Take a scenic drive through northern Vietnam’s countryside, then go on a Halong Bay cruise. This full-day trip from Hanoi includes kayaking and a seafood lunch on the boat. See the tall limestone cliffs in Halong Bay, a World Heritage site, and visit the Thien Cung Cave (Heavenly Palace Cave) with a guide who knows a lot about it.

Your full-day trip to Ha Long Bay starts with pickup from the Old Quarter in Hanoi. Relax as you drive through the countryside of northern Vietnam to Ha Long Bay. Once there, you’ll board a cruise ship for a 4 or 5-hour sail. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of UNESCO-listed Halong Bay and its limestone cliffs. You will visit caves like Thien Cung (Heavenly Cave) or Sung Sot (Surprising Cave), and your guide will tell you interesting stories about these places.

You can kayak around the bay or swim if the weather is good. During the cruise, enjoy a tasty seafood lunch while viewing the bay. The tour includes a ride back to your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making your day both enjoyable and easy.

Highlights of the Trip

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Itinerary idea in detail

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    8:15 – 8:50 AM: A bus will pick you up from your hotel in the Old Quarter and take you to Halong Bay.

    10:00 AM: There is a short 20-25 minute break halfway to Halong Bay.

    11:50 AM: Arrive on Tuan Chau Island, Halong Bay. Check-in on the cruise and start your tour with a traditional Vietnamese seafood lunch on board while cruising through Halong Bay, passing scenic islands like Incense, Bunner, and Cock fighting.

    1:30 PM: Explore Sung Sot Cave, known as the Surprising Cave. This is the biggest and one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay.

    2:45 PM: Discover Luon Cave by kayaking or on a bamboo boat. You have the option to choose either activity.

    3:45 PM: Visit Titop Island, known for its hiking and swimming opportunities. You can swim on its beach or hike up to Titop peak to take photos with panoramic views of the bay.

    Admission Tickets: Included for Sung Sot Cave, Hang Luon Cave, and Ti Top Island.

    Enjoy the scenic views, learn about the local geology, and take part in fun activities like kayaking and hiking during your trip.

What our clients say about us

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Cynthia K

12 March 2025 ★★★★★

My husband and I, along with five friends, thoroughly enjoyed our Heritage Line The Jahan Mekong River Cruise from Siem Reap to Saigon. The food was out of this world. I have celiac disease and Heritage Line knows how to take extra care with food preparation to keep people safe. Our outstanding travel agent set everything up for us, answered all of our questions and checked on us frequently. I highly recommend Heritage Line The Jahan and I highly recommend booking this unforgettable journey through a trusted travel advisor.

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Clauda

8 January 2025 ★★★★★

The entire crew was personable. Special shout outs to the Aqua Mekong cruise director and housekeeping manager. Rooms were clean. Food options were always delicious plus there was no way to ever be hungry! One of our group had dietary restrictions and there were always choices that worked. Evening entertainment was great and every night was something different. We did the Mekong River cruise so the daily excursions included time in local villages, markets, and cultural sites. We all had fun and appreciated the small ship experience.

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Myskymama

17 April 2025 ★★★★★

We went on a 7 day Mekong River cruise on the La Marguerite ship. Our twin room on the lower level was very nice, and the bed was extremely comfortable. Housekeeping twice a day with turndown service was fantastic. Dining was spectacular with buffet and menu choices, and the special dinner was magnificent. Each day the menus reflected local Mekong flavors. Service was extraordinarily good. Every evening a complimentary happy hour was offered, and the staff were always attentive. My traveling companion was gluten free and had many wonderful options at each meal. Excursions were very good, with gentle or more active tour choices and excellent local guides. This was one of the best cruise experiences I’ve ever had!

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ColoradoJim

22 May 2025 ★★★★★

The Jayavarman cruise was simply outstanding. Our tour director was on point at every turn, with clear instructions and follow-through every step of the way. The food was delicious, the wine and drinks were abundant, and the living quarters were attractive and clean. The day excursions were divided into more difficult, regular, and easy so everyone got to select their pace. This was our first true river cruise and we enjoyed every single moment of it.

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Mandy

12 February 2026 ★★★★★

Lovely cruise down the Mekong on Pandaw. Crew were very friendly, food was great, loved all the drinks and atmosphere on board. Loads of guided tours available and we visited some lovely places along the river. Very smooth journey with only slight changes due to river conditions, all handled perfectly by the crew whilst we were whisked off on an excursion. Great evening entertainment and our boat had a wonderful traditional charm throughout. Would definitely recommend.


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    • Emily
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    • John
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    • Hoang
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