Ha Long Bay: 6-Hour Cruise, Kayak & Titov Island Climb

Summary

Kayak through Luon Cave swim at Titov beach climb for views

You’ll cruise through Ha Long Bay’s limestone islands, kayak or take a bamboo boat into Luon Cave’s quiet lagoon, eat fresh Vietnamese food on board, and climb Titov Island for panoramic views. With hotel pickup from Hanoi and a local guide who keeps things light, this day trip feels both relaxed and full of small surprises.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re going to want your camera out for this bit,” our guide Hanh grinned as the boat drifted past these wild-looking limestone stacks — one shaped like a rooster, apparently? I didn’t see it at first, but once someone pointed it out, I couldn’t unsee it. The air had that salty-sweet smell you only get near the sea in Vietnam, with a breeze that felt like relief after the drive from Hanoi. There was music playing quietly somewhere on the upper deck, some old Vietnamese pop song that made a few of us laugh because none of us could sing along.

Lunch came out just as we reached the Bo Hon archipelago — plates of fresh spring rolls and something with lemongrass that I’m still thinking about. Hanh showed us how to say “ngon quá” (delicious), which I probably butchered but he just laughed. We stopped at Surprising Cave next; honestly, I’d seen photos but standing inside with all those weird stalactites overhead is another thing entirely. It’s cool and echoey in there, and you can hear water dripping somewhere deep inside.

Afterwards we paddled kayaks into Luon Cave — or you could take a bamboo boat if you wanted to keep your feet dry. The lagoon was so quiet except for someone’s paddle tapping the side of their kayak every now and then. Then Titov Island: sandy beach below, steep steps up if you want to climb (I did — legs burning but worth it). The view from the top is one of those things that sticks with you, even if there were a few clouds rolling in by then. On the way back everyone seemed quieter; maybe tired or just full from lunch and sun. Anyway, I kept thinking about how different Ha Long Bay looks up close compared to all those postcards.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Halong Bay cruise with kayaking and sightseeing

• Pick up from hotel in Hanoi
• Travel to Tuan Chau Island
• Rest stop en route
• Arrive at Tuan Chau Harbor
• Board cruise and safety briefing
• Enjoy Vietnamese lunch on boat
• Visit Surprising Cave at Bo Hon archipelago
• Kayak or bamboo boat in Luon Cave
• Visit Titov Island and beach
• Climb Titov Peak for panoramic view
• Return to cruise and sunbathe on deck
• Disembark at Tuan Chau Harbor
• Return to Hanoi by highway
• Drop off at hotel

Top questions

How long is the Ha Long Bay day trip from Hanoi?

The tour lasts about 12 hours including transfers between Hanoi and Ha Long Bay.

Is kayaking included in the Ha Long Bay cruise?

Yes, kayaking or bamboo boat rides are included at Luon Cave during the cruise.

What meals are provided on the Ha Long Bay tour?

A Vietnamese lunch is served on board; vegetarian options are available if requested in advance.

Do they pick up from hotels in Hanoi?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi are included in the tour price.

Can I swim during this Ha Long Bay trip?

Yes, swimming is possible at Titov Island during the stop there.

Is there a guide on board during the cruise?

An English-speaking local guide accompanies you throughout the trip.

Are drinks included with lunch?

You get one bottled water on the bus; other drinks may be available for purchase on board.

How much walking or climbing is involved?

You’ll walk through Surprising Cave and can climb steps to Titov Peak for views; suitable for most fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Hanoi, entry fees for Surprising Cave and Titov Island, kayaking or bamboo boat activity at Luon Cave, an English-speaking local guide throughout, a freshly prepared Vietnamese lunch onboard (with vegetarian options if needed), plus bottled water during your transfer back and forth.