2-Day Cruise to Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay on Calypso Cruises

Venturing through the captivating landscapes of Northern Vietnam, the 2-day cruise on Calypso Cruises offers travelers a chance to enjoy the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. From the iconic karst islands of Halong Bay to the serene Lan Ha Bay, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure, with opportunities to engage in activities like kayaking and cooking demonstrations, as well as explore the historical Trung Trang Grotto on Cat Ba Island. With seamless hotel pickup from Hanoi and all meals included, this cruise experience is designed to provide a hassle-free journey through Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. What awaits guests on this remarkable voyage may just surprise and delight them beyond their expectations.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Tuan Chau Island.

Key Points

• Calypso Cruises offers a 2-day cruise exploring the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay in Northern Vietnam.
• The cruise itinerary includes activities like kayaking, bamboo boat rides, a cooking demonstration, and a visit to Trung Trang Grotto on Cat Ba Island.
• Guests can enjoy scenic views of the iconic karst islands, explore caves, and participate in interactive experiences to enjoy the local culture.
• The cruise package includes meals, accommodation, and hotel pickup from Hanoi, providing a comprehensive and seamless travel experience.
• While reviews generally praise the cruise’s quality, some guests have raised concerns about food quality and the environmental impact of the operation.

Overview and Experience

The 2-day cruise aboard Calypso Cruises offers travelers the opportunity to explore the captivating natural beauty of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay in northern Vietnam.

Guests can expect a comprehensive itinerary that includes a cruise briefing, safety instructions, and scenic views of the iconic karst islands.

The experience also features exciting activities like kayaking, bamboo boat rides, squid fishing, and a cooking demonstration showcasing Vietnamese cuisine.

Travelers will also have the chance to explore the region’s war-time history by visiting the former military hospital on Cat Ba Island.

With hotel pickup from Hanoi, this cruise provides a seamless way to discover the natural wonders of Northern Vietnam.

Itinerary Details

Let’s take a closer look at the itinerary details for this 2-day cruise.

On Day 1, guests will enjoy a cruise briefing, safety instructions, and a delicious lunch while taking in the scenic views of Halong Bay’s karst islands. They’ll then explore Lan Ha Bay, visiting the Light and Dark Water Cave and choosing between a kayaking or bamboo boat ride.

The day concludes with a cooking demonstration on Vietnamese cuisine and free time for activities like karaoke, drinks, and squid fishing.

Day 2 starts with Tai Chi on the sundeck, followed by a bus ride to Trung Trang Grotto and Cat Ba National Park.

• Cruise through Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay
• Explore caves, go kayaking, and learn to cook Vietnamese dishes
• Visit Trung Trang Grotto and Cat Ba National Park

Halong Bay Cruise

This two-day cruise to Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay offers travelers an immersive experience in Northern Vietnam’s natural splendor.

The first day includes a cruise briefing, safety instructions, and lunch while taking in the scenic views of the region’s iconic karst islands. Guests then venture into Lan Ha Bay, where they can explore the Light and Dark Water Cave via kayaking or a bamboo boat ride.

In the evening, the cruise provides an engaging cooking demonstration on Vietnamese cuisine before offering free time for activities like karaoke, drinks, and squid fishing.

The itinerary showcases the area’s diverse natural and cultural attractions.

Lan Ha Bay Exploration

What awaits guests on the Lan Ha Bay exploration portion of the 2-day cruise? Guests will have the opportunity to:

• Visit the captivating Light and Dark Water Cave
• Enjoy a kayak or bamboo boat ride through the serene bay
• Participate in a cooking demonstration showcasing the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine

The Lan Ha Bay experience offers a chance to immerse in the natural beauty of northern Vietnam.

Visitors can paddle through the tranquil waters, learn about local culinary traditions, and take in the stunning karst landscapes that define this remarkable destination.

Cooking Demonstration

The 2-day cruise itinerary also features a cooking demonstration that allows guests to explore the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

Hosted on board in Lan Ha Bay, the demonstration offers a hands-on experience in preparing traditional Vietnamese dishes. Under the guidance of the ship’s skilled chefs, participants learn the techniques and ingredients used in local specialties.

This interactive activity provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into the rich culinary heritage of the region. Guests can then savor the fruits of their labor, savoring the flavors of Vietnam right on the tranquil waters of Lan Ha Bay.

Trung Trang Grotto Visit

On the second day of the cruise, guests embark on a 20-minute bus ride to the Trung Trang Grotto on Cat Ba Island.

This natural wonder is a highlight of the itinerary, offering:

• Awe-inspiring limestone formations and cave systems to explore
• Opportunity to immerse in the lush greenery of Cat Ba National Park
• Chance to learn about the island’s history and cultural significance

At the grotto, travelers can wander through the impressive caverns, marveling at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites.

This excursion provides a glimpse into the captivating natural landscapes that define Northern Vietnam’s enduring beauty.

Inclusions and Pricing

The cruise package includes dinner, breakfast, and welcome drinks, providing guests with a well-rounded dining experience.

Activities such as kayaking, bamboo boat rides, and a cooking demonstration are also included, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the natural wonders of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

The price for this 2-day cruise starts from $145 per person.

While gratuities and personal expenses aren’t included, a private dinner service is available for an additional $10 per person.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the cruise departs.

Pickup Information and Reviews

Guests can access the Calypso Cruises’ 2-day excursion through the pickup location at Tuan Chau Harbor. The address is Lot 26, Tuan Chau Wharf, Ha Long, Quang Ninh, Vietnam.

The cruise has received an average rating of 4.0 stars from 20 reviews, with praise for the stunning scenery, diverse activities, and friendly crew.

However, some guests have criticized the food quality, with reports of food poisoning.

Plus, concerns have been raised about the cruise’s environmental impact and cleanliness.

The cruise offers an immersive experience in Northern Vietnam’s natural beauty, with a mix of positive and negative feedback from past travelers.

• Positive remarks on scenery, activities, and crew hospitality
• Criticism focused on food quality, with some experiencing food poisoning
• Mixed feedback on cleanliness and environmental concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Welcome on the Cruise?

Yes, children are welcome on the cruise. The cruise caters to families, offering activities and accommodations suitable for travelers of all ages. However, guests with children should inform the cruise operator during booking to ensure proper arrangements are made.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?

The dress code for the cruise is casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear loose, lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather and water-based activities. Swimwear and sun protection are recommended, as there will be opportunities for swimming and exploring the bays.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Guests are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks onboard. The cruise typically provides meals, snacks, and beverages as part of the package. Outside food and drinks may not be permitted for health, safety, and service quality reasons.

Do the Cruises Run Year-Round or Are There Seasonal Variations?

The cruises run year-round, though some seasonal variations may exist. Factors like weather, water levels, and availability of activities can affect the itinerary, so it’s best to check with the operator for the latest updates.

Is There an Option to Extend the Cruise Duration?

The cruise operator offers an option to extend the duration of the cruise. Guests can choose to add an extra day or more to explore Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay at their leisure, though this will incur additional costs.

Recap

The 2-day Calypso Cruises experience in Northern Vietnam offers an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Guests can enjoy the region’s natural beauty, participate in engaging activities, and discover the historical Trung Trang Grotto, all while enjoying convenient hotel pickup and inclusive meals. This comprehensive cruise promises an adventure that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.