3-Day Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise with Private Balcony Cabins

Summary

Luxury Halong Bay Cruise: Kayaking, Floating Villages & Caves

If you want more than just photos of Halong Bay—if you want real flavors, quiet moments on deck, and glimpses into daily life on the water—this 3-day cruise is for you. You’ll kayak hidden spots, try your hand at Vietnamese cooking, and wake up to sunrise views from your own balcony cabin.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the salty breeze as we stepped onto the deck at Hon Gai harbor—just after noon, sun high but not too harsh. Our guide, Minh, handed out cool towels and pointed out the limestone karsts in the distance. I remember fumbling with my cabin key, a bit nervous but mostly excited to see what our private balcony looked like (spoiler: it’s worth it for those sunrise views alone).

Lunch came quick—bowls of steaming pho and grilled prawns straight from the bay. The chef even explained where he sourced the clams (from a tiny inlet near Vung Vieng). By mid-afternoon, we were gliding through quiet waters toward the floating fishing village. Kids waved from their boats; you could hear them laughing over the hum of our engine. It felt like time slowed down out there.

Back on board, some folks headed for massages while I grabbed my camera and just watched the sky shift colors behind the islands. Later, Minh led a cooking class—rolling fresh spring rolls isn’t as easy as it looks! Dinner was a mix of local seafood and a few Western touches; I still think about that caramelized fish dish sometimes.

The second day started early with Tai Chi on deck. There’s something about moving slowly while mist hangs over the water—makes you feel part of the place. After breakfast (sticky rice and tropical fruit), we hopped onto a smaller boat to explore hidden corners of Bai Tu Long Bay. Kayaking under low-hanging caves and swimming off Hon Co Island was honestly my favorite part—the water’s cooler than you’d expect.

Lunch was served picnic-style on board while we dried off in the sun. In the afternoon, we learned another Vietnamese recipe before another relaxed dinner under lantern light. Some guests tried squid fishing off the back of the boat—I gave it a shot but mostly just enjoyed chatting with fellow travelers over drinks.

On our last morning, coffee in hand, I watched fishermen heading out as we cruised toward Thien Canh Son Cave. The climb up is short but steep; inside, sunlight filters through cracks above ancient stalactites. We checked out around nine—bags whisked away by staff who seemed to know everyone by name—and had one last brunch before docking back at Hon Gai.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival and Vung Vieng Village

• Arrive and pick up at Hon Gai harbor
• Check-in cabin
• Welcome speech and safety instructions
• Vietnamese lunch
• Visit Vung Vieng floating fishing village
• Leisure time and sunset viewing
• Cooking show
• Gala dinner
• After dinner drinks
• Squid fishing

Day 2 — Bai Tu Long Bay Exploration

• Tai Chi class on deck
• Breakfast on board
• Transfer to day boat
• Kayaking and swimming
• Lunch on day boat
• Return to Athena Boat
• Cooking class
• Gala dinner
• Leisure activities and promotions

Day 3 — Paradise Cave and Return

• Tai Chi class on deck
• Early coffee
• Visit Paradise Cave (Thien Canh Son)
• Check out and luggage transfer
• Bill settlement
• Brunch
• Boat arrives at pier
• Arrive at Hanoi hotel

Top questions

Is this cruise suitable for families or people with limited mobility?

Yes! The ship is wheelchair accessible and there are infant seats available. Most activities can be adapted for different fitness levels.

What kind of food is served onboard?

You’ll get a mix of traditional Vietnamese dishes (lots of fresh seafood) plus some Western options at every meal—including two set lunches, two dinners, breakfasts, and brunch.

Are drinks included in the price?

Drinks aren’t included but there are happy hour promotions each evening after dinner.

Do I need to bring anything special for kayaking or swimming?

No special gear needed—kayaks and life jackets are provided. Just pack swimwear and maybe sandals for getting in and out of boats.

What’s included

Your stay covers two nights in a luxury private balcony cabin with air conditioning and en-suite bathroom; all main meals (two Asian set lunches, two set dinners, two mini breakfasts); Tai Chi sessions; guided kayaking; cooking classes; English-speaking guide onboard; insurance; buffet brunch; plus all entrance fees for caves and villages along Bai Tu Long Bay.