Full Day on Halong Cruise With Meals – Come Back Hanoi Early

Embarking on a full-day Halong cruise is an opportunity to take in the natural wonders of this iconic Vietnamese destination. From the breathtaking limestone islands to the delectable seafood and vegetarian meals, this curated experience promises an enriching journey without the commitment of an overnight stay. With a scenic drive from Hanoi, a visit to the awe-inspiring Thien Cung Cave, and optional water activities, this cruise offers a well-rounded exploration of Halong Bay’s captivating beauty. As the day draws to a close, the convenience of returning to Hanoi by 7:00 PM ensures a seamless and memorable experience. The stage is set for an unforgettable adventure…

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Hanoi.

Key Points

• The full-day Halong cruise package includes round-trip transfers from Hanoi, an English-speaking guide, and lunch options (seafood or vegetarian).
• The cruise itinerary features a scenic 3-hour drive from Hanoi, photo stops at limestone islands, and a visit to the Thien Cung Cave.
• Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its majestic limestone islands, offering scenic cruises and adventure activities like kayaking and bamboo boat rides.
• The cruise departs Halong Bay at 4:30 PM, ensuring a return to Hanoi by 7:00 PM, allowing for an early arrival.
• The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and customer reviews praising the scenic beauty and well-organized cruise activities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a full day on a Halong Cruise with meals, priced from $33.00 per person.

The 4-hour to 1-day excursion includes round-trip transfers, an English-speaking guide, 4 hours of cruising, lunch (seafood or vegetarian), entrance fees, beverages, and travel insurance.

Optional activities like kayaking or bamboo/motorized boat rides are available at an additional cost.

The cruise departs from either hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or directly from Tuan Chau Harbor.

The scenic journey involves a 3-hour drive from Hanoi via the National Expressway, with a rest stop along the way.

Cruise Itinerary

After being picked up from their hotel or meeting at Tuan Chau Harbor, travelers embark on the scenic 3-hour drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay via the National Expressway.

Once aboard the cruise, the itinerary highlights several activities:

1. A scenic cruise with photo stops to capture the stunning limestone islands and karst formations.
2. A visit to Thien Cung Cave, where travelers can explore the unique chambers and rock formations.
3. An optional kayaking or bamboo boat ride around the islets to get a closer look at the natural surroundings.

The cruise concludes around 4:30 PM, with a return to Hanoi by 7:00 PM.

Halong Bay Attractions

Majestic limestone islands, sculpted by nature over millennia, dot the emerald waters of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore this captivating landscape through a variety of activities, from scenic cruises with photo stops to visits to Thien Cung Cave, known for its unique rock formations. Adventurous travelers may opt for kayaking or a bamboo boat ride around the islets, each with its own intriguing name – Stone Dogs Island, Duck Island, and Finger Island, to name a few. Whether relaxing on the sundeck or immersing in the natural wonders, Halong Bay offers an unforgettable experience.

Iconic Islets	Unique Formations	Thrilling Activities
Stone Dogs Island	Thien Cung Cave	Scenic Cruises
Duck Island	Incense Burner Island	Kayaking
Finger Island	Fighting Cocks Island	Bamboo Boat Rides

Optional Activities

Along With the captivating sights and activities within Halong Bay itself, visitors can further enhance their experience with optional add-ons.

For instance, guests can embark on a thrilling kayaking expedition, gliding through the serene waters and weaving between the majestic limestone formations.

Another popular choice is the tranquil bamboo boat ride, offering a more intimate exploration of the bay’s hidden coves and inlets.

On top of that, those seeking a bit more adventure can opt for a motorized boat tour, providing the opportunity to venture deeper into the breathtaking landscape.

These optional activities allow travelers to curate their Halong Bay journey and create lasting memories.

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Pickup and Departure

Visitors have the convenience of selecting either a hotel pickup within Hanoi’s Old Quarter or meeting the tour group directly at Tuan Chau Harbor, the departure point for the Halong Bay cruise.

The transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes approximately 3 hours via the National Expressway, with a rest stop along the way.

The return journey departs Halong Bay around 4:30 PM, ensuring guests are back in Hanoi by 7:00 PM.

This well-paced itinerary allows ample time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay and its countless limestone islands, caves, and scenic viewpoints during the full-day excursion.

Important Considerations

Cancellation policies are flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure.

It’s recommended to dress comfortably in clothes and shoes suitable for light trekking, as the tour involves activities like swimming and kayaking.

While the cruise isn’t wheelchair-accessible, visitors can still enjoy the stunning scenery of Halong Bay.

Bringing some cash is advised for any personal expenses on the boat, such as purchasing extra food or drinks.

Plus, travelers are advised to pack warm clothing from December to March, as the weather can be cool during those months.

Cancellation Policy

According to the tour information, visitors enjoy flexible cancellation policies. The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers to adjust their plans without penalty. This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility, especially for last-minute changes or unexpected circumstances.

Cancellation Policy
Free Cancellation	Up to 24 hours in advance
No Refund	Less than 24 hours before tour
Partial Refund	Depends on notice given
Rescheduling	Allowed with no additional fees

This cancellation policy ensures that customers can book with confidence, knowing that they have the option to cancel or reschedule their Halong Bay cruise if necessary.

Customer Testimonial

One enthusiastic customer review highlights the exceptional experience of the Halong Cruise.

Veronika from the Czech Republic, who booked the tour in May 2024, provided a 5/5 rating and glowing feedback.

The review cites three key reasons for the outstanding experience:

1. The scenic beauty of Halong Bay was breathtaking, with the unique islet formations leaving a lasting impression.

2. The cruise activities, including kayaking and cave exploration, were engaging and well-organized, providing a well-rounded experience.

3. The included meals were delicious, showcasing the local seafood and vegetarian options, leaving Veronika highly satisfied with the value of the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the Halong Bay cruise, but the tour operator may provide all meals and beverages as part of the package. It’s best to check with the tour company’s policies.

Is There a Price Difference for Children?

There is typically a discounted price for children on Halong Bay cruises. The price for children is usually 50-75% of the adult ticket price, but specific rates may vary depending on the tour operator.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Gear for the Activities?

The tour provider recommends that guests wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for activities like trekking and swimming. No special gear is required, but sunscreen, hats, and light jackets may be helpful depending on the weather.

Is There Any Wi-Fi or Cell Phone Coverage on the Cruise?

There is limited cell phone coverage and no reliable Wi-Fi on the Halong Bay cruise. Guests should expect to be disconnected from the internet for the duration of the tour and plan accordingly.

Can I Extend My Stay on the Cruise for an Additional Fee?

Yes, customers can typically extend their stay on the Halong Bay cruise for an additional fee. This allows them to enjoy more time exploring the natural wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Recap

This Halong Bay day cruise offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the region. With a convenient return to Hanoi by 7:00 PM, travelers can make the most of their time without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The diverse menu, featuring seafood and vegetarian options, ensures a delightful dining experience. Whether you opt for kayaking or a bamboo boat ride, the day’s activities promise an enriching and memorable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: