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The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

By Jolene Ejmont @Wanderluststory
The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 RecommendationsJoin in with thousands of happy travelers on a trip of a life time on the best Halong Bay tour in Vietnam! In order to make your planning that much easier, we have compiled a list of top 13 best Halong Bay cruise recommendation options!

Halong Bay is a beautiful, storybook looking area that is well worth seeing. The best way to see Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise. There are so many Halong Bay tours to choose from, that it can be a daunting task to figure out which Halong Bay cruise will be the perfect fit or you and your family.

Which is the best Halong Bay cruise? Which are the top cruise lines in Halong Bay? Let me take you through the list of our top 13 of best Halong Bay cruise recommendations:

Top 12 of the Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendation Options

In order to make planning your Halong Bay cruise a little easier, I'm going to give you all the information I've collected on the best Halong Bay cruises that are affordable, safe and perfect for families. Even if you are going by yourself or with a partner, these cruises will still be perfect for you as well. Our family chose a one night cruise, but I made sure to include multiple options for cruise lengths on this list. I just felt that one night was the perfect amount of time for a family with small children.

Bhaya Cruise Halong Bay offers 2-day Halong Bay tours for travellers who wish to experience the natural wonder of this World Heritage site with lime-stone mountains, emerald waters and unforgettable moments. Venture out to one of the most spectacular destinations in Vietnam aboard our charming Bhaya cruises. Enjoy the sensational sunsets whilst indulging in some of the best Vietnamese and Western cuisine.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Bhaya Cruise Vietnam offers a variety of Halong Bhaya cruise options. These include Bhaya Classic Cruise Halong Bay, Bhaya Premium Cruise (Bhaya Classic Premium) as well as a private Bhaya Legend Cruise. If you would like to check the prices on Bhaya Cruise tripadvisor, click here.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 2 days, 1 night.

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:
  • Spa and Massage
  • Morning Taichi
  • MasterChef Competition
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing

Rooms Available: Large passenger cabins accommodate up to three adults in full comfort, others offer small rooms for one or two people.

Star Rating: 5 Stars

Click the link to > Check rates and availabilityThe Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Venture out on a Dragon Legend Cruise Halong Bay into the beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay. Thi is the less crowded of areas of Halong Bay. Here you can check out the stunning World Natural Heritage site and experience relaxation like never before.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Dragon Legend Halong Bay is regarded as one of the best Halong Bay luxury cruise options. This is an experience of the highest standard and comes with tones of satisfied and happy Halong Bay cruise reviews. Dragon cruise Halong Bay is one of the best value Halong Bay cruise and best Halong Bay cruise for couples.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 2 Day, 1 Night

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: Dragon Cruise Halong Bay accommodation includes 24 luxurious and very spacious cabins. Only two of the cabins have connecting rooms for families with kids. We would strongly advise to make sure and reserve those rooms well in advance.

Star Rating: 5

Click the link to check out Dragon Legend price

From the classic wooden interiors down to the touch of modern conveniences, the Paradise Cruise Halong Bay collection is already a destination in itself waiting to be discovered. A premium experience that's incomparable to any other, our fleet is a tastemaker piece of paradise on earth.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

With a fleet of 7 vessels, Paradise luxury cruise Halong Bay offers 3 different concepts to explore Halong Bay. These include Paradise Luxury Halong Bay Cruise, Paradise Halong Bay Elegance Cruise and Peak Paradise Halong Bay Cruise.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 2 Days - 3 Days

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: Depending on the Ship, whether you choose to go on a Paradise Luxury Cruise, Paradise Elegance Cruise or Paradise Peak Cruise, the accommodation slightly varies. Majority of the rooms can accommodate 2 adults and 1 child on additional bed, when requested. If you are travelling with a large family, you can book two rooms next to each other.

Star Rating: 5

BEST HALONG BAY CRUISE

-EDITOR'S CHOICE! This is my pick for the best cruise in Halong Bay! -

Indochina Sails Cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay takes you to a less visited and very beautiful part of Halong Bay. The fleet of ships include Dragon Legend Cruise, Red Dragon Junk, Dragon's Pearl Junk, Princess Junk as well as Prince Junk.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Indochina Junk Cruise is our top pick and the best way to see Halong Bay. This is the cruise that we have experienced first hand and we absolutely loved every minute of it! You can read more about our Halong Bay trip with Indochina Sails here!

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

If you are after the best Halong Bay overnight cruise, best luxury cruise Halong Bay has to offer or even the best one day Halong Bay tour, then Indochina junk cruise has got you covered!

Length: 2 Day - 3 Day

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: Indochina Halong Bay ships are predominantly designed for couples. However some of the ships accommodate 2 adults and one child in one room. Alternatively it is best to book two rooms next to each other, for when travelling with large families.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

When we were on our Indochina Cruise Halong Bay, we were on a parent only getaway and we chose to stay with Indochina Sails. Our room was very much luxurious and included all the bells and whistles! Loved it! This was the best Halong Bay Cruise ever!

Star Rating: 5

A day cruise with V Spirit Cruise Halong Bay is the best choice for you to experience the magnificent Halong Bay with our 'all-in-one' itinerary for those with a limited time schedule.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

You will not only explore one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay, but will also have the chance to go kayaking or bamboo boat rowing, as well as visiting and interacting with people at a local fishing village. Holiday with V Spirit Halong Bay is a great option for travelling with a family.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 1 Day

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included: The V Spirit Classic Cruise Halong Bay has plenty activities on offer for all young and mature kids.

Rooms Available: V Spirit Cruise ships are perfect for all travelers, singles, couples and families.

Star Rating: 5

The Rosa Cruise Halong Bay proudly offers the new premier cruise experiences in Halong Bay which combines the most modern and greatest comfort. Wishing to provide customers the best culinary and premium cruise experiences.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Rosa Cruise are proud to bring visitors the most exciting experiences in Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay with many unique destination attractions such as: Pearl Farm Village, Amazing Cave, Dark Cave and Bright Cave.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 1 Day to 3 Days

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: Perfect for couples and romantic getaways. If you are travelling as a family you can choose to book two rooms with connecting doors.

Star Rating: 4

Aphrodite Cruise Halong Bay is the goddess of beauty and love that emerges from the foam of crystal waters on distant shores. Aphrodite Cruises Halong Bay provides you with a 5 star experience and all the bells and whistles that you would expect from a luxury junk boat. This cruise is one of the best Halong Bay cruise options!

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 2 Day

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: great for families and couples alike. Tip: terrace suites are available as well.

Star Rating: 5

If you are after a stylish and relaxing experience of Halong Bay then you cannot miss out on this amazing cruise boat. Discover Halong Bay aboard the Huong Hai Sealife Cruise Halong Bay, a 4 star steel made cruise which combines classic beauty with modern comfort. You will have a chance to check out the floating fishing village, learn about their way of life and visit the Beautiful Cave as well.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 1 - 3 Days

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: The rooms are suitable for couples. You can book two rooms next to each other, if you are travelling as a family.

Star Rating: 4

The Oasis Cruise Halong Bay offers you a selection of One Day Tour or Two Day Tour options. This is a great cruise to discover Halong Bay, one of the World Heritage sites.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Oasis Halong Bay Tour also offers a wonderful day cruise. If your time is limited, then the Oasis Bay Cruise Halong Bay is the best choice for you. That way you can venture out a get a feel for the famous bay, relax with a cocktail or two and spend a great couple of hours with your significant other.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

This cruise is also known for its Oasis party cruise Halong Bay and the Oasis Bay Classic Cruise Halong Bay.

Length: 1 Day - 2 Days

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: Varies

Star Rating: 4

If you are looking for a perfect one day cruise on the Halong Bay, then Alova Cruise Halong Bay are your specialists in the area. These guys are here to indulge you with all the yummy drinks, whilst you enjoy the unforgettable cruising around the beautiful Heritage Site.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

This cruise is ranking on many review websites as the best way to visit Halong Bay and the best Halong Bay 1 day tour.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 1 Day (Best Halong Bay Day Tour and one of the Best Halong Bay Tours for Backpackers!)

Transfer from Hanoi Included: No

Activities included:

Rooms Available: Halong Alova Cruise is a day tour and there are no rooms available.

Star Rating: 5

L Azalee Cruise Halong Bay is a smaller and a more boutique Halong Bay cruise company. You can choose from 3 different types of cruises, including L Azalee Classic Cruise (day tour boat, no private rooms), L Azalee Deluxe Cruise (larger couples rooms available) and the L Azalee Premium Cruise (a more private 4-person boat for a more luxurious experience).

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 1 Day - 3 Day

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: L'Azalee Deluxe Cruise has rooms suitable for couples. If you are travelling as a family or a group, you can book two or more rooms next to each other.

Star Rating: 5

Click the link to > Check rates and availability

Jasmine Heritage Line Halong Bay Cruise is one of three major choices of Heritage Line Cruises. Jasmine Halong Bay Cruise is one of the most luxurious of trips that you can take to the Halong Bay.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

The ship itself is built to the Vietnamese junk-boat-style specifications with its wooden decor and intricate designs. Jasmine Heritage Cruise Line oozes elegance, luxury and style. This is one of the best Halong Bay cruise options available!

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: 1 Day - 3 Days

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: Varies

Star Rating: 5

The Au Co Cruise Halong Bay is the first and only luxury cruise operator offering unique day cruises and overnight voyages through world-renowned Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island and the Gulf of Tonkin.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

The Au Co Halong Bay ship features the very latest safety standards and represents Vietnamese and Oriental culture at its best. Each of her 32 spaciously-designed private cabins boasts luxurious bathrooms and panoramic balconies.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Length: The Au Co Day Cruises or Overnight

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

Activities Included:

Rooms Available: One of 32 private cabins with balconies and luxurious bathrooms. Best for couples. Alternatively book two rooms to accommodate larger families.

Star Rating: 5

Click the link to > Check rates and availability

In order for the following cruises to be added to my list they had to meet certain criteria. First they had to have a cabin that could comfortably fit 2 adults and 2 children. The beds could be in a single large room, or two interconnecting rooms. Since my children are young, I did not want them in a cabin all by themselves, even if it was right next door. Second is price, all of the cruises have to be under $850 UD, and finally they have to have a good rating on Viator.

Frequently Asked Questions about Halong bay Cruises:

What are the best prices for Halong Bay cruise?

Prices for Halong Bay cruises vary greatly, and although you can get some for very cheap, more often than not you'll get what you pay for. This is why you will want to make sure that you take a cruise that has a great reputation, and has been proven to be safe while also providing an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

What to know before going for a Halong Bay cruise?

Best way to prepare yourself for the trip to Halong Bay is to check out what available Halong Bay cruises there are, how to get there and when is the best time to go. In this post you will find all the necessary information and more!

How to choose the best cruise in Halong Bay?

Since most of the Halong Bay cruises have the same kind of events and activities, you will want to choose the cruise that is right for you and your family on other criteria besides the events. The best way to find the most suitable cruise for you is to look into the Star Rating, Price Point and Size of the Rooms. In our reviews, you will find all the necessary information. To check out the prices and the cruises in more detail, please click the links in the Halong Bay Cruise the you like the most.

What is the best time to go to Halong Bay?

The best time to go to Halong Bay is in Spring ( February to April) and in autumn ( August to October). We ventured out to Vietnam and the amazing Halong Bay in September and the weather was sunny and beautiful. The temperatures are pleasant and there is not much rain. However, if you would like to ensure that you visit Halong Bay in the lowest rain season, then you should book your adventure between March and April.

Which airport is closest to Halong Bay?

The closest airport to Halong Bay is the Noi Bai International Airport, just outside the Hanoi City. After you arrive to Hanoi, you will have to transfer to Halong City and the best way to do so in by Mini Bus from Gia Lam (Hanoi) to Bai Chay (Ha Long).

What is the best way to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi?

One of the best ways of how to get to Halong Bay is by bus. You can take a Mini Bus from Gia Lam (Hanoi) to Bai Chay ( Ha Long) which will coast about $6USD and it will take around 4-5hours.

Is it safe to go to Vietnam?

Vietnam is a very safe country to travel in. Although, it is an extremely safe country for holiday makers, you can expect some degree of hustling by shop or street vendors. This is a usual way of sales in the area and it is especially noticeable in the large cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh and Nha Trang. We have travelled throughout the country with ease and we have never felt in danger or otherwise uncomfortable.

Disclaimer: this article on top 13 Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendations contains affiliate links.

The Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise | Top 13 Recommendations

Andrzej believes life to be a never ending adventure. Originally from Poland, he is a devoted husband and father. Dedicated and enthusiastic to chase all his dreams. Storytelling to entice other families to travel.


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