A one-day tour of Halong Bay is an essential experience when visiting Vietnam. With just a 2.5-hour transfer from Hanoi, you can explore the stunning beauty of Halong Bay and return to Hanoi all in one day. This day tour is the perfect option for travelers with limited time who still want to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay.
In this article, Hanoibylocals will guide you in choosing the best itinerary (4 hours, 6 hours, or 8 hours) along with suitable cruising boat options (wooden boats or steel boats) at great prices. You’ll also learn about the exciting activities you can experience on a one-day tour of Halong Bay.
Pricing for One-Day Tours from Hanoi
| Tour | Price per person |
| Wego Cruise / Halong Excursion Cruise (Deluxe Tour) | 950,000 VND |
| Wonder Bay Cruise (Small Group) | 1,750,000 VND |
| Halong Excursion Luxury / Cozy Bay (Deluxe Tour with Buffet Lunch) | 1,300,000 VND |
| La Casta Daily (Luxury Cruise, Buffet Lunch, Limousine Van from Hanoi) | 1,900,000 VND |
| Catamaran Cruise (Luxury Cruise, Buffet Lunch, Lan Ha Bay) | 2,150,000 VND |
| Ambassador Cruise (Luxury Cruise, Buffet Lunch) | 2,100,000 VND |
| Jade Sails Cruise (Luxury Cruise, Buffet Lunch, Lan Ha Bay) | 2,550,000 VND |
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions:
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal featuring fresh seafood from Halong, with options for either a set menu or buffet, depending on the tour.
- Transportation: Round-trip shuttle bus or limousine van service from Hanoi to Halong Bay.
- Cruise Duration: Choose between 4, 6, or 8 hours of cruising on the bay.
- Entrance Fees: Includes the entrance ticket to Halong Bay (310,000 VND/person).
- Tour Guide: An English-speaking tour guide will accompany you throughout your journey.
Exclusions:
- Drinks: Beverages are not included in the tour price.
- Personal Expenses: Any additional personal expenses during the trip.
Which Halong Bay One-Day Itinerary to Choose?
4-Hour Day Cruise
This traditional tour takes you to the most famous spots in Halong Bay. A 4-hour tour is ideal if you prefer a shorter boat experience. It includes visits to Thien Cung Cave, kayaking in Ba Hang, and a Vietnamese lunch.
Cruise Schedule:
- Timing: 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM or 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
- Itinerary:
- Departure from Ha Long International Port
- Cho Da Islet: Enjoy the picturesque views.
- Dinh Huong Islet: Take photos of the iconic limestone formations.
- Thien Cung Cave: Explore the stunning cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
- Ba Hang Fishing Village: Experience kayaking or take a bamboo boat ride to explore the tranquil waters.
Lunch included: A delicious Vietnamese meal featuring local seafood.
6-Hour Cruise Tour
This 6-hour tour is the most popular one-day option from Hanoi. You will visit Amazing (Sung Sot) Cave, kayak in Luon Cave, and relax on Titop Island, where you can hike to the top for panoramic views of Halong Bay.
Cruise Schedule:
- Timing: 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
- Itinerary:
- Pick-up: 8:30 AM from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.
- Surprise Cave (Sung Sot): Visit the largest cave in Halong Bay, known for its breathtaking formations.
- Luon Cave: Enjoy kayaking through the picturesque waters surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Titop Island: Relax on the beach, swim, or hike to the viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the bay.
Lunch included: A traditional Vietnamese lunch served on board.
7-8 Hour Cruise Tour
The 7-8 hour tour offers the longest daytime journey to explore the bay. You will have ample time to visit caves, beaches, and islands, and enjoy kayaking on the calm waters of Halong Bay. This tour departs early at 9:30 AM, allowing for an 8-hour journey.
Cruise Schedule:
- Timing: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Itinerary:
- Pick-up: 7:00 AM from your hotel in Hanoi.
- Thien Cung Cave: Explore the beautiful cave filled with legends and stunning rock formations.
- Fighting Cocks Islet: A photo stop at one of Halong Bay’s most iconic islets.
- Amazing (Sung Sot) Cave: Discover the beauty of this expansive cave system.
- Titop Island: Enjoy beach time and hike to the top for breathtaking views.
- Afternoon Tea: Relax with some tea or coffee while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Lunch included: A delicious meal served on board.
What to Experience on a Halong Bay One-Day Tour
- Kayaking: Enjoy 30 minutes to 1 hour of kayaking to explore the bay’s hidden corners. It’s the best way to get close to the limestone islands and experience the tranquility of the water.
- Exploring Caves: Halong Bay is home to stunning natural caves, such as Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave. You can climb to discover these beautiful landscapes and learn about the geological formations.
- Bamboo Boat with Locals: If you prefer not to kayak, you can take a bamboo boat ride with locals to visit Luon Cave, Ba Hang area, and the Dark & Light Cave, immersing yourself in local culture.
- Beach Activities: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Titop Island or other small beaches in the bay. You can swim, sunbathe, or hike to the top of a mountain for breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities.
- Sunset Party: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a cup of coffee or tea while watching the sunset over Halong Bay—an unforgettable experience that many travelers cherish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a one-day tour sufficient for experiencing Halong Bay?
Definitely! A one-day tour allows you to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of Halong Bay. However, if you have more time, consider a one or two-night cruise to have a more immersive experience.
- Can you take a day trip to Halong Bay from Hanoi?
Yes, Halong Bay is one of the most popular day trips from Hanoi, situated about 150 km away, with a travel time of approximately 2.5 hours.
- How long should you ideally spend in Halong Bay?
While a one or two-night stay is recommended for a thorough exploration, a day tour is a fantastic option if you’re pressed for time.
- Is a day trip to Halong Bay worth it?
Absolutely! The tour encompasses key attractions like caves, islands, and activities such as kayaking or bamboo boat rides, making it a rewarding experience.
- Is swimming allowed in Halong Bay?
Yes, swimming is permitted in the calm, clean waters, particularly during warmer months. Just be sure to check the weather conditions before taking a dip.
- When is the best time to visit Halong Bay?
The ideal period to visit is from April to September, when you can enjoy clear skies and blue waters. Each season has its unique appeal, so think about what you want to experience.
- Is Halong Bay often crowded?
Yes, it does attract a lot of visitors, especially during peak summer months. However, you can still enjoy the bay by opting for less crowded tour options.
- How can I book a Halong Bay cruise?
You can make reservations through travel agencies, tour operators, or directly with cruise companies. Always compare prices and choose reputable services to ensure a great experience.
- Are jellyfish present in Halong Bay?
Yes, jellyfish can be found in the bay, especially during summer. It’s advisable to be cautious if you plan to swim.
We hope this information from Hanoibylocals helps you select the perfect day tour to explore Halong Bay. If you have any further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hanoibylocals. Enjoy your journey in one of Vietnam’s most stunning locations!
