Overview of Halong Bay Cruise Routes & Attractions

Overnight cruises in Ha Long Bay are one of the most popular travel experiences in northern Vietnam. Ha Long Bay cruises operate on different routes, each offering a unique landscape and experience. Below is a concise overview of the most common cruise routes in Ha Long Bay.

Traditional Halong Bay Cruise Route

This is the most popular route and is ideal for first-time visitors, featuring Ha Long Bay’s iconic landmarks.

Highlights

Sung Sot Cave – the largest and most beautiful cave in the bay.

Titop Island – a scenic beach with a panoramic viewpoint.

Luon Cave – ideal for kayaking or bamboo boat rides.

Route Features

Dramatic limestone scenery, well-developed services, and a wide range of cruises from 3-star to 5-star. This route can be crowded during peak seasons.

Ha Long Bay – Lan Ha Bay Cruise Route

Located south of Ha Long Bay in the Cat Ba Island area, this route is known for its peaceful atmosphere and luxury cruises.

Highlights

Dark & Bright Cave – kayaking into a secluded lagoon.

Tra Bau or Ao Ech Area – swimming and kayaking activities.

Cat Ba Island – visits to Cat Ba National Park or Hospital Cave (depending on itinerary).

Route Features

Quieter waters, clearer sea, and mostly 5-star cruises with private balconies. Transfers are more complex, requiring a short speedboat ride to the cruise.

Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise Route

Situated northeast of Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is the least crowded area and remains largely untouched.

Highlights

Thien Canh Son Cave – a peaceful, less-visited cave.

Vung Vieng Fishing Village – insight into local fishermen’s life.

Cong Do Area – a quiet anchorage for sunset viewing.

Route Features

Pristine landscapes, emerald water, and high privacy. Fewer cruises operate here, mostly smaller and traditional-style vessels.

Dining, Activities & Transfers on Ha Long Bay Cruises

Most overnight cruises include full-board meals with seafood buffets or Asian–European set menus, plus afternoon tea on the sundeck. Activities include kayaking, swimming, village visits, squid fishing, and onboard experiences such as Tai Chi and cooking classes.

Round-trip shuttle bus services from Hanoi are available, with prices ranging from USD 15–30 per person.

Contact Us

Viet Sails Cruise is a 4-star traditional wooden Bai Tu Long Bay cruise, designed for guests who value privacy, tranquility, and quality service. Sailing through the untouched areas of Bai Tu Long Bay, the cruise avoids busy tourist routes while offering comfortable cabins, attentive staff, and well-planned itineraries. It is an ideal option for couples, small groups, and travelers looking for a relaxing overnight cruise experience.

For cruise tours and services in Ha Long Bay, please contact Tuyet Pham via phone or WhatsApp at  +84 968 299 625, or email:  info@vietsails.com.