Halong Bay is a must-visit when you are in Hanoi. The best way to do this is a 2 night Halong Bay cruise. Here is the one we did and the other best options.
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2 Night Aspira Cruise
We went on the 1 night Halong Bay cruise on the Aspira ship and we were absolutely blown away by how good it was. The 2 night Halong bay cruise that Aspira runs is what we got but better! Watch the video below to see how good it is and see prices, availability, and reviews here.
Choosing Your 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise
Going on a 2 night Halong Bay cruise can be expensive but it can also be very affordable depending on what kind of experience you are after.
Here, we will break down the best 2 night Halong bay cruises and hopefully one of them will be within your budget!
Read More: Want To Visit Halong Bay In 1 Day Instead? Click Here To Find Out How!
2 Night Halong Bay Cruises
There are loads of tour providers that offer luxury 2 night Halong Bay cruises but, sometimes, you cannot be sure which boat that they will put you on. The following 5 recommendations are for the actual boat that you would be staying on so bear that in mind when you are shopping around.
Aspira Cruises
The Aspira cruise ship is definitely my definition of luxury. From the moment we arrived on the boat, to the moment we left, there was not a single thing that wasn’t spotlessly maintained and sparkling clean.
The food was excellent, the activities were plentiful, and the room was sublime (we got the executive suite). What makes this 2 night Halong bay cruise even better is that it is also the cheapest in this luxury list, by some margin.
If all of this hasn’t convinced you that this is the best option then I don’t know what will! Check out the prices and availability here.
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: Any
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 8:00 am
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Read More: The Best Luxury 1 Night Halong Bay Cruises
The AU Co
The AU Co is a gorgeous cruise ship that oozes luxury everywhere you look. You know you’re in for a treat when you can select a seaplane from Hanoi straight to the boat!
The reviews for this 2 night Halong Bay cruise speak for themselves with an overwhelming amount of 5-star opinions. It is more expensive than the Aspira option but could it be that it is just that much better?! Either way, you’re assured to have a great time. Check out the price and availability here.
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: All
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 12:30 pm
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Stellar Of The Seas
The Stellar Of The Seas has to be given the accolade of the most luxurious cruise ship in this entire article. If you have a look at the images then you’ll know what I mean. It pips all of the other options by just being more modern and having specialist facilities, like a sauna onboard.
This stunning appearance comes at a higher cost than the other options BUT it could well be worth it. I highly recommend the Stellar Of The Seas for honeymooners or couples looking for the ultimate romantic getaway. Check it out right here.
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: All
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 9:00 am
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Read More: Cooking Classes In Hanoi – The Best Of The Best!
Signature Cruises
The Signature cruise ship is smaller and older than the other options on this list, however, don’t make you think that this affects the luxury of this 2 night Halong Bay cruise. They have run with the traditional feel and designed the boat around a more boutique feel.
This creates a smaller, cozier more personal experience that many people (especially couples) may prefer. the price is reasonable and towards the lower end of the luxury cruise prices too. If you are looking for something less busy and more peaceful then this could be what you’re looking for. Check it out here.
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: All
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 11:30 am
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Calypso
The Calypso cruise ship tones down the luxury just slightly to create an affordable 2 night Halong Bay cruise experience. That’s not to say that it isn’t nice! You will still get the brilliant food/dining experience, all of the standard activities, and incredible customer service.
There is even an option to have a private dinner brought to you in your cabin if you want that seriously romantic moment. The boat is also very small so you should also get quite a nice personal cruise. Check out the prices and availability here.
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: All
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 9:00 am
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Read More: The Best Street Food Tours In Hanoi – We Went On Two!
Dora
Dora is shockingly similar to the recommended Aspira cruise, so much so that it could be the same ship design. This means that it is a great luxury option with many varied and brilliant accommodation options available.
I would say that it is slightly more expensive than Aspira but it is a fantastic option if Aspira is not available! Check it out right here!
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: All
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 11:30 am
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Oasis Bay Party Cruise
This is the most unique 2 night Halong Bay cruise on this list by far. The first night you spend on the boat, with a dance floor, games, watersports (floating trampoline), and happy hour. The second night you spend on a remote island in a bungalow with your own private beach.
As you can imagine, this is tailored toward a younger audience and if this is what you are looking for then this is the best option (one of your only). Check it out right here!
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: Yes
- Age Suitable For: Adult Recommended
- Tour Pace: Medium
- Start Time: 8:00 am
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Read More: The Complete Guide To The Hanoi Night Market
La Pandora
La Pandora is another 2 night Halong Bay cruise that is very similar to the recommended Aspira cruise. The boat and facilities share a similar decoration and luxury feel and the included food and activities are very good.
The price of La Pandora is also very competitive at a similar rate to the Aspira so this is a very good option if the Aspira is fully booked or you want to try something different. Check it out right here!
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: Any
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 8:30 am
- Food included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Santa Maria
The Santa Maria is an unassuming cruise ship that actually looks like it might be a budget option from the outside. However, once you venture inside, you will see that the interior is very nicely designed and oozes that luxury vibe.
I have to be honest though, there are others in this list (Aspira & La Pandora) that are a similar price and provide a much more luxurious and unique experience compared to Santa Maria. Even though Santa Maria looks very good, I would recommend choosing one of the other options. Check it out, if you’re curious, here!
Key Information
- Tour Duration: 3 Days
- Pickup Included: If Selected
- Age Suitable For: All
- Tour Pace: Relaxed
- Start Time: 12:00 pm
- Food Included: Yes
Click here to check availability and prices.
Read More: Have A Look At Our 2-Day Hanoi Itinerary In Full Here!
Things To Do On Your 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise
Most of the following activities and facilities are present in all of the 2 night Halong Bay cruises in this list. However, there are a few that do not have some of them (like the on-ship pool) so make sure you double-check if something is a must-have!
Kayaking
There will be at least one opportunity to go Kayaking in Halong Bay during your 2-night cruise, probably two. I highly recommend doing this as there is something completely awesome about paddling through this incredible natural landscape. Many people stayed on the boat during the kayak activity, don’t be one of them.
Karaoke
I had never done Karaoke before our Halong Bay cruise, and I’ll probably never do it again… There is something oddly rewarding about sitting on a chair in front of people you’ve never met and singing an odd James Blunt song (3 wise men). Either way, it was actually really fun and some of the other passengers got up and danced as we sang on the stage which was great!
Drinking
There is always a bar. It’s kind of a rule of life actually but this is also the case on 2 night Halong Bay cruises. I can’t think of a much better way to spend my time watching the sunset on our own private balcony in the middle of Halong Bay with a bottle of nice wine with Jade. The drinks are quite pricey but that’s something you should expect in the middle of the sea.
Swimming
There will be plenty of opportunities to swim throughout your 2 night Halong bay cruise. Some of the boats have on-ship pools but you will also be able to jump into the sea at scheduled stops. Some of them even have inflatables in the sea for you to enjoy. All of the ships have lifejackets for safety but you won’t have to wear them if you are a strong swimmer.
Squid Fishing
Squid fishing is almost always advertised as one of the evening activities. However, I would avoid it, even if you are a keen angler. hardly anyone ever catches anything and it is a little boring, I have to be honest. And this is coming from someone who grew up fishing and absolutely loves it.
Visiting The Islands
Most tours will have at least one stop at one of the more well-known islands to have a beach day or visit one of the incredible lookouts or cave systems. These are all optional but I would recommend going over and having a look unless you really want to make the most of the boat facilities and the cruise experience.
Tai Chi
Do you want to wake up really early and do Tai Chi on the top deck for the sunrise? If you watched our video then you might be thinking ‘how the hell did they manage that after that crazy evening?’ and you’d be right to think it. I found out that 6:00 am Tai Chi actually really helps with a hangover… or was it the fact that we went back to sleep afterward… Who knows?
Cooking Class
The cooking class will probably consist of making traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. Don’t expect a really professional cooking class that you might receive on a dedicated cooking school tour. However, it is a bit of fun and helps to break up the day a bit with a fun activity. The local tourists don’t usually get involved (I was told this was because they probably already knew how to make spring rolls) and this means that the cooking class shouldn’t be too busy.
Massage
Some of the more luxurious cruise ships have an onboard spa. This is a fantastic opportunity to book yourself in to get a massage whilst looking out the floor-to-ceiling windows and watching the incredible Halong Bay scenery float by.
What To Take On Your 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise
Here is our list of the most important things people should take on their 2 night Halong Bay cruise. After I have also included an essential list that all travelers should have! Everything on this list is updated regularly so remember to click through to see up-to-date prices and availability!
Our Top Pick
If you haven’t already got a swimming costume then what the hell are you doing?! Have a look at this gorgeous high waist bikini and get a swimsuit before you leave. I absolutely love the dual colour option but there are loads of colour options available. Take a look here.
Our Top Pick
If you need some sunglasses then take a look at our recommended pair right here. Kev has just done 7 months without a pair because he couldn’t find any he liked on the trip and it was just a lot of complaining about the sun. Don’t be a Kev… Find out the price of not being a Kev right here.
Our Top Pick
If you’re stuck on what kind of towel to take with you then take a look at this microfibre poncho. We absolutely love ours and it is insanely helpful when you need to change on the beach. They dry fast and pack down super small so you’ll be able to fit one in your day pack easily enough. Check out the price here.
Our Top Pick
If you don’t have a camera then I HIGHLY recommend the Panasonic Lumix ZS70K. It is an affordable point-and-shoot camera that can be picked up and used by anyone of any ability. The camera captures gorgeous images and surprisingly excellent video whilst fitting in your pocket. The main difference between this and your phone’s camera is that it also has an incredible optical zoom so you won’t miss any of the shots you need to take. Check it out here.
Packing List Essentials
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise?
I believe that the best option in all of Halong Bay is Aspira Cruise. The ship is incredible, the facilities brilliant, the food amazing, and the itinerary superb. All of this for one of the lowest prices of any 2 night Halong Bay cruise. Check them out here!
How Can I Get To My 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise?
All of the 2 night Halong Bay cruises in this list will have options to arrange transport from Hanoi if you are staying there. Most of them will offer free transport if you are staying in Halong Bay itself. You will have to get in contact with the agency after booking to arrange the transport that you require. Check out places to stay in Halong Bay here.
How Much Is A 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise?
The price will be around $300 – $600 per person. The average is around $350 per person.
Should I Get A 1 Or 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise?
A one-night cruise is exceptionally good so it can be hard to see why you should stay on for the second night. The easy answer is that it doesn’t cost that much more. You will completely maximize your money if you opt for the 2 night Halong Bay cruise.
Is A 2 Night Halong Bay Cruise Good For Couples?
Yes. Drinking a cocktail on your private balcony whilst watching one of the natural wonders of the world float by is absolutely great for couples. If you are on a honeymoon then this is an absolute must!
That’s our entire guide to the best 2 night Halong Bay cruises. If this guide has been helpful or you think we could improve it in any way then please let us know in the comments section below!