Halong Bay Cruise: 2 Days, Surprise Cave & Titop Island

Summary

Kayak halong bay swim at titop island and explore limestone caves

You’ll kayak through Halong Bay’s emerald waters, hike up Titop Island for sweeping views, try local dishes onboard your cruise (with sunset fruit platters), and wander deep into Surprise Cave with a local guide. Includes hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter plus all meals—just bring curiosity and maybe an extra shirt if you’re hiking.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the bus ride from Hanoi to Halong Bay to feel so quick — maybe because I was half-awake, or maybe because our guide kept telling stories about the islands’ names. When we finally stepped onto the boat, there was this faint smell of salt and something sweet (pineapple? sunscreen?). The crew greeted us with these big grins and handed out cold towels — I remember thinking, “Okay, this is real now.” Lunch came fast after check-in; fish with ginger, rice that stuck to my chopsticks. I could see limestone cliffs sliding by through the window while everyone got quiet for a bit.

Titop Island was steeper than it looked in photos. Our guide Linh said locals come here just for that view — she pointed out a fishing boat below and waved at a guy she knew. The climb left my shirt damp but reaching the top was worth it (even if my legs were shaking). You could see all those little green islands scattered like puzzle pieces. Later, kayaking felt both peaceful and weirdly intimidating — paddling close to these giant rocks that looked like they might tip over any second. Some folks swam instead; I just floated for a minute, listening to the slap of water against plastic.

Sunset on the deck felt almost staged, except it wasn’t. Someone put on soft music, fruit plates appeared out of nowhere, and people started swapping travel stories. I tried dragonfruit for the first time — not as sweet as I thought but good with lime. After dinner (the chef made spring rolls right in front of us), some folks sang karaoke; others went squid fishing off the side. I mostly watched the lights flicker on distant boats. Couldn’t sleep much that night — too quiet except for water lapping at the hull.

Next morning was Tai Chi at sunrise (I mostly just watched). Breakfast was strong coffee and warm bread while we drifted toward Surprise Cave. It’s bigger than you’d guess from outside — cool air inside, dripping stone ceilings. Linh pointed out shapes in the rocks (“dragon,” “turtle”) and laughed when none of us saw them at first. We did a quick cooking class back on board before heading back toward port — rolling spring rolls with hands still damp from washing off cave dust. Leaving felt abrupt somehow; I kept looking back until land swallowed up all those strange shapes behind us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hanoi to Halong Bay and Activities

• Pick up from Hanoi hotel
• Travel to Halong Bay
• Board cruise and check in cabin
• Enjoy lunch on cruise
• Cruise through Halong Bay
• Visit Titop Island and hike
• Kayaking and swimming
• Sunset party on sundeck
• Dinner on cruise
• Evening relaxation and entertainment

Day 2 — Halong Bay Cave Visit and Return

• Sunrise photos and Tai Chi exercise
• Breakfast on cruise
• Visit Surprising Cave
• Check out and cruise continues
• Cooking class on cruise
• Farewell lunch on cruise
• Arrive harbor and bus to Hanoi
• Drop off at Hanoi hotel

Top questions

How long is the Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi?

The tour lasts 2 days and 1 night, including round-trip transfers from Hanoi Old Quarter hotels.

What activities are included on this Halong Bay cruise?

You’ll kayak, swim at Titop Island, hike for panoramic views, visit Surprise Cave, join a cooking class onboard, and have meals included.

Is hotel pickup included in Hanoi?

Yes, hotel pickup is included if you’re staying in Hanoi Old Quarter area.

Are meals provided during the cruise?

Yes, lunch and dinner are served on day one; breakfast and lunch are provided on day two.

Can infants join this Halong Bay cruise?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized seats are available upon request.

Is swimming or kayaking mandatory?

No, both swimming and kayaking are optional activities during your free time at Titop Island.

What is Surprise Cave like?

Surprise Cave (Hang Sung Sot) is spacious with cool air inside and unique rock formations—your guide will lead you through it.

Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal on the boat?

This isn’t specified; expect limited connectivity while cruising Halong Bay.

What’s included

Your trip includes hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter area, all entry fees along Halong Bay’s route—including Surprise Cave—plus all meals onboard: lunch and dinner on day one; breakfast and lunch on day two. Kayaking gear is provided as well as bamboo boat service if you prefer not to paddle yourself. Air-conditioned transport returns you to your hotel by late afternoon.