Halong Bay is a great destination for all ages. However, kids must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Taking a day tour from Hanoi is a wonderful way to experience Halong Bay. The new expressway has cut the travel time in half!
Transportation
Many cruise companies include transportation from Hanoi to the bay in their tour packages. The trip can be by bus or private car and usually takes 3.5 – 4 hours to get to the bay.
Some cruises also offer a deluxe private transfer option for an additional cost. This is the best option for large groups or couples looking for privacy.
Most tours include breakfast and lunch on the boat and afternoon activities like Ti Top Island or Surprise Cave. Some even provide kayaking equipment for an additional fee.
There are regular buses from Hanoi to Halong Bay that can be bought at the My Dinh station in Hanoi for about US$5. The trip can take up to 3.5 hours and will leave you in Halong City, which is around 30 minutes by taxi from the cruise port. You can also pre-book a private taxi online to avoid getting overcharged. The average taxi from Hanoi to Halong Bay costs about $180 USD.
Tours
A day tour in Halong Bay is a great option for travelers who want to experience the highlights of the area but don’t have enough time for an overnight cruise. These tours usually include a trip to the pearl farm, Sung Sot cave, and Titop Island.
These trips also often include a traditional seafood lunch on board the ship. If you’re interested in a more intimate experience, consider booking a luxury cruise line. They tend to have more private rooms with a balcony and offer better service.
Phoenix Day Cruise is a popular choice among travellers looking for a quality day tour in Halong Bay. The company’s website offers a full list of activities and prices, as well as a shuttle bus from your hotel to the harbor. The price is a bit higher than other companies, but the service is top-notch. It’s worth it for the unique experience of exploring one of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Activities
There are a variety of activities on board the Halong Bay cruises that you can participate in during your day trip. Some of them include beach swimming and snorkeling, kayaking, or rowing a traditional sampan. Other options are cooking lessons or visiting a floating village. You can also visit a cave or take photos of the landscape.
The Halong Bay day tour is a great option for those who have limited time and want to experience the beauty of this world heritage site. The spectacular karst cliffs, alluring islands, and emerald beaches are sure to take your breath away.
Some of the best things to do on a Halong Bay day cruise are to explore the amazing Sung Sot and Luon caves, relax on Titop island, or climb up the lookout for stunning views over the bay. It is important to check the itinerary before booking your trip, though. You may find that some of the things you have hoped for are not included in the itinerary.
Food
Whether you want to be on the cheap or go all out with luxury, there are options for you in Halong Bay. A day trip will typically cost you $50 to $100 depending on the company and services provided. You will have to pay extra for certain activities such as visiting Surprise Cave and kayaking in Ba Hang Village.
You will also be required to pay for the drinks on board. While the prices aren’t outrageous, they certainly are more than you would expect for Vietnam.
Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch on board before visiting Sung Sot Cave and Luon Cave. You can also climb up Titov Island for an unforgettable view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, relax on the sun deck while listening to music and meeting other travelers. You will then disembark the cruise and travel back to your hotel via shuttle bus. This is an ideal way to experience a Halong Bay day trip on a budget.