Halong Bay Cruises: How many days, what to choose, best options
Almost everyone visiting Vietnam for the first time ends up in Halong Bay, and for good reason. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1994 and later named one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the World in 2011, Halong Bay’s breathtaking beauty never fails to impress.
If you’re trying to decide between a 1-day, 2-day, or 3-day cruise, wondering which boat to pick, or when the best time to go is, this guide has you covered. Along with practical tips, I’ll also share my own experience and cruise route to help inspire your trip.
So, let’s get started. Get ready to relax and enjoy the magic of Halong Bay.
Written by Oliver PHUNG (Tour Guide)
Updated on Nov 03, 2025
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Oliver Phung is a cultural tourism specialist, trekking guide, and amateur photographer based in Northern Vietnam, with over seven years of hands-on experience. He has led countless travelers across routes from the Northwest (Moc Chau, Sapa, and more.) to the Northeast (Cao Bang, Ha Giang, etc.) and frequently shares his insights on Reddit’s travel communities.
Drawing from his fieldwork on hundreds of tours, Oliver offers an authentic, in-depth perspective on Vietnam’s mountain cultures.
Located in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is about 173 km (around 107 miles) from Hanoi, which usually takes about three hours by car, depending on traffic.
There are a few ways to get there, but the most popular options are by bus or limousine service. Your choice of transportation mostly depends on how you booked your cruise.
If you reserved your cruise through a travel agency, there’s no need to worry about getting there. They’ll arrange a comfortable shared transfer, picking you up either at a central meeting point or, in some cases, right from your hotel in Hanoi.
If you booked directly with a cruise company, you may need to organize your own transportation. However, many cruise lines also offer pickup from fixed locations in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, such as the Opera House Square.
2. Best time to visit Halong Bay
You can visit Halong Bay year-round, but the best time for a cruise is from March to May or September to November. Here’s what you can expect in each season:
From March to May
This is one of the most pleasant times to visit Halong Bay. Starting in late March, the weather becomes warm and comfortable, not too hot and not too cold. Temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. The sky is usually clear, offering perfect conditions for photography and sightseeing.
June to July
These months bring the full heat of summer along with occasional heavy rains. Storms can occur during this period, so it is best to stay flexible with your travel plans. On the other hand, it is a good time for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking near the shore.
From September to November
As the rainy season ends, temperatures drop to around 26°C (79°F), creating very comfortable conditions for outdoor adventures. The weather is calm, the skies are clear, and it is an excellent time for cruising. This is also the peak tourist season, so booking your cruise in advance is recommended. October is often considered the best month to visit Halong Bay.
From November to February
This is the driest period of the year, very popular among international visitors. The days are sunny and cool, and there is little chance of rain. You can enjoy all kinds of seaside activities, but the evenings can get chilly, so bring a light jacket to stay warm and comfortable.
3. Ha Long, Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha: Which bay should you choose for a cruise?
Almost every traveler passing through Vietnam has already been to Halong Bay or dreams of visiting it. In fact, the UNESCO World Heritage area commonly known as Halong Bay actually includes three neighboring bays: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay.
Here is a simple guide to the differences between these three bays to help you choose the cruise that suits your style best.
Halong Bay is the most famous and accessible of the three. Known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters, it has long been a symbol of Vietnam’s natural beauty. Over the years, the area has evolved to offer a wide range of comfortable and luxurious cruise experiences while keeping its charm intact.
Rooster Islet, the symbol of Halong Bay
Located about 180 km (112 miles) from Hanoi, it is also the most convenient option for most travelers. Cruises here often include classic attractions such as Titop Island and Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave. The only downside is that it can get crowded, especially during peak season, as it is the most visited part of the bay.
Bai Tu Long Bay
Situated to the east of Halong Bay near Cam Pha Town, Bai Tu Long Bay remains largely untouched by mass tourism. It is peaceful, quiet, and ideal for those who prefer a more relaxing and authentic experience.
Bai Tu Long Bay is near Cam Pha Town
Cruises in this area often visit hidden gems such as Cam Island, Cap La Island, Bai Tu Long National Park, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Thien Canh Son Cave, and Tra Gioi Beach. Exploring the lesser-known caves and floating villages here offers a unique glimpse into the local way of life.
If you value tranquility and natural scenery over crowds and nightlife, Bai Tu Long Bay is a perfect choice.
Located to the south of Halong Bay and near Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is known for its peaceful atmosphere and lush green islets. Its landscape is similar to Ha Long’s but smaller in scale and quieter.
Lan Ha Bay is near Cat Ba Island
Lan Ha is ideal for adventure lovers. Here you can enjoy kayaking, swimming, biking through local villages, rock climbing, and even diving. With fewer boats and more chances to explore nature up close, Lan Ha Bay offers a perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor fun.
Day cruises usually last about four hours and give you a full day to explore Halong Bay. They often include visits to well-known attractions such as Trong Mai Island, Dinh Huong Island, and Thien Cung Cave, along with swimming and kayaking.
The quickest way to experience Halong Bay is by taking a day trip from Hanoi. Most tours include hotel pickup, a midday cruise with a Vietnamese lunch on board, and a return to Hanoi by late afternoon.
Advantages: Best for travelers short on time or on a budget. You’ll still get a glimpse of the bay’s famous scenery without needing to stay overnight.
Disadvantages: The visit is brief, so you won’t experience the peaceful night atmosphere of the bay or activities that take place after dark.
Tourists can kayak in Luon Cave in Halong Bay
2-Day, 1-Night Halong Bay Cruise
This is the most popular option among travelers. You’ll spend one night aboard a cruise ship in the middle of the bay, giving you more time to relax and enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, and visiting islands and caves.
Advantages: Perfect for travelers who want more time to explore and take in the limestone mountains and tranquil waters. You’ll truly experience the charm of Halong Bay beyond what a day trip offers.
Disadvantages: With so much to see, two days may still feel short. You might wish you had more time to take in the different perspectives of the bay.
3-Day, 2-Night Halong Bay Cruise
This is the most complete and relaxing experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the bay’s beauty over three days. You’ll have plenty of time for sightseeing, water activities, and quiet moments to enjoy the stunning landscape from sunrise to nightfall.
Advantages: Offers the most rewarding experience with more comfort and time to enjoy every detail of Halong Bay.
Disadvantages: Longer cruises are more expensive, so if you’re traveling on a budget, the 2-day, 1-night cruise offers a great balance between cost and experience.
You can experience a boat ride through unique caves in Halong Bay
5. Top Halong Bay Cruises for 2025 - 2026
If you’re planning a trip to Halong Bay, here are some cruises that travelers consistently love. These recommendations are based on guest reviews, quality of service, and overall experience. Whether you’re looking for an affordable adventure or a luxury getaway, you’ll find something that suits your travel style. These cruises are compiled based on my personal experience and additional research from the popular travel site Tripadvisor.
3-Star Cruises (Affordable and Comfortable)
Perfect for travelers who want a great experience without overspending. These cruises offer cozy cabins, good food, and friendly crews.
Renea Cruise (🟢4.9 (2.520 reviews): Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay -
Keep in mind that cruise prices depend on several factors, including the quality of service and facilities (3-, 4-, or 5-star), the type of cruise (private with 1–2 cabins or shared with more than 20 cabins), and the length of the trip (2 days and 1 night or 3 days and 2 nights).
In general, you can expect the following price ranges:
3-star cruises: around $160 USD
4-star cruises: around $180 USD
5-star (luxury) cruises: around $270 USD
Note: These prices are for reference only and may vary depending on the itinerary, season, and time of booking.
Halong cruise prices vary depending on the quality, itinerary, and duration
7. Where to book Your Halong Bay cruise?
Cruising has become one of the most popular activities for visitors to Vietnam. However, without the right information, planning your trip can feel overwhelming. To make things easier, here are some reliable ways to book your Halong Bay cruise:
1. Through official cruise websites
Booking directly through the cruise’s official website lets you see detailed information and choose the option that best fits your needs. Just be sure to check that the site is legitimate, as a few fake pages can look very similar to the real ones.
2. Through intermediary platforms
Third-party booking sites can be very helpful if you want to compare prices and packages. They usually provide customer reviews and support, making it easier to find a cruise that matches your travel plans.
3. Through travel agencies
If you prefer a hassle-free option, booking with a trusted travel agency is the safest choice. They handle everything for you, including transfers and scheduling, so you can simply relax and enjoy your trip.
My Unique Experience with the Bhaya Cruise Private Cruise
As someone born and raised in northern Vietnam, I have been to Halong Bay many times with family and friends, probably around five. But my most recent trip was completely different. This time, I joined a two-day, one-night private cruise with Bhaya Legend, a beautiful wooden boat with only three cabins.
Large cruise ships with dozens of rooms often feel crowded to me. The Bhaya Legend, however, was small, cozy, and peaceful. It felt like we were sharing the entire bay with just a few travelers and the three crew members. The quiet setting created a personal and relaxing atmosphere that I had never experienced before.
Now, I want to share the highlights of this memorable journey.
Day 1: Embarkation and Overnight on Board
Our trip started one morning in June. Most cruises begin boarding around 12:00 to 12:30 p.m., so we left Hanoi at 7:00 a.m. and arrived at the Bhaya Cruise Center at 9:15 a.m. by private limousine. The lounge is located about 1.5 kilometers from the entrance of Tuan Chau Port.
The staff welcomed us warmly with tea, coffee, and pastries while we waited for boarding time. There was also a private waiting room on the second floor for guests with premium cabins.
The 3-4 Cabin Private Cruise - Bhaya Legend
At 12:30 p.m., we boarded the Bhaya Legend and began our two-day, one-night journey. Our cabin had a balcony and offered all the comfort we needed.
Lunch was served shortly after we set sail. It was both delicious and beautifully prepared, including salad, fried squid, bread with pumpkin sauce, chicken with mushrooms, and several other dishes. After lunch, we took a short nap and then went kayaking near the pearl area. The air was fresh, the water was calm, and it was amazing to see the limestone formations up close.
The romantic beauty of Halong Bay at sunset
In the evening, we joined a spring roll-making class with other travelers, followed by a delicious dinner with mushroom soup, smoked duck breast, steamed shrimp, sea bass, and Ha Long yogurt for dessert. Every dish was flavorful and beautifully presented.
After dinner, we tried squid fishing and spent some time chatting with the crew and other guests before heading to bed. The first day ended quietly, with the sound of waves under the night sky.
We go squid fishing at night
Day 2: Titop Island and Farewell
We woke up early at 6:00 a.m. and practiced tai chi on the deck as the sun rose. It was the perfect way to start the morning surrounded by nature.
At 9:00 a.m., breakfast was served, featuring pho with squid, tofu, and fish balls, along with bread, buns, sandwiches, and smoked meats. It was a generous and satisfying meal.
Tai Chi practiced on a morning cruise
Later, the cruise took us to Titop Island, where we climbed to the viewpoint and admired the panoramic view of Halong Bay. After taking photos, we went for a swim before returning to the boat.
At 10:20 a.m., the Bhaya Legend docked back at the Bhaya Cruise Center. We left a small tip for the crew as a thank-you for their excellent service, especially Mr. Quốc Huy, the group leader, who spoke fluent English and was incredibly kind to all the passengers.
Our car was ready to take us back to Hanoi, marking the end of a peaceful and unforgettable journey through Halong Bay.
Titop Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Halong Bay. Photo: internet
Notes for your Halong Bay cruise
It should be noted that most cruises in Ha Long use English as their primary language.
There won't be stable Wi-Fi on the cruise. You might complain about this, but you know, Halong Bay is vast. The further you get from the coast, the harder it is to find a stable signal.
Don't forget to wake up early to watch the sunrise on board.
Your itinerary can include a visit to some caves, if you suggest it to the place where you booked the service before booking.
Halong Bay has a beauty that’s hard to put into words. You can walk through its mysterious caves, take a small boat to hidden islands, ride a bike through fishing villages, or join a simple cooking class with local people. Try some freshly caught seafood, listen to the sounds of the bay, and just slow down for a while.
Moments like these stay in your memory. They help you see Vietnam not only for its scenery but also for its gentle rhythm of life. So, what are you waiting for?
Come and experience a Halong Bay cruise for yourself.
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