The best way to get the best price with the dealer and information you have consulted online. There will definitely be options for you. Youll forget that youre even on a boat (aside from the amazing bay views from your private soaking tub). VIETNAM | Retreat. 50 Reviews 1 Award Overview Reviews Things to Do Halong Bay (Photo:Jimmy Tran/Shutterstock) About Cruising to Halong Bay Mystical and magical, Halong Bay -- comprised of more than 1,969. 26 Things To Know Before Visiting Vietnam! 15 Things to Know Before Visiting Vietnam, Tam Coc and Ninh Binh: What to do in Vietnam's Hidden Gem, 43 Ridiculous Swimsuits That You'll Actually Want This Summer, 2 Weeks in Vietnam: The Perfect 2-Week Vietnam Itinerary, The Best Cruises in Lan Ha Bay: The Non-Touristy Alternative to Halong Bay. But if you want to really enjoy your time onboard, opt to pay a bit more for a private balcony and a nicer room with more amenities. Or ride across the bay on the Queen Telpher cable car system, which holds two Guinness World Records. Sung Sot Cave, also known as Surprise Cave, is one of the most popular destinations in Halong Bay, and for good reason. Youll notice there is a huge range of boats styles, sizes and quality standards to cater to all types of travelers. We took the classic cruise option in Halong mainly for convenience. Dozens of different boats available, each with their own route, facilities, activities and prices made me go nuts! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi! Remember to also look for deals and promotions to get the most value for your money. We opted for the 3-day/2-night Halong Bay cruise option which felt more relaxing as we had an extra night on board and didnt feel so rushed to unpack and then repack our luggage. While you can endure a bad accommodation option for one night in land, while youre out there in the sea things are different. These hiking shoes by Merrell are lightweight, super durable, and have a breathable mesh lining to keep your feet cool. When you arrive at Halong Bay, you simply need to head to the boat and begin your cruise. In the limit, you can do a long day trip from Hanoi with a half-day cruise in the bay, but I personally dont see any appeal in this. By Motorbike 6. The reviews from the Rosa were great and all of the activities we wanted to do were included. Breathtaking! A one day cruise will typically last around 4 to 8 hours and a longer cruise will give you accommodation onboard the cruise ship. This option is perfect for those who dont want the hassle of negotiating in Hanoi or who want to guarantee a spot on a Halong Bay cruise during their time in Vietnam. Book your voyage now and discover why the Best Cruises in Halong Bay are a must-see destination for any travel enthusiast. So this attractive destination always receives the attention of Its difficult to answer the question when is the best time to visit Halong Bay, because for Halong Bay any time is a good time to travel. We will send you the Best Deals what you can not find anywhere else. The limestones cliffs, the calmness of the sea together boast dramatic landscapes and creates an unique aura of mystery. We booked a 3 day Halong Bay cruise (with Glory Legend) through Best Price Vietnam. Visit web https://www.HalongBayCruise.vn HalongBayCruise.vn is the best site to book a cruise with no booking fees and the best price guaranteed. Also, we planned to head on to Ninh Binh directly from Halong Bay. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Gulf of Tonkin in Vietnam, Read more:Where to Halong bay cruises leave from? Moreover, Halong Bay cruises often have different cabin categories, ranging from standard to luxury, offering a range of options to fit your budget and needs. Overall, the flexibility of Halong Bay booking allows travelers to tailor their experience to their preferences and travel schedule, making it a popular destination for all types of travelers. Even in cloudy days, you can see how special is this place. Note that during peak travel seasons, plan to book your trip in advance. Book your Halong Bay Cruise! After Halong Bay Cruising has become one of the most popular ways to see and enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay - one of the world's natural heritage. A few things to consider when booking your Halong Bay cruise: You can save a bit of money by choosing a lower-end cruise line or by forgoing a private balcony off your room. Its not a coincidence Halong Bay has been declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site AND one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of The World. In the end we booked a 3 day/2 night cruise in Hanoi, aboard the Cristina Diamond Cruise with an itinerary farther out into Bai Tu Long Bay. The best way to get a good price is to start in one agency and negotiate against what you have already seen online. If you're heading to Vietnam, then you simply must visit Halong Bay. Finding the perfect Halong Bay cruise is made easy with the many booking options available. The first major decision you have to make is based on how many days and nights you would like to spend at sea. If you have a tight schedule, it is advisable to book in advance to ensure you have secured your preferred cruise and itinerary. With 3 decks, 21 spacious and luxurious cabins, a rooftop sundeck, coffee lounge, bar, and sauna, you wont even want to get off of this gorgeous ship to explore the bay! Update (May 2017): Extra port fees for cruises departing from Tuan Chau and increased entrance fees have been applied from April 2017. We might have been tempted if we were on holiday as opposed to traveling around the world long term. Overall, Im glad I did the cruise. Lets take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Halong Bay cruises. Some cruises may offer a more relaxed schedule, with plenty of time for relaxation and enjoying the scenery, while others may include more active pursuits, such as kayaking, swimming, or hiking. Here are a few tips you should consider before booking your Halong Bay cruise: We took many photos from our Rose Boutique Cruise in Halong Bay and here are some of our favotires. >> Book Cozy Bay Cruise: Booking | Klook | Viator. Take a recommendation from your hotel and ask for details about the cruise itinerary, activities, and what is included in the package. If someones trying to sell you a cruise on one of those good-looking dark-wood boats with big red sails, raise a RED FLAG yourself. Halong Bay is located around 144km east of Hanoi in the Gulf of Tonkin. There are literally Its been more than a year since COVID-19 totally changed our whole life. Top 10 Reasons to Choose a Halong Bay Cruise, Halong Bay Cruise Prices: Tips & Suggestions, Best Places That Halong Bay Cruises Glide Through. A Halong Bay cruise can last anywhere from one to four days. We were so fortunate to spend our junk boat experience with a fun loving group. You can see it in the hundreds (!) If you want to make it a true once-in-a-lifetime experience consider these options: Peony Cruisesonly recently began sailing in October 2018, so their boats are brand new and state-of-the-art. Required fields are marked *, About | Privacy Policy | Contact submitting it. Booking is often a straightforward process and once confirmed, you can look forward to experiencing the beauty and tranquility of Halong Bay firsthand. Rooms are huge and elegantly decorated, there is anonboard fitness center and spa, the food is delectable, and youll be treated like royalty by the amazing staff. 6 steps for you to make a decision! 52 Le Dai Hanh St., Hai Ba Trung Dist., Hanoi, Vietnam Hanoi, Viet Nam, A: Tuan Chau Island, Halong, Quang Ninh, Vietnam, 2021 Tuan Chau 5 Star Yacht Joint Stock Company All Rights Reverved, Enter the special code SUPERSALE to get further from 40% to 60% DISCOUNT on all current rate plans. Be sure you have it in your handbag for easy access rather than stored in your luggage under the bus. Youll start by climbing a long set of stairs where you can stop along the way for fantastic views of the bay below. In some of the most touristy itineraries, you can even feel like cattle. Following the fast significant development of this industry, there are hundreds of new and old boats operating in the bay every day. Travel Tip:Download the Grab App (iPhoneorAndroid) before you get to SE Asia. #1 Decide how long you want to go. A cooking class may be offered on your last day on the ship. With the aim to help you narrow down your search and save time for the perfect one with the best deals, this article shows you the booking instructions that are very easy to follow and use. Fortunately, some of the more remote aras are able to provide a much better experience. Enter dates Traveller favourites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Product Categories Multi-day Tours Bus Tours Sightseeing Tours Make sure you ask which boat youre going and do some research online before you pull your wallet. Youll be eating and doing all the daily activities all together, so the number of people doing all that affects tremendously your experience. After you book your cruise online, you can focus on planning your trip and the rest of the places you need to visit in Vietnam. As you cruise through the bay in one of the famous junk boats, youll pass by countless towering limestone rock formations surrounding the luxury cruise ship. >> Book Era Cruises: Booking | Klook | Viator. They offer 16 spacious cabins but the real advantage of La Pinta is that they take a different tour route which will allow you to avoid a lot of the crowds and have a more relaxing Halong Bay experience. But you can also upgrade to mid range or even luxury cruises. Online sources such as TripAdvisor ratings and review sites and forums can help to find trustworthy travel agencies. Online booking for a Halong Bay cruise is widely available and offers numerous benefits to travelers. The rooms were clean and the food was excellent. Dont worry about bringing a beach towel. >> Book Emperor Cruises: Booking | Klook. By taking these steps, you can enjoy the beauty and peace of Ha Long Bay without spending too much. We were wrecked after trekking in Sapa with our local guide for 2 days followed by a horrendous sleeper bus journey. When it comes to a sun-sand-sea holiday, swimming is an absolutely essential part to many people. Youll love lounging on the rooftop deck of the cruise ship, soaking in the views of the limestone pillars surrounding you. There are literally dozens of boat options so the tourist agencies will generally only show you their top one or two in order to keep you from getting overwhelmed (or so they say). Orchid Cruises - Orchid Trendy Cruise And Orchid Classic Cruise 6. There are mainly three types of cruise tours operating in Halong Bay: Day trip cruises are short journeys created to give you a little taste of the feeling of navigating between forest of islands. Read carefully the itinerary proposed by each company and check the daily activities they have. Prices may fluctuate depending on the season, and it is recommended to compare prices and amenities from different tour operators to find the best value for your budget. Dont be surprised if your cruise trip become more expensive compared to last year. The 2-days cruise on the leisure masterpiece - Paradise Elegance - includes a number of activities such as visiting Sung Sot Cave - the largest cave in Ha Long Bay, kayaking around the Tung Sau pearl farm, or conquering the peak of Titop Island for a panoramic view of Ha Long Bay. The caves can also be quite slippery after heavy rainfalls, so youll appreciate having shoes with some traction. Halong Bay sits off Vietnam's northeastern coast . Do your research, check reviews, ask around. However, if we traveled to Vietnam again and had more time, we would go for the 3 day and 2 night cruise option for a luxurious and relaxing experience sailing around Halong Bay. Interacting with the local people and learning about their way of life is an experience that will stay with you long after your cruise has ended. Read More:Day Cruise in Halong Bay - Exploring the Beauty of the Bay. More than anywhere else, Vietnam is the place to research beforehand and try to find places recommended by other travelers. La Regina Legend - Lan Ha Bay Luxury Cruise 3. Some of the cruises even offer a second night staying on Cat Ba in a hotel. Once you have a lower price than the best you can find online, move onto the next agency to see if they will go lower for any of the cruise options youre interested in. 1. a Halong Bay Cruise and check out its information. Research the reputation of the cruise operator and read reviews from past passengers to ensure that the cruise meets your expectations in terms of quality and service. By Train 4. >> Book Alisa Premier Cruise: Booking | Klook. Check out the route on the interactive map showing directions between Hanoi and Halong Bay above. Read more in ourdisclosure policy.*. We are one of the leading online cruise travel company dedicated to providing customers with better deals than any other cruise website and access to great deals on cruise vacations. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Gulf of Tonkin in Vietnam, and it is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, emerald waters, and thousands of towering limestone islands and islets. Be prepared in high season for cruises to be filled in advanced. The backdrop for your dining experience is Halong Bay 's enchanting limestone mountains that shield the boat from any rough-sea turbulence and are jaw-dropping, to say the least. Furthermore, online booking provides the flexibility to make changes to your reservation if needed. Surprise Cave and Ti Top Island are the two most popular activities and will probably be a part of your visit regardless of how long you stay. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. The number of passengers it can hold is important. March to May and September to November are the months you will experience the best climate and weather in Halong Bay. It takes 2.5-3 hours on average to travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay by car or van. Stellar Of The Seas - The Best Halong Bay Luxury Cruise? Make sure you ask all the questions! So why wait? Official Member: ASTA#900260032 - American Society of Travel Agents. Id say a boat that can hold more than 35 people is already too much. Hai Au Aviation has recently started a seaplane service between Noi Bai airport in Hanoi and Tuan Chau Marina in Halong, cutting the time to 45 minutes. How to Book Halong Bay Cruises & Save more, The Best Experiences when you take a Halong Bay Cruise, What is Halong Bay Overnight Cruise? If you plan ahead one or two months before your trip, you can even modify your options that were not available at the time of initial booking. Although the whole area is mostly known as Halong Bay, there are in fact 3 different bays: Ha Long, Bai Tu Long and La Han Bay. That being said, the best time to visit depends on your budget, how much you like crowds and if rain bothers you. Hopefully, the above article of Paradise Vietnam can also answer the question "where to book Halong bay cruise?" Pass on Halong Bay and instead choose to explore the less-crowded but also incredibly beautiful Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay. It had a huge balcony overlooking the limestone karsts out across the Bay and a gorgeous room. The Cat Ba archipelago is made up of 367 islands that are located south of Ha Long Bay. The boat looked very good from the outside Id say better than 90% of the ones I saw in Halong! At the end of the day, youll end up paying the same amount as if you just buy your drinks from the cruise ship bar. I got some quotes from the hostel I was staying in Hanoi and they were absolutely terrible. Prices range from around $30 to $100 per person for a one-day tour, while a two-day, one-night trip may cost from $100 to $500 per person or more. Me Cung Cave has a few different chambers to explore. As mentioned, I'm confident you will love cruising on the Au Co I've asked the staff there to give readers of this blog a special discount. Best Price was also in touch over e-mails and promptly responded to e-mail queries. We choose the Boutique cruise. Use the booking platforms below to check previous reviews and prices so you can build an idea for your Halong Bay Cruise shortlist. For anyone traveling up from Ho Chi Minh or anywhere else in Southern Vietnam, it could be easier to fly into Hai Phong and jump on a bus or take a Grab to Halong Bay. Also, some companies do not include in the price the transportation from Hanoi. Ask about any additional costs or fees that may not be included in the initial price, and ask about cancellation policies. To make it worse, there was no website or resource that truly helped me what to expect or even what to look for. If you want to book a Halong bay cruise you should know about its reputation. By Private Car The standard included transportation package is to ride in a large but comfortable and air-conditioned bus, or you can pay extra for a private car. December to February is winter in Halong Bay when it gets a little chillier and can be misty. Includes en-suite air-conditioned cabin, meals, and stops at the top Halong Bay attractions, plus a unique squid fishing boat experience (seasonal). This means activities, food, transportation to/from Halong, etc. Cat Ba Limestone Langur. Best Price Guarantee! You should also consider the number and duration of stops included in the itinerary. In a world of too little time and too many choices, we know that you may find it challenging to find a suitable cruise yourself. Compare prices via the links provided before booking to find the best price. By Local Bus 2. In ancient Vietnamese, it literally means descending dragon. We will send you the best offers shortly! All soundproofed cabins are air-conditioned and come with a seating area with sofa. With just a few clicks, you can easily research and book your preferred cruise from the comfort of your own home or office. I have just came back from 3D2N trip in Halong Bay and I would say its totally worthy. To make your life easier, heres a convenient online option for all sorts of cruises in Halong Bay. The big majority of travelers get to Halong from Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. For many visitors, budget is the key ingredient to this recipe. When you go travelling to Vietnam, if you are not in the list of visa-waiver, the Vietnam visa must be needed. A buffet, continental or vegetarian breakfast is available every morning. Does it look decent? Should we visit Halong Bay in the Summer. Certificate of Excellence for 5 consecutive years - 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 by Tripadviosr Candlelit dinner parties on the top deck. Copyright 2023 Wandering Media LLC. Here are a few popular tour options for Cat Ba Island: >> Check prices for Cat Ba hotels here <<. When planning Halong Bay trip, almost customers choose to stay some nights in Hanoi before heading to Halong Bay. Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese form of martial arts meant to improve health and self-defense skills as well as concentration and longevity. well-displayed such as the cruise and cabin facts and descriptions, itineraries Most Halong Bay cruise itineraries will pick you up in Hanoi at around 8:00 am and get you to the boat around 12:00 pm. Youre not only buying a boat ride. Visa is a legal document that allows Halong Bay is known as the most attractive destination of Vietnam. 08.15 - 09.00: Our bus and guide pick you up from hotel / stay and follow the new high way to depart for Tuan Chau Island. From $335 $260/p.p. Please The views alone from the surrounding limestone karsts in Halong Bay will be worth it. When considering the cost of a Halong Bay tour, it is important to take into account what is included in the package, such as meals, transportation, and activities such as kayaking or visiting local caves. We have broken down the best Halong Bay cruises by the following categories: Broken down by budget, you can find both day and overnight Halong Bay cruise options. and promotions. Halong Bay cruise offers a great deal of flexibility to travelers. Over the course of your cruise, you will experience caves, islands, beaches and a floating village. A private balcony would have been a game changer on our cruise. At some point during your cruise, you will be allowed to swim in the beautiful waters of Halong Bay. And how to book a Halong bay cruise. In Sapa, our hotel owner booked our direct overnight sleeper bus to Halong Bay for us, which turned out to be an interesting night. Right from the get go they knew your names and subsequent travel plans to Ninh Binh (we booked everything through the same agency). For me the highlight were definitely the kayaking sessions, which were as memorable as the one in Dubrovnik. And most of the ships do offer a similar schedule of activities so no matter what boat you pick, youll get to see the highlights of Halong Bay. This natural wonder, located in the Gulf of Tonkin, is famous for its emerald Halong Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in northeastern Vietnam. Check times and prices using 12Go Asia if you book your cruise online with no transfers included. How To Choose the Best Halong Bay Cruise? Plus, you get to sleep on board and wake up with a gor-geee-ouuusss view! Halong Bay is Vietnams world renowned dreamy bucket list UNESCO destination. The best time to visit is from October until March when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is light, if at all. This option only works if you dont mind a serious amount of haggling and youre extremely flexible. We learned how to cook traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. Providing the most complete amenities and experiences both on land and during a cruise in the heart of Ha Long Bay, a 3 days 2 nights luxury combo at Paradise Suites Halong and Paradise Elegance offers a journey to discover the world natural heritage site for you and your family. Prices range from around $30 to $100 per person for a one-day tour, while a two-day, one-night trip may cost from $100 to $500 per person or more. Sailing with Peony Cruises is a truly amazing experience! Youll kayak through a cave and into a large lake that is surrounded by massive walls and lush vegetation on all sides. Remember to also look for deals and promotions to get the most value for your money. It is widely considered the best thing to do in Vietnam, and is perhaps the most famous area as well. Pin It For Your Visit! This is also perhaps the best cruise option for budget-conscious travelers. We also bought the hotel-cruise shuttle transfer which worked out cheaper and very convenient for us. Whether you choose to book online or through a travel agency, consider factors like itinerary, budget, dates, and times to find the best option to suit your needs. Depending on your location, you will paddle through islets, see hidden caves, visit lagoons or unspoiled beaches and pass by friendly local fishermen. >> Book Rosa Boutique Cruise: Booking | Get Your Guide. Era Cruisesis the ultimate in world-class service and style! In this article, we'll look into 6 ways to commute between the two destinations, and advise you on the best for your trip. The However, there may be areas you need to avoid and your guide will brief you before you head out on your kayak. If youre splurging on a cruise, make sure you choose one that is able to provide you a more authentic experience, as away as possible from crowds and scams. A common rule amongst cruise operators is that everything is included food, activities, etc except for the drinks. and "how to book Halong bay cruise?". can find on our website or sent to your email to save up to $15++ for your Be sure you have the proper protection for your skin and hair so you dont get scorched. The longer you stay, the more chances youll have to navigate through areas far from crowds and to do more outdoor activities. Select In It is time to come back to the After reopening to international tourism, Halong Bay Cruises welcome back many foreign tourists to explore the Bay's mysterious and majestic beauty, After the reopening of Vietnam tourism, Halong Bay comes back strongly as one of the hottest travel hubs of the country with many new choices of Coming to Halong Bay, you can find it easy to see quite a lot of the hot spots within just a day or two days of touring around. I would strongly advise against booking through your hotel. >> Book Swan Cruises: Booking | Klook | Viator. If you are interested in the pearl farm visit, you will also like the visit to one of the numerous floating fishing villages in Halong Bay. Halong Bay receives more than 6 million tourists every year, mostly on cruise boat tours. A trip to Halong Bay can be an amazing experience, but with many of the boat companies youll wind up feeling like youre simply on a tourist conveyor belt. most popular tourist destinations in all of Vietnam, How Many Nights to Spend on a Halong Bay Cruise, What NOT to Bring on Your Halong Bay Cruise, Alternatives to Taking a Halong Bay Cruise, a day in Ninh Bnh and an overnight cruise in Halong Bay. Use the code THEWORLDPURSUIT20 for 20% your three-day cruise! UK Early Bird promotion - Only $165/person Exclusive departure port - only 2.5 hours from Hanoi Unique routing Extremely spacious cabin (36-72sqm) Luxury decoration Pros to booking a Halong Bay cruise with a tour agency: Cons to booking a Halong Bay cruise with a tour agency: We booked our Halong Bay cruise online after extensive research and this is how we would recommend you book your cruise. Youll have time to lounge on the beach, swim in the sea, or climb to the lookout high above for the most incredible 360 views of the bay. Embrace the breathtaking views of this Vietnamese paradise from the deck of your luxury yacht. Every Halong Bay cruise ship includes meals during your stay, but not all include alcohol and other beverages. Ours was a brief lesson in rolling rice paper spring rolls. Yet massive tourism is clearly threatening Halong Bay already. With so many options available, finding the perfect Halong Bay cruise can seem overwhelming. There are 6 ways you can travel the 175 km from Hanoi to Halong Bay: a 2.5-hour bus, a 2.5-hour van, a 7-hour train, a 2.5-hour taxi, a 1-hour seaplane, and a 55-minute helicopter ride. of boats cruising around or in the oily water with trash. Most cruise ships offer an early morning relaxing tai chi lesson on the rooftop deck. from. Remember that most resellers start at a premium and you will have to negotiate to get the best price. You can: Planning a trip to Vietnam? Youll need to either crab walk or crawl through two very small cave openings so if you have trouble with your back or knees this may be challenging. If you think you might get hungry or thirsty during the bus ride, best to pack your snacks rather than wait to buy them there. The advertisement mentioned. Our favorite activity was the onboard cooking class led by the chef on Rosa Cruise. We had a fantastic group on board the same night as us. Enjoy This Halong Bay Cruise Guide? If your transport is not included to Halong Bay, you can easily take a bus. Similarly, if you know you can stretch the budget then filter out anything below US$ 400 per night if you are looking for a luxury cruise. Do not go walk in into any hole-in-the-wall travel agency. We cover more on value for money at the end of this article so you can be rest assured you made the correct choice. In hindsight, we wished we had booked the bus ourselves because we were dropped off in the middle of the street at 3am once we got to Halong Bay. We wont get into much detail here so we dont spoil your Halong Bay visit but the views from inside Sung Sot Cave as well as the surrounding views from outside the caves are breathtaking. This will cost you at least 6 million Dong though! Theres no human in this planet to which this idea does not sound good. Our situation was slightly different as we were traveling directly from Sapa to Halong Bay, therefore we didnt require the Hanoi to Halong Bay bus transfer. If you are looking to celebrate a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, a luxury cruise in Halong Bay will make your trip all the more magical. Make sure to read the cancellation and refund policies carefully. Transportation to and from the bay is often included in your Halong Bay cruise ship package. Being the first luxury cruise that introduces new itineraries to lesser-known areas of Lan Ha Bay in 4 days/ 3 nights and 5 days/ 4 nights, Elite of the Seas is designed in contemporary and luxurious style, simultaneously, inherited much quintessence and experience of her sister - Stellar of the Seas. The highlight was definitely to kayak the waters of Bai Tu Long with no other boats in sight. After comparing prices, we ended up booking our Rosa Cruise with Booking.com and it was awesome! Another point of interest is Cat Ba island. 2D1N cruises last exactly 24 hours and will suit most travelers. The Halong Phoenix Cruiser also have 2 night and 1-night cruise options; however they do not have family rooms hence why they don't appear above. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Its also possible to travel directly between Halong Bay andNinh Bnh which will save you some time if youre planning on visiting both and dont want to return to Hanoi in-between. Youll need your passport to travel to Halong Bay and your tour guide will ask for it during your bus ride to the area. Localtour companies are also happy to arrange tours that include both a day in Ninh Bnh and an overnight cruise in Halong Baywhich can be a good option to consider if youre short on time in Northern Vietnam. Should to book online before your trip or on arrival with a local travel agent? Additionally, you should consider the length of your trip and the time of day that the cruise departs. After considering several reputable names, visit their official websites and look for sites that list the price, basic information, activities, itinerary, and what is included in the package. We loved that our class was taught by the captain of the ship! Keep in mind that Surprise Cave gets very crowded and would be difficult to access if you have any issues with mobility. But before you book a cruise, take a moment to ask yourself why you want to visit? With a bathroom break half-way, the journey usually takes 3.5 hours. The cruise boats offer different itineraries to cruise along these points of interest. The area was completely dead because most people go to Cat Ba Island or straight onto the cruise. We have to take this chance to say hello to the Belgian trio Pauline, Manoelle and Aurelie as well as fellow Brits Jay and Holly, and Pooja. If youre lucky, you may even spot a monkey along the banks of the lake. Following the fast significant development of this industry, there are hundreds of new and old boats operating in the bay every day. Still, heres a breakdown to help you a bit more. Abandoned Water Park Hue: How To Get Inside The Eerie Grounds, Trekking In Sapa: How To Book A Guided Hiking Tour In Vietnam. Some cruises offer more other activities like dining in a cave or even collecting rubbish from the bay. Select options. Pros to booking a Halong Bay cruise online: Cons to booking a Halong Bay cruise online: After researching cruises for what seemed like eternity, we eventually both agreed on Rosa Boutique Cruise offering the best value for money in the cheap Halong Bay cruise range. But it can be overwhelming trying to find the best Halong Bay Cruise depending on your budget and time frame. Hanoi: No.16 11B, Trung Yen 10 St, Cau Giay Dist, Hanoi, VN, Halong bay: No.16 Anh Dao St., Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long city, 2023 Official website of Halong Bay Cruises all rights reserved. Head straight to Cat Ba Island, stay in a hotel there, and arrange a more personalized boat trip around the bay. Be smart. During the daily activities, youre transferred to a smaller boat. However, peak season also means many tourists. This 5-star option features a fitness center, garden, shared lounge, sauna and hot tub. It is known that practicing Tai Chi in the fresh open air helps the body achieve a balanced and meditative state. your Booking Summary, please apply Promotion Code (ex: SUMMER2016) which you A buffet, la carte or continental breakfast is available every morning. Lets just say some spring rolls turned out better than others, but we had a blast with our crew on board. Book now >>. We found our Halong Bay cruise operator by using our favorite hotel search engine booking.com and filtered by cruise and then anything over US$ 250 per night. Choose a cruise company that offers an alternative route to Ha Long Bay such as. Read more:Exploring the Beauty of World Natural Heritage: How Long To Stay in Ha Long Bay? Remember you wont be alone aboard. On the inside, the room was quiet and clean, although a bit small. Traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay? Free cancellation. If you book with a tour agent, transport to and from Halong Bay will most likely be included but be sure to confirm this detail with the agent before booking. Lets just say after the jellyfish sighting, we stayed on board the ship. This means that you can choose an itinerary that best suits your travel schedule and preferences. The couple of hours you get to sit on the top deck absorbing the unique surroundings as you sail through a picture perfect scene makes a Halong Bay cruise worth the money. Halong Bay tour booking varies depending on the type of cruise, level of luxury, duration of the trip, and season. 26 Things To Know Before Visiting Vietnam, This is one of my biggest tips I give someone heading to Vietnam, Vietnam Tips And Tricks: 26 Key Things To Know Before Your Trip, Ninh Binh: Detailed Travel Guide to Vietnams Hidden Gem, Ninh Binh Itinerary: Explore Rural Vietnam On Your Own, Halong Bay: How to Choose The Best Cruise In 6 Easy Steps. So if you want a more private experience, you may want to consider a luxury option. Need Transportation? Cat Ba Island, in particular, attracts tourists with its beautiful nature and excellent resort services, such as the Cat Ba cruise. Offering both 4 and 5-star options, Era Cruises has a fitness center, shared lounge, restaurant and bar. Youll also probably spend some time kayaking in the hot midday sun. Booking a Halong Bay cruise on arrival is a convenient way to plan your trip, but it is important to be cautious and do your research to avoid any issues. In summary, when it comes to booking Halong Bay cruises, the best way to save money and ensure a memorable experience is to do your research and book through trusted sources. The vast majority of its 10 million visitors a year arrive aboard day and overnight cruises. A cruise in Halong Bay is not the time to suddenly go on a shoestring budget but you dont need to hurt your wallet either. There are many different ways you can get to Halong Bay. A longer, more luxurious cruise will generally cost more than a shorter, more basic one. This is a brief trip to a pearl farm where millions of oysters are being manipulated to create unnatural pearls and thousands of oyster shells are being cleaned every month. You will still get the feeling of an organised tour and lose some independence. Listed below are a few of the most popular activities that are generally included in junk boat tours around Halong Bay. Another option is to ask your hotel owner to book transport for you. You should also receive information about what to bring and what to expect on your cruise. But dont forgo the 3 day and 2 night option without some consideration because this luxurious cruise will be a great option for couples or those who want to enjoy the best of Halong Bay. Hopefully, the above article of. Our Overall Top Pick for 2023 2-Day Halong Bay Cruise by Halong Bay Cruise Hunters We think this mid-range, all-inclusive tour represents one of the best values for cruising Halong Bay in 2023. Departure Ports 2023. Far worse than anywhere else Ive checked. There are 5 main routes for day cruises to visit Halong Bay: Route 1: Thien Cung Cave - Dog Rock, Ba Hang fishing village, Dinh Huong (Lu Huong) Islet, Fighting Cocks (Ga Choi), Hoa Cuong fishing village. Don't hesitate to send us your requests. Picking the right cruise in Halong Bay was a largely overwhelming process to me. Booking is often a straightforward process and once confirmed, you can look forward to experiencing the beauty and tranquility of Halong Bay firsthand. If you want to snap a few photos while kayaking around Halong Bay, youll want to invest in either a waterproof cellphone caseor a waterproof camera. Top places to visit and things to do in Vietnam, Best things to do in Sapa with 3 day itinerary, Things to do in Hanoi with 2 day itinerary, 3 week Northern and Central Vietnam itinerary, How to find the abandoned waterpark in Hue, Hue to Hoi An motorcycle tour via the Hai Van Pass, Visitors who want to see more of Halong Bay, Can add in transfer from Hanoi if required, Limited to cruises working with tour agency, Booking your cruise will take up time in Vietnam, Ability to pick any cruise operator you want, You can book as early and as soon as you want, Can use previous guest reviews to help make a decision, Have to rely on pictures and descriptions for the cruise. Where Are Those Morgans LLC is a participant in the Amazon services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. In While you may be tempted to bring your own alcohol on board, be aware that most of the boats charge a corkage fee for any beverages that you dont buy on the ship. But if you struggling to stretch your budget even to US$200? Get ready for exotic photos and absorb the magnificent natural splendors, limestone bedrocks, and sheer cliffs of tiny islands highlighted with fanciful names: Fighting Cocks (symbol of Halong Bay), Duck, Swan, Incense Burner, and . Please only choose this route if you have experience driving a motorbike and are comfortable driving in the crazy traffic of Vietnam. When it comes to availability, online booking offers a wider range of choices than booking in person. Hop aboard a traditional junk boat and wind your way around the bay's 1,600 islands. A day cruise tour can last from 4 to 8 hours. This trip should be inexpensive and is often included in the cruise package (always double check though). THE 10 BEST Halong Bay Tours & Excursions Tours in Halong Bay Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more. Official Member: #FTA22519 - Family Travel Association. In summary, when it comes to booking Halong Bay cruises, the best way to save money and ensure a memorable experience is to do your research and book through trusted sources. 3 or 2 Day Halong Bay Cruise Pros And Cons, How To Choose The Best Overnight Halong Bay Cruise, Cat Ba Island: A Cheap Halong Bay Cruise Alternative, Tips For Your Visit To Halong Bay, Vietnam. You can book day cruises with no overnight stay departing from Hanoi, Halong City or Cat Ba. What makes or breaks your Halong Bay cruise overnight is who you share it with. Halong Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. booking. It's time to cruise in Halong Bay! This is one of my biggest tips I give someone heading to Vietnam. With so many options available, finding the perfect Halong Bay cruise can seem overwhelming. The other thing was our third day plan, which ended up being too touristy for my taste. This next section will cover the top rated cheap Halong Bay cruises. per adult. Additionally, keep in mind that some cruises may include meals, activities, and transportation, while others may require you to pay extra for these services. There are a few reasons that tennis shoes would come in handy during your trip to Halong Bay. A simple food poisoning can turn into a nightmare aboard! Read More:A Majestic Journey - Halong Bay Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights Escape. Please make your choice by clicking on the Select column. Additionally, many Halong Bay cruise companies have flexible cancellation policies, which allow you to cancel or change your booking without incurring significant fees. The Vietnamese gave the name Halong to the place where it first appeared as a sign of gratitude. In 3D2N and 4D3N cruises, you are transferred from the main boat to a smaller one for the daily activities, returning to the main ship in the evening. L.J. booking so that you can review it again. Theyll drop you off on one end and pick you up on the other 30 minutes later. It may vary slightly due to weather and road conditions. 41 reviews From/person $190 La Regina Legend Cruise Lan Ha Bay 36 reviews From/person $145 Peony Cruise Lan Ha Bay 51 reviews From/person $138 Mon Cheri Cruise Lan Ha Bay 59 reviews From/person Halong Bay Cruise Itinerary: How Many Days And Nights? This article is going to show you how to choose the best Halong Bay cruise by getting what you pay for. Its a massive cave that is well-lit and easy to navigate with or without a guide. You will know at the time of booking if your transport is included. We enjoyed learning about how pearls are initially formed as well as how pearls are cultured, harvested and manipulated at this facility. Think $10 USD for a bag of peanuts. This was our favorite activity of our Halong Bay cruise tour experience. For many visitors, budget is the key ingredient to this recipe. In conclusion, we had a great time, saw the same places and did the same things, but for a fraction of the price compared to a luxury cruise. Typically your bus will leave Hanoi Old Quarter around 8am. The tour ends in the incredibly overpriced gift shop. We will go over every travel option so you can figure out what will work best for your Vietnam itinerary. *Please note this post may contain affiliate links. In this case, cheap means affordable. Make sure to read reviews and talk to the cruise operator to get a sense of what to expect and whether the itinerary includes the places and activities that you're most interested in. There are many tourist scams in Vietnam and people looking for cruises in Halong Bay are one of the best targets. Considering the itinerary, budget, date, and time when booking a Halong Bay cruise is important because it can affect the quality of your experience and your overall satisfaction with your trip. Taking safety measures. Your email address will not be published. How to Get from Hanoi to Halong Bay? Best Price Guarantee. What do you think is the best way to explore Halong Bay? Finding the perfect Halong Bay cruise is made easy with the many booking options available. The cruise companies normally offer trips from 1 days to 4 days. And to top it off, their boats operate in a different area of the bay than most of the other cruises so youll have a more unique itinerary with fewer crowds! Other than the physical forms of limestone rocks sporadically bursting out of the sea, theres not much else to get excited about in our opinion. Do some research and/or ask around and try to get a sense of whats a good deal. Here are a few things you should consider when it comes to choosing which cruise operator to sail with: You have 2 main options when booking your cheap Halong Bay cruise and both work best if you do your research beforehand. When you book your Halong Bay Cruise online, it may or may not include transport from nearby Hanoi, Sapa or Ninh Binh. The best way to book a Halong Bay cruise is to book online after comparing prices and previous guest reviews. Book now >>. Thisuniversal waterproof caseis inexpensive and super easy to use if you think your phone is in danger of getting splashed. Local travel agents can sometimes get you better prices than what you can find online, but before entering a travel agency do some research on Booking andTripAdvisorto find the top-rated cruise boats. We may be a bit biased because this was Halong Bay cruise operator, but we enjoyed Rosa Boutique because this cruise offered many activities, good food and comfortable rooms. your choosing cabin and other services, our system will summarize your total It was always cloudy and chilly all the time which was a true bummer. Youll climb a lot of stairs during your visit to Surprise Cave and Ti Top Island (if you choose to visit the lookout) so youll find that you are more comfortable in tennis shoes rather than flip flops. If you plan to move onto Ninh Binh after Halong Bay for example, ask about including a bus ticket to Ninh Binh for a reduced price. Because you know, YOURE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SEA. This is another crowded spot in the bay. Personally, we think Ninh Binh province and Phong Nha both offer much better value for money than Halong Bay, but we are very happy we got to check a Halong Bay cruise off from our bucket list. Ti Top Island is another major stop along the Halong Bay cruise tour route. By Halong Bay Cruises. next page shows up with the price for each room type, the conditions of payment It allows you to not only see Halong Bay from where its truly powerful, from the sea, but also to navigate to remote areas youd never reach on your own. Only the real Halong where you can feel in touch with nature is worth the high price tag. There are numerous areas set up in Halong Bay for kayaking and you will have about 45 minutes to an hour before you need to be back on the boat. Yes, a Halong Bay cruise is worth the time and money. It is divided into two chambers, the first chamber known as the waiting room and the second chamber known as the serene castle.. Halong Bay is a stunningly beautiful bay in Northern Vietnam where over 1,600 islands and islets rise up from the turquoise waters of the South China Sea. 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