Top 10 Halong Bay Junk Boat Cruises 2024
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9.6Excellent - 242 reviewsDear Miss Mia, I wanted to take a moment to convey my heartfelt appreciation for… KAMLESH G - IndiaLan Ha Bay - Cat Ba IslandBar Cafe & Lounge PoolWhy book?
- Bestselling 4-star junk cruise in Lan Ha Bay 2024/25
- All 20 deluxe cabins with private balconies & bathtubs
- High-quality service as a luxury cruise
- 1 night 2 nights
- Trung Trang Cave, Tra Bau Area, Viet Hai Village
- Group travel, Family with kids, Events & MICE
20 cabins - Metal Boat - Launched in 201827% offGBP£127 /pax -
9.4Excellent - 270 reviewsThank you for all of your assistance. Everything went smoothly, and my family is… Paul C - AustraliaHalong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island
- Hot Winter Sale! »
Cooking Class Jacuzzi Private BalconyWhy book?- One of the best long-lasting boutique luxury cruises to Lan Ha Bay
- Beautiful Sky Bar and jacuzzi pool with pretty views on the sundeck
- All cabins have private balconies & bathtubs in spacious areas (from 36m2)
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Trung Trang Cave, Ao Ech Area, Viet Hai Village, Ba Trai Dao
- Seniors, Couples, Luxury travelers
14 cabins - Metal - Launched in 201622% offGBP£151 /pax -
9.3Excellent - 160 reviewsWe had an amazing tour of Halong Bay and had support from Rosie before we even placed… Willis - United KingdomHalong Bay - Lan Ha BayBar Karaoke LibraryWhy book?
- Best mid-range cruise with high service standard
- Cozy boutique boat with a unique fusion design
- Interesting itinerary through Lan Ha Bay with fun activities
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Dark & Bright Cave, Viet Hai Village, Tra Bau Area
- Couples, Families, Group Travel
16 cabins - Steel - Launched in 201928% offGBP£114 /pax -
9.3Excellent - 63 reviewsThank you for booking the transfer for us. It made the experience so smooth and… Genevieve M - DenmarkHalong Bay - Bai Tu Long BayBar Free Wi-fi JacuzziWhy book?
- Wooden Junk boat with a huge 130m2 Sun Terrace
- Off-the-beaten route in Bai Tu Long Bay
- Broad cabins for families with ensuite Jacuzzi bathtub
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Vung Vieng Village, Cong Dam, Thien Canh Son Cave
- High-end travelers, Families with Kids, Group visitors
16 cabins - Wooden - Launched in 201420% offGBP£123 /pax -
9.4Excellent - 225 reviewsCruise Quality is 9/10 Food & Drink is 9/10 Staff on board &Tour Guide is 9/10 Cabin… Kristi - IndiaHalong Bay - Bai Tu Long BayBar Free Wi-fi JacuzziWhy book?
- Traditional wooden junk boat with only 12 cabins
- Cruising through the off-the-beaten-track Bai Tu Long Bay
- All rooms are equipped with jacuzzi tubs and private balconies/ large windows
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Vung Vieng Village, Cong Dam Area, Thien Canh Son Cave
- Seniors, Singles & Solo
12 cabins - Wooden - Launched in 201322% offGBP£122 /pax -
9.3Excellent - 188 reviewsMy buddies and I spent two days and one night on a boat to Bai Tu Long. This area… Joy M - AustriaBai Tu Long Bay2 Nights without Day Boat BarWhy book?
- The legend of traditional junk in Bai Tu Long Bay
- Best services & interesting activities onboard
- Small boat for peaceful & great experience
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Hon Co Island, Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng
- Small group, Active travelers, Seniors, Budget travelers
10 cabins - Wooden Boat - Launched in 201030% offGBP£124 /pax -
9.2Excellent - 16 reviewsThe cruise is wonderful, and Mr. Peter and Mr. Luke are our favorite tour guides… Ms.Renee C - AustraliaHa Long Bay - Bai Tu LongBarWhy book?
- Classic wooden junk with 4 decks
- Cruising through Bai Tu Long Bay - Untouched path!
- Best value for money - rated by travelers
- 1 night
- Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Village
- Budget travelers, Small group, Couples
22 cabins - Wooden - Launched in 201521% offGBP£97 /pax -
9.4Excellent - 29 reviewsEmeralda was extremely good. Apricot is incredibly tasty. Bai Tu Long was extremely… Mr.LiangTS Primary - SingaporeBai Tu Long Bay2 Nights without Day BoatWhy book?
- A private cruise with 04 cabins explores the hidden charm of Bai Tu Long Bay
- Well-trained and expert crew to give attentive services
- Traditional junk with teak and oak paneling and furniture, all constructed by skilled craftsmen
- 1 night, 1 night, 2 nights
- Thien Canh Son Cave, Hon Co Island, Vung Vieng Villlage, Yen Duc Village
- Senior, Family with Kids, Couples, Luxury travellers
4 cabins - Wooden Boat - Launched in 20083% offGBP£176 /pax -
9.1Excellent - 113 reviewsMs. Anna who helped me arrange everything was very helpful and catered to all my… Thomas - SingaporeHalong BayBar Cooking Class Free Wi-fiWhy book?
- Elegant Vietnamese traditional-style junk boat
- Budget cruise with nice service
- All cabins have large sea-view windows
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Luon Cave, Titop Island, Bright Cave, Ba Trai Dao Area, Pearl Farm, Surprising Cave
- Budget traveler, Solo
14 cabins - Wooden Boat - Launched in 201320% offGBP£96 /pax -
9.1Excellent - 51 reviewsDespite the weather, we were lucky enough to do all the excursions. The service… Kevin T - AustraliaHalong BayBar Cafe & Lounge Free Wi-fiWhy book?
- The first junk boats in Halong Bay powered by biodiesel.
- Traditional Vietnamese design while having high standards of construction.
- Offer various kinds of service: bar, spa & massage, events, etc.
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Luon Cave, Titop Island, Sung Sot Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, Pearl Farm
- Couples, Group of friends
32 cabins - Metal Boat - Launched in 200924% offGBP£114 /pax
Find your perfect Junk Boat Cruise in Halong Bay
If you want to travel to Halong Bay most authentically, a junk boat is one of the finest options. BestPrice Travel now operates up to 17 junk cruises launched between 2007 and 2019. These cruises offer day trips and overnight tours, as well as private and charter packages. Since they pioneered operating cruising services in Halong Bay, junk boat cruises guarantee the most traditional and classic experience for all guests.
About Halong Bay junk boat cruise
Traditional junk boats are usually constructed of hardwood with iron cores and include the signature huge sails on the top deck. The interiors of these junks are often designed in the traditional Vietnamese style that was handcrafted. They are one of the first types of ships used for tourism in Halong Bay, offering the authentic cruise experience closer to the locals' way.
Halong Bay Junk Cruise is usually a mid-size boat with an average capacity of 10 - 22 cabins. Some private or charter junk boats have much smaller sizes featuring only 1 - 4 cabins for more privacy and personalized service.
Junk cruise in Halong Bay follows the traditional Vietnamese boat style with large sails.
Despite customers' rising preference for modern steel ships, junk boat cruise Halong Bay remains one of the greatest options for travelers seeking a calm and enjoyable excursion in a nostalgic setting.
At BestPrice Travel, we have selectively chosen the best junk boats in Halong Bay and categorized the list into basic standards.
Styles
You can choose diverse types of junk cruises, from 3 stars to 5 stars, ranging from budget, and mid-range, to luxury options. There is also a private junk boat and charter boat offering top-notch services.
Cruise safety
You don’t have to be concerned about the safety of the wooden boats, as all the junk is maintained periodically, at least once or twice a year. Only recognized boats meeting the government’s safety standards are allowed to travel in the bay.
Price range
Junk boat cruise Halong Bay price for a 2-day trip without transfer service ranges from US $120- $155/pax (3/4-star boats) to US $143- $191/pax (5-star boats).
Facilities & services
Although it does not have as many facilities as a steel boat, a Halong Bay junk boat overnight still has comfortable cabins, a restaurant, and a bar. Some higher-class boats also offer spas, lounges, libraries, fitness rooms, jacuzzis, etc.
Peony Cruise stands out with an immense jacuzzi onboard.
Why choose junk boat cruise Halong Bay
Authentic travel experience
Halong Bay traditional junks are recognized by iconic sails, which are not only reminiscent of vintage fishing boats but also allow for a smoother, quieter feeling than steel vessels. Most of them have classic Vietnamese designs with rich wooden interiors, handmade décor, and local artworks, so visitors can immerse themselves in Halong Bay's culture and traditions. This creates a unique and genuine experience, completely different from modern ships.
Colorful sails are not only aesthetic but also convenient for cruising.
Intimate and pleasant space
Given their modest size, junk boats usually have a capacity of only about 20 - 45 people, creating a tranquil setting in which visitors will not have to worry about noise or too many passengers on board.
For those who want even more privacy, there are some private and charter options with under 10 passengers onboard. Therefore, you will have literally the whole boat for yourself and enjoy a personalized junk boat overnight cruise.
Off-the-beaten-path itinerary
Traditional junk boats, especially private ones, are smaller in size, giving them the advantage of cruising further into the bay and reaching islets, caves, and areas that large boats cannot reach. This brings a more unique and close-to-nature discovery that not many tourists can experience.
Guests may enjoy tranquil and relaxing experiences on the best junk boat cruises
Halong junk cruise itinerary
Like other Halong Bay boat tours, traditional junks travel to the main bays including Halong, Bai Tu Long, and Lan Ha Bay. Most junk cruises offer 2-day-1-night and 3-day-2-night trips that visit 2 - 4 highlight spots. There are also cruises like Dragon Pearl offering 4-day tours and Amazing Sails offering one-day cruises.
You can refer to the table below for schedule information:
Route | Highlight attractions | Cruise length |
Halong Bay | Titop Island, Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Pearl Farm | Full day, 2d1n, 3d2n |
Bai Tu Long Bay | Vung Vieng Village, Thien Canh Son Cave, Cap La Island, and Cong Do Area | 2d1n, 3d2n, 4d3n |
Lan Ha Bay | Dark & Bright Cave, Tra Bau Area, Ba Trai Dao, and Viet Hai Village | 2d1n, 3d2n |
When joining a junk cruise, travelers will experience various highlight activities and visit many stunning attractions as follows:
Halong Bay
- Explore caves: You can discover the outstanding rock formations of Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest caves in Halong Bay. Also, kayaking/using rowing boats in Luon Cave to feel a natural beauty is also recommended.
- Visit Titop Island: Take a chance to unwind as you swim in the emerald water of the island or hike to the mountaintop for a panoramic view of the bay.
- Witness Pearl Farm: The 3d2n itinerary often adds the trip to explore the Pearl Farm, where you will learn about the process of raising and harvesting pearls.
Discovering Titop Island, one of the most beautiful beaches in Halong Bay
Bai Tu Long Bay
- Visit Vung Vieng Village: You will get a glimpse of the local fishermen’s daily life in the Vung Vieng floating village. This charming place can be reached by kayak & bamboo boat.
- Explore Cap La Area: Visitors may enjoy a relaxing time in Cap La. With its pretty beach and breathtaking surroundings, you can chill out by swimming or kayaking.
- Sightsee Thien Canh Son Cave: This is a great place to take many pictures as your mementos. While strolling through, you can see the sparkling stalactites and stalagmites of all shapes and sizes.
Participating in amusing kayaking to explore Vung Vieng floating village
Lan Ha Bay
- Kayak in Tra Bau/Ao Ech: Let’s have a fun time sailing your kayak and sightsee the majestic islets in the Tra Bau/Ao Ech area, one of the best spots for kayaking in Lan Ha Bay.
- Discover Dark & Bright Cave: You can visit this mysterious cave by getting on a rowing boat or using a kayak. After passing through the cave, you will reach a stunning lagoon with lush flora.
- Cycle in Viet Hai Village: A highlight of the 3-day tour, you will have an engaging excursion in the unspoiled Viet Hai Village by cycling (or using an electric cart) to learn about local life.
- Swim in Ba Trai Dao: Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the cool sea of Ba Trai Dao and let the waves wash away your tiredness.
Cycling along the pretty road to Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island
Top 10 best junk boats Halong Bay (w/ price update 2024)
BestPrice Travel offers the best Halong Bay junk boat cruises with high-quality services and unique cruise experiences onboard. Please refer to our top Halong Bay overnight junk boat and choose the best one for you.
Cruise | Price from | Why choose? |
Phoenix 3* | US $120 | Budget cruise with pleasant service |
La Regina Classic 3* | US $121 | Best value for money - rated by travelers |
Victory Star 4.5* | US $143 | The first junk boat powered by biodiesel |
Sena 4* | US $144 | Best mid-range cruise with high standard |
Signature 4* | US $151 | Large cabins offering private jacuzzis |
Signature Royal 5* | US $154 | Large 130m2 sundeck & broad cabins |
Dragon Pearl 4* | US $155 | 3d2n itinerary without day boat on Day 2 |
Peony 4.5* | US $159 | Bestselling cruise in Lan Ha Bay |
Orchid Classic 5* | US $191 | Best boutique luxury junk boats to Lan Ha Bay |
Prince 4* | US $220 | A private cruise with only 04 cabins |
Note: The price per pax is for the 2d1n trip and is not fixed. It does not include the transfer service.
If you are a fan of classic style and expect a remarkable cruise trip with a rustic wooden boat, just book one of the above cruises. Here are some guides to choosing your perfect junk boat cruise:
Budget Cruises
The prices for these cruises range from US $120 - $130/ pax. They provide basic amenities like restaurants and bars, as well as 14 - 22 small-sized cabins (14m2 to 28m2) that have mostly sea-view windows. They are suitable for budget or solo travelers.
Recommended cruises
- Phoenix Cruise (from US $120/ pax)
- La Regina Classic (from US $121/ pax)
- Victory Cruise (from US $127/ pax)
Cozy and comfortable cabin with sea-view windows
Mid-range Cruises
4-star cruise prices typically vary from US $142 - $155/ pax. There are usually 16 - 34 cabins (private balconies) with average room sizes ranging between 20 and 45 m2. Aside from basic amenities, they may also provide a spa or jacuzzi; ideal for young couples, families, and groups.
Recommended cruises
- Sena Cruises (from US $144/ pax)
- Indochina Sails (from US $155/ pax)
- Peony Cruise (from US $159/ pax)
Gorgeous and classic design of the dining area on mid-range cruises
Luxury Cruises
Prices range from from US $154 - $191/ pax. They feature 10 - 20 cabins spacious cabins (26m2 - 60m2) with private balconies or terraces. These junks offer high-class facilities and services like jacuzzis, spas, lounges, private meals, etc. These must be great options for affluent travelers, honeymooners, and mature couples.
Recommended cruises
- Signature Royal Cruise (from US $154/ pax)
- Orchid Classic Cruise (from US $191/ pax)
- Heritage Line Ginger Cruise (from US $311/ pax)
Intricate wooden interiors are a highlight of the luxury junk boat Halong Bay.
Private Junk
These junk boats have a pretty high price range from US $220 to $345/ pax. They have lower capacity, only 01 - 04 cabins (sea view windows) with small room sizes from 10 to 14m2. This kind of junk provides basic facilities but offers highly personal service and more privacy for couples or small families.
Recommended cruises
- Prince Cruise (from US $220/ pax)
- L'amour Private Junk (from US $321/ pax)
Experience an exclusive journey with your beloved on a private junk boat cruise
Junk boat cruise Halong Bay review 2024
After thorough research, here are some overall reviews that can give you great insights into guests’ satisfaction with junk boat cruise Halong Bay.
Pros
- Peaceful and pleasant trip: Most junk boats don’t have too many cabins so many guests are happy as they enjoy a more tranquil time on board.
- Cultural introduction: Junk cruises often offer a rich cultural experience, with traditional designs and history closely linked to Vietnam's maritime culture, which amazes many tourists.
- Excellent service: As the capacity was low, the staff could focus on serving each guest comfortably. Therefore, many reviews are praising the friendly crew team and their attention to detail.
- Highly rated by travelers: Cruises like Peony, Orchid Classic, and Sena often receive high marks from customers, thanks to their professional service, comfortable cabin, and great amenities.
Cons
- Small cabin size: Some feedback suggests that cabin space should be bigger as the room feels pretty tight for two people. Also, many cabins don’t have private balconies.
- Need to be better maintained: Aside from luxury cruises, most junk cruises receive some complaints about the boat's condition as they are launched earlier than modern steel boats.
- Lack of activities on board: Some guests don’t like how there are not many things to do while staying on board, especially in the evening as there is only squid fishing.
In conclusion, Halong Bay junk boat cruises are still held up well despite the growing demand for modern vessels. They give a vintage feeling, outstanding service, and a peaceful atmosphere that many cruise ships can not offer. Have you had any options on the wishlist?
Let's send us a request for further information and helpful advice from our travel consultants to choose the best junk in Halong Bay.
FAQs
Based on the star rating of the cruise, facilities, and services, here are the best-recommended junk boat cruise in Halong Bay following each demand:
- Most Luxurious: Emperor Cruises
- Most recommended: Orchid Classic Cruise - 5-star cruise provides fewer cabins with acceptable price
- The best choice for Bai Tu Long: Signature Royal Cruise
- Budget cruise: Majestic Cruise
For more options, you can refer to our selective list of the 10 best Halong Bay Junk Boats
The most luxurious junk boat in Halong Bay is Emperor Cruises for its great facilities and only 10 private cabins. Furthermore, Emperor cruise provides massages and saunas, gym services without fee.
There are different prices for Halong Bay Junk Boat based on the number of days, cruise star rating, and the number of private cabins:
- 5-star cruise:
- 2 days 1 night: from $142/pax to $435/pax
- 3 days 2 nights: from $274/pax to $659/pax
- 4-star cruise:
- 2 days 1 night: from $147/pax to $442/pax
- 3 days 2 nights: from $253/pax to $904/pax
- 3-star cruise:
- 2 days 1 night: from $125/pax to $139/pax
- 3 days 2 nights: from $220/pax to $233/pax
This is the list of best private junk boat which is suitable for each demand:
- Best service: Swan Cruise
- Best choice for budget: Dragon Pearl Junk
- Best schedule: Oriental Sails
- Most spacious: Aclass Legend Cruise
- Most romantic: Phoenix Cruise
Besides, you can refer to BestPrice Travel's list of the 10 best private junk boat in Halong Bay.
Questions & Answers (8)
Do you have a 7 to 10 day boat trip for 6 to 8 people on a small boat.(nothing over 12 people)..not interested in luxury. Can be different boats. Looking for a simple more local experience. Thank you
We will send you some option.
Hi, we are 3 adults looking for a luxury 3 day cruise that offers an authentic, off the beaten path itinerary with spacious room accommodations, spa services, pool and alcoholic drinks? I see some boats have rooms with balconies or large windows. Which do you recommend? Looking to book for the end of April 2024. Thanks for your help.
Hi! Most of off-the-beaten-path cruises are quite small or old, so there's only one has pool (actually a big jacuzzi) which is
On the other hand, best cruise boats with full service as your expection travel through the most trendy route (more touristic, of course). You can consider the list at our best selection of Lan Ha Bay Cruise.
We are a group of 4 adults and 4 children and would like a private junk charter Halong Bay around 3rd July 2024 for 2 nights. Can you please let me know if you have an available junk and the cost? Regards
We have available private 2 cabins with Valentine or Legend Halong cost about 1,584 USD for your family.
Hi, we'll be in Hanoi Bay May 4th via Oceania Cruises. 7am - 4 pm. We really would like to explore the Hanoi Bay on a junk boat. Do you have any tours that can fit our schedule? Thanks,
Yes you can rent a private junk with L'amour or some thing similar for 8 hours from 8:00 AM - 3 PM. Please lets me know how many people are there in your group?
I would like to do a 3-day two-night cruise on a junk boat next - we are three adults and we require two rooms. Please let me know what is available. Thanks, Lisa
We have many option junk available on that date, may i know your budget so can suggest you the best one.