How to Choose the Right Ha Long Bay Cruise
Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long? Day trip or overnight? Compare routes, cruise classes and prices and pick the right Ha Long Bay cruise.
Bởi AmGo Travel3 phút đọc
There are hundreds of boats on Ha Long Bay, and choosing one can feel overwhelming. Three decisions narrow it down fast: which bay, how many days and what level of comfort. This guide walks you through each, based on the cruises our Hanoi team books every day.
Decision 1: Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay?
All three are part of the same limestone seascape, but each feels different.
- Ha Long Bay – Feel: Classic, busiest; Highlights: Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, Titop Island viewpoint, iconic islets; Best for: First-timers, day trips
- Lan Ha Bay – Feel: Quieter, greener; Highlights: Kayaking through lagoons, Dark and Bright Cave, sandy coves; Best for: Overnight cruises, kayaking, couples
- Bai Tu Long Bay – Feel: Remote, calm; Highlights: Floating fishing villages, few other boats; Best for: Travelers who want peace and fewer crowds
If it is your first visit and you have one day, choose Ha Long Bay. If you stay overnight, many travelers prefer Lan Ha Bay for its quieter waters and better kayaking.
Decision 2: Day cruise, 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights?
Day cruise (about 6 hours on the water). You leave Hanoi around 8:00, drive about 2.5–3 hours by expressway, cruise with lunch on board, visit a cave and an island, and are back in Hanoi by about 21:00. It is a long day, but good if your time is short. Our day cruises start from about USD 40.
2 days 1 night (the most popular). You sleep on the boat in a private cabin, see the sunset and sunrise on the bay, and join kayaking, a cooking class and Tai Chi. It is far more relaxing than a day trip. Our 2-day cruises start from about USD 115.
3 days 2 nights. On the second day, you transfer to a smaller day boat and go deeper into Lan Ha or Bai Tu Long, away from the main routes. Choose this if you want to slow down.
Decision 3: What level of cruise?
- 3-star and standard boats: clean private cabins with air-conditioning, set meals and the main activities. Best value for backpackers and groups.
- 4-star boats: larger cabins, often with a balcony, better food and a sundeck bar. The sweet spot for most travelers.
- 5-star and luxury boats: spacious suites with bathtubs, spa, pool or jacuzzi, fine dining and fewer guests per staff member. Ideal for honeymoons and special occasions.
Prices also depend on the cabin. Balcony or ocean-view cabins cost more than inside cabins on the same boat.
What is usually included
- Shuttle bus between Hanoi Old Quarter and the harbour (on most cruises).
- Meals on board as listed in the itinerary; drinks are usually extra.
- English-speaking guide, entrance fees and kayaking or bamboo boat rides.
- On overnight cruises: cabin, cooking class, Tai Chi and evening activities such as squid fishing.
Always check whether the shuttle bus, kayaking and drinks are included when you compare prices.
Tips for a better Ha Long Bay cruise
- Book early in peak season (October–April and holidays); the best cabins sell out first.
- Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes for caves and island climbs.
- Carry a small bag onto the boat; leave larger luggage at your Hanoi hotel or with us.
- Weather can change plans. During storms, the authorities can suspend sailings. Reputable cruises reschedule or refund.
- Travelling with children? Most boats offer free or reduced rates for young children sharing a bed.
FAQ
Is a day trip to Ha Long Bay worth it? Yes, if you only have one day. An overnight cruise is more relaxing and lets you see the bay at sunset and sunrise.
How long does it take from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay? About 2.5–3 hours by expressway.
Which is better, Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay? Ha Long Bay has the most famous sights; Lan Ha Bay is quieter and better for kayaking.
How much does a Ha Long Bay cruise cost? From about USD 40 for a day cruise and about USD 115 for 2 days 1 night, up to luxury suites.
Our Ha Long Bay cruises
Book your Ha Long Bay cruise with AmGo Travel
AmGo Travel works with the full range of Ha Long Bay cruises, from budget boats to 5-star ships, and helps you choose the right one for your dates and budget. See our Ha Long Bay cruises, message us on WhatsApp, or visit us at 61 Hang Ga, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
