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13/12/2024

Top 10 Best Cruises Halong Bay in Dec, 2024

2024's Top Halong Bay Cruises: Exceptional Service, Amenities, Itineraries, and Value.

  • Top 10 2024
  • Luxury Cruises
  • Budget Cruises
  • Day Cruises
  • Lan Ha Bay Cruises
  • Bai Tu Long Bay Cruises
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TRAVEL STYLES
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FAQs

Yes, Halong Bay is definitely worth a try. As one of the world-famous natural heritage sites, Halong Bay features the best destination for cruising in Vietnam. Why is it worth it?

  • Deeper exploration: Cruising is the best way to go further into the beautiful archipelago of the Gulf of Tonkin
  • Perfect seascape: Stay 2 - 3 days relaxing on the ship, soaking up the fresh air and tranquility of the bay
  • Exciting activities: Retreat by entertaining onboard (mini golf, poker, pool, spa, karaoke) and offboard (kayaking, boat rowing, cave visiting, catamaran, etc.)

For the best travel experience, the best time to go to Halong Bay is March - April and October - November, when the weather is cool (20 - 28°C) and dry (less rainfall).

Also, you can choose other months to visit:

  • May - September: Perfect time to get summer deals and flash sales up to 40% OFF
  • January - April: Enjoyable time to take part in Halong festivals and welcome Tet Holiday onboard

To better plan, please check out Best Time to Visit Halong Bay for Perfect Weather & Great Deals

On average, the prices of cruise trips range between US $125 - $300/person for 1 night, US $250 - $550/person for 2 nights, and US $65 - $120/person for a day trip.

Most cruises do not include the transfer in their package. You have to pay extra for the transfer if you want to be picked up from Hanoi.

Please see the price table for 2024 below for your reference:

Trip Type

Low season

High season

Day trip

US$ 65 - 95 US$ 75 - 120

2 days 1 night

US$ 120 - 200 US$ 130 - 300

3 days 2 nights

US$ 220 - 400 US$ 240 - 500

Shuttle bus round trip

US$ 30 - 40 US$ 30 - 40

* The price is per person in USD

* Low season: May - Sep, High season: Jan - Apr & Oct - Dec

How long you stay in Halong Bay really depends on your budget and available time.

  • 1 night: On a budget from US $125/pax, you can visit 1 - 2 attractions and join tai chi, cooking class, kayaking, or boat rowing onboard.
  • 2 nights: With US $225/pax or more, you can add on 1 - 2 hidden places to visit and enjoy more time sightseeing and relaxing. 

Still wondering about your plan? Please keep in touch with us via sales@bestpricetravel.com or +84 904 699 428 (WhatsApp).

It takes around 2.5 - 3 hours (including break time) to transfer from Hanoi Old Quarter to Halong Bay by limousine bus or car. For those who transfer from Hanoi airport, it takes about 3 hours of driving to Halong Bay.

The slowest way is by train (7 hours), while the fastest way is by seaplane (45 minutes).

For further information, let’s check 6 Best Ways to Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay

Here are the top places to visit on most of the cruises, varying from islets, caves, and beaches, to fishing villages.

  • Titop Island: A famous viewpoint with a panoramic bay view and stunning beach
  • Sung Sot Cave: An amazing cave to admire gorgeous stalactites and stalagmites
  • Ba Trai Dao Beach: A beautifully pristine beach to enjoy swimming and sunbathing
  • Dark & Bright Cave: Top favorite destination to do kayaking in Lan Ha Bay
  • Thien Canh Son Cave: One of the largest limestone caves in Bai Tu Long
  • Vung Vieng Floating Village: A tranquil village known for its serene beauty and pearl farming

There are 2 main ports where most cruises start from Tuan Chau Port and Halong International Port at around 12:00 - 12:30 pm. Additionally, some cruises may depart from Vinashin Port (Hon Gai), Cai Lan, and other ports around Halong City and Hai Phong (50 km).

Tuan Chau Port

Halong International Port

Address

Ngoc Chau, Tuan Chau Island

No. 9 Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward

How to get to

From Van Don Airport: 1.2 hours by car

From Cat Bi Airport: 45 minutes by car

From Hanoi: 2.5 hours by limousine/ car

From Van Don Airport: 1 hour by car

From Cat Bi Aiport: 50 minutes by car

From Hanoi: 2.5 hours by limousine/ car

The overnight cruise usually returns to the port at 11:00 - 11:30 on the last day of the itinerary. You will get to your hotel in Hanoi by 15:30 - 16:00 in the afternoon. 

For the day cruise trip, the disembarkation time is around 16:00 - 17:00 and the drop-off time in Hanoi is approximately 20:00.

Note: If you want to book a flight on the same day, choose a domestic flight after 17:00 and an international flight after 18:00.

Yes, you are allowed to swim in some areas of the bay, specifically:

  • Halong Bay: You can only swim in Titop Island, where most Halong overnight cruises pass by on the first day of the itinerary.
  • Lan Ha Bay: You are freely swum by the overnight anchor point around Ao Ech and Tra Bau Area.
  • Bai Tu Long Bay: Unlucky, swimming is restricted in this area for safety reasons.

Note: Please wear a life jacket if needed and don’t go swimming alone!

All cruises in Halong Bay must have permission from the Management Board to stay overnight in the Bay. Based on the weather predictions (high winds, monsoon, thunderstorm, cyclone, storm...), the Management Board has the authority to cancel all cruises on a certain day to guarantee the safety of tourists.

In those cases, the following policies will be applied for the cruise: 

  • If the cancellation is informed before you leave Hanoi (you have not used any service yet): 100% refund
  • If the cancellation is informed during the trip (you have already used some services: transfer, lunch, day trip, hotel,...): Only the fee of these services will be charged and we will refund the whole remaining amount
  • If the trip is cut down from 3 days/2 nights to 2 days/1 night, we will charge as 2 days/1 night trip, plus other services you have already used, and refund the remaining amount

Important notes:  

  • The cancellation is announced ONLY by the Management Board and often on short notice of time. Therefore your understanding of these situations is highly appreciated.
  • The period from May to July is considered stormy weather in Halong Bay with many unpredictable weather conditions. Hence more cruises will be canceled on short notice during this season.
  • In all cases, please contact our consultants directly for any urgent help. We are here to support you with all of our best!

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Based on 6022 customer's reviews

9.4
Excellent
Traveler rating
  • 5269
  • 721
  • 23
  • 5
  • 4
9.5
Excellent - Ms.Wu
Canada Canada
Heritage Binh Chuan Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights | 12/12/2024

We are living it. The food is great and the service is awesome.
The trip has been great. We have done lots of activities today. It’s really relaxing and fun.

Speed boat
9.0
Excellent - Amanda Y
United States United States
Heritage Line Ginger Cruise 2 Days 1 Night | 12/12/2024

Amazing cruise in Halong Bay. The entire ship is big, and the cabins are well-appointed and large. Every cabin has a private balcony, and our private suite's views of Halong Bay will be with us for a long time.
On the upper deck is a decent-sized pool (given the size of the ship), which was an excellent spot to view the sunset with a drink in hand.

9.3
Excellent - Mr. Adams
Australia Australia
Rosy Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights | 12/12/2024
Amazing time

Our group had a wonderful stay in Halong Bay. Everything was perfectly organized. The staff on board was great in communication and they were very helpful.
Our agent, Zoe, was fantastic, providing outstanding information and service. I highly suggest this tour operator. Thank you, Zoe and Rosy crew. More

The bay
Sunset
Hallway
10.0
Excellent - Richard
Vietnam Vietnam
Mon Cheri Cruise 2 Days 1 Night | 12/12/2024
Very nice experiece

The crew was fantastic. They were so accommodating and enthusiastic. Special thanks to BP

9.0
Excellent - Philip
United States United States
Sena Cruises 2 Days 1 Night | 11/12/2024
Great trip in Halong Bay

I joined the 2-day trip tour to Halong. Ms.Janet took such great care of me throughout the entire journey! I really got to see so much. The cruise selection was fantastic, as was the booking. My only regret is that I didn't stay longer as there was still a lot more to see!

I highly definitely recommend… More

Sunset
  • 1(current)
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  • Next
  • Last

Overview of Halong Bay Cruises 2024

About Halong Bay cruise

Regarded as one of the best Vietnam cruise destinations, Halong Bay offers a mesmerizing seascape of pristine nature and cultural richness. The experience of navigating through the turquoise waters and awe-inspiring towering limestones is definitely a must-do for every visitor.

 

Amenities & services

Currently, BestPrice Travel offers about 90 cruises to Halong Bay with a wide range, from small junk boats to large modern vessels.

Besides the most basic amenities like restaurants and bars, many 5-star cruise ships provide high-class amenities such as a swimming pool, private jacuzzi tub, spa & sauna, gym, mini golf, poker room, wine cellar, etc.

Ranging from 3 to 5 stars, Halong Bay cruises offer both recreational and wellness facilities.

Ranging from 3 to 5 stars, Halong Bay cruises offer both recreational and wellness facilities.

Booking a Halong Bay cruise, you will receive dedicated services as well as engaging activities such as swimming, kayaking, visiting caves, and floating villages.

These activities are suitable for all travelers, from nature lovers and culture vultures to history enthusiasts and relaxation seekers.

 

Cruise styles

Depending on different criteria, the cruises can satisfy all demanding travelers, with various types of experience.

Criteria Types of cruises
Class
  • Budget (3 stars)
  • Mid-range (4 stars)
  • Luxury (5 stars)
Route
  • Classic Halong Bay
  • Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island
  • Bai Tu Long Bay
Duration (time onboard)
  • 1 day (6 - 8 hrs)
  • 2 days 1 night (24 hrs)
  • 3 days 2 nights (48 hrs)
  • 4 days 3 nights (72 hrs)
Travel styles
  • Private charter
  • Honeymoon & wedding
  • Family with kids
  • Single & solo

Whether you are fond of a traditional or modern boat, you can find the best one.

Whether you are fond of a traditional or modern boat, you can find the best one.

About Halong Bay

  • Area: 1.553 km2, consisting of 1,969 islands and islets
  • Location: Vietnam’s Northeastern seacoast, Halong City, Quang Ninh Province
  • Distance from Hanoi: About 165 kilometers (102.5 miles)
  • Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 and 2000
  • Recognized as one of the new 7 natural wonders of the world in 2011
  • Must-see attractions: Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, Luon Cave, Cua Van Village, Ba Trai Dao beach

4 reasons why you should choose Halong Bay cruise

Explore majestic landscapes from a unique perspective

Halong Bay stands out with its beautiful system of islands & caves with two forms of limestone and schist that were sculptured over 500 million years ago. Cruising in this place is like stepping into a beautiful painting, where the sky is harmonized with fresh green water embellished by giant stone mountains.

This stunning bay was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site twice in recognition of its outstanding universal aesthetics as well as geological and geomorphological value. Among all, Halong Bay cruise tours give one-of-a-kind experiences to admire the outstanding creation of mother nature at a close distance.

Cruise is the most worthwhile experience of Halong Bay sightseeing.

Cruise is the most worthwhile experience of Halong Bay sightseeing.

 

Onboard dining, relaxation, and entertainment experience

Halong Bay cruise ship experience ensures an exceptional seascape; instead of sleeping in a hotel, you will stay in a floating living space with high-quality amenities and services like bars, gyms, spas, pools, golfs, private dining, royal dinners, and others.

There will also be engaging activities such as a cooking class, sunset party, squid fishing, Taichi, and more for you to try. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or lovers, the cruise will suit your demands with a variety of entertainment options.

Guests can try on unique things to do on every cruise.

Guests can try on unique things to do on every cruise.

 

Well-designed cruise itineraries

Halong Bay cruise tours are very flexible to meet the needs of all passengers. If you have limited time, a full-day trip is an excellent option. Want to spend more time relaxing? The 2-day and 3-day tours are ideal. Those who wish to explore the bay deeper can purchase the 4-day trips.

Depending on the cruise length, you can visit various attractions. Be ready to join a diversity of exciting activities that have been carefully planned, such as kayaking, swimming, hiking, cave visits, cycling, and so on.

Join interesting activities to reach the untouched spots in Halong Bay.

Join interesting activities to reach the untouched spots in Halong Bay.

 

Celebrate special occasions on a Halong Bay Cruise

Birthdays, honeymoons, and weddings become even more memorable when celebrated on a ship as they are out of the norm. Most cruises on Ha Long Bay offer private dining, event setup, and charter services to suit the demand for tailored and exclusive trips. What could be better than creating unforgettable moments with your loved ones in the beautiful and romantic setting of Heritage Bay?

Save the moments with your darling in the romantic setting of Halong Bay

Save the moments with your darling in the romantic setting of Halong Bay

Cruise itinerary & Places to visit

A Halong Bay cruise can last 6 - 72 hours depending on your chosen itinerary. It usually begins at 11:30 on the first day and ends around 12:00 on the last day.

There are 03 main cruise areas: Classic Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay to diversify the cruise experience. While more than 80% of cruises launch Halong and Lan Ha Bay routes, only 10% set sail to Bai Tu Long Bay.

There are 03 main cruise areas: Classic Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay to diversify the cruise experience

Depending on the length of the trip, passengers can visit from 3 to 7 highlighted attractions. Here are the top sightseeing spots on the most popular Halong Bay boat tour itineraries.

 

Classic Halong Bay Route

  • Titop Island has a pretty white sandy beach, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. You can also hike to the mountaintop for a panoramic bay view.
  • Luon Cave stands out with its pristine beauty and rich ecosystem, surrounded by majestic mountains and the sea. You can kayak/ have a rowing boat trip to explore and enjoy the natural beauty.
  • Cua Van Floating Village is known as a charming traditional fishing village, home to fishermen with unique floating houses. You can get on a bamboo boat and see the lives of local people.
  • Pearl Farm is a famous spot where high-quality pearls are produced. Let’s learn about the pearl cultivation process and shop for pearl products here.

Visiting caves is a must-try activity in Halong Bay

Visiting caves is a must-try activity in Halong Bay

 

Lan Ha Bay Route

  • Dark & Bright Cave is well-known for its unique rock formations and impressive natural landscape. You may enjoy the scenery surrounding the cave and feel nature by kayaking or rowing a boat.
  • Ba Trai Dao features a pristine beach with clean white sand and clear emerald water, suitable for swimming, and relaxing in a peaceful environment.
  • Viet Hai Village is nestled among imposing mountains and lush greenery, imbued with local culture. You can cycle through the unspoiled trails, and explore the daily lives of the locals here.

Cycle along the pretty trails and feel the pristine nature of Viet Hai Village

Cycle along the pretty trails and feel the pristine nature of Viet Hai Village

 

Bai Tu Long Bay Route

  • Thien Canh Son Cave, a place with a mysterious beauty like another world, is given impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and a rich ecosystem by Mother Nature.
  • Vung Vieng Village is a lovely floating village for visitors to have an insight into the long-lasting traditional ways of living.
  • Cap La Island is an ideal destination for adventurers to kayak, swim in the sea, and explore the pristine stunning scenery.

Take a bamboo boat ride to discover the hidden gems of Bai Tu Long Bay

Take a bamboo boat ride to discover the hidden gems of Bai Tu Long Bay

Top 10 best cruises in Halong Bay with price update

Halong Bay cruise prices often range from US $58 - $675/pax (without the transfer fee). Depending on the type and length of the cruise, the price will vary:

  • Day cruise: From US $58/ pax
  • Overnight cruise: From US $108/ pax
  • Private cruise: From US $345/ pax

Below are the top 10 best cruises in Halong Bay and prices, according to BestPrice Travel evaluation and travelers’ ratings.

Cruise Highlight Price
Swan 3* Top budget cruise with off-the-beaten route US $147/ pax
Doris 5* Spacious cabins with private balconies and bathtubs US $158/ pax
Peony 4* Bestselling 4-star junk cruise in Lan Ha Bay US $159/ pax
Athena 5* Top luxury cruise for families with excellent service US $164/ pax
Paradise Elegance 5* Spacious sundeck with an open bar and a 360-degree jacuzzi US $165/ pax
Ambassador 5* Live music performances at dinner parties every night US $170/ pax
Mon Cheri 5* First Halong Bay cruise owning Halal food certificate US $175/ pax
Scarlet Pearl 5* The only 5-star using Catamaran on Day 2 excursion US $182/ pax
Orchid Classic 5* One of the best boutique luxury cruises to Lan Ha Bay US $191/ pax
Heritage Binh Chuan 5* A cultural journey with a standout royal-themed dinner US $208/ pax
Capella 5* One of few cruises offering 4d3n to explore Lan Ha Bay deeply US $222/ pax

Note: The price per pax is for 2d1n tours and does not include the transfer fee. This is for reference only.

How to choose your best Halong cruise

With a collection of the best Halong Bay cruises selected by BestPrice Travel, you will have different choices depending on 4 main factors: budget, travel style, duration, and cruise destinations.

If you wonder which Halong Bay Cruises are the most suitable options for your trip, below is a guide with some categories to help you figure out.

Your budget

Travel budget would be the first and foremost concern for most passengers. The cheapest option will be a day cruise. If your budget is enough, you may choose overnight cruises and estimate which star standards are the most suitable.

Standard Price range Recommended cruise
3 stars US $115 - $145 Renea, La Regina Classic
4 stars US $130 - $160 Peony, Sena, La Casta
5 stars US $150 - $300 Mon Cheri, Orchid Classic, Grand Pioneers, Hermes

Travel Style

Your intention of cruising is also important in choosing Halong Bay Cruises. Based on your interests, you can consider the following options.

Traveler type Choosing tip Recommended cruise
Friends, company trips Large ships with various onboard facilities & MICE services Ambassador Cruise, Indochine Premium, Paradise Grand
Couples, newlyweds Cruises with private dining, honeymoon decorations, etc. Heritage Binh Chuan, Indochine, Heritage Line Ylang
Families, elders Cruises with loose schedules, connecting cabins, and onboard entertainments: kid clubs, game room, poker, etc. Grand Pioneers, Hermes Cruise, Capella Cruise
Private charter Small boats with exclusive services Prince Cruise, Melody Cruise, L'amour Junk

Duration

The most preferable Halong Bay cruise time is 2 days or 3 days as they offer a balance between relaxation and exploration. However, you can choose a day cruise for a quick glimpse or a 4-day cruise if you want a full discovery of Halong Bay.

Cruise length Best for Recommended cruise
Full day An intriguing glimpse for rush travelers Amethyst, La Muse, Jade Sails
2D1N Most popular itinerary for first-timers Mon Cheri, Ambassador, Orchid
3D2N A perfect exploration for leisure travel Grand Pioneers, Paradise Elegance
4D3N A deep expedition for adventure seekers Capella, Heritage Cruise, L’amour

 

Routes

As mentioned above, there are three main routes to visit Halong Bay. Based on your preference, you can pick the one that suits you best.

Cruise area Why choose Recommended cruise
Halong Bay Most famous spots for first-timers Hermes, Athena Luxury, Emperor
Lan Ha Bay Trendy destinations with relaxing activities Peony, Ambassador Signature, Paradise Grand
Bai Tu Long Bay Off-the-beaten track and less touristy Swan, Signature, Garden Bay Legend

Essential information & Local tips

  • Best time to visit Halong Bay: November - March is an ideal time to visit Halong Bay when the weather is cool and there is little rain.
  • Best time for Halong Bay cruise deals: June - August and December - January offer a range of promotions.
  • Booking tips: You should book your Halong Bay Cruise at least 2 - 3 months in advance to get a good price.
  • Packing essentials: Travel documents (passport, visa, booking confirmation), Clothing (2 - 3 sets, 1 - 2 swimsuits), sneakers, sunscreen, your medicines (if needed), and cash.
  • Others: Buy a 4G sim card if you want to connect to the Internet and avoid using plastic bags to protect the marine environment.

BestPrice's reviews 2024

Overall, cruising to Halong Bay is highly recommended by tourists as it is suitable for many people and offers many noteworthy experiences. Consider the following pros and cons from BestPrice's Team to make your decision for Halong Bay cruise booking:

Pros Cons
  • One-of-a-kind sceneries in the World’s Natural Heritage Site
  • Affordable prices from low to high-cost
  • Pleasant outside activities suitable for all age groups
  • Comfy facilities and entertainment onboard
  • Suitable for many kinds of travellers: group of friends, family, solo & single, MICE & Event, honeymoon, nature & beach vacation...
  • Sometimes hard to book during peak season
  • Most cruises follow the same activities and visit certain spots
  • Some spots are crowded

In general, the Halong Bay cruise is considered one of the indispensable experiences when you visit Vietnam. If you have the time and budget, you should give it a try.

If you don’t know where to start, feel free to contact BestPrice Travel for advice and to book the best Halong Bay cruise for you.

Questions & Answers (360)

Ask a Question
Q
07/12/2024

Hi there, we are family of 5 (2 adults and 3 kids - age 7, 9 and 11 years). We are looking to do 3days cruze with you guys for dates Dec 28th - Dec 30th. Is that correct or you have still space for more ppl? We are gonna be in Hanoi, so we would need transfer as well. Could you send us prices, if you have available dates?

1 Reply
1
07/12/2024
@Novakovic:

Hi Novakovic, if you can do 1 nights i might have option, there is no cabin for 2 nights program at this time

1 Like Reply
Q
30/11/2024

Hi, We (me and my boyfriend) are looking for a cruise for halong bay. There are so many boats. We would like to visit the following places: -Ti top Island or another hike to a peak -floating fishing village visit by kayak boat -one of the big caves -(Viet hai Village) We would like a 3 days trip. Is there a boat that starts at 5th December which covers most of the places above? Thanks for answering and best wishes Nadine

1 Reply
1
30/11/2024
@Nadine:

Hi! For your preference, please consider 2 below options:

Both 2 above cruises cost from US$ 888/person. Kayaking is included; however, there's no floating village in the itinerary. But please don't worry, it isn't a big deal as all floating villages in Halong Bay at present haven't recovered from the severe storms few months ago yet.

1 Like Reply
Q
18/11/2024

Hi - hope you are doing well. We are looking to book a cruise with you. I just need to understand if all board means all inclusive for food and drinks? Thanks, 

1 Reply
1
18/11/2024
@Mirza:

Most the cruises offer meals but not included drink. You can get order on board. 

1 Like Reply
Q
05/10/2024

We want to take a Halong Bay 3 day/2 night cruise starting on 29 December, but must catch a flight to Hawaii at noon on the 31st. Is there any way we can get a speedboat early in the morning on 31st and/or a helicopter from Halong Bay to the airport?

1 Reply
1
05/10/2024

The seaplane from Halong first trip is start from 13:30, there is no earlier flight. If flight at noon, you can check out early morning then private car back to Hanoi Airport (3 hours)

1 Like Reply
Q
01/10/2024

Hello We are on celebrity solstice docking in Halong bay on 12th November at 13:30. One of my friends Donna booked a trip with you in February called Hanoi city and Hanoi street food walking tour ( including train street). Do you do a trip like this for this date , we are in Halong bay overnight. Thanks

1 Reply
1
01/10/2024
@Paul:

The overnight cruise and day trip to Hanoi is different. Please clarify which one you prefer to book.

1 Like Reply

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