Why Halong bay cruise is the best way to explore Halong Bay ?

Halong bay cruise the best way to enjoy Halong Bay. Now kick start your journey by hiring a boat cruise through the bay that will let you indulge in the breathtaking vistas of islets. There are plenty of options when it comes to cruising in Halong Bay. Most cruises fall under one of the three categories: Halong Bay Budget Cruises, Halong Bay Deluxe Cruises and Halong Bay Luxury Cruises, with the luxury level ascending in that order. Some cruises go as far as to accommodate a 5 star resort room type on board, with diverse forms of entertainment.

Amazing scenery

As a great work of nature through thousands of years, scenery at Halong can only be described by a “Wow”! If you are a nature lover Halong will definitely enchant you with its many awe striking sites, and majestic natural composition.

Culture

Looking to experience the ordinary life of a fishermen? Look no further! Here in Halong bay, you will get to see not only the magnificent view, but also a normal daily life of the locals at its purest. You will be guided by friendly and hospitable locals, who will show you to paddle your own rowing boat, cast a fishing net and fishing like a real deal!

Perfect relaxation

If you are in need of some relaxation, then cruise tours at Halong are absolutely for you! The trip could range from a few hours to spending one or two night(s) on board. With picking up and dropping off from Hanoi to Halong and vice versa. Ann amazing food and a knowledgeable tour guide who will assist you all through your tour to Halong bay.

Food

Halong is famous for its seafood: crabs, prawns, sea clams among strange native specialties. Let’s check out Food section to learn more about these specialties. If you stay in one of the hotels on land, make sure you visit one of our recommended restaurants in town to experience authentic Ha long Bay cuisines.

Value for money

Ha long Bay can be said to be one of the best places to travel in Southeast Asia, especially in terms of value-for-money. Whatever budget you spare for your trip, you will get more than what you expect. This is thanks to the low hotel costs and excellently organized cruise tours.

Unique experience

Cave dinner, kayaking through the tiny tunnel, swimming on a secluded beach amidst the caves and grotto, biking past the rain forest on an island, squid fishing at night, practicing Tai Chi as you watch the sun rises over the Bay – these are just some of what a cruise trip to Halong Bay has to offer.

Plan your Halong bay cruise your way

All Halong cruises offer rewarding activities for the energetic, such as: swimming, rock climbing, snorkeling or kayaking in Halong Bay . Beside that, discovering the geology, geo-morphology and biodiversity value of the bay. Suggest:  fishing trips; talking with people in fishing villages; coral diving; and cycling on islands. But you should check the halong bay weather before travelling there.
What is a better way to call it a day than sleeping on the boat at the bay.  Immersing in the majestic and mysterious, inspiring and imperious nature of the calm water, the starry sky and the grand islands.
Halong Bay is the stuff of myths and naturally the Vietnamese have concocted one. Even when you have seen numerous beautiful caves in your life. It won’t spoil to explore the distinctive nature of Halong Bay and see why it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Halong Bay Cruise Routes

Halong Bay Cruise

This is the most popular route among tourists, but also where you will find the most crowded areas. The water in some of the areas with more boats is oily and dirty. It will often include stops in Ti Top island and the Surprising Cave, kayaking in Halong Bay, swimming in Halong Bay…

La Han Bay Cruise

Some cruise boats offers you the option of sleeping a night in a resort in Cat Ba. Good option if you wish to combine it with a stay of your own in the island for some extra nights.

Cat Ba Island Cruise

Nowadays, many cruise choose Cat Ba Island to design a new cruising route. It is quite undeveloped area of The World Biosphere Reserved.

Cat Ba island is situated a mere 50 km east of Hai Phong city in the north of Vietnam. Cat Ba Island is part of a chain of 366 islands that lie within the larger area of Halong Bay. At over 200 km2, Cat Ba  is the largest island in Halong Bay. The island is easily accessible and matches neighbouring Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay for stunning natural beauty. It also offers visitors the added options of relaxation, adventure and cultural exchange. In April 2005, Cat Ba was officially recognized as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise

These itineraries combine some of the best of Halong Bay with some more remote areas in Bai Tu Long Bay. It’s more off the beaten path and usually come with a higher price tag.

Halong Bay cruises activities

Visit to Pearl Farm

Rock Climbing
Visit to the floating villages
Swimming in a beach
Cave exploring
Tai Chi
Cooking classes
Squid fishing
Biking (Cat Ba)
Some cruises offer more other activities like dining in a cave or even collecting rubbish in the bay.

>>>> For the details of all activities read more at: Best things to do in Halong Bay

How to choose the best Halong bay cruise

With Halong Bay being one of the destinations of choice for travelers to Vietnam, there are many cruises to choose from, including overnight, luxury, day and half day cruises. It can take time to sort through what’s on offer to find the best option for you. Cozy Bay Cruise understands, so in this 8-step guide we’ll help you find the cruise that’s right for you.

1- Choose your Halong Cruising route

There are three main cruise routes in Halong Bay:

– Halong Bay: cruise inside the UNESCO World Heritage site boundary.

– Halong Bay to Bai Tu Long Bay: Bai Tu Long Bay is somewhat similar to Halong Bay but quieter and less lively. You will find it harder to access local cultures and meet locals in Bai Tu Long Bay than in Halong Bay.

– Halong Bay to Lan Ha Bay (including Cat Ba Island): Lan Ha is a small bay near Halong Bay with somewhat similar landscape and without the beautiful caves of Halong Bay.

2- Choose the length of your cruise

While day trips are an option, this is suitable only for travelers who have limited time available. The Halong Bay 2 days 1 night cruise is usually enough for most travelers, while the 3-day, 2-night cruise is for those who can take their time and have a more immersive experience.

Halong bay day tour 6 hour cruise
Halong Bay day tour 4 hour cruise
Halong Bay 2 day cruise
halong Bay 3 day cruise
Halong bay overnight cruise and hotel / hostel / resort

3- Define your budget

For those on a tight budget, your best bet is a budget cruise, which is usually below USD 110. Travelers who have a bit more money to play with can opt for a mid-range cruise, which is usually around USD 110 to USD 150. An overnight luxury cruise is usually priced from USD 150 and above.

Travelers should note that overnight cruise categories in Halong Bay Cruise are not defined. The differences between budget, mid-range and luxury cruising usually come from on board facilities, cabin amenities and furnishings, and the quality of the food and service. Remember that the old adage “you get what you pay for” is true in Vietnam, and it might be worth spending a few extra dollars to ensure you have an unforgettable journey in this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4-   Select your cruising tour, then your cruise to book

With the internet, finding out who the quality cruise operators are in in Halong Bay couldn’t be easier. Sites like TripAdvisor and online travel agents like Expedia, Booking and Agoda will help you see which cruise lines are rated highly with other passengers. Narrow it down even further by checking the websites of Halong Bay cruise operators who interest you. If you are not comfortable using the internet, ask your travel agent for their recommendation, or even friends who have traveled to Halong Bay previously.

>>>> Read More about: Cozy Bay Cruise on TripAdvisor

5- Choose your cabin type

For the best experience cruising Halong Bay, you should choose your cabin carefully. Location, size and amenities are all important considerations. A rule of thumb is that the higher the cabin, the better. And a private balcony or wide window is highly recommended for the best views. Only a few cruise lines use 100% cotton bed linen because of the high cost, so it’s worth checking to see if this is an inclusion with your cabin. You may be able to upgrade, depending on cabin availability and your willingness to pay a surcharge.

6- Check when is the best time to visit halong Bay

Peak season in Halong Bay runs from November to March. The cooler temperatures – usually between 15° to 23° Celsius – make for ideal conditions for sightseeing and touristic activities. Prices are generally 10% to 20% higher than in off-peak season.

Temperatures in the off-peak season – which runs from April to October – are between 20° to 30° Celsius with high humidity. With an average of seven hours sunshine per day, water activities are an ideal respite from the heat. Travelling at this time of year will guarantee you the best price for overnight luxury cruising.

>> Read more about Halong Bay cruise seasons and Halong Bay weather.

7- Decide to book extra service or not

Most cruise lines offer extra services once you are onboard, for example, spa and wellness treatments, and kayaks for rent. Many offer a transport service to and from from Hanoi to Halong Bay – or another location – by shuttle bus, private car, seaplane or helicopter. Hotel and cruise combination packages are more economical than booking your hotel and cruise separately. Visas can also be arranged if necessary.

Luxury cruises – and some mid-range lines – have spa facilities on board. Having a massage or a facial is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon after a morning of sightseeing, and is highly recommended.

>> Read more about How to get to Halong Bay

8- Halong Bay Cruise booking

If you are booking your own travel online, be aware that there are many fake and scam booking sites out there. Read Halong Bay Cruise Review carefully! Book directly through the cruise line, an online travel agent like Expedia, Booking and Agoda, representative office or your travel agent. When it comes to the best price, check direct with the cruise operator and also with an online travel agent, and if you are travelling in peak season, book early to avoid disappointment. Regardless of how you booked your cruise, make sure you read the inclusions, exclusions, and booking terms and conditions carefully. If you need an advice from local expert, just feel free to contact Cozy Vietnam Travel for any help!

Halong Bay day cruise or overnight ?

The decision to visit Halong Bay in one day, or take an overnight cruise, comes down to two factors: budget and time. There are benefits to day trips, which involve approximately four hours of cruising and cruising the Bay on longer, overnight trips.

Halong Bay Day cruise

If you have limited time and a smaller budget and don’t mind long road trips, Halong Bay Day cruise may be for you. Generally, you’ll be picked up at around 8:00 AM from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or other designated meeting point, drive the 3.5 to 4 hours to Halong — with a 30 minute comfort stop — and arrive at Halong Bay at roughly noon. Lunch will be served on the boat while you cruise the islands and islets, and there may be one or two excursions — for example kayaking or a cave visit — in the afternoon. You’ll depart Halong Bay for Hanoi around 5:00 PM and arrive back in Hanoi at around 9:00 PM.

Halong Bay overnight cruise

A Halong Bay overnight cruise is a much more leisurely affair, and allows you to see and experience more of Halong Bay, particularly if you choose the 2-Night, 3-Day option. You can enjoy a wide range of excursions, designed to give you a deeper insight into this UNESCO World Heritage site, and participate in a variety of on board activities. Watch the sun rise over the limestone karsts while performing Thai Chi on the sun deck, take a Vietnamese cooking class, pamper yourself with a spa treatment or simply watch the sun set with a cocktail or two during happy hour. After dinner where you will dine on world class cuisine, relax with a movie or feel all the excitement of squid fishing with the locals. Staying two nights ensures that you make the most of your time in Halong Bay as your cruise ventures farther into more secluded areas of the Bay where there are fewer tourists.

Halong Bay day cruise or overnight ?

If you know you don’t want to do a Halong Bay day Cruise — and most day trippers to Halong Bay wished they had spent at least one night in a Halong Bay Cruise — and you are having difficulty choosing which how many nights you’d like to stay, a 1-Night, 2-Day cruise will be sufficient. A 2-Night, 3-Day cruise, which covers Halong and Bai Tu Bays is the perfect choice for a full experience of this ancient, mysterious landscape.

Check out the : Halong Bay Day Cruise & Halong Bay Overnight Cruise  details bellowed before you decide!

Halong Bay Day Cruise

Halong Bay Day Trip a perfect option for busy travelers who have limited time but still want to get a glance of the amazing Halong Bay. A Halong Bay Day Cruise can offer you an overview of the Bay with at least 3.5 hours or more (4 hours, 4.5 hours, 6 hours, 6.5 hours, 8 hours, and 10 hours) cruising time in the Bay. Even if with the limited time frame, you will have a wonderful opportunity not only to visit beautiful attractions in Halong Bay such as Titov Island and Heavenly Cave. A Halong Bay Day Cruise doesn’t mean that you will be limited to attend in various activities. On the contrary, you still can take part in a plenty of activities such as paddling through Luon Cave by a sampan, swimming in Soi Sim Beach.

Halong Bay Day Cruise with Cozy Bay Cruise

Travelling with Cozy Bay Cruise you are traveling with the best Halong Bay Day Cruise with friendly staffs and good itinerary. The bus from Hanoi to Halong Bay and back to Hanoi with professional English speaking guide is comfortable for clients.

Halong bay day Cruise 6 hour cruise

Some companies offers Halong Bay day cruise 6 hour: Cozy Bay Cruise,  Lazalee (6.5 hours Day Cruise); Dragon King, Wego Halong Bay. All boats exploring Heaven Cave, kayaking or boat rowing in the deep blue sea waters (Alova Day Cruise); or admiring impressive limestone islets like Fighting Cocks, Duck, Finger, Incense Burner, and Dig shape stone.

Halong Bay day cruise 4 hour

Beside the overnight cruise, Ha long Bay day cruise 4 hour is also a great option for travelers to discover the nature wonder. With our high-standard facilities as brand new limousine van, go on new expressway in return, iron trendy cruise, full of experienced Tour guide, supported by new audio guide technology, nicely crew . we ensure you will have memorable trip to Halong bay with Us to get experience in World nature wonder, getting knowledge about floating life, amazing mountain cave, explore tranquil scenery, touching the nature by bamboo sampan or self-kayaking…

Halong bay overnight cruise

Halong bay overnight cruise the best way to enjoy Halong Bay. Now kick start your journey by hiring a boat cruise through the bay that will let you indulge in the breathtaking vistas of islets. There are plenty of options when it comes to cruising in Halong Bay. Halong bay wins tourists’ heart by a number of junk boat cruises to select from. These are said to offer both day and overnight trips, with comparative prices. From the junk, it is quite possible to navigate some magnetic islands as well as reach concealed caves and less-visited bays by kayak. On board, you are able to enjoy freshly cooked spice squid and drink cool cocktails on the polished top deck when the sun goes down. Boats have different sizes, such as 10-, 20-, or 24-cabin vessels. In case you would like to gain an intimate experience, then booking a private boat is a fine choice.

Things to bring on Halong Bay Cruise

Small backpack

Halong bay cruise packing – a small backpack. A small Backpack is all you need. The best thing for travelers is a small backpack. Instead of huge luggage pieces that take up a ton of time to search through and get what you need. A small backpack helps you quickly grab your things and sprint to the deck outside to witness breath-taking sights.

Besides, with the help of the backpack, you can bring along a few bottles of water and your camera when exploring many magnificent caves at Halong Bay.

Personal document

Things to pack for Halong Bay trip – personal document. Don’t forget your passport! Whenever traveling abroad, you must always bring along your passport just for any cases that might arise. It is the only thing that can prove who you are and where you are from.

Even with the tightest packed backpack, you have to make room for your passport because without your passport you might not be allowed to get on board your cruise ship.

Clothes

What to pack for Halong Bay cruise – Clothes. Choose suitable clothes! It depends on your personal needs, but I would love to suggest that you bring one pair of clothes for a 2 day trip, or two pairs for a 3 day trip, plus one set of pajamas to sleep at night. Halong Bay cruises also provide many extra activities such as kayaking or swimming, so you should also bring along a swimming suit.

Weather is also a factor affecting your choice of clothes. If you travel in winter (from November to March), you should pack thick and warm clothes. Summer is from May to September which is suitable for swimming under clear blue skies, so you also may want to bring along some shorts, skirts or sleeveless T-shirts.

Footwear

Halong Bay packing tips – footwear: comfortable and light flip flops! I would not suggest high-heels or luxurious shoes at all because you are traveling and exploring, not competing in a fashion show and this rule also applies for clothes. You should wear something simple and comfortable. You can easily find a pair of flip flops around Hanoi or Halong for just 1 or 2 USD. Flip flops and sandals are perfect for walking around onboard and a pair of sport shoes is best for visiting caves.

Water and snack

Buy water and snack on land instead of on board! You should carry a few bottles of water along as the drinking water provided on board is quite limited or in some cases there are some cruises that do not provide water (it’s insane and it usually happens with cheap cruises provided by untrustworthy local travel agents). I would not also recommend spending money on board because everything is highly overpriced. Instead, you can buy everything you need- from water to snacks- at a convenience store (like B-smart or Circle K) with a low and fixed price.

Toiletries and medical supplies

What to bring, things to pack for Halong Bay – medicine and toiletries. Bring your own medicines and toiletries!
After a whole day of exploring and playing, it is time to clean up and prepare for a beautiful night. However, many cruises do not provide shampoo or toothpaste. A few do supply but with unknown brand names. If you have ever stayed in a typical Vietnamese hotel, you must have countered a small green container of toothpaste which smell and taste really weird. Therefore, I definitely recommend packing your own toiletries for your trip. If you have sea sickness, allergies or respiratory disease but still want to witness the magnificence of Halong Bay, medical supplies are definitely what you must pack for Halong Bay cruises. You cannot easily go to a hospital while in the middle of the sea, and it would take much time to get back to the port.

It would ruin your whole trip just because you forgot to prepare a few pills at the hotel.

Electronic devices

What to pack for Halong Bay cruise ? You don’t want to miss any view! Cameras cannot be left behind if you want to capture the breathtaking sights and savour the moments of your family and friends. I would suggest that you bring a light and compact camera with a few extra batteries. Charge all your batteries so that you will not need to worry while taking great pictures of Halong Bay and its caves. You do not want to miss a good moment just because your camera is out of battery.

You can also bring your smartphone and laptop with you as most of the cruises are now equipped with WIFI. Therefore, you can easily contact with your family, friends and stream your adventure live to them.

Book or diary

What to prepare for halong bay cruise ? A book! Enjoy a good book or write down your adventure!
For travelers who just want to enjoy the scene and relax, or those taking a long 3 day 2 night trip and are afraid of being bored, reading your favorite books with a cup of tea on top of the cruise looking at the blue skies, or writing every detail about your adventure in Halong Bay down in your diary would be a very good way to immerse yourself into the experience. In conclusion of our 8 Ultimate things to pack for your luxurious Halong Bay cruise, all you really need to do is to prepare carefully and pack everything in your small bag and go experience the marvelous UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Halong Bay Cruise Price

Here are the Halong Bay Cruise price using to quote :