When it comes to booking a Halong Bay cruise, not all options are created equal. From luxury liners offering fine dining and private balconies to budget-friendly boats with cozy cabins, there’s a cruise for every type of traveler. Understanding the different types of Halong Bay cruises and their price ranges will help you make an informed decision — one that fits both your preferences and your pocket.

Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s crown jewels — a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves. But to truly appreciate its beauty, a cruise is the best way to go. Below, we’ll break down the main cruise types, their features, inclusions, and pricing — so you can find the perfect Halong Bay adventure.

1. Day Cruises in Halong Bay (Budget-Friendly Choice)
If you’re short on time, a day cruise is a fantastic way to experience the magic of Halong Bay without staying overnight.

What to Expect:

Cruise duration: 4 to 8 hours

Activities: Kayaking, visiting caves (like Sung Sot Cave or Thien Cung Cave), and swimming

Meals: Usually includes a Vietnamese lunch on board

Facilities: Basic seating areas, sundecks, restrooms

Price Range:
From $40 – $80 per person
Day cruises are the most affordable type of Halong Bay cruise, ideal for backpackers or day-trippers from Hanoi.

Best For:

Travelers with limited time

Budget-conscious explorers

Those wanting a quick glimpse of Halong Bay’s beauty

2. Overnight Cruises (The Classic Halong Bay Experience)
For a more immersive experience, overnight cruises are the most popular choice. You can watch the sunset, sleep under the stars, and wake up to the calm of the bay.

What to Expect:

Duration: 1 night / 2 days or 2 nights / 3 days

Cabins: Private cabins with en-suite bathrooms

Meals: Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Activities: Squid fishing, cave visits, cooking classes, kayaking

Price Range:
Mid-range boats: $120 – $250 per person per night
Luxury options: $250 – $450 per person per night

Overnight cruises offer a balanced mix of comfort and adventure. Many include a visit to Titop Island, Luon Cave, and Ba Hang Fishing Village, giving guests a fuller Halong Bay experience.

Best For:

Couples and honeymooners

Families wanting comfort

Travelers who value time to unwind

3. Luxury Halong Bay Cruises (High-End Comfort and Style)
For those who crave premium service, a luxury Halong Bay cruise delivers five-star experiences on the water.

What to Expect:

Spacious cabins with balconies or private terraces

Onboard spa services and fine-dining restaurants

Personalized excursions and private guides

Elegant design, modern facilities, and top-tier hospitality

Price Range:
From $350 – $800 per person per night

Luxury cruises like Paradise Elegance, Scarlet Pearl, or Heritage Line Binh Chuan are known for their exclusive itineraries, including routes to Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay — less crowded yet equally stunning areas near Halong Bay.

Best For:

Honeymooners or special occasions

Travelers seeking exclusivity and top comfort

Those who prefer refined dining and premium amenities

4. Mid-Range Cruises (Balance of Comfort and Value)
Mid-range cruises combine comfort with affordability, making them the most popular choice for international travelers.

What to Expect:

Comfortable cabins with modern bathrooms

Buffet meals or à la carte dining

Activities like kayaking, cave visits, and tai chi

Friendly staff and well-maintained facilities

Price Range:
From $120 – $250 per person per night

Popular mid-range options include Pelican Cruise, Renea Cruise, and Peony Cruise. These vessels balance cost and quality, offering a cozy yet elegant way to enjoy Halong Bay without breaking the bank.

Best For:

Couples or small groups

Travelers who value comfort but watch their budget

Those who want great service at a reasonable price

5. Private Halong Bay Cruises (Customized Luxury)
A private cruise is perfect for travelers who value privacy and exclusivity. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, family trip, or corporate retreat, a private Halong Bay cruise ensures personalized service and a custom itinerary.

What to Expect:

Entire boat chartered for your group

Personalized meals and activities

Flexible routes and schedules

Private staff and guides

Price Range:
From $600 – $1500 per night (depending on boat size and luxury level)

Private cruises allow you to avoid the crowds and explore hidden corners of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, or Bai Tu Long Bay at your own pace.

Best For:

Honeymooners

Family reunions or small groups

Luxury travelers who want total privacy

6. Party Cruises (Fun and Social Atmosphere)
If you’re a young traveler or backpacker seeking fun and social vibes, party cruises are your go-to option.

What to Expect:

Lively onboard atmosphere with music, drinks, and games

Shared cabins or dorm-style rooms

Activities: swimming, kayaking, and dancing under the stars

Meals and drinks included in most packages

Price Range:
From $80 – $150 per person per night

Companies like Castaways and Oasis Bay Party Cruise cater to younger crowds looking to combine sightseeing with entertainment.

Best For:

Solo travelers or friends

Young adventurers

Those who want nightlife mixed with scenic beauty

7. Themed Cruises (Unique and Tailored Experiences)
For something different, themed Halong Bay cruises focus on niche interests such as wellness, culture, or cuisine.

Types of Themes:

Wellness Cruises: Yoga and spa retreats

Culinary Cruises: Vietnamese cooking classes and food tastings

Adventure Cruises: Rock climbing or deep kayaking routes

Price Range:
From $250 – $600 per person per night

These specialized cruises are ideal for travelers who want to combine relaxation with learning or fitness in a breathtaking environment.

Best For:

Wellness seekers

Culinary travelers

Those who prefer curated, meaningful travel

8. Halong Bay Luxury Yachts (Ultimate VIP Experience)
For the ultimate in exclusivity, Halong Bay luxury yachts redefine high-end travel. These are private, small-sized vessels offering 6-star experiences on the water.

What to Expect:

Private chefs and butlers

Tailored excursions and seaplane options

Ultra-luxurious interiors with designer furnishings

Limitless customization

Price Range:
From $1000 – $5000 per night

Luxury yachts like Emperor Cruises or Heritage Binh Chuan Yachts are designed for travelers who demand privacy, sophistication, and world-class service.

Best For:

VIP guests and celebrities

Honeymooners seeking total indulgence

Corporate luxury events

Tips for Choosing the Right Halong Bay Cruise

Decide your budget early. Prices vary greatly — from $40 for day trips to $1000+ for luxury yachts.

Check the route. Some cruises go to Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay for a quieter experience.

Read reviews and verify inclusions. Not all “luxury” cruises live up to their name.

Consider the crowd type. Families, couples, or backpackers — each type of Halong Bay cruise caters to different travelers.

Book in advance. Especially during peak season (October–April), cruises sell out fast.

Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking a quick day trip, a romantic overnight journey, or a luxurious private yacht, there’s a Halong Bay cruise for every traveler and every budget. Each cruise type offers its own charm — from adventure and social fun to peaceful luxury and personalized service.

By understanding the types of Halong Bay cruises and their price ranges, you’ll be better equipped to choose the perfect voyage across Vietnam’s most iconic seascape. So, pack your bags and get ready to sail through the breathtaking limestone wonders of Halong Bay — an experience that truly lives up to its world-famous reputation.

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Hotline
+84. 855 452 888 (Viet Nam)
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Email: info@vietgotravels.com
Website: vietgotravels.com
Head Office: No. 23 Lo Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi, Viet Nam.
Viet Nam’s branch: No. 35 Hang Quat Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi, Viet Nam.
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