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Ha Long Bay 2 Day Cruise: How to Make the Most of Vietnam’s Legendary Seascape
Ha Long Bay in 2 days: sail past limestone karsts, kayak into caves, swim Titov, and catch sunset–sunrise on an overnight cruise—prices, tips, what to expect.
A two-day cruise on Ha Long Bay lets you slow down and truly soak in what makes Vietnam’s famous limestone seascape magical. With hundreds of islets, jade-green water, and onboard sunsets you’ll remember for years, an overnight cruise is the iconic way to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here’s how to choose, what to expect, and tips for the perfect 2-day Ha Long Bay adventure.
Why Choose a 2 Day Cruise on Ha Long Bay?
Spending a night on the bay means you’ll wake up to the sound of gentle waves, visit quiet coves before the day-trippers arrive, and see stars come out over the water. It gives you just enough time for caves, kayaking, beach stops, and maybe even a sunrise tai chi session.
Types of Cruises: Which Suits You?
Cruise Class | Cabin Price (USD/Person) | Size | Typical Inclusions | Vibe |
Budget (3*) | 80–120 | 10–30 cabins | Shared cabin/bath, basic meals, kayaking | Social, simple |
Mid-range (4*) | 120–200 | 15–25 cabins | Private cabins, buffet meals, kayaking, cave | Balanced, family/couples |
Luxury (5*) | 200–450+ | 5–20 cabins | Gourmet food, balcony suites, spa & extras | Upscale, tranquil |
Prices are for 2 day/1 night cruise, based on twin share.
Recommended reputable lines: Indochina Sails, Bhaya Cruises, Orchid Cruises, Paradise Cruises.
Example 2 Day Ha Long Bay Cruise Itinerary
Tuan Chau
Day 1:
Day 2:
- Late Morning: Depart Hanoi (shared shuttle or private car, ~2.5 hours).
- Midday: Board your cruise at Tuan Chau/Ha Long port. Welcome drink, check in to your cabin.
- Afternoon: Begin sailing—pass iconic limestone islands, enjoy a buffet lunch.
- Mid-Afternoon Stop: Visit Sung Sot (“Surprise”) Cave or Luon Cave for kayaking/bamboo boat tour.
- Late Afternoon: Beach stop on Titov or Soi Sim Island: swimming, view hike, or chill on deck.
- Evening: Sunset cocktails, Vietnamese cooking demo, dinner on board. Social time, squid fishing, or night movie on deck.
Day 2:
- Early Morning: Optional tai chi on the sundeck, light breakfast.
- Morning Excursion: Kayak or visit a floating fishing village.
- Brunch: Back on board, cruise toward harbor while having brunch.
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Disembark, return to Hanoi (arrive ~3pm).
Day/Time | Activities | Notes |
Day 1, PM | Cave, kayak, swim/hike | 1–2 activities based on itinerary |
Day 1, Evening | Cooking, sunset, fishing | Dinner & relax |
Day 2, Early | Tai chi, light breakfast | Stunning sunrise |
Day 2, AM | Island/fishing village visit | Sometimes by bamboo boat |
Day 2, Brunch | Slow sail, check out |
Ha Long port
What to Pack for a 2 Day Ha Long Bay Cruise
- Light clothes, swimsuit & flip flops
- Windbreaker or warm layers (Nov–Mar evenings breezy)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Phone/camera (charger, battery)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, insect repellent)
- Cash for tips/bar purchases
Pro Tips for Booking
- Choose your cruise well: Read recent reviews, check actual itineraries, and confirm what’s included (some “luxury” promos skimp on food or skip top sights).
- Book in advance for high season: April–May and October–November are driest and most popular.
- Dietary needs: Notify the cruise in advance, most can accommodate vegetarians/vegans/gluten-free.
- Transfer time: Hanoi–Ha Long Bay is about 2.5–3 hours each way by shuttle or private car.
- Bring a day pack: Most cabins are small; keep essentials handy during excursions.
Ha Long Bay Cruise FAQ
Is a 2-day cruise better than a day tour?
Yes. A two-day cruise allows you to witness both sunrise and sunset on the bay, explore quieter lagoons, and enjoy more onboard activities. For choosing between Lan Ha, Bái Tử Long, and the core bay area, see our full guide to the Best Halong Bay Cruise.
Do cruises run in all seasons?
Cruises operate year-round. Winter (Nov–Mar) brings misty, cooler conditions, while summer (June–Aug) is warmer with occasional tropical rains. To plan the best timing, check our Vietnam weather by month or Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Are the activities safe for children or seniors?
Yes. Cruise activities are generally gentle, and all operators provide life jackets for kayaking or swimming. Families may also enjoy easier coastal escapes like Phu Quoc’s best beaches or a Nha Trang mud bath.
Should I tip the crew?
Tipping is not mandatory but is expected for good service. Around $5–10 USD per guest per day is typical. For more details on local etiquette, see our guide to tipping in Vietnam.
Can I join a cruise directly in Ha Long if not coming from Hanoi?
Yes. Most cruise companies can arrange port pickup if you’re already in Ha Long City. If you’re starting in the capital, our Hanoi 3 Day Itinerary is a great way to pair city sights with a cruise extension.
Yes. A two-day cruise allows you to witness both sunrise and sunset on the bay, explore quieter lagoons, and enjoy more onboard activities. For choosing between Lan Ha, Bái Tử Long, and the core bay area, see our full guide to the Best Halong Bay Cruise.
Do cruises run in all seasons?
Cruises operate year-round. Winter (Nov–Mar) brings misty, cooler conditions, while summer (June–Aug) is warmer with occasional tropical rains. To plan the best timing, check our Vietnam weather by month or Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Are the activities safe for children or seniors?
Yes. Cruise activities are generally gentle, and all operators provide life jackets for kayaking or swimming. Families may also enjoy easier coastal escapes like Phu Quoc’s best beaches or a Nha Trang mud bath.
Should I tip the crew?
Tipping is not mandatory but is expected for good service. Around $5–10 USD per guest per day is typical. For more details on local etiquette, see our guide to tipping in Vietnam.
Can I join a cruise directly in Ha Long if not coming from Hanoi?
Yes. Most cruise companies can arrange port pickup if you’re already in Ha Long City. If you’re starting in the capital, our Hanoi 3 Day Itinerary is a great way to pair city sights with a cruise extension.