Reviewed · HALONG BAY CRUISES
2-Day or 3-Day: Halong&Lan Ha Bay Cruise 5* balcony,bathtub
Halong and Lan Ha bays are best seen from the water, and this cruise gives you two good ways to do it: a polished ship with private balcony cabins and bathtubs, plus small-boat outings into quieter coves and caves. The 3-day plan adds Viet Hai Village, while the 2-day version keeps the pace tighter.
I like the friendly crew and clean, spacious rooms, especially the free upgrade when available. I also like the sunset party, cooking class, kayaking, and the choice of a local bamboo boat at Dark and Bright Cave. The main caution is food and transport: meals can be uneven, and the port transfer may involve a long ride, traffic, and a 45-minute tender journey to the cruise ship.
Key points to know
- Choose three days for Viet Hai Village: You get a bicycle or electric-car visit, a local family stop, and extra swimming time.
- Expect a polished ship, not a private yacht: Doria Cruise has modern cabins, balconies, bathtubs, a small outdoor pool, and shared onboard entertainment.
- The best active moments are at Tra Bau and Dark and Bright Cave: You can kayak, swim when conditions allow, or use a bamboo boat rowed by local residents.
- Meals are included, but food is the weak point: Seafood, barbecue, buffet lunches, and set menus are served, yet quality may vary.
- Allow plenty of transfer time: Hanoi pickup starts around 8:20 to 8:40 a.m., and the return can reach Hanoi around 3:15 p.m.
- Weather controls the program: Wind, tides, and operating conditions can change the route or cancel activities.
A comfortable ship for seeing two famous bays
Where to next in Vietnam
Pick a bay, a mountain pass or a plastic stool.
