Halong Bay Day Cruises: Best 1-Day Trips from Hanoi

A Halong Bay day cruise offers the perfect way to experience the stunning beauty and famous attractions of this UNESCO World Heritage site, even with limited time.

Typically lasting from 10 a.m. to 4 or 6 p.m., these cruises give you 6 - 8 hours of exploration, allowing you to visit some of Halong Bay's most iconic locations. Throughout the day, you can engage in a variety of activities, from kayaking and swimming to sightseeing and relaxing on board.

Halong Bay 1-day cruise is a great choice to save your travel time.

Day cruises usually operate on two types of boats, each offering a unique experience.

Tradition wooden boat

Featuring a classic design inspired by local fishing boats, these boats were launched in past decades and have only basic amenities like a restaurant and bar. Therefore, the price for a wooden boat cruise is often more affordable compared to a modern boat.

Modern steel boat

Modern boats are increasingly popular for their up-to-date facilities and contemporary amenities. Typically launched after 2020, they have a larger capacity and offer a variety of entertainment activities for guests on board.

Here are some comparisons between the two kinds of day cruises.

Cost-saving and time-efficient choice

Compared to overnight cruises, day cruises are more affordable and allow you to experience Halong Bay’s highlights in a short time. Basically, many budget-conscious travelers and solo adventurers choose a Halong Bay day cruise from Hanoi for their short stays Vietnam.

Explore Halong Bay’s key attractions in one day

A day cruise is an ideal choice for travelers with limited time, allowing you to visit Halong Bay’s main attractions, such as Sung Sot Cave, known for its impressive rock formations, and Titop Island, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the top or relax on the beach.

You can visit all the must-sees on a day cruise in Halong Bay.

Diverse sightseeing activities

Day cruises offer a range of activities, including kayaking through scenic limestone islets, swimming at pristine beaches, and sampling fresh seafood meals prepared on board, providing a comprehensive Halong Bay experience.

High-quality amenities and services

Day cruise vessels often feature comfortable seating, spacious decks, and amenities similar to those on overnight boats, including dining options and entertainment activities like cooking classes. Some premium cruises also provide 5-star dining experiences, ensuring comfort and convenience for a memorable day in Halong Bay.

There are many 5-star options available for the best day cruise experience.

Day cruises differ from overnight cruises in several key aspects, specifically:

Overall, the Halong Bay 1-day cruise offers an ideal 6-8 hour experience, perfectly suited for travelers with limited time or those seeking to immerse themselves in Halong Bay's most iconic highlights.

This journey provides a captivating glimpse into the bay’s renowned beauty, crafted for those desiring a memorable experience within a day.

The typical itinerary for a Halong Bay day trip from Hanoi is as follows:

• 7:00 - 7:15: Pick up at your hotel or meeting point in Hanoi Old Quarter
• 9:30 - 10:00: Check-in at Tuan Chau Port or Halong International Port
• 11:30 - 12:30: Buffet/ set menu lunch served onboard
• 17:00: Disembark & return to Hanoi

The one day cruise itinerary covers three main routes: Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay, and Bai Tu Long Bay. You can refer to the following table for more details.

Typically, the price of a Halong Bay 1-day cruise depends on the type of boat and the time of your visit. Specifically:

• 3-star day cruise: From $58 to $65/pax with basic amenities like restaurants and sundecks
• 4-star day cruise: From $65 to $90/pax with newer boats
• 5-star day cruise: From $80 to $129/pax with high-class facilities like bars, jacuzzis, and cabins.

The following are some of the best-selling day cruises in 2025 according to guests' ratings and BestPrice’s recommendations.

Note: The price per pax starts from the lowest rate and does not include the transfer fee. This is for reference only.

The day cruises receive high praise from visitors thanks to the fantastic program to explore one of the world’s natural wonders in a day, making them popular among travelers with tight schedules.

Overall, Halong Bay day cruises are a fantastic choice for those wanting a well-rounded, immersive experience in just one day. Despite a few minor limitations, they provide a memorable glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural richness of this UNESCO World Heritage site.