Halong Bay Storm: What to Do If Your Halong Bay Cruise Is Cancelled

Weather Conditions That May Affect Halong Bay Cruise

Halong Bay has a tropical climate that is heavily influenced by monsoons and its proximity to the sea. This unique combination makes the region especially vulnerable to unusual and disruptive weather events that can affect cruise operations with little notice.

Common types of bad weather in Halong Bay include tropical storms and typhoons, dense fog, strong monsoons, thunderstorms, and cyclones. Knowing about the bad weather conditions and patterns in Halong Bay will help you prepare wisely, adjust expectations, and make the most of your time, even if your original cruise plan gets delayed or canceled.

Typhoon & Tropical Storm

July to September marks the peak season for typhoons, tropical storms, and tropical depressions in Northern Vietnam. On average, the country experiences 8 to 10 such weather events annually, with 2 to 4 directly impacting the northern region, including Quang Ninh Province, where Halong Bay is located.

Even if a storm doesn’t make landfall in Halong, it can still cause large waves, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms, creating dangerous sailing conditions. 

August & September are often the time when the major storms in the South Pacific tend to drift across towards Vietnam, sometimes leading to considerable damage. The chances of your cruise being canceled by a storm are still extremely low, but it is higher in these two months than in earlier periods.

Typhoons bring unsafe weather conditions for Halong Bay cruises.

Monsoon 

From October through early spring, the northeast monsoon brings drizzle, high humidity, and cooler temperatures, which can impact both the cruising experience and itinerary. While cruises are not always canceled during this time, trips may be shortened or adjusted, and some attractions might be skipped due to weather-related safety concerns.

Several cruise lines operate with seasonal schedules to adapt to the conditions, for example, avoiding wet caves when water levels are too high or skipping slippery walking trails during continuous drizzle.

Travelers can still enjoy the bay during the monsoon season, but it’s important to be mentally prepared for bad weather and pack accordingly (e.g., waterproof jackets, non-slip shoes, and warm clothing). For a more private and customized experience amidst unpredictable weather, consider Private Halong Bay Cruises for added flexibility.

>> More about Halong Bay Rainy Season: Should You Travel or NOT?

Monsoon mostly creates rain and high humidity.

Foggy Weather

Dense fog is a common weather phenomenon in Halong Bay during the winter months, particularly in the early mornings from December to February, with the highest frequency occurring around Tet and the weeks following Lunar New Year.

This low-visibility condition affects navigational safety, often leading to port closures or several-hour delays. As a result, day cruises are more vulnerable to disruption, since they operate on tight schedules and rely on good visibility for short excursions.

For travelers visiting during this period, overnight cruises tend to be less affected, offering more flexibility in timing and itinerary adjustments if delays occur.

Planning a winter trip to Halong Bay? Consider an overnight cruise to minimize the impact of fog-related delays.

Fog covers all the bay, resulting in low visibility.

How to Know If Your Cruise Might Be Cancelled?

While bad weather can disrupt cruising plans in Halong Bay, it doesn’t always mean your trip will be canceled. Understanding how to track weather updates will help you anticipate possible changes and adjust your plans accordingly.

Update the Weather Forecast

To stay ahead of potential disruptions, you can start by tracking reliable weather sources like AccuWeather (accuweather.com), Windy (windy.com), and Windfinder (windfinder.com), or check trusted weather apps on your phone for real-time forecasts. These platforms can help you spot approaching storms, strong winds, or other dangerous conditions.

In addition to global weather services, you can search keywords like "Halong Bay storm, typhoon, etc." on Google and visit official Vietnamese news outlets at the top, such as VNExpress (e.vnexpress.net/news/news/environment), VietnamNet (vietnamnet.vn/en), and Tuoi Tre (news.tuoitre.vn/travel.htm). They provide timely updates on storm formations, expected landfalls, and government advisories that may affect Halong Bay operations.

In case of bad weather conditions, cruises can be postponed, shortened, or canceled, and the Halong Bay Management Board will be in charge of making decisions.  Cancellations are typically ordered when wind gusts reach level 6 or higher on the Beaufort scale (around 39 - 49 km/h), a speed that can create unsafe sailing conditions. 

All cruise companies need permission to sail from the Management Board of Halong Bay. If the Management Board cancels your cruise due to unexpected bad weather, cruise companies and travel agents CAN NOT do anything, as it is for your safety.

Keep in Touch with Your Travel Agency

Reputable cruise companies usually send timely notifications via email, WhatsApp, or phone if there are changes to the schedule. To avoid unpleasant surprises, travelers should use a local 4G/5G SIM card and stay online throughout their trip. Remember to leave your contact details, such as your hotel in Hanoi or your mobile number in Vietnam, to receive the cancellation news as soon as possible. Without real-time updates, many visitors only discover a cancellation upon arriving at the lounge, often leaving them shocked and unprepared.

When booking, ask your cruise operator about refund and cancellation policies. It’s also worth confirming whether they can arrange alternative activities or tours so you can make the most of your time, even if the cruise cannot depart. 

Here is the cancellation policy due to bad weather from Mon Cheri Cruise for reference:

If the cancellation is announced by the Management Board of Halong Bay, depending on the timing of the cancellation, the following policies will be applied:

• Before departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay (none of the services have been used): 100% refund.
• During the trip (some services have been used: transfer, lunch, day trip, hotel in Halong, etc.), the used services will be charged, and the rest will be refunded. The trip will be cut down from 2 nights to 1 night, tourists will be charged a 2 days/1-night trip, plus other used services, and the rest will be refunded.
• The final cost will be confirmed by your consultant via email. 

Many cancellation decisions are even made within 12 hours of departure. These official notices are sent to cruise companies, who will then inform passengers and make the necessary changes to itineraries. Make sure to check the updated news before your departure and listen to any advice that you are given in bad weather. 

What Should You Do If Your Cruise is Cancelled?

Keep in mind that while cancellations can be disappointing, you can still make the most of your trip with a bit of planning and flexibility. As British writer Vivien Greene once said: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.”

Approaching unexpected changes with this mindset will help you adapt quickly, explore alternative activities, and still create memorable travel experiences.

Case 1: You Haven’t Left Hanoi Yet

If you receive news of a possible cancellation before departing Hanoi, immediately confirm the situation with your tour operator. In most cases, you will have two options:

• Change your departure date to a later day with better weather conditions.
• Cancel the tour and receive a refund according to the operator’s policy.

Deciding early can save you time and travel costs. There are some day trips around Hanoi that you can consider (if you would love to). 

Then, you can think about “what's next?”. In fact, there are many things to do when your cruise trip is canceled suddenly, and the following may inspire you for a perfect “Plan B” for 2 or even 3 next travel days.

If forecasts show better weather within the next 1 - 2 days

Consider postponing your cruise instead of cancelling altogether. You can use the extra time in Hanoi to explore a variety of activities, then rebook your cruise the following days.

Join a Hanoi city tour to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Tran Quoc Pagoda, One Pillar Pagoda, etc., or simply stroll through the Old Quarter and enjoy its vibrant street life. Visiting museums such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology or the Hoa Lo Prison is also a great alternative. 

Moreover, participating in a walking street food tour and tasting the best street food in Hanoi, such as Banh Mi, Bun Cha, Pho, Egg Coffee, etc, is another amazing choice.

For those who are more adventurous and want to deep dive into the local life, consider the following day tours to Hanoi’s suburbs. This way, you can make the most of your time without missing out on the Halong Bay experience.

• Quang Phu Cau Incense Village Half Day: from $48 /pax
• Hanoi Handicraft Village Discover Full Day: from $68 /pax
• Hanoi Countryside Bike Tour to Co Loa Villages Full Day: from $70 /pax
• Duong Lam Ancient Village Full Day: from $78 /pax
• Hanoi City And Countryside Vespa Tours Full Day: from $110 /pax

>> You may also like The Best Time to Visit Hanoi and Halong Bay.

If the forecast indicates bad weather for several days

It may be best to adjust your travel plans and move to another region. Consider nearby destinations such as Ninh Binh or Mai Chau for cultural experiences and scenic landscapes. You could also head to the mountains, visiting places like Sapa or Ha Giang, but be aware that major storms can bring heavy rain and increase the risk of landslides in these areas. 

Ninh Binh

You can head to Ninh Binh, just a 2-3 hour drive from Hanoi, and explore Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called “Halong Bay on land” for its dramatic limestone karsts, emerald waterways, and lush valleys. Take a traditional sampan boat ride past temples, caves, and towering cliffs.

Nearby Tam Coc offers a similarly breathtaking experience, with tranquil river cruises winding through rice paddies and under cave arches, an equally stunning alternative when the bay is off-limits. Let’s check this stunning place out.

• Bai Dinh Temple - Trang An & Mua Cave Join Tour: from $45 /pax
• Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu - Tam Coc Full Day: from $48 /pax
• Hoa Lu - Tam Coc - Cuc Phuong National Park 2 Days: from $178 /pax
• Explore Rural Ninh Binh in 2 Days: from $189 /pax

Mai Chau

Mai Chau is a tranquil valley nestled between rolling mountains, where emerald rice paddies stretch as far as the eye can see. This charming destination is home to traditional stilt houses of many ethnic minorities, offering an authentic glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. Visitors can cycle or walk through quiet villages, enjoy local cuisine, and watch traditional dance performances in the evening. The crisp mountain air, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality make Mai Chau ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and cultural immersion.

• Mai Chau Valley Break 2 Days: from $119 /pax
• Mai Chau - Pu Luong: Vietnam’s Mountain Escape 3 days: from $369 /pax
• Unveil Mai Chau’s Charms By Cycling 3 Days: from $613 /pax

Mai Chau is ideal for those looking for pretty attractions that are not far from Hanoi.

Case 2: You’ve Just Arrived at Halong Cruise Port

If you’ve already arrived at the cruise port and learn that your trip is cancelled, contact your tour representative immediately to discuss available options. Depending on the situation, you might be able to:

• Have lunch (often arranged by the cruise operator) before returning to Hanoi.
• Change to a day cruise if weather conditions allow shorter trips.

Then, you can ask your travel consultant to arrange a car to travel back to Hanoi if you do not plan to stay, or book an accommodation in Halong City for that night. If the storm does not have a serious impact on the mainland, you can explore Halong City without a cruise. Here are some possible alternatives:

• Sun World Halong Complex: Thrilling rides at Dragon Park, splash fun at the water park, and panoramic views from the Queen Cable Car.
• Quang Ninh Museum: Striking architecture and fascinating exhibits, just steps from the beach.
• Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh: Indulge in a luxurious Japanese-style hot spring experience.
• Halong Night Market: Stroll, shop for souvenirs, and sample fresh local seafood.
• Beachfront Resorts: Unwind at scenic stays like FLC, Vinpearl, etc.

>> You can discover more activities at 15 Things to do in Halong Bay Other than Cruise.

Case 3: Your Cruise is Cancelled Midway (Already on the Ship)

This very rarely happens and usually only in cases of sudden severe weather or an urgent safety warning. In such situations, the Management Board will instruct the ship to return to shore immediately. The trip would be shortened, and other arrangements would be made by the cruise operators. For example, a 3D2N cruise is being shortened to 2D1N.

Once back on land, stay in close contact with your travel agent for assistance with arranging meals and transportation. They can book an alternative hotel for the night if you decide to stay. If the weather is good on the next day, you can rebook your cruise with a surprise deal (if there are vacancies) or cancel and receive a partial refund.

Tips to Re-plan Your Trip If You Travel on Your Own

If you book all the services yourself and don’t have a travel consultant to help you deal with a new plan after your cruise's cancellation, below are some tips for you to deal with the sudden change of your travel plan. 

If Halong Bay Is Not Your Final Destination in Vietnam

As long as your schedule allows, move your Halong visit to the end of your tour. Otherwise, explore Ninh Binh or Mai Chau as suggested above, or head to Central and Southern Vietnam to enjoy better weather conditions.

If the bad weather in Halong Bay is expected to last even longer, you can consider booking a tour package lasting 3 - 5 days, such as:

If Halong Bay Is Your Final Destination in Vietnam

If your flight schedule allows, extend your stay in Ha Long for 1 - 2 days to wait for better weather. Finding accommodation should be your priority, especially when the cancellations are due to bad weather, the number of tourists returning to Hanoi increases, and the Capital becomes short of hotel rooms. After finding a room, let’s make the most of hotel amenities, enjoy a spa or Onsen bath, join a cultural city tour, or ask your hotel receptionist about alternative day trips if sea conditions improve the next day.

>> You may wonder: When Is The Best Time to visit Halong Bay to avoid the cruise cancellation?

Typhoons and storms in Halong Bay are generally safe if proper precautions are followed. If your plans change due to force majeure, stay flexible and take it easy; safety always comes first. For the best experience and peace of mind, choose a reputable operator with years of Halong Bay cruise expertise for better arrangements, such as bestpricetravel.com.

FAQs

1. Is it dangerous to be on a Halong Bay cruise during a storm?

No, most cruises are not operated in severe weather. The bay authority and boat owners put safety first.

2. Will I get a refund if my cruise is cancelled due to weather?

It depends on each cruise's policy, but most offer refunds or tour changes if booked through an agency.

3. Are day cruises or overnight cruises more affected by bad weather?

Day cruises are often affected by early morning dense fog (especially in January and February) or by strong winds and cyclones. Overnight cruises are less affected, unless there are typhoons.

As a result, day cruises are more likely to be delayed or cancelled, while night cruises usually only need to adjust their schedules.

4. Can I rebook my cruise for another day?

Yes, you can. If there are vacancies and you can arrange your schedule, cruising at a different time is possible.

5. What are the best alternatives to Halong Bay in the storm?

Places such as Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, Ba Vi, and Hanoi suburbs (Duong Lam, Co Loa, Bat Trang, Quang Phu Cau, etc.) are all close choices and rich in natural and cultural experiences.

Huan Nguyen

(Image source: Internet)