Halong Bay Cruise: Luon Cave Kayak, Titop Island & Hanoi Pickup

Summary

Halong bay cruise with kayaking luon cave titop hike and meals

You’ll float through Halong Bay’s emerald waters, kayak beneath arching caves at Luon Cave, climb Titop Island for panoramic views, and share laughter during sunset happy hour—all with hotel pickup from Hanoi and full meals included. Expect small surprises: smoky grilled clams at dinner or a quiet sunrise on deck that stays with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We were already a little bleary-eyed when the van pulled up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter—something about the city’s early morning buzz always gets to me. The drive to Halong Bay was quieter than I expected; our guide Minh kept things light, pointing out rice paddies and telling us how his grandmother used to make sticky rice for breakfast. I think I dozed off somewhere around the halfway point. When we finally stepped onto the boat, there was this faint salty tang in the air, and the water looked almost green under the midday sun. It felt like stepping into another world, honestly.

Lunch was served as we cruised past those wild limestone shapes—Fighting Cock Islet looked nothing like a rooster to me, but maybe I just lack imagination. The real highlight for me was paddling a kayak into Luon Cave. The echo inside made every drip of water sound huge. I tried not to bump into anyone but still managed it once (sorry to whoever that was). Minh grinned and said something about “beginner’s luck.” Later on Titop Island, most people went straight for the beach but I hiked up for the view—even though my legs were wobbly from the climb. The wind at the top felt sharp and clean, and I just stood there for a minute trying to catch my breath while looking out over all those little islands scattered everywhere.

Back on board, there was this “happy hour” thing—buy two get one free—which led to some pretty questionable karaoke attempts (not mine, thankfully). Dinner came with these tiny grilled clams that tasted smoky-sweet; I can still remember that first bite. The sky turned deep blue and you could see stars flickering above the bay. Someone started a cooking class but honestly, I just watched from my seat with a drink in hand. Sometimes you don’t need to do everything.

The next morning started with tai chi on deck—I mostly fumbled through it but watching everyone move slowly together as mist curled over the water felt strangely peaceful. After breakfast we kayaked again before packing up our things for check-out. There was this moment on the sundeck where everything went quiet except for soft splashes against the hull—I kind of wish I could bottle that silence up and take it home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hanoi to Halong Bay cruise and activities

• Pick up guests in Hanoi Old Quarter
• Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• Check in at cruise lounge and welcome drinks
• Enjoy lunch while cruising Halong Bay
• Visit Luon Cave by bamboo boat or kayak
• Go to Titop Island for swimming or hiking
• Return to cruise for sunset party and happy hour
• Attend cooking demonstration or free time
• Dinner under the stars on board
• Relax with spa or cocktails

Day 2 — Halong Bay morning activities and return

• Join Tai-Chi class early morning
• Buffet breakfast on board
• Explore Luon Cave by kayak or bamboo boat
• Prepare luggage and check out
• Enjoy brunch and relax on sundeck
• Arrive at Tuan Chau Cruise Port and check out
• Transfer back to Hanoi
• Drop off at hotel or airport transfer

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included from Hanoi?

Yes, round-trip transfer from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is included.

Do I need kayaking experience for Luon Cave?

No experience needed—kayaks are provided and guides assist beginners.

Are meals included on the Halong Bay cruise?

Yes, all main meals are included: lunch, dinner, breakfast, brunch.

Can you swim or hike on Titop Island?

Yes, you can swim at the beach or hike up Titop Island for views.

Is there WiFi on board?

Free WiFi is available in public areas of the cruise ship.

Are drinks included during happy hour?

No, drinks are available for purchase; happy hour offers buy 2 get 1 free.

Is this tour suitable for families or wheelchair users?

The cruise is wheelchair accessible; infants can join with adults; suitable for all fitness levels.

What time does the tour return to Hanoi?

You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Hanoi between 15:30-16:00 on day two.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by bus or limousine, entry fees to Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island, Luon Cave and Halong Bay itself; overnight accommodation in an ocean-view cabin with private bathroom; all main meals plus happy hour deals at sunset; guided kayaking or bamboo boat rides; swimming or hiking time at Titop Island; tai chi class at sunrise; free WiFi in public areas—and if you need it, airport transfers can be arranged too.