Halong Bay Day Cruise: Route 2 Islands, Caves & Seafood Lunch

Summary

Halong Bay’s quiet side with caves, islands, kayaking and seafood

You’ll float through Halong Bay’s quieter corners on this Route 2 day trip, guided by locals who know every island’s story. Kayak beneath limestone arches, hike up Titop for wild panoramic views, explore the vast Surprise Cave, then unwind over a fresh seafood lunch onboard. It’s peaceful, sometimes messy, always real — you’ll remember how it felt to breathe that salty air.

What’s the experience like?

The day didn’t start exactly as planned — our driver got lost for a few minutes in the morning fog near Tuan Chau Island. I didn’t mind, honestly. The air smelled like wet stone and seaweed, and I could see fishermen already out on the water. When we finally boarded the boat for our Halong Bay day cruise, our guide Minh handed me a cup of hot tea and grinned like he’d seen this all before (probably had). There was something calming about that — like we were in good hands even if things went sideways.

We drifted past those strange limestone rocks — Incense Burner, Stone Dog, Cock Fighting — Minh pointed each one out with stories that made them feel less like tourist stops and more like old friends. The water was glassy under the mist; you could hear distant laughter from another boat but mostly it was just the slap of waves against wood. Lunch was a heap of shrimp and clams cooked right there on board. I ate too fast but couldn’t help it — everything tasted briny and fresh. Someone spilled soy sauce on their shirt and we all laughed; it felt easy to relax here.

Titop Island surprised me. I thought I’d skip the climb but Minh nudged me (“Just go slow!”) so up I went — legs burning but then that view at the top: Halong Bay spread out in every direction, little boats like dots below. Down again and into Surprise Cave where it smelled cool and earthy, stalactites dripping overhead. Later we kayaked into Luon Cave (extra fee but worth it), gliding under low arches while tiny crabs scuttled along the rocks nearby. My arms ached but in a good way. The sun finally broke through as we headed back — everything gold for a moment.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Halong Bay cruise and island exploration

• Arrive Tuan Chau island
• Board boat and enjoy seafood lunch
• Cruise past limestone formations
• Visit Titop island for swimming or climbing
• Hike to Halong Surprise cave
• Optional kayaking or Sampan boat at Luon Cave

Top questions

How long is the Halong Bay day cruise from Tuan Chau?

The cruise starts around 11:30-12:00 from Tuan Chau Island and lasts most of the day.

Is lunch included on the Halong Bay day trip?

Yes, a Vietnamese buffet lunch with seafood is served onboard during the cruise.

Do I need to pay extra for kayaking at Luon Cave?

Yes, kayaking or sampan boat at Luon Cave is optional and requires an additional fee.

What are the main stops on this Halong Bay Route 2 tour?

You’ll visit Titop Island (for swimming or hiking), Surprise Cave, and optionally kayak at Luon Cave.

Is there an English-speaking guide on board?

Yes, an English-speaking guide is included throughout the tour.

Are towels provided for swimming?

Yes, bath towels are included for guests who want to swim or relax on the beach.

Can you join this tour using public transportation?

Public transportation options are available nearby Tuan Chau Island where the cruise departs.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at Tuan Chau Island, a welcome drink as you step aboard, an English-speaking guide who brings every stop to life, a traditional Vietnamese seafood buffet lunch with sea views, use of bath towels for swimming or relaxing at Titop Island’s beach, plus time for hiking or optional kayaking at Luon Cave before returning in late afternoon with fruit snacks and local tea.