Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with nearly 2,000 limestone islands rising from emerald green water. A Ha Long Bay cruise day trip is the most popular way to see it without committing to an overnight stay. This luxury cruise covers the famous caves, islands, kayaking, swimming, and a full seafood lunch on board, all in 6 to 7 hours on the water.
Ha Long Bay Tour Details and Price (2026)
Ha Long Bay Luxury Cruise Day Tour (All Inclusive)
- From $59 per person (discounted rates for children)
- 6 to 7 hours on the water
- Luxury cruise ship with jacuzzi, shower facilities, and towels
- English-speaking guide on board
- All entrance and sightseeing fees included
- Kayaking or bamboo boat ride through Luon Cave included
- Buffet lunch (or set menu if fewer than 35 guests)
- Welcome drink and cold towels
- Insurance on board
- Perfect 5.0 stars from 1,870+ reviews, 100% recommendation
Optional transfer from Hanoi: $25 per person round trip (2 to 2.5 hours each way via expressway). If you’re staying in Hanoi, this is the easiest option. Provide your WhatsApp number after booking and the operator arranges pickup from your hotel in the Old Quarter.
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What Your Day Looks Like
If transferring from Hanoi: pickup at 6:30 to 7:00 AM from your hotel in the Old Quarter. 2 to 2.5 hour drive to Tuan Chau Marina.
Board the cruise (10:00 AM). Welcome drink and cold towel as you board. The ship is modern with a sun deck, jacuzzi, dining area, and showers.
Sung Sot Cave / Surprising Cave (1 hour). Hike to the largest and most impressive cave in Ha Long Bay. Massive chambers filled with stalagmites and stalactites, naturally lit in places. Your guide explains the geological history.
Lunch on board. Full seafood buffet or set menu served while cruising through the bay. Beautifully presented. One reviewer described it as “high level.” Drinks are available for purchase separately.
Luon Cave kayaking (45 min). Paddle through a cave opening into a hidden lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. This is the most popular activity on the cruise. Bamboo boat available as an alternative if you prefer not to kayak.
Ti Top Island (30+ min). Sandy beach for swimming, or hike the steps to the viewpoint at the top for a panoramic view of the entire bay. The climb is steep but the view is worth it.
Sunset party. On the return cruise, relax on the sun deck or in the jacuzzi as the bay glows in late afternoon light.
Return to port around 4:30 to 5:00 PM. If transferring to Hanoi, arrival back at your hotel approximately 7:30 to 8:00 PM.
Before You Book
- Budget for extras. The cruise price covers the cruise, lunch, kayaking, and entrance fees. Drinks on board, speed boat side trips, and the Hanoi transfer ($25) are extra. One reviewer recommends budgeting “double the tour cost for all the extras.”
- Long day from Hanoi. With the 2 to 2.5 hour transfer each way, the total day runs 12 to 13 hours. Worth it, but plan accordingly.
- Tourist shop stop. The Hanoi transfer includes a stop at a tourist shop on the way. This adds time to the journey.
- Cruise ship may change. The operator runs multiple ships of the same model. You may be assigned a different ship than originally booked, but the experience and itinerary remain the same.
- Jacuzzi and showers on board. Towels provided. A welcome luxury after swimming and kayaking.
- Wheelchair accessible. The cruise ship can accommodate wheelchairs.
- Cancellation: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book Your Ha Long Bay Cruise
Perfect 5.0 stars from 1,870+ reviews and 100% recommendation. Luxury cruise with caves, kayaking, swimming, buffet lunch, and a jacuzzi. From $59 per person.
👉 Check availability and book your cruise
Prices based on 2026 rates. Hanoi transfer ($25/person) and drinks are not included. Confirm details at checkout.
