Halong Bay & Lan Ha: Taliya Cruise, Kayak, Cooking & Sunset

Summary

Halong Bay day cruise with caves, kayaking and local flavors

You’ll float through Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay on a 5-star Taliya cruise with buffet lunch, kayak in clear waters, drift into hidden caves by bamboo boat, try your hand at Vietnamese spring rolls, and watch sunset from the sundeck. Expect laughter with your guide and moments that linger long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

"You sure you want to try the spring rolls?" our guide grinned as we boarded the Taliya Cruise at Tuan Chau marina. I was still half-awake from the drive out of Hanoi, but the salt air hit me right away—kind of sharp and clean. The boat itself looked fancier than I expected (I almost felt underdressed), but nobody seemed to care. We got a quick safety rundown, some jokes about life jackets, and then we were off into Halong Bay’s maze of green islands. It’s weird how quiet it gets once you leave the harbor—just the hum of the engine and that soft slap of water against the hull.

Lunch came early—Vietnamese fusion stuff with these bright pickles and something that tasted like lemongrass. I sat by the window for ages just watching those limestone cliffs slide by. Our guide, Linh, pointed out a rock that supposedly looked like a dog (maybe if you squint?), and told us about fishermen who still live on floating houses out here. We stopped at Dark and Bright Cave for bamboo boating—gliding under this low archway where it suddenly smelled damp and earthy. It was cooler inside too, almost chilly on my arms.

Later we hit Lan Ha Bay for kayaking. The water was clearer than I thought it’d be—sort of jade-green—and there were tiny fish darting around if you looked close enough. I nearly tipped over trying to take a photo (Linh laughed at me). Swimming after that felt good; it wakes you up in a way coffee doesn’t. Back on board, there was this spring roll demo—I tried to roll one but mine fell apart instantly. The chef just winked and handed me another rice paper sheet.

The sun started dropping behind those jagged peaks while everyone gathered up top for a sunset party. There was music playing low—something local—and people just chatting or staring out at the light turning everything gold. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed after such a full day, but honestly? That view sticks with me more than any photo could.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury cruise and activities in Halong Bay

• Arrive at Tuan Chau marina
• Welcome drink and cruise briefing
• Check in Taliya Cruise
• Start cruising Halong Bay
• Enjoy Vietnamese fusion lunch onboard
• Explore Dark and Bright Cave by bamboo boat
• Kayak and swim in Ao Ech, Lan Ha Bay
• Join cooking demonstration for spring rolls
• Attend sunset party on sundeck
• Return to Tuan Chau Harbour

Top questions

How long is the Taliya Halong Bay day cruise?

The cruise lasts about 7.5 hours from Tuan Chau marina through Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

Is lunch included on the Taliya cruise?

Yes, a buffet lunch is served onboard in an air-conditioned restaurant with panoramic views.

What activities are part of this Halong Bay tour?

You’ll explore caves by bamboo boat, kayak in Lan Ha Bay, swim, join a cooking demo for Vietnamese spring rolls, and enjoy a sunset party.

Are guides provided during the trip?

An English/Vietnamese speaking guide is included throughout your journey.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour begins and ends at Tuan Chau marina/harbour near Halong City.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels according to tour info.

Do they offer birthday surprises?

A complimentary cake is available during the sunset party if it’s your birthday.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at Tuan Chau marina, an English or Vietnamese speaking guide throughout the journey, all sightseeing fees for group tours, buffet lunch onboard with panoramic views of Halong Bay’s limestone peaks, activities like cave exploring by bamboo boat or kayak in Lan Ha Bay’s clear waters, swimming stops if you want them, a fun Vietnamese spring roll cooking demonstration plus a sunset party on deck before heading back to harbor in the evening.