Halong Bay Day Cruise: Islands, Caves, Kayak & Seafood Lunch

Summary

Explore Halong Bay’s Hidden Gems on a Full-Day Guided Tour

If you want to see Halong Bay’s best spots in just one day—with caves, islands, kayaking, and real Vietnamese food—this tour covers it all. You’ll get local stories, hands-on experiences, and plenty of time to soak in the scenery without any hassle.

What’s the experience like?

The morning kicked off with the sound of motorbikes outside my Hanoi hotel. Our guide, Minh, showed up right on time—big smile, easygoing vibe. The drive out to Halong Bay took about three hours. I dozed off for a bit but woke up just as we passed endless rice paddies and water buffalo plodding along the muddy fields. There was this faint smell of wood smoke drifting through the open bus window. We made a quick stop at a roadside café for strong Vietnamese coffee (seriously, don’t skip it if you need a wake-up).

Once we got to Tuan Chau Harbor, the air felt salty and warm. Boarding the wooden cruise boat was smooth—the crew handed out cold towels and pointed us to our seats by big windows. Lunch came out just as we started gliding past those wild limestone islands. I lost count after ten; each one looked like something from an old legend. The seafood was fresh—shrimp, squid, even some crispy spring rolls—and Minh explained where most of it was caught that morning.

We stopped at Thien Cung Cave (locals call it Heaven Palace). Inside, colored lights bounced off crazy stalactites and stalagmites—felt almost otherworldly. Minh shared stories about dragons and ancient fishermen; his English was great but he still threw in some Vietnamese words that made us laugh. After that, we had the choice: kayak or bamboo boat at Ba Hang village. I picked kayaking—paddling close to the cliffs, you could hear birds echoing off the rock walls. The water was calm enough that even beginners were fine.

On the way back to Hanoi, there was another quick break at a roadside shop (good spot for snacks or a restroom). We rolled into the city just after dark. My legs were tired but honestly, I’d do it again for those views alone—and that feeling of being out on the bay with nothing but water and sky all around.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Halong Bay Full Day Tour

• Hotel pickup in Hanoi
• Drive to Tuan Chau Harbour (3-3.5 hours)
• Break during drive
• Board Halong Bay Cruise
• Seafood lunch on cruise
• Cruise around limestone islands
• Visit Heavenly Palace Cave
• Bamboo boat ride or kayaking (40 minutes)
• Return to harbour
• Break on return drive
• Drop off at hotel in Hanoi

Top questions

Is kayaking included or do I have to pay extra?

No extra charge—you can choose between kayaking or a bamboo boat ride at Ba Hang area. Both are included in your tour price.

What kind of food is served for lunch?

You’ll get a mix of fresh seafood (like shrimp and squid) plus Vietnamese dishes such as spring rolls and stir-fried veggies. Vegetarian options are available if you let your guide know in advance.

How long is the drive from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

It usually takes about 3 to 3.5 hours each way, depending on traffic. There’s a short break halfway for coffee or restrooms.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?

The only extra fee is during Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year), which has a small surcharge. Everything else—entrance fees, activities, lunch—is covered.

What’s included

Your tour includes round-trip transfer from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by air-conditioned coach, all entrance tickets (Halong Bay, Thien Cung Cave), an English-speaking guide, WiFi on board, your choice of kayaking or bamboo boat ride at Ba Hang, and a fresh seafood lunch served on the cruise. Just bring comfy shoes and sun protection—you’re set!