Halong Bay is one of the must-see destinations in Vietnam, with its stunning natural beauty, serene waters, and lush green karst mountains. A 2-night cruise through Halong Bay is the perfect way to experience the magic of this unique place, from kayaking through hidden lagoons to visiting breathtaking caves and hiking to the top of towering peaks. However, planning your first Halong Bay cruise can be a little bit overwhelming. That's why we've put together a comprehensive guide on how to plan your first Halong Bay 2 Night Cruise, including tips on packing appropriately, arranging transportation, deciding on your itinerary, choosing the right time to go and selecting a reputable cruise operator. With these guidelines in mind, you can ensure that your first Halong Bay cruise is a memorable and enjoyable experience.
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1. What to pack for a perfect Halong bay 2 night cruise trip?
To have a perfect Halong cruise trip, prepare the necessary items in your luggage. You will need some more clothes than travel on a 1 night cruise. When packing for a 2-night Halong Bay cruise, it is important to consider the weather and the type of activities you will be doing. Here is a basic packing list you should have on your luggage:
Important documents: Bring cash and important documents like your passport and travel insurance policy.
Sun protection: Don't forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun.
Swimwear: If you plan to swim or participate in water activities, pack a swimsuit and a towel.
Camera: Don't forget to bring a camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery and memories.
Note: There is no laundry service on the cruise so you can bring clothes to the mainland for washing.
So what personal items can we expect on cruise? Almost all of 3-5 star cruises have complimentary personal hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, slippers, shower towel and hair dryer. Unless you don’t want to use disposable utensils, you can use these.
2. Arrange transportation to Halong Bay
When planning a Halong Bay tour, you must consider how you will get to Halong Bay and how you will get back after your cruise. Normally, a Halong Bay 2 night cruise trip can start from Hanoi or a nearby destination like Ninh Binh.
The simplest and most convenient way to move to Ha Long for those in Hanoi is to book a round-trip Limousine or a 16-seat bus (Shuttle Bus) between Hanoi and Halong. With only 2 hours of driving, you are at the port to check in on the cruise. The shuttles are very modern, on the way there is a rest station for you to eat, shop for some things if you forget to take them along.
Shuttle bus - Halong Bay cruise in 2 nights
If you prefer more privacy and flexibility, you can hire a private car to take you and your group to Halong Bay. This option charges you a bit higher than the other shuttle bus, but it allows you to set your own schedule and make stops along the way.
>> Check the price to rent a Hanoi - Halong private car.
From my personal experience, I highly recommend you book shuttle bus services Hanoi - Halong with cruise operators. It is convenient and affordable for everyone. The car will pick you up at your hotels in the centre of Hanoi or Opera House. This service not only attracts international friends but also domestic tourists from other regions. Be sure to book in advance to ensure availability.
No matter which transportation option you choose, it's important to book in advance and confirm the details with your cruise operator. This will help ensure that your trip to Halong Bay is smooth and stress-free.
>> See more ways to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay
3. Decide on Halong Bay 2-night cruise itinerary
Halong bay 2 night cruise provides a balanced mix of activities, relaxation, as well cultural experiences. Almost all of Halong Bay cruise operators make itineraries to visit the most compelling caves, karst islets, fishing villages and beaches. The following is a sample itinerary for a 2-night Halong Bay cruise with timing you may need to see through.
Halong Bay Majestic Cruise's Map
Day 1
08:30 AM: Get picked up from your hotels in Hanoi
12:00 PM: Check-in at Tuan Chau Marina, Halong Bay
12:30 PM: Welcome drinks and a brief orientation on board
01:00 PM: Start cruising through Halong Bay karst and limestone, while enjoy a delicious lunch served on board
04:00 PM: Take a guided tour of stunning caves
06:00 PM: Return to the boat and enjoy sunset cocktails and canapes
07:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious dinner on board, evening activities
Day 2
07:00 AM: Start the day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck
08:00 AM: Take a morning kayaking excursion to explore the serene waters and hidden lagoons of Halong Bay
10:30 AM: Return to the boat for a sumptuous brunch
12:00 PM: Visit the floating village and learn about the traditional way of life in Halong Bay
02:00 PM: Take a guided hike to the top of a towering island for panoramic views of the bay
04:00 PM: Return to the boat and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on board
07:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious dinner on board, evening activities
Day 3
07:00 AM: Start the day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck
08:00 AM: Take a morning excursion to other caves and beaches
10:30 AM: Return to the boat for a sumptuous brunch
11:30 AM: Disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, Halong Bay and transfer back to Hanoi
4. Tips to book suitable Halong Bay Cruise in 2 nights
4.1. Choose the right time to go
Halong Bay is a year-round destination, but you should decide a certain time to go suitable with your preference and schedule.
The right time to visit Halong Bay is from October to December and April to June, when the weather is cooler and drier. During this time, the temperature ranges from 20-30°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
May to July are the busiest months, when Vietnamese people travel to enjoy summer vacation.
August expects rains and a few storms visiting the North. You will have to be flexible in itinerary, but many good deals for Halong Bay cruise are available.
4.2. Choose Halong Bay cruise operator
Choosing a suitable Halong Bay cruise operator is crucial for ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience. Based on its reputation, facilities, customer service and itinerary, you can select your best one. We already made a list for you to review here:
Spend 2 nights 3 days on a boutique Halong Bay cruise
Glory Cruise - 3 day 2 night Halong Bay cruise
Glory Cruise offers a range of well-appointed cabins and suites, designed for comfort and luxury. Each cabin is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. With a wide range of dining options, including fine dining and barbeque, to suit all tastes.
Majestic Cruise - Halong Bay Cruise in 2 nights
Pelican Cruise - 3 day 2 night Halong Bay cruise
Pelican Cruise is a fantastic option to both enjoy fine dining and stay in spacious cabins. A wide range of activities are there to awaken your senses. Pelican cruise received many good feedback from clients so why not give it a chance to serve you during your Halong Bay 2-night cruise trip.
Bhaya Classic Cruise - 3 day 2 night Halong Bay cruise
Bhaya Classic Cruise is well-known for its traditional Vietnamese junk design and exceptional service. High-quality accommodations and fine dining onboard can ensure a memorable stay during 3 days and 2 nights in Halong Bay. You will have the chance to join in various cultural and outdoor experiences. The only thing you need to do is prepare luggage, the other things you can rely on the cruise's crew.
Paradise Sails Cruise - 3 day 2 night Halong Bay cruise
This is a traditional wooden junk with a premium level of services and facilities. The crew on the Paradise Sails is highly trained and dedicated to ensuring that every aspect of your stay is nothing less than perfect. From the moment you step onboard, you will be treated with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Dinner on Paradise Cruise - Halong Bay Cruise in 2 nights
Athena Royal Cruise - 3 day 2 night Halong Bay cruise
Athena Royal is one of the luxury cruise operators in Halong Bay. All of its cabins are designed with a private balcony. It offers gourmet dining experiences, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Spa and wellness services are also the highlights of the cruise, which give you the chance to rejuvenate and truly relax in 3 days and 2 nights.
>>> To check the real time price of the best Halong Bay 2 night cruise, boat and junk, follow this link.
04 Comments
South Africa
Vietnam
Australia
I visited Halong Bay 3 years ago, took a day cruise. Now I am planning to come back with my wife for 2 nights. Your information is so useful to us. Thank you.
Vietnam
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