How to Choose a Halong Bay Cruise with Best Itinerary

Planning a trip to Halong Bay can feel overwhelming with so many ships and itineraries available. This guide from Vietpower Travel on how to choose a Halong Bay cruise will help you compare routes, activities, budgets, and facilities so you find the right match. From luxury experiences with wellness spas to eco-tours and family-friendly options, we cover all the essentials.

1. Key Factors in Choosing a Halong Bay Cruise

Decide the Duration – Day Trip vs Overnight Cruises

The first choice you need to make is whether to go for a day trip or stay overnight.

• Day trip (6–8 hours): Ideal for travelers with a limited schedule or those who want to save on costs. You’ll still enjoy highlights such as kayaking, cave visits, and stunning bay views during daylight.
• Overnight cruise (2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights): Offers a more complete journey. You’ll witness sunset and sunrise on the bay and join more activities like cooking classes or Tai Chi at dawn. Many premium boats even feature an astronomy or stargazing deck, giving you a magical opportunity to admire the night sky in the middle of the bay.

Select the Bay Area – Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, or Bai Tu Long

Halong Bay is actually divided into three main areas:

• Halong Bay: The classic UNESCO site, famous but often crowded.
• Lan Ha Bay: Quieter, with calm waters and access to Cat Ba Island – great for kayaking.
• Bai Tu Long Bay: The most tranquil, home to remote fishing villages and unspoiled scenery.

Some cruises in Lan Ha and Bai Tu Long even offer archaeology and kayak eco-tours, combining paddling with guided stories about ancient sites and natural heritage. This gives travelers a chance to experience both adventure and cultural discovery.

Define Your Budget – Luxury, Mid-Range, or Budget Cruise

Prices vary depending on the type of cruise:

• Budget cruises: around $100–120 per person (≈ 2,400,000–2,800,000 VND). Basic yet enjoyable.
• Mid-range cruises: around $130–160 per person (≈ 3,000,000–3,800,000 VND). Usually modern ships with private balconies.
• Luxury cruises: $170+ per person (≈ 4,000,000+ VND). Spacious suites, wellness facilities, fine dining, and top-tier service.

Many high-end operators now run carbon offset programs, so your trip contributes to environmental protection. This appeals to eco-conscious travelers who want their journey to align with sustainable tourism.

Pick the Right Activities

Each cruise highlights different experiences. Common inclusions are:

• Kayaking among limestone cliffs.
• Cave visits to Sung Sot or Thien Cung.
• Cooking classes to learn Vietnamese dishes.
• Tai Chi at sunrise.
• Night squid fishing.

To add more cultural depth, some cruises also host onboard cultural workshops such as traditional crafts or music performances. These sessions let you engage with Vietnam’s heritage while sailing through the bay.

Cruise Tour Suggestions:

• Romantic Halong Bay Honeymoon with Heritage Line Ginger
• La Muse Cruise Itinerary & Highlights for First-Time Travelers

Check Facilities and Cabins

Modern cruises function like floating boutique hotels. When booking, consider:

• Balcony cabins or suites for panoramic views.
• Amenities like swimming pools, Jacuzzis, and fine-dining restaurants.
• Safe options for families with kids, such as mid-ship or lower-deck cabins.

Special features you might look for:

• Onboard wellness and spa services for massages and relaxation with a sea view.
• Pet-friendly cabins so you can bring your furry friend along.
• Digital detox packages encourage guests to disconnect from screens and enjoy nature to the fullest.

When searching for the right cruise in Halong Bay Vietnam, balancing your budget, activities, and facilities will help you create a memorable and stress-free journey.

2. Where & How to Book Safely

Booking a Halong Bay cruise should be simple and secure, but with so many choices, it helps to know where you can place your trust. Here are the three main options:

Through Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Websites such as Booking.com, Agoda, or GetYourGuide provide a wide range of choices and frequent discounts. They are convenient for quick comparisons, and you can read reviews from past travelers. However, availability shown online can sometimes be inaccurate, and customer support may take time to respond if issues arise.

Direct with Cruise Operators

Booking directly with a cruise company means you receive first-hand information about cabins, meals, and activities. This option works well if you already know which cruise line you want. Still, it can take extra time to verify details and communicate with the operator, especially if language is a barrier.

 With a Licensed Local Agency – Vietpower Travel

Vietpower Travel – Licensed Local Agency: The safest choice. With the official license 01-711/TCDL-GPLHQT, secure payment, and 24/7 hotline, Vietpower also offers flexible private charter options for families and groups.

For a smooth and safe cruise in Halong Bay Vietnam, Vietpower Travel is your trusted partner.

Contact Vietpower Travel

• Hotline (24/7): (+84) 936 336 389
• Email: sales@vietpowertravel.com
• WhatsApp/Line/Viber: (+84) 947 522 266
• Head Office: Tuan Hanh Building, 82 Lane 116 Nhan Hoa, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi

3. Top Recommended Halong Bay Cruises 2025 

4. Conclusion

Choosing the right cruise is the key to experiencing Halong Bay at its best. By looking at duration, bay area, activities, and onboard amenities, you can select a trip that fits your style and budget. Whether it’s a luxury spa cruise, a cultural workshop, or an eco-friendly option, the right choice ensures lasting memories. For trusted booking and tailored service, rely on Vietpower Travel to design your perfect Halong Bay itinerary.