Ha Long Bay: Day Cruise with Caves, Kayaking & Ti Top Island

Summary

Halong’s caves, kayaking and Ti Top island in one easy day

You’ll hear cave echoes in Sung Sot Cave, paddle beneath stone arches at Luon Cave, swim or hike at Ti Top Island and share tea as sunset colors ripple across Ha Long Bay—all with local guidance and easy pickup from Hanoi. It’s a full day that lingers long after you’re back in your hotel room.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the soft clatter of chopsticks and the smell of steamed ginger fish drifting through the boat as we left Tuan Chau harbor. Our guide, Minh, pointed out the odd shapes of limestone islands—one looked like a rooster mid-argument, another like incense sticks. He grinned when I tried to say “Sung Sot” properly (I didn’t even come close). The bus ride from Hanoi was longer than I expected but honestly, watching the rice fields flick by made it feel less like a commute and more like a slow reveal.

We reached Surprise Cave just after lunch. There’s something about caves—cool air, that damp chalky smell, and echoes that make you whisper even if you don’t mean to. The colored lights inside felt almost theatrical but Minh explained how locals used to shelter here during storms. My shoes got muddy on the steps (should’ve worn darker ones), but I barely cared once we stepped out to that ridiculous view over Ha Long Bay. It’s hard not to just stand there for a minute and forget what time it is.

Kayaking at Luon Cave was next—my arms are still sore thinking about it. The water was glassy, greenish, and quiet except for paddles tapping against bamboo boats. Some folks took the bamboo option; I went for the kayak and nearly spun us in circles before figuring it out. There were monkeys up on the cliffs but they kept their distance. Afterward, we stopped at Ti Top Island where kids were splashing around while some of us hiked up for photos (the climb is short but steep—worth it for that bay panorama). The sand stuck between my toes all the way back to the boat.

I wasn’t expecting a sunset party but there we were—tea in hand, French fries on a plate, everyone quietly watching orange light spill across the water. Someone played Vietnamese pop on their phone and nobody minded. On the drive back to Hanoi I dozed off thinking about those strange islands poking out of the mist. Still can’t believe how much fit into one day trip from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ha Long Bay cruise and island activities

• Pick up from Hanoi Old Quarter
• Stop for break halfway
• Arrive at Tuan Chau island
• Board cruise and enjoy seafood lunch
• Cruise past islands and landscapes
• Explore Sung Sot cave
• Kayak or bamboo boat in Luon Cave
• Visit Ti Top island for hiking and swimming
• Enjoy sunset party on boat with snacks
• Return to Ha Long Harbour
• Transfer back to Hanoi hotel

Top questions

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

The tour starts with pickup around 8:15 AM in Hanoi Old Quarter and returns around 8:30-8:45 PM.

Is lunch included on this Ha Long Bay cruise?

Yes, a traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch is served onboard after boarding at Tuan Chau island.

Can I choose between kayaking or bamboo boat at Luon Cave?

Yes, you can pick either kayaking or a bamboo boat ride at Luon Cave for about 45 minutes.

Are hotel pickups available outside Hanoi Old Quarter?

No, pickups are only included for hotels within Hanoi’s Old Quarter area.

What should I bring for swimming or hiking at Ti Top Island?

Sunscreen, hat, towel and comfortable shoes are recommended for swimming or trekking up Ti Top peak.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap or be in a stroller; public transport options are nearby too.

What happens if bad weather affects the itinerary?

If weather changes plans unexpectedly, you’ll be offered an alternative activity or refund as needed.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter by air-conditioned bus, entry fees for all stops including Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island, a set menu seafood lunch (with vegetarian options if requested), your choice of kayaking or bamboo boat ride at Luon Cave, bottled water, plus snacks and tea during sunset before heading back in the evening.