Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay Cruise: Private Balcony, Kayak, Cooking

Summary

Quiet corners of Halong & Lan Ha Bay with kayaking and food

You’ll wake up surrounded by Halong Bay’s limestone towers, paddle through quiet waters in Lan Ha Bay, and learn to make spring rolls with local crew. With all meals included and your own balcony cabin plus pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter, this cruise feels personal — especially those peaceful early mornings out on deck.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice was the smell — a bit salty, kind of green, like wet stone and morning tea. Our driver picked us up right on time in Hanoi’s Old Quarter (I was still half-asleep), and after a couple hours watching rice paddies blur by, we reached Tuan Chau Wharf. The boat wasn’t one of those crowded ones either; it felt quieter, almost like we’d lucked into a secret. The crew handed us welcome drinks and our guide (Minh) gave this little safety talk that made everyone laugh when he mimed putting on the life jacket backwards.

The cabin had a private balcony — honestly, I spent more time out there than inside. Lunch came as we drifted into Lan Ha Bay. There’s something hypnotic about those limestone islands; they look fake until you’re right next to them. We kayaked near Frog Islet, and Minh pointed out some fishermen working tiny boats with nets I could barely see. My arms got tired fast but I didn’t care — the water was warm enough to splash my face when no one was looking. Later, back on deck, the chef showed us how to roll spring rolls (mine looked wonky but tasted fine). Happy hour felt like a reward after that.

Woke up early for sunrise — couldn’t sleep much anyway with all that quiet outside. Tea in hand, just watching the light change over Halong Bay from our balcony… I still think about that moment. Breakfast was simple but good (the pho broth had this peppery kick). We stopped at Frog Pond for another round of kayaking; my shoulders complained but I went anyway because Minh said it’s his favorite spot in Lan Ha Bay. Packing up felt weirdly sad — you get used to the gentle rocking of the boat faster than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hanoi to Halong and Lan Ha Bay

• Pick-up from Hanoi Old Quarter hotels
• Drive to Tuan Chau Wharf
• Transfer by small boat to cruise
• Embark and cruise briefing
• Enjoy lunch while cruising Lan Ha Bay
• Kayak or swim in Lan Ha Bay
• Relax and join cooking demonstration
• Dinner and leisure activities on board

Day 2 — Halong Bay to Hanoi Old Quarter

• Breakfast with bay views
• Kayak or swim at Frog Pond
• Relax and pack cabin
• Check-out and enjoy last lunch on cruise
• Disembark at Tuan Chau Harbor
• Return to Hanoi by air-conditioned bus
• Arrive in Hanoi and end tour

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included from Hanoi Old Quarter?

Yes, round-trip transfer from hotels around Hanoi Old Quarter is included.

Do cabins have private balconies?

Yes, each cabin has its own private ocean view balcony.

Are meals included during the cruise?

All meals are included: lunch, dinner, breakfast, and another lunch before returning to Hanoi.

What activities are offered on board?

You can kayak or swim in Lan Ha Bay and Frog Pond, join a cooking class, try squid fishing or karaoke, and take part in Taichi sessions.

How long does it take to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

The drive takes about 2.5 hours each way by air-conditioned bus.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and infants can ride in prams or strollers.

Where does the cruise anchor overnight?

The captain anchors in calm areas away from crowded spots for a quieter experience.

Are entrance fees included?

Yes, all entrance and sightseeing fees are covered in your booking.

What’s included

Your trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Hanoi Old Quarter by air-conditioned transfer both ways; all entrance fees; a fully furnished private cabin with ocean view balcony; all meals on board including lunch, dinner and breakfast; guided kayaking sessions; cooking class; squid fishing; Taichi; karaoke; plus an English-speaking guide throughout the cruise experience.