Halong Bay is a famous UNESCO World Heritage, and the most popular way to enjoy is on an overnight cruise. Nowadays, when you talk about cruising in Halong, it actually consits of 3 regions, Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay (governed by Quang Ninh province), and Lan Ha Bay (governed by Hai Phong province). While the names of the bay are different, cruising services offered by operators across all 3 bays are remarkably similar. Using this curated guide, you'll uncover how a voyage through Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay aboard any fleets of Bhaya Cruises can truly offer something for everyone - from moments of thrilling adventure to serene relaxation, from cultural immersion to awe-inspiring scenery. All this unfolds with effortless elegance and the ultimate convenience as you sail toward extraordinary destinations.
Located in Northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is recognized twice as UNESCO World Heritage Site – a must-visit on every traveler’s bucket list. With thousands of limestone karsts and emerald waters, this natural wonder’s beauty is best experienced by cruise.
Instead of rushing through crowded viewpoints, you can watch sunrise over the bay, sip cocktails on sundeck at sunset, and uncover hidden corners accessible only by rowing boat or kayak. Cruising lets you slow down, embrace the tranquil rhythm of the bay, and witness its timeless majesty.
Highlights of a Halong Bay Cruise:
A Halong Cruise package is designed to cover everything you need for a memorable journey. There is a slight difference of offers among cruise operators. However, with all Bhaya Cruises’s voyage, we include:
If you’re wondering what to expect on a Halong Bay cruise, rest assured – every moment brings something new to discover. On our cruises, every activity is thoughtfully curated for your relaxation and exploration. From day to night, each experience is designed to offer you comfort, excitement, and lasting memories. You’ll be delighted by how much things to do and enjoy.
Indulge in a culinary journey that artfully blends authentic Vietnamese flavors with refined Western fusion cuisine. Each dish is mindfully crafted using the freshest local ingredients, offering a harmonious balance of tradition and innovation for an unforgettable dining experience.
From a sparkling toast at sunset to a quiet nightcap under the stars, our bars and lounges invite you to savor every moment. Day or night, let each sip be a celebration of the beauty and serenity surrounding you.
Rejuvenate your body and mind with our carefully curated wellness experiences. From soothing spa treatments to serene yoga sessions overlooking the bay, every moment is designed to restore your inner peace and harmony.
Cultural explorers will delight in a variety of activities: cooking demonstration, rice-wine tasting, squid fishing that celebrate local traditions, transforming each journey into a captivating blend of breathtaking scenery and rich cultural discovery.
Cruises in Halong Bay are more than sightseeing – they are about experiencing the bay in every sense. These itinerary’s options allow you to both explore and relax, perfect for those visiting Halong Bay for the first time.
Day 1: Lan Ha Bay
Cruise Departure: 12:00 PM
Meal: Lunch, Dinner
Afternoon:
Evening:
Day 2: Halong Bay
Meal: Breakfast
Morning:
Cruise Disembarkation: 10:00 AM
Day 1: Halong Bay
Cruise Departure: 11:45 AM
Meal: Lunch (4-course), Dinner (refined 5-course fine dining)
Afternoon:
Evening:
Day 2: Halong Bay
Meal: Breakfast (à la carte and buffet style)
Morning:
Cruise Disembarkation: 10:00 AM
Day 1: Bai Tu Long Bay
Cruise Departure: 12:00 PM
Meal: Lunch, Dinner
Afternoon:
Dinner:
Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning:
Afternoon:
Dinner:
Day 3: Bai Tu Long Bay
Meal: Breakfast
Morning:
Cruise Disembarkation: 10:00 AM
Every great journey begins with good planning & preparation. Whether you’re curious about packing, dining, or daily activities, our first-time cruiser tips and FAQs cover everything you need to know before & during you sail.
The best time to cruise Halong Bay is from October to April, when the weather is cool, dry, and skies are often clear – perfect for sightseeing, photography, and outdoor activities. If you prefer warmer weather for swimming or kayaking, May to September offers lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. Although occasional summer showers can occur, there is more good offers from cruise’s brands.
Because in many periods, our cruises offer exceptional value, cabins tend to sell out quickly – especially on weekends. During the high season, many departures are fully booked one months in advance. If you’re planning to join a cruise, it’s best to reserve as early as possible to secure your cabin and ensure your preferred cruise date is still available.
The overnight cruises typically last 2 to 3 days, giving you ample time to relax, explore, and soak in the natural beauty of Halong Bay. For those looking to delve deeper into this UNESCO World Heritage Site, longer journeys of 4 days, 5 days, or more are also available – perfect for a more immersive and rewarding experience. Bhaya Cruises offers flexible itineraries to suit every traveler’s preference, from shorter escapes to extended voyages, all crafted to deliver exceptional service and a rich variety of onboard experiences and curated excursions.
Each bay offers its own charm, and the best choice depends on your travel style. Halong Bay, the most famous and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is ideal for first-time visitors who want to see the iconic limestone karsts and enjoy a wide range of activities. Lan Ha Bay, part of the Ha Long Bay – Cat Ba Archipelago, a region that has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2023. This bay offers a quieter, more secluded experience with equally stunning scenery and excellent options for kayaking and swimming. Meanwhile, Bai Tu Long Bay to the northeast offers more off-the-beaten-path attractions, is perfect for those seeking tranquility and untouched beauty. No matter which you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the same majestic seascapes that make northern Vietnam a must on any traveler’s bucket list. To help travelers experience the best of them all, Bhaya Cruises offers exclusive itineraries combining multiple bays in one journey – such as Halong Bay and Lan Ha aboard The Au Co Cruise, or all three bays aboard Bhaya Legend Private Charter.
Bring essentials include sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, swimwear, and light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable under the tropical sun. Comfortable shoes or sandals are ideal for excursions to caves and beaches, while a light jacket will come in handy during cooler evenings or the winter months. Don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the breathtaking scenery.
For all direct bookings made through the Bhaya Cruises website, round-trip transfer by shared Limousine from Hanoi to Halong Bay is included. The journey typically takes around 2.5 hours. If you prefer more privacy, a private car transfer can also be arranged with Bhaya Cruises at an additional cost. Guests seeking a truly unique experience could opt for a seaplane flight from Hanoi to Halong Bay to admire the stunning view from above.
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on all fleets of Bhaya Cruises. However, the quality of the connection depends on the geographical conditions of the cruising route. Bhaya Soul, our newest cruise, is equipped with upgraded Wi-Fi hardware, offering the most stable and reliable connection throughout the journey.
Yes, all board meals are included on the overnight cruise of Bhaya Cruises. You will enjoy a variety of delicious Vietnamese and Western cuisines, with freshly prepared meals featuring seafood, local specialties, and international options. Special dietary requests can be accommodated with prior notice.
Yes, we take the safety and security of our guests and crew seriously; hence, we have 24h security on board. The Captain and Cruise Manager are the Security Officers and you are welcome to ask about personal safety ashore or while cruising. Furthermore, you can use safes in the cabins or suites to store jewelry and other valuables or deposit it in the safety deposit box at the Reception Desk.
In addition, the lifeboats are located on the Sundeck; each accommodates a maximum of 12 people. Also, life vests are available in each cabin, in the dining area and in the tender boat; so please check for those once on board. Guests are recommended to wear a life jacket for all excursions, kayaking, and swimming activities.
In case of emergency, please put on the life vest and gather at the reception area. We do offer life vest in children and even infant sizes. Follow the instructions of the cruise manager or chief purser. Your cabin is also equipped with a hammer for breaking the window and an emergency lamp. Tender boats and lifeboats are ready and there are enough places provided for all passengers. For emergency cases on board in Halong Bay, the reception area is the central point on board and our staff is on 24-hour standby behind the reception desk.
Absolutely! The overnight cruise is perfect for families. There are a range of activities that both children and adults will enjoy, from exploring caves and beaches to sunbathing and kayaking. The spacious rooms and safe environment make it an ideal getaway for families with kids of all ages.
Don’t worry, the crew will adjust the itinerary as needed, and there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as cooking classes, wellness treatment, or simply relaxing in your cabin, bars & lounges.
Tell us your preferences, and our travel experts will craft the perfect Halong Cruise package for you – whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a quiet luxury escape. Fill out the form below and let us take care of the details.
