Ha Long Bay & Lan Ha Bay: 5-Star Overnight Cruise, Balcony Cabin

Summary

Ha Long Bay overnight cruise with balcony cabin, kayaking, local food and cultural moments

You’ll float through Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay in a private balcony cabin with all meals included—kayak at quiet coves, try Tai Chi at sunrise on deck, join a Vietnamese cooking class and relax with live music after dinner. It’s peaceful but never dull; you’ll remember how it felt to wake up surrounded by water.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed after we left Hanoi was how the air changed—saltier, thicker somehow. By the time we reached the pier and boarded the cruise ship, I’d already lost track of time (in a good way). Our guide, Minh, handed out cold towels and joked about his “cruise hair”—which honestly looked better than mine after that bus ride. The room was more than I expected: private balcony facing nothing but green islands and pale sky. There was even a bathtub. I remember thinking, “Do people actually use bathtubs on boats?” Turns out I did—later, with the window cracked open so I could hear water slapping against the hull.

We stopped near Dark and Light Cave for kayaking. My arms are still sore just thinking about it. The locals rowing bamboo boats waved as they passed us—one lady had this huge straw hat and a laugh that carried across the water. Back on board, there was this sunset party thing—fruity drinks, sticky rice snacks, music drifting from somewhere above deck. Not sure if it was the light or just being surrounded by all that calm water, but everything felt softer around the edges. Dinner was a blur of seafood (and yes, veggie options), with live music that made me wish I knew more Vietnamese songs.

I woke up early (surprisingly easy when you’re floating in Lan Ha Bay) for Tai Chi on the top deck. The instructor moved slow and steady while mist curled around the islands—honestly, I mostly tried not to fall over. Breakfast was light but good; fresh fruit and coffee that tasted stronger than usual. Later we kayaked again—this time quieter—and then packed up our things while the boat drifted back toward Halong port. Minh checked in on everyone like he always does (“You sleep well? Need more coffee?”), which made saying goodbye feel weirdly personal. Still think about that view from my balcony sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hanoi to Halong Bay cruise

• Pick up from Hanoi Old Quarter
• Travel 3 hours via expressway
• Check in to Aspira Cruises
• Attend cruise briefing and safety instructions
• Visit Dark and Lights Cave
• Kayak or bamboo boat ride
• Swim near the ship
• Relax in seasonal Jacuzzi
• Enjoy sunset party and happy hour
• Join traditional cooking class
• Optional massage and spa services
• Dine with luxury set menu
• Relax with live music and drinks
• Try squid fishing or watch movie
• Overnight on board

Day 2 — Lan Ha Bay to Hanoi return

• Wake up early for Tai Chi or sunrise
• Have light breakfast
• Kayak around Lan Ha Bay
• Return to boat and check out cabin
• Enjoy brunch while sailing back
• Settle bill and disembark boat
• Transfer to Hanoi if required
• Arrive in Hanoi and end trip

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Ha Long Bay overnight cruise?

Yes, pickup from hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter is available if you book transfer service.

What activities are offered during the cruise?

The tour includes kayaking or bamboo boat rides at Dark & Light Cave, swimming near the ship, Tai Chi class at sunrise, cooking class onboard, fishing equipment use, live music during dinner and access to fitness facilities.

Are vegetarian options available for meals?

Yes, vegetarian dishes are served alongside traditional Vietnamese seafood and other favorites.

How long is the drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?

The drive takes about 3 hours via expressway from Hanoi Old Quarter to Halong port.

Is there free time during the cruise?

Yes, you have leisure time for swimming, relaxing in your cabin or using onboard facilities like Jacuzzi or gym.

What kind of cabins are available?

The cruise offers private cabins with balconies and bathtubs.

Can I join only part of the tour if I don’t need transfer back to Hanoi?

Yes; you can disembark at Halong port if you don’t require return transfer to Hanoi.

What’s included

Your trip covers hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter (if booked), entrance fees for all activities in Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay, one night in a private balcony cabin with bathtub on a 5-star cruise ship, all meals including breakfast and dinner with live music onboard, complimentary kayaking or bamboo boat ride at Dark & Light Cave led by locals, Tai Chi class at sunrise on deck, a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class with crew members plus fishing equipment use—and even cold towels when you arrive.