Halong Bay Cruise Prices from 1 Day to 3 Days (Updated 2024)

The one place everyone agrees is a must-see in Vietnam is Halong Bay. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site for its stunning limestone karsts, pristine islets, and vibrant ecosystem. There’s no better way to experience Halong Bay than a cruise on its emerald waters. With one to three-day cruises and three to five-star levels to choose from, there are cruises to fit any budget. Check out this guide for 2024.

What are the Inclusions and Exclusions of a Halong Bay Cruise Price?

Details vary, but cruise tickets usually include everything you need to enjoy your time on board. Accommodations for overnight cruises are a big part of the ticket price. Cabins are floating hotel rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Meals are also served on board as part of the ticket price. Day cruises will usually include lunch, and overnight cruises will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Onboard activities and entrance fees to sites within Halong Bay are also usually included. What’s offered will depend on the cruise length and itinerary. Popular activities include kayaking, cave exploration, and onboard culinary workshops.

Halong Bay kayaking tour.

Beverages are not always covered by the cruise ticket price. This often applies specifically to alcoholic beverages, so check before ordering. Getting to Halong Bay is not covered by the cruise price. Some cruises offer hotel pick-up to take you to the embarking point. Souvenirs, activities not listed in the itinerary, and any tips for the crew are personal expenses also not covered.

The Shuttle Bus Round Trip for Cruise Costs about USD30 - 40 Per Person

Depending on where you’re starting from, a shuttle bus to the cruise can cost 30 to 40 USD per person. Travelers commonly arrive in Hanoi and need to arrange transportation to Halong Bay from there. Shuttle buses depart from Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and various locations around the city. Some services also offer door-to-door service from your hotel to cruise embarkation point.

Halong Bay is 175 km from Hanoi. The trip takes between 2.5 and 3.5 hours. Modern shuttle buses with comfortable seating and air-conditioning run all day long, with more transfer options available in the morning. Private transportation is also available at a higher cost.

4 Days Hanoi Tour with Halong Bay Cruise

Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Hanoi

Halong Bay Day Cruise Price: USD65 - 120 Per Person

Day cruises of Halong Bay can last from four hours to a full day. Itineraries include visits to famous locations like Titip Island, and exploring caves like Sung Sot Cave of Luon Cave by kayak or bamboo boat. Lunch is served on board, and cruises often end with sunset parties featuring music and snacks.

Prices vary by season and star rating. The low season lasts from May to September and prices can drop as low as 65 USD per person. During the high season, luxury cruises can cost around 120 USD per person. Jade Sails Luxury Cruise offers full-day cruises with a chance to swim and kayak through stalagmite caves for 115 USD per person. Alova Premium Cruise is a budget option on a modern boat with tickets available for 69 USD.

Halong Bay luxury cruise tour.

Halong Bay Cruise 2 Days 1 Night Price: USD120 - 300 Per Person

Two-day cruises cost between 120 and 300 USD per person. You will stay overnight on the boat in private cabins and be able to see more of the bay. In addition to swimming and kayaking, there’s time to disembark and explore some of the many islets.

Sea Stars Cruise offers a luxury 2-day, 1-night cruise starting from 241 USD per person. The 5-star cruise has cabins with private balconies, a pool, a fitness center, and mini golf. After visiting Titop island, you can discover Trinh Nu Cave, and visit the Pearl Farm in the Tung Sau area. Renea Cruise is a classic Halong Bay cruise available from 125 USD per person. The three-star accommodations are accompanied by a barbecue dinner, cooking demonstrations, and tai chi classes. There’s the opportunity to swim at Cong Do, and go kayaking in Cap La.

Halong Bay Sea Stars Cruise.

Halong Bay Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights Price: USD220 - 500 Per Person

Three-day cruises are a chance to see more out of the way places in Halong Bay. The bay covers over 1,500 km2 and has many hidden gems to explore. With an extra day itineraries include activities such as cycling tours of Viet Hai Village. Located near Cat Ba Island, the small fishing village is surrounded with jungle scenery and picturesque biking routes.

Heritage Line Violet Cruise is a 5-star luxury cruise with tickets starting from 485 USD per person. The cruise offers spacious rooms and fresh seafood meals, plus all kinds of activities including sunbathing, hiking, and visits to caves and the Pearl Farm. Oriental Sails offers 3-day, 2-night cruises starting from 224 per person on a traditional-style wooden boat. The tour visits the best highlights of Halong Bay like Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, Bai Trai Dao, and Dark & Bright Cave.

Halong Bay Bai Trai Dao tour.

Why are Halong Bay Cruises so Expensive and Is It Worth to Visit?

A cruise is the best way to experience the wonders of Halong Bay. The limestone karsts, caves, beaches, and floating villages are scattered around the bay and can only be reached by boat. It is a unique natural wonder with unforgettable scenery that is a highlight of any trip to Vietnam.

At first glance, prices can seem expensive, but cruises are more than just an activity. With accommodations on board, you’ll be saving the cost of a hotel for a few nights. All the other major expenses of traveling are also included in the ticket price. Meals, activities, and entrance fees are all covered, so you’ll only be spending extra money on incidental expenses.

The limestone karsts of Halong Bay.

More Tips for Booking a Halong Bay Cruise

- Book your cruise early. Halong Bay is popular with domestic and international travelers in Vietnam. Cruises can fill up quickly.
- Autumn is the best choice for first-time visitors. The skies will be clear, and waters calm. Conditions are perfect for hiking, kayaking, and relaxing on the beach.
- The rainy season, from May to September, is a good choice for budget travelers.
- Overnight cruises for one or two nights are the better choice. There’s so much to see in the bay, a day cruise only has enough time for a small glimpse.
- Weather can vary with hot days and cooler mornings and evenings. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, and a light jacket or sweater.
- Don’t sleep through sunrise. The sky transforming into a canvas of orange and pink as the sun rises over the limestone karsts is a breathtaking sight that shouldn’t be missed.
- Bring cash in local currency for small transactions. Don’t expect credit cards or mobile payments to be accepted everywhere you visit during the cruise.

8 Days Best of Vietnam Tour Package

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Saigon - Mekong Delta – Saigon

Conclusion

At first glance, a Halong Bay cruise can appear expensive, but with many options to choose from there’s a cruise to match any budget. From 5-star cruises with luxurious onboard amenities to comfortable lodgings on traditional boats, you can choose the best options for your travel style. Spending at least one night on the boat will give you enough time to explore some of the beautiful sites, but day cruises are available if you’re short on time. Contact us for more information on how to make a Halong Bay cruise part of your Vietnam tour.