with a lighter activity level perfect for families, older travelers, or those on a tight schedule.

Halong Bay

Route 2

Route 2 is often described as the **more complete Ha Long Bay cruise experience, catering to those who want deeper exploration beyond the basics. It includes:

  • Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most impressive cave in the bay
  • Titop Island, beach time, and a panoramic viewpoint
  • The** Luon Cave,** Halong Bay kayaking or bamboo boat through a peaceful lagoon
  • Chances to swim, climb, and explore at a relaxed pace

With longer time on the water and a wider mix of activities, Route 2 is great for adventurers, photography lovers, and anyone who wants a fuller day or multi-day cruise experience.

Ha Long Bay route map

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

What you’ll see on Route 1

Visitors exploring the illuminated stalactites and rock formations inside Thien Cung Cave, Vietnam.
Colorful lights illuminate stalactites in Dau Go Cave, Halong Bay, Vietnam.
Boats anchored near Stone Dog Islet, surrounded by lush green cliffs in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
Dinh Huong Islet in Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh, Vietnam, with limestone formations.
Fighting Cock Islet rock formations in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
1/5

Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave)

A large, well-lit cave filled with colorful stalactites and stalagmites. Walking through feels like exploring an underground palace.

Dau Go Cave

A historic cave tied to a 13th-century Vietnamese naval victory. Inside are three vast chambers with rock formations and wooden stakes on display.

Stone Dog Islet

A small rock shaped like a dog that is said to guard the bay’s entrance. One of the first landmarks most boats pass.

Dinh Huong Islet (Incense Burner Islet)

An islet that looks like an incense burner, standing in the water. Often used as a symbol of Ha Long Bay.

Fighting Cock Islet (Trong Mai)

Two limestone rocks resembling roosters facing each other. It’s the most photographed islet in the bay and an official emblem of Ha Long Bay.

What you'll see on Route 2

Sung Sot Cave interior with illuminated stalactites and colorful rock formations.
Tourists in a boat exploring Luon Cave, Halong Bay, Vietnam.
Boats near Titop Island in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, with lush greenery and a hilltop pavilion.
1/3

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

The largest and most visited cave in Ha Long Bay. Walk along a guided path through two chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The inner chamber is especially impressive, with high ceilings and dramatic rock formations.

Luon Cave

A cave that leads into a quiet lagoon. You can explore it by kayak or bamboo boat, gliding under limestone cliffs and spotting monkeys and birds along the rocks.

Titop Island

A popular island stop where you can swim on the sandy beach or climb about 400 steps to a viewpoint. The hike is short but steep, and the reward is one of the best views of Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts.

Which Ha Long Bay route should you choose?

Which route is right for you?

Choose Route 1 if you:

  • Have limited time or only a half-day to spare
  • Want a relaxed, scenic cruise with light activities
  • Are traveling with kids or elderly companions

Choose Route 2 if you:

  • Want the full Ha Long Bay experience with more varied stops
  • Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and scenic viewpoints
  • Plan to stay longer or take a full-day Ha Long Bay cruise.

You can also combine elements of both routes to see as much of the bay as possible.

Frequently asked questions about Ha Long Bay cruise routes

Route 1 is quieter and has historic caves with symbolic islets. Route 2 covers the most famous highlights, Sung Sot and Titop. Pick based on whether you prefer iconic landmarks or a less-crowded, scenic experience.