Scenic Halong Bay Day Trip from Hanoi
Take a scenic drive through northern Vietnam’s countryside, then go on a Halong Bay cruise. This full-day trip from Hanoi to Halong bay includes kayaking and a seafood lunch on the boat. See the tall limestone cliffs in Halong Bay, a World Heritage site, and visit the Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave) with a guide who knows a lot about it.
Your full-day trip to Halong Bay starts with pickup from the Old Quarter in Hanoi. Relax as you drive through the countryside of northern Vietnam to Halong Bay. Once there, you’ll board a cruise ship for a 4 or 5-hour sail. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of UNESCO-listed Halong Bay and its limestone cliffs. You will visit caves like Thien Cung (Heavenly Cave) or Sung Sot (Surprising Cave), and your guide will tell you interesting stories about these places.
You can kayak around the bay or swim if the weather is good. During the cruise, enjoy a tasty seafood lunch while viewing the bay. The tour includes a ride back to your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making your day both enjoyable and easy.
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What’s included
• Scenic in Halong bay by Seaplane
• Private Boat in Halong bay
• Private tours, transfers and all services as mentioned in the itinerary
• English speaking guides
• Entrance fees for all mentioned sights visited
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
What’s not included
• Meals other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, drinks, etc.)
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Personal travel insurance
Itinerary ideas
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8:15 – 8:50 AM: A bus will pick you up from your hotel in the Old Quarter and take you to Halong Bay.
10:00 AM: There is a short 20-25 minute break halfway to Halong Bay.
11:50 AM: Arrive on Tuan Chau Island, Halong Bay. Check-in on the cruise and start your tour with a traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch on board while cruising through Halong Bay, passing scenic islands like Incense, Bunner, and Cock fighting.
1:30 PM: Explore Sung Sot Cave, known as the Surprising Cave. This is the biggest and one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay.
2:45 PM: Discover Luon Cave by kayaking or on a bamboo boat. You have the option to choose either activity.
3:45 PM: Visit Titop Island, known for its hiking and swimming opportunities. You can swim on its beach or hike up to Titop peak to take photos with panoramic views of the bay.
Admission Tickets: Included for Sung Sot Cave, Hang Luon Cave, and Ti Top Island.
Enjoy the scenic views, learn about the local geology, and take part in fun activities like kayaking and hiking during your trip.
What our clients say about us
Chloe M
15 July 2026 ★★★★★A wonderful 3-day, 2-night Dragon Legend cruise with excellent staff, thoughtful service, beautiful scenery, tasting menus and memorable activities. The private port facilities and quiet atmosphere made the journey especially enjoyable.
Thaimusic
15 July 2026 ★★★★★A memorable 3-day, 2-night journey with outstanding food, staff and service. After a last-minute boat change, the guests were transferred to the beautiful modern Red Dragon, which offered spacious rooms, a lovely pool and a quieter route away from the crowds. Red Dragon and Dragon Legend were highly recommended.
John & Elaine
10 June 2026 ★★★★★An unforgettable 3-day, 2-night private cruise aboard L’Amour Junk, with exceptional service from the captain and crew. Highlights included kayaking, swimming, caves, a beach barbecue, squid fishing and a floating village visit. Delicious food, thoughtful anniversary surprises and peaceful secluded anchorages made this traditional junk experience truly special.
Judy G
7 May 2026 ★★★★★A wonderful 2-day, 1-night Red Dragon cruise through peaceful Bai Tu Long Bay, with beautiful scenery, comfortable cabins, excellent food and memorable kayaking. The jacuzzi, sunset views and warm service from Milkyman and Lucas made this a truly relaxing luxury experience away from the crowds.
Jordan Pickford
15 April 2026 ★★★★★After an unforgettable Indochina journey, we trusted Vietnam Luxury Escapes to plan our Bali adventure. Every detail was flawlessly arranged, from beautiful hotels and cultural experiences to breathtaking landscapes. A truly memorable trip, perfectly tailored to our interests.
