Hanoi: Full-Day Halong Bay Cruise with Swimming & Kayak Tour

Hanoi: Full-Day Halong Bay Cruise with Swimming & Kayak Tour

If you're traveling to northern Vietnam, one of the absolute must-do experiences is a full-day cruise to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts and isles. From Hanoi, you can enjoy a seamless day tour combining scenic cruising, cave exploration, swimming, kayaking, and even a sunset party — all packed into one unforgettable adventure. Here’s everything you need to know about this immersive full-day Halong Bay cruise tour.

Starting Your Journey: Pickup & Transfer from Hanoi

Your day begins bright and early between 8:00 and 8:30 AM with a convenient hotel pickup in the Hanoi Old Quarter, if you choose that option. Otherwise, meeting points such as the Hanoi Opera House or a central location on Tran Quang Khai Street are available for those staying outside the Old Quarter. From here, you'll embark on a comfortable, modern bus ride through the lush green countryside. The drive to Tuan Chau Harbor in Ha Long Bay takes roughly 2.5 hours via highway, with a brief stop at a local pearl shop where you can learn about traditional pearl cultivation—a fascinating glimpse into local craft and culture.

Boarding the Deluxe Cruise: Scenic Views and Seafood Lunch

Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Harbor, you board a deluxe cruise ship that will be your floating hotel and tour guide for the day. As the boat sets sail into the turquoise waters of Ha Long Bay, prepare to be mesmerized by dramatic karst formations rising majestically from the sea. The cruise offers panoramic scenic views, perfect for photography enthusiasts or anyone wanting to soak up natural beauty.

Midway through your cruise, enjoy a sumptuous traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch onboard. The fresh dishes, combined with the stunning bay vistas, make for a memorable dining experience.

Exploring Sung Sot Cave — The "Surprise Cave"

One of the highlights of the trip is the visit to Sung Sot Cave, also known as the "Surprise Cave." This is the largest and most spectacular cave in Ha Long Bay. You will spend about an hour walking through the cave’s labyrinth of chambers, marveling at the shimmering stalactites and stalagmites that take on all sorts of fascinating shapes—from dragons and castles to mushrooms and fruits. The natural wonder of this cave is truly breathtaking and offers a perfect blend of adventure and discovery.

Optional Excursions: Luon Cave and Kayaking

After exploring Sung Sot Cave, you have the option to continue your journey to Luon Cave. Accessed by kayak or bamboo boat, Luon Cave offers a more intimate experience of the bay’s calm, blue waters and hidden lagoons. Kayaking here is a peaceful way to explore the bay’s natural beauty, paddling beneath towering cliffs and through caves that are only reachable by watercraft. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this part of the tour provides a fun and active way to connect with nature.

Titop Island: Swim and Hike with Panoramic Views

Next, the cruise heads toward Titop Island, a small but iconic islet named after a Soviet cosmonaut who visited in the 1960s. Titop Island is perfect for a break in your day — you can swim in the refreshing waters or hike up to the summit. The short trek rewards you with panoramic views of the bay’s emerald waters and dramatic limestone karsts, a perspective that will surely stay in your memory forever. Spend about an hour here to fully enjoy the beach and hiking opportunities.

Sunset Party on Board: Relax and Unwind

As the afternoon turns to evening, the cruise boat slowly sails back, allowing you to soak up the last golden rays of the sun over Ha Long Bay. To end your day in style, the boat hosts a sunset party featuring red wine, light foods, and fresh fruits. This is the perfect way to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and reflect on the day’s adventures while surrounded by the magical beauty of the bay at dusk.

Return to Hanoi: Comfortable Drop-off Options

After the sunset party, the boat heads back to Tuan Chau Harbor. From here, you are transported back to Hanoi, arriving in the Old Quarter around 9 PM. The tour also offers flexible drop-off points such as Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Tuần Châu, or directly at the harbor for those continuing their journey. If you started your tour already in Ha Long Bay, you can join directly at Tuan Chau Harbor with an optional transfer back to Hanoi available for a small additional fee.

What’s Included in the Tour?

• Pickup and drop-off in Hanoi Old Quarter (if selected)

• English-speaking professional and entertaining tour guide

• Deluxe cruise through Ha Long Bay

• Set-menu traditional seafood lunch onboard

• Visits to Sung Sot Cave, optional Luon Cave kayaking, and Titop Island

• Swimming and hiking opportunities

• Entrance fees as per itinerary

• Sunset party with red wine, tea, fruit, and light snacks

• Mineral water supplied on the bus

• Kayak or bamboo boat experience

Tips: What to Bring & Know Before You Go

To make your day as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, bring these essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes for cave exploration and hiking

• Swimwear and towel for swimming at Titop Island

• Sun protection: sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen

• Light, quick-dry clothing for water activities

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

• Camera or smartphone for capturing stunning views

Please note plastic bottles are discouraged to protect the environment. Children’s pricing depends on age and height, with infants under four sharing services free of charge.

Why Choose This Full-Day Ha Long Bay Cruise?

This full-day cruise from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay offers a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insight. The well-planned itinerary ensures you see the most iconic sights while enjoying optional activities that suit your pace. Whether you want to paddle through calm caves, swim in pristine waters, hike up scenic peaks, or simply relax with a glass of wine as the sun sets, this tour has something for everyone.

With professional guides, comfortable transport, and a deluxe boat experience, this trip transforms a simple day tour into an extraordinary memory of Vietnam’s natural wonder.

If you’re planning your Hanoi itinerary and want a day that combines sightseeing, adventure, local culture, and stunning scenery, this full-day Halong Bay cruise with swimming and kayaking is the perfect choice. Book your spot early to secure an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most beautiful natural landscapes.