The closest big city to Halong Bay is Hanoi. Most of the cruise companies include return transfers from Hanoi to Halong Bay in the price. Depending on the type of cruise company, the journey can take between 2 to 3.5 hours. If you don't get a private transfer, you can also opt to get a bus. Buses leave from Luong Yen bus station from Hanoi to Halong Bay very regularly. Make sure you know which port/terminal you are leaving from so you know where to get off.

Do I need to train up?

It's entirely up to you how active you would like the trip to be! You can choose whether you want to sit back and relax on the boat, or take part in activities around Halong Bay such as kayaking and light hiking.

What's the best time to go?

The best months to visit are March, April, May, June, July, AugustWe recommend the above period because you would have good weather.

Any tips for what to do in the area?

If you wish to stay in the Halong Bay area for a day or two after you've finished your cruise, you can head to Cat Ba island, which is a large island in the neighboring Lan Ha Bay. On Cat Ba island, you can hike in the Cat Ba National Park and explore its many caves and waterfalls.

Is there anything else I should know?

Cruise ships currently depart from three main ports around Halong Bay. The boats departing from each port tend to head to one of the three different bays around the Halong Bay area. Don't worry if you're not sure which to pick - the bays look pretty much the same! Here are a few notes about the ports and the bays: Tuan Chau Port: this is the first port on the road and the busiest one; boats from here take off for Halong Bay. Hon Gai Port: this port is perhaps the least busy one with ships heading to Bai Tu Long Bay. If you don't like having too many tourist boats around you when you admire the bay scenery, this is probably the one to choose as Bai Tu Long Bay is the least crowded of the three. Got Ferry Terminal (also known as Lan Ha Ferry Terminal): This is the furthest one to the south. Many of the more luxury boats take off from here to Lan Ha Bay.

Is everything back to normal in Halong Bay?

Halong Bay has happily opened back up to travellers at the beginning of May! However not every cruise company has reopened. Many others are operating only on the weekends. Otherwise, there are no other restrictions. The government no longer requires travellers to wear masks or for boat operators to limit the number of passengers per boat. Some boat operators will provide hand sanitizers and/or masks upon request.

12 Best Halong Bay Cruises in Vietnam [2022] - from S$ 59.70

About

At the UNESCO site of Halong Bay, you can enjoy beautiful views of limestone karts and turquoise waters. Here you can do 1-3 day cruises, depending on how long you have. A less-touristed route (with similar views) is Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba - so be sure to check those out!

Updates on Halong Bay Cruises

4.8 / 5

3651 reviews

What Guests Say

"Everything perfect. good food, clean cruise. comfortable music. "

ko myoungju

Booked 1 Day Luxury Cruise...

"AMAZING STAFF and customer service. The kayak was absolutely breathtaking and we loved every..."

Renate eriksen

Booked 2D1N Modern 5-Star Cruise...

"I thoroughly enjoyed my trip. The staff must be acknowledged for all their efforts..."

Alicia Louise Edwina Kennedy