2-Day Halong Bay Cruise with Cave, Island & Kayak Experience

Summary

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise: Caves, Islands & Local Flavors

If you want to see Halong Bay’s caves and islands without rushing—and taste real Vietnamese food along the way—this overnight cruise is worth it. You’ll kayak hidden spots, try your hand at squid fishing, meet locals on board, and wake up to sunrise over limestone cliffs.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Hanoi was still cool when our driver picked us up—around 8am, just as the city’s street vendors were setting up their stalls. The drive to Halong Bay took about three and a half hours. I dozed off for a bit but woke up as we passed rice paddies and small towns. By noon, we reached the harbor where the cruise staff greeted us with a quick briefing and welcome drink—ginger tea, if you’re curious.

Lunch was served soon after we boarded. I remember the tang of fresh seafood and the gentle rocking of the boat as we drifted past limestone islands. Our guide, Minh, pointed out shapes in the rocks—one looked like a dog, another like a rooster. In the afternoon, we explored Sung Sot Cave. The air inside was cool and damp; stalactites hung overhead like icicles. Afterward, some folks went swimming at Ti Top Island while others (like me) hiked up for a panoramic view—the climb is short but steep, so wear good shoes.

Back on deck by sunset, there was this easygoing mood as everyone watched the sky turn orange over the bay. The crew set out snacks and drinks for a little sunset party. Dinner was lively—lots of chatter over spring rolls and grilled fish. Later that night, a few of us tried squid fishing off the side of the boat (no luck for me), while others played cards or just lounged under the stars.

Next morning started early with Tai Chi on deck—honestly, I mostly just stretched and took photos of the misty water. Breakfast was simple but tasty: eggs made to order and Vietnamese coffee that really woke me up. We kayaked around Drum Cave after breakfast; gliding through those quiet corners of the bay felt almost unreal. There were fishing boats nearby—one fisherman waved as he checked his nets.

After packing up our cabins, we cruised past Ba Hang fishing village and Dog Islet before heading back to port. The chef did a fruit carving demo (his watermelon roses were impressive) and then led a hands-on cooking class where we learned to roll fresh spring rolls—messier than it looks! We had lunch together before disembarking around noon and headed back to Hanoi by mid-afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hanoi to Halong Bay Cruise

• Hotel pick-up and drive to Halong Bay
• Embark on V’Spirit Classic Cruise and briefing
• Lunch on board cruising limestone islands
• Explore Sung Sot Cave
• Cruise to Titov Island; swim or climb viewpoint
• Cruise to quiet area enjoying seascape
• Sunset party on sundeck
• Dinner and evening activities on board

Day 2 — Halong Bay Activities and Return

• Tai Chi exercises or photo hunt
• Breakfast on board
• Kayak around Drum Cave
• Return to boat and cabin check-out
• Cruise passing fishing village and Dog Islet
• Fruit carving demo and cooking class
• Disembark V’Spirit Classic
• Transfer back to Hanoi

Top questions

Is this cruise suitable for families with kids?

Yes! Kids are welcome on board and there are infant seats available if needed. Activities like kayaking can be enjoyed together with adults supervising.

Do I need to bring my own towels or toiletries?

No need—cabins have en-suite bathrooms stocked with towels and basic toiletries.

What kind of food is served on board?

You’ll get Vietnamese dishes (lots of seafood) plus some international options at each meal. Vegetarian requests can be accommodated if you let them know in advance.

How much free time do we have during the tour?

You’ll have downtime between activities—especially in the evening after dinner or during sunset on deck—to relax or socialize as you like.

What’s included

Your overnight cruise includes an air-conditioned cabin with private bathroom, all meals (Vietnamese and international), English-speaking guide, kayaking gear, shuttle bus transfers from Hanoi with bottled water, entrance fees for caves/islands, cooking class participation, welcome drinks—and plenty of chances to relax or join activities at your own pace.