Top 10 Best Recommended Cruises Halong Bay in May, 2024
Over 60 discerningly hand-picked cruises based on the review score & quality of service. Let’s choose the best and grab the hottest deals of up to 40% OFF!
- Top 10 2024
- Luxury Cruises
- Lan Ha Bay Cruises
- Bai Tu Long Bay Cruises
- Budget Cruises
- Day Cruises
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9.6Excellent - 222 reviewsMy favorite experience throughout the trip was the overnight cruise in Halong Bay.… Achini S - AustraliaLan Ha Bay - Cat Ba IslandBar Cafe & Lounge PoolWhy book?
- Bestseller 4-star junk cruise in Lan Ha Bay 2023/24
- 20 deluxe cabins with private balconies & bathtub
- High-quality service as a luxury cruise
- 1 night 2 nights
- Trung Trang Cave, Tra Bau Area, Viet Hai Village
- Group travel, Family with kids, Events & MICE
20 cabins - Metal Boat - Launched in 2018$149 /pax -
9.5Excellent - 253 reviewsOur 2-day cruise around Ha Long Bay was absolutely wonderful. The entire organization… Mr.Kim Michael - United KingdomHalong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island
- Hot Summer 35% OFF »
- Free Hanoi Food Tour. Value $35/pax
Bar Cooking Class JacuzziWhy book?- Best boutique luxury cruise to Lan Ha Bay
- Beautiful jacuzzi pool on sundeck
- All cabins have large private balcony & bathtubs
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Trung Trang Cave, Ao Ech Area, Viet Hai Village, Ba Trai Dao
- Seniors, Couples, Luxury travelers
14 cabins - Metal - Launched in 2016$183 /pax -
9.6Excellent - 206 reviewsEveryone says that taking a cruise across Ha Long Bay is a must-do when visiting… Emma A - Hong KongHalong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island
- Summer Deals: 40% OFF »
- Free Hanoi Food Tour. Value $35/pax
Fitness Center Jacuzzi Mini GolfWhy book?- Best-seller luxurious cruise in Lan Ha Bay 2023/24
- Spacious outdoor jacuzzi pool 15m2 and mini golf on the sundeck
- The first Halong Bay cruise serves authentic Halal food with a Halal certificate
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Trung Trang Cave, Tra Bau Area, Viet Hai Village
- Couples, Group Travel, Events & MICE
18 cabins - Metal Boat - Launched in 2018$172 /pax -
9.6Excellent - 155 reviewsOur experience on the 3-day/2-night Halong Bay Scarlet Pearl cruise was absolutely… Ms.Diane Chenier - ThailandHalong Bay - Lan Ha BayCatamaran Jacuzzi LibraryWhy book?
- Best luxury ship for eco-tourism and unique itinerary in Lan Ha Bay
- Extensive President Suite up to 150m2 with private terrace and outdoor jacuzzi
- The only 5-star using Catamaran on Day 2 excursion
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Dark & Bright Cave, Ba Trai Dao Beach, Viet Hai Village, Ao Ech
- Luxury Travellers, Couples
23 cabins - Steel - Launched in 2019$168 /pax -
9.5Excellent - 63 reviewsOn a scale of 1 to 100 (100 being excellent), I would give Janet about 83. She had… Shashkov - RussiaHalong Bay
- Flash Sale 30% OFF! »
- Free Hanoi Food Tour. Value $35/pax
Bar Cafe & Lounge Conference & MeetingWhy book?- One of the biggest overnight cruises in Halong Bay
- Piano bar with live Jazz music every evening
- Authentic Indian meal made by professional Indian chefs
- Luxury facilities: unique glass bridge, elevator, 06 spa rooms
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Titop Island
- Couples, Luxury travelers, Event & MICE, Young Adults
46 cabins - Metal - Launched in 2018$185 /pax -
9.4Excellent - 127 reviewsHang Moon perfectly organized our trip to Ha Long. We traveled from Ho Chi Minh… Ms. Hick - United KingdomHalong Bay - Lan Ha BayBar Karaoke LibraryWhy book?
- Best mid-range cruise with high service standard
- Cozy boutique boat with a unique fusion design
- Interesting itinerary through Lan Ha Bay with fun activities
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Dark & Bright Cave, Viet Hai Village, Tra Bau Area
- Couples, Families, Group Travel
16 cabins - Steel - Launched in 2019$144 /pax -
9.6Excellent - 22 reviewsRosie Nhung was really helpful in booking our 3-day, 2-night trip on the Lily trip… Anna E - AustraliaHalong Bay - Bai Tu Long Bay
- Summer Deals: 40% OFF »
- Free Hanoi Food Tour. Value $35/pax
Bar Cafe & Lounge Cooking ClassWhy book?- Off-the-beaten-path cruise itinerary to Bai Tu Long area
- Committed and skilled staff ensuring dedicated and professional assistance
- Enjoy a comprehensive selection of jacuzzi pool, spa, massage, and bar
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Thien Canh Son Cave, Vung Vieng Village, Cong Dam Area
- Mid-range travelers, Couples, Groups of friends
20 cabins - Metal - Launched in 2020$148 /pax -
9.6Excellent - 97 reviewsAll communication with Best Travel was conducted via WhatsApp, and they excelled… Mr.Cleve Stew - United StatesHalong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island
- Free Hanoi Food Tour. Value $35/pax
Bar Cafe & Lounge Cigar/ Poker ClubWhy book?- The only overnight cruise ship in Halong Bay owns a private water slide
- Exclusive deck for meetings with a variety of opulent facilities
- Experience personalized service from private dinners to speed boat
- Exciting Cigar & Poker Club with many entertaining board games
- 1 night, 2 nights, 3 nights
- Ao Ech Area, Dark & Bright Cave, Viet Hai Village
- Family with Kids, Group Travel, Events & MICE
30 cabins - Metal Boat - Launched in 2020$224 /pax -
9.6Excellent - 80 reviewsA great experience in a gorgeous setting. We thoroughly liked this cruise and participated… Adrian R - AustraliaHalong Bay - Lan Ha Bay
- Last Minute: 30% OFF + Free Bus »
Bar Jacuzzi PoolWhy book?- One of the newest luxury Halong Bay cruises offering professional services
- 02 outdoor swimming pools: a public one and a private one in the President Rooms
- Spacious cabins (28 - 64m2) with a large private balcony and bathtub
- Unique itinerary to visit both Halong and Lan Ha Bay on 3d2n cruise
- 1 night, 2 nights
- Luon Cave, Titop Island, Sung Sot Cave, Me Cung Cave, Ba Trai Dao, Dark & Bright Cave
- Couples, High-end travelers, Families
18 cabins - Metal - Launched in 2022$159 /pax -
9.6Excellent - 156 reviewsI'm glad that I booked a 3-day tour. Janet was very helpful in helping me find the… Yous B - United Arab EmiratesHalong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island
- 40% OFF+ Free Food Tour »
Art Gallery Boutique Shop Cafe & LoungeWhy book?- The most lavish cruise for a journey to Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island
- Beautifully artisanal boutique products with an impressive art gallery
- Sumptuous facilities: 32m2 pool, spacious piano lounge, pretty library
- A culinary adventure with a standout royal-themed dinner
- 1 night, 2 nights, 3 nights
- Ba Trai Dao, Dark & Bright cave, Viet Hai Village, Tra Bau Area
- Luxury Travellers, Family with Kids, Couples
20 cabins - Metal - Launched in 2019$202 /pax
Top Halong Bay Tour Recommendations
Among the world’s most beautiful bays recognized by UNESCO and top famous travel magazines, Halong Bay is best explored on a cruise tour into the pristine nature and cultural richness.
About 2.5 hours from Hanoi to Halong Bay, the cruise will take you on a seascape through the majestic towering limestones and turquoise waters.
With a collection of the best cruises selected by BestPrice Travel, you will have different choices depending on 3 main factors: travel budget, itinerary, and cruise destinations.
Cruise Budget
Travel budget would be the first and foremost concern for most passengers. You can start from the lowest cost (3-star standard) and estimate the price range per day for one pax.
Cruise | Price (pax/night) | Highlight Facilities |
---|---|---|
3 stars | US $112 - $140 |
13 - 18m2 cabin, window view |
4 stars | US $141 - $164 |
18 - 25m2 cabin, private balcony, bathtubs |
5 stars | US $165 - $199 |
28 - 35m2 cabin, private balcony, jacuzzi, pool |
Most luxurious | From US $200 |
45 - 150m2 cabin, private terrace & jacuzzi tub, private butler |
NOTE:
- The price is estimated at the lowest cost and does not include taxes & fees.
- The most expensive option is a private charter cruise priced from US $218 to US $702/ pax/ night.
Cruise Itinerary
Joining a full day or an overnight trip, you can experience various activities to discover limestone caves, kayak and swim in secluded parts, get closer to the daily life in fishing villages, etc.
The most common cruise itineraries in Halong Bay
Itinerary | Cruise length | Attractions visit |
---|---|---|
1 day | 6 - 8 hours |
1 - 2 highlight spots |
2 days 1 night | 24 hours |
2 - 4 highlight spots |
3 days 2 nights | 48 hours |
3 - 5 highlight spots |
4 days 3 nights | 72 hours | 6 - 7 highlight spots |
Cruise Route
There are 3 main routes to separate parts: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay to diversify the cruise experience. More than 80% of cruises launch Halong and Lan Ha Bay routes, while only 10% set sails to Bai Tu Long Bay.
Highlight attractions of Halong Bay
Classic Halong Bay route:
- Route 2: Titop Island, Soi Sim, Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Trinh Nu-Trong Cave, Me Cung Cave, Pearl Farm
- Route 3: Cua Van Floating Village, Tien Ong Cave, Ba Ham Lake
Bai Tu Long Bay route:
- Route 4: Cong Dam, Cong Do, Cap La Island, Vung Vieng Village, Thien Canh Son
Lan Ha Bay route:
- Route 5: Dark & Bright Cave, Ba Trai Dao Beach, Trung Trang Cave, Viet Hai Village
NOTE: You can only choose one of these destinations; however, some 3-day-2-night cruises combine an excursion to Halong and Lan Ha Bay (e.g.: Hermes Cruise, Hera Grand Luxury Cruise, Paradise Elegance, Essence Grand).
Based on the customer review and our inspection, we have chosen the top 10 cruises in 2024 at different budgets to fit all travel styles.
Cruise | Price | Best for |
---|---|---|
Mon Cheri 5* | US $175 | Best seller cruise 2023 |
Scarlet Pearl 5* | US $182 | Best modern luxury yacht |
Peony Cruise 4.5* | US $153 | Top favorite in Lan Ha |
Orchid Classic 5* | US $186 | Best traditional boat |
Ambassador 5* | US $170 | Best largest cruise |
Paradise Elegance 5* | US $174 | Best 5-star service |
Era Cruise 5* | US $180 | Best for medical care |
Doris Cruise 5* | US $164 | Best budget 5-star cruise |
Orchid Trendy 4.5* | US $172 | Best deluxe junk boat |
Athena Cruise 4.5* | US $169 | Best family cruise |
La Regina Legend 4.5* | US $173 | Best standard cabins (from 45m2) |
Paradise Peak 5* | US $280 | Best luxurious wooden junk |
NOTE: All price quote references for 1 person share in a double/ twin cabin. The exact price is based on availability and season.
Hope you are a wise cruiser and travel like a local with these pro tips in Halong Bay. Don’t skip because you might not find these notes anywhere else.
- Some cruises (e.g.: Paradise Cruises) might charge offboard activities like kayaking/ bamboo boating.
- The Hanoi - Halong transportation, beverages, wine cellar, and spa service are usually excluded from the cruise price.
- Some 3-day-2-night cruises only set sail on specific days. For instance, Paradise Cruises operates 3-day itineraries on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays only.
- The “connecting suite” combines 02 different staterooms that connect with an adjoining door.
- US $3 - 5 is the average range of tipping for each crew or service.
- Bringing 2-pin plug adapters is a must. Also, remember that the electricity power in Vietnam is at 220V / 50Hz.
- After 17:00 is the best flight time after the cruise. Since the cruise disembarkation time is around 11:30 - 12:00 noon, you will need 2.5 - 3 hours to transfer to Hanoi airport.
All in all, it is important to find a reputable travel agent to book a cruise without scams. With more than 13 years of experience and consecutively awarded “Traveler Choice” of TripAdvisor, BestPrice Travel is the most popular name among thousands of travel agencies providing cruise booking services.
To book a cruise, please choose your perfect choice on our list and book online. Or send a request to us, then our travel consultant will help you book via email.
FAQs
Yes, Halong Bay is definitely worth a try. As one of the world-famous natural heritage sites, Halong Bay features the best destination for cruising in Vietnam. Why is it worth it?
- Deeper exploration: Cruising is the best way to go further into the beautiful archipelago of the Gulf of Tonkin
- Perfect seascape: Stay 2 - 3 days relaxing on the ship, soaking up the fresh air and tranquility of the bay
- Exciting activities: Retreat by entertaining onboard (mini golf, poker, pool, spa, karaoke) and offboard (kayaking, boat rowing, cave visiting, catamaran, etc.)
For the best travel experience, the best time to go to Halong Bay is March - April and October - November, when the weather is cool (20 - 28°C) and dry (less rainfall).
Also, you can choose other months to visit:
- May - September: Perfect time to get summer deals and flash sales up to 40% OFF
- January - April: Enjoyable time to take part in Halong festivals and welcome Tet Holiday onboard
To better plan, please check out Best Time to Visit Halong Bay for Perfect Weather & Great Deals
On average, the prices of cruise trips range between US $125 - $300/person for 1 night, US $250 - $550/person for 2 nights, and US $65 - $120/person for a day trip.
Most cruises do not include the transfer in their package. You have to pay extra for the transfer if you want to be picked up from Hanoi.
Please see the price table for 2024 below for your reference:
Trip Type |
Low season |
High season |
---|---|---|
Day trip |
US$ 65 - 95 | US$ 75 - 120 |
2 days 1 night |
US$ 120 - 200 | US$ 130 - 300 |
3 days 2 nights |
US$ 220 - 400 | US$ 240 - 500 |
Shuttle bus round trip |
US$ 30 - 40 | US$ 30 - 40 |
* The price is per person in USD
* Low season: May - Sep, High season: Jan - Apr & Oct - Dec
How long you stay in Halong Bay really depends on your budget and available time.
- 1 night: On a budget from US $125/pax, you can visit 1 - 2 attractions and join tai chi, cooking class, kayaking, or boat rowing onboard.
- 2 nights: With US $225/pax or more, you can add on 1 - 2 hidden places to visit and enjoy more time sightseeing and relaxing.
Still wondering about your plan? Please keep in touch with us via sales@bestpricetravel.com or +84 904 699 428 (WhatsApp).
It takes around 2.5 - 3 hours (including break time) to transfer from Hanoi Old Quarter to Halong Bay by limousine bus or car. For those who transfer from Hanoi airport, it takes about 3 hours of driving to Halong Bay.
The slowest way is by train (7 hours), while the fastest way is by seaplane (45 minutes).
For further information, let’s check 6 Best Ways to Travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay
Here are the top places to visit on most of the cruises, varying from islets, caves, and beaches, to fishing villages.
- Titop Island: A famous viewpoint with a panoramic bay view and stunning beach
- Sung Sot Cave: An amazing cave to admire gorgeous stalactites and stalagmites
- Ba Trai Dao Beach: A beautifully pristine beach to enjoy swimming and sunbathing
- Dark & Bright Cave: Top favorite destination to do kayaking in Lan Ha Bay
- Thien Canh Son Cave: One of the largest limestone caves in Bai Tu Long
- Vung Vieng Floating Village: A tranquil village known for its serene beauty and pearl farming
There are 2 main ports where most cruises start from Tuan Chau Port and Halong International Port at around 12:00 - 12:30 pm. Additionally, some cruises may depart from Vinashin Port (Hon Gai), Cai Lan, and other ports around Halong City and Hai Phong (50 km).
Tuan Chau Port |
Halong International Port |
Address |
|
Ngoc Chau, Tuan Chau Island |
No. 9 Halong Road, Bai Chay Ward |
How to get to |
|
From Van Don Airport: 1.2 hours by car From Cat Bi Airport: 45 minutes by car From Hanoi: 2.5 hours by limousine/ car |
From Van Don Airport: 1 hour by car From Cat Bi Aiport: 50 minutes by car From Hanoi: 2.5 hours by limousine/ car |
The overnight cruise usually returns to the port at 11:00 - 11:30 on the last day of the itinerary. You will get to your hotel in Hanoi by 15:30 - 16:00 in the afternoon.
For the day cruise trip, the disembarkation time is around 16:00 - 17:00 and the drop-off time in Hanoi is approximately 20:00.
Note: If you want to book a flight on the same day, choose a domestic flight after 17:00 and an international flight after 18:00.
Yes, you are allowed to swim in some areas of the bay, specifically:
- Halong Bay: You can only swim in Titop Island, where most Halong overnight cruises pass by on the first day of the itinerary.
- Lan Ha Bay: You are freely swum by the overnight anchor point around Ao Ech and Tra Bau Area.
- Bai Tu Long Bay: Unlucky, swimming is restricted in this area for safety reasons.
Note: Please wear a life jacket if needed and don’t go swimming alone!
All cruises in Halong Bay must have permission from the Management Board to stay overnight in the Bay. Based on the weather predictions (high winds, monsoon, thunderstorm, cyclone, storm...), the Management Board has the authority to cancel all cruises on a certain day to guarantee the safety of tourists.
In those cases, the following policies will be applied for the cruise:
- If the cancellation is informed before you leave Hanoi (you have not used any service yet): 100% refund
- If the cancellation is informed during the trip (you have already used some services: transfer, lunch, day trip, hotel,...): Only the fee of these services will be charged and we will refund the whole remaining amount
- If the trip is cut down from 3 days/2 nights to 2 days/1 night, we will charge as 2 days/1 night trip, plus other services you have already used, and refund the remaining amount
Important notes:
- The cancellation is announced ONLY by the Management Board and often on short notice of time. Therefore your understanding of these situations is highly appreciated.
- The period from May to July is considered stormy weather in Halong Bay with many unpredictable weather conditions. Hence more cruises will be canceled on short notice during this season.
- In all cases, please contact our consultants directly for any urgent help. We are here to support you with all of our best!
Customer Reviews
Based on 5528 customer's reviews
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Questions & Answers (346)
Hi, I would like to inquire about Halong Bay cruise for 15/04/2024. Which cruise was available for that date? We have 8 people. We want to used around USD 400 per room.
Hi! For your request, pls consider our best options below:
- Ambassador Signature Cruise - 5-star - from $390/cabin
- Mon Cheri Cruise - 5-star - from $364/cabin
- Peony Cruise - 4-star - from $324/cabin
Hello, we would like to take a 2 day 1 night cruise in HaLong Bay that includes a visit to Ti Top Island. We're a family of 3, including 12 yo. Are there any cruises that could accommodate all of us in the same room? Which cruises could you recommend that include a cooking class, squid fishing, Tai Chi etc.? Thank you!
Hi! For your request, you can consider below options:
- Catherine Cruise - from $242/person
- Essence Grand Cruise - from $215/person
- Hermes Cruise - from $197/person
- Ambassador Cruise - from $185/person
- Paradise Elegance Cruise - from $170/person
Usually, most of cruises have cooking class, Tai Chi, and squid fishing. Pls note that the squid season is summer so if you want to enjoy that, you should book the cruise on the right time.
Hi! I will be doing a cruise in Halong Bay starting April 10. I want to do the Pradise Elegance Cruise 3 days 2 nights and it seems like I can make the reservation for april 10, but it is also written that it only leaves on tuesdays or thursdays so is April 10 reallly available for departure?
Hi, the 3 days program only run for Tue, Thus so you can take 9 or 11 Apr.
We are interested in of the Bay cruises as well as the subsequent transfer from Ha Long to Ninh Binh. Could you explain a little bit where exactly we’d be dropped off in Ninh Binh? Further, when would we depart in Ha Long Bay. We would like to take a cruise that ends on the 1st of April. Thank you very much in advance!
Hi! Usually, the bus is stopped at Ninh Binh city center. However, if you want to drop off at another place in Ninh Binh (such as Tam Coc, Trang An), the bus provider can arrange you a transfer transport.
The cruise departure time is usually from 12.00 - 12.30 pm. The options for cruise ends on 1st April are limited now. Please check your email for more information.
Hi. I'm interested in a 2D1N cruise to Halong Bay on 9-10 April. 1 cabin for 2 pax. I prefer a 4-star type of Junk boat e.g. Dragon Pearl. Can you pls recommend based on availability & price? I prefer to include transfer to & from Hanoi. Shared van is okay. Thanks
Hi Vishal, Dragon Legend is available on 09 Apr (same company as Dragon Pearl but higher level) with a price of US $428/cabin. The shared transfer between Hanoi Old Quarter and Halong cruise port costs US $20 per passenger per way.
Our experience on the 3-day/2-night Halong Bay Scarlet Pearl cruise was absolutely incredible. The food surpassed our expectations, and the staff and guides were not only friendly but also attentive. We would like to extend our thanks to Janet for her exceptional assistance throughout the booking process.… More Our experience on the 3-day/2-night Halong Bay Scarlet Pearl cruise was absolutely incredible. The food surpassed our expectations, and the staff and guides were not only friendly but also attentive. We would like to extend our thanks to Janet for her exceptional assistance throughout the booking process. She was incredibly helpful and kept us well informed about the transfer pickups leading up to the trip. Less
The cruise experience was absolutely incredible! However, it was made even more amazing by the exceptional assistance, guidance, and service provided by my travel counselor, Mia Nguyen. Her support and expertise added an extra level of enjoyment to the entire journey.
Amazing, one of the best cruises I've had. Bai Tu Long is worth visiting as it is much quieter than Halong Bay.
A great experience in a gorgeous setting. We thoroughly liked this cruise and participated in all of its activities. The personnel was fantastic, extremely polite, and inviting. A big thank you to Mr Lam, who was the best tour guide. He was both informed and funny. Henry was a very pleasant person who… More A great experience in a gorgeous setting. We thoroughly liked this cruise and participated in all of its activities. The personnel was fantastic, extremely polite, and inviting. A big thank you to Mr Lam, who was the best tour guide. He was both informed and funny. Henry was a very pleasant person who looked after us nicely in the restaurant. All of the girls were beautiful and interacted with us in the evening on the rooftop bar; it was a pleasure to converse with them - it was an excellent experience that we would suggest to everyone. Thank you. Less
On a scale of 1 to 100 (100 being excellent), I would give Janet about 83. She had a comprehensive knowledge of Halong Bay and the cruises there. When the plans for the seaplane went bad (rainy, not her fault anyway) she fixed it right away (and onward transport to Hanoi) and rearranged it.
We contacted… More On a scale of 1 to 100 (100 being excellent), I would give Janet about 83. She had a comprehensive knowledge of Halong Bay and the cruises there. When the plans for the seaplane went bad (rainy, not her fault anyway) she fixed it right away (and onward transport to Hanoi) and rearranged it.
We contacted via WhatsApp for quick communications at all sorts of times. She answered me even in the morning and evening - far beyond the working hours.
If I needed to employ someone to just get stuff done - I would give her a job without a second thought. Less