Travel the wonders of Vietnam’s “Descending Dragon!” Hạ Long Bay is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and a rising Vietnam tourist destination. Experience it onboard a luxury boat cruise, available in overnight and multi-night trips. You can also arrange a day trip cruise if you’re crazy. Spend at least a night at sea.
With the thousands of islands and islets to choose from, Quang Ninh Province‘s Hạ Long Bay offers a novel way of experiencing Vietnam. Cruises have special itineraries for each day of the trip, with some slight differences between cruise companies. You can usually expect a cave visit, maybe to fish, kayak and snorkeling. Perhaps cruise by a real water village.
Top Overnight Cruises in Hạlong Bay, Vietnam
A lot of modern expedition activities are curated around water activities. To get the finest boat tour for your trip, these are the top overnight cruises in Hạ Long Bay. And to keep the party going on-land before and afterward, here are the best 5-star hotels in Halong.
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Here are our choices for the top overnight boat cruises in Hạlong Bay, in no particular order:
Azalea Cruise
Azalea Cruises takes you to the most delightful parts of Hạ Long Bay. From the uncontaminated beaches of the region to the most interesting islets, Azalea Cruises brings you to the best of the Bay.
The cruise features a lovely deck where you can laze in Vietnam’s beauty. During your trip, you’d be able to reach major islands and beaches in the area.
Staying in one of their 5-star cabins provides an enjoyable adventure. The suites and cabins bring guests spectacular amazing views of the Bay’s waters from day tonight. Thanks to the huge floor-to-ceiling windows, guests feel like the waters are an extension of their suites.
The luxury rooms are also set up with complete home facilities. Because of the panoramic views, you can stay in your room throughout the day and relish the timeless charm of Vietnam.
- ĐT356, TT. Cát Hải, Cát Hải, Hải Phòng | +84 93 983 35 79
- Check prices, availability or book Azalea Cruise
Paradise Elegance Cruise Halong
Embark in a once-in-a-lifetime cruise at the Paradise Elegance Cruise. The company offers one of the most exciting cruise itineraries on this list. To make sure guests can experience Vietnam’s breathtaking beauty, they start things off with 2 days of activities over a 1-night stay. For the longer cruise, it’s for 3 days and 2 nights.
Guests are welcomed from Hanoi and will have lunch at the luxurious Le Marin Restaurant. Then, there will be a 45-minute bamboo boat ride going to Cua Van Floating Village. Guests can choose their next recreational activities afterward.
The Paradise Elegance has a spa and wellness center where guests can request specialized relaxation treatments. On the other hand, they can enjoy the afternoon at the L’Odyssee Sun Deck where there’s a cocktail bar.
After the first day, the cruise itineraries vary for the two packages. The 3-day cruise will take you trekking to Titov Island, where you get a 360-degree view of the entire Hạ Long bay. For an immersive luxury cruise, book at the Paradise Elegance for your next trip!
- Tuần Châu, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh | +84 339 211 962
- Check prices, availability or book Paradise Elegance Cruise Halong
Halong Serenity Cruises
For those who are not a fan of crowded cruises, check out the Hạ Long Serenity Cruises. Though the size of the cruise ship at Serenity Cruises is just as big as the others on this list, they have a smaller number of guests per tour. This means the cabins are larger than most.
At the same time, it’s the only company that runs cruises further than Hạ Long. Guests can enjoy the serene waters of the bay up to its connecting waters at Lan Ha Bay. Because of their approach, guests at Serenity Cruises experience a more private tour. Their itinerary is curated by specialists and geographers to make sure you get one-of-a-kind experiences in this tour.
In the itinerary, guests will be able to visit Đầu Bê Island, one of the most beautiful islands in the southeastern part of the bay. Here, travelers can enjoy different water activities like kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling (at no additional cost). You’ll also visit a hidden lagoon that’ll lead to a beautiful ceiling cave. For a more exclusive journey throughout the islands and waters of Hạ Long Bay, book at Serenity Cruises!
- 43 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội | +84 97 695 19 99
- Check prices, availability or book Halong Serenity Cruises
Orchid Ha Long Cruise
Though various cruises cross along the magnificent Hạ Long Bay, the traffic along these waters is perfectly organized. This cruise will bring you to beautiful destinations in Hạ Long Bay. And, you’ll be able to visit and bike through the different villages in the area. They also have a kayaking hour.
Orchid Cruises is a 5-star luxury cruise that specializes in contemporary Zen experiences. The suites have a proverbial old Manhattan vibe, with floor-to-ceiling headboards and dark-wood furniture accents. The deluxe accommodations are also complete with beautiful amenities, including the marble bath.
Orchid Cruises also has a splendid pool on the front deck and an all-day restaurant that offers a fine-dining menu.
Offering one of the most versatile cruise offerings (one-day cruise, a 3D2N cruise, and a 2D1N cruise), tourists find it easier to plan with Orchid Hạ Long Cruises. With Orchid Suites, you’d get a well-rounded VIP trip.
- Đặng Bá Hát, Yết Kiêu, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh | +84 92 371 79 07
- Check prices, availability, or book Orchid Ha Long Cruise
Le Theatre Cruises – Wonder on Lan Ha Bay
Aiming to step up the game of luxury cruises, the Le Theatre Cruises is one of the classiest ships along La Han Bay. The ship only has 21 cabins, so the number of people per trip is also fewer. Guests are welcomed with complimentary gifts in their cabins. The company provides a wide range of cabin types.
For those who want to get the most beautiful views, you can book the Panorama Suite, which is perfect for couples and families. This cabin suite is located on the second floor of the ship. Offering a panorama view from the crystal glass window, staying at this suite is a fantastic way to immerse in the beauty of Hạ Long and Lan Ha Bays.
- Ngõ 8 – Lý Nam Đế, Quán Thánh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội | +84 24 3233 3399
- Check prices, availability, or book Le Theatre Cruises – Wonder on Lan Ha Bay
Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises
For affordable luxury, book at the Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises. Though some tours focus on the more secluded areas of Hạ Long Bay, this ship will take you to its most popular spot.
Another reason to love Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises is the ultimate privacy. They typically book by groups, but, if you’re a couple or you’re traveling solo, you can still join in together with the other guests on their roster.
For families and large groups, the Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises could be the perfect tour for you. Groups can exclusively book the entire boat, and everyone in the group will have access to the luxury amenities of the boat.
Aside from the exciting exclusivity you get by booking per group (up to 48 people), the company has a luxury limousine bus service for land tours. So, for your next family and friend’s adventure, reserve at the Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise!
- Suite 17, Tuan Chau Marina, Ngoc Chau road, Tuan Chau Island Halong city, Quảng Ninh | +84 98 685 98 79
- Check prices, availability or book Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises
Rosy Cruises
If you prefer traditional Vietnamese accommodations, book at the Rosy Cruise. This luxury cruise offers the finest tours partnered with cabins that embrace comfort and modernity.
The amenities are top-of-the-line, too. But with the mirage of advanced accommodation features, the Rosy Cruise tour company still embraces the beauty of the Vietnamese tradition. The ship is made of wood and the furnishings feature local craftsmanship.
Rosy Cruise also has a fine dining restaurant that offers a unique taste in Vietnamese cuisine. The company aims to introduce the culture to its guests and allow them to get a view of the daily lives of the people in Hạ Long Bay.
The tour will pass by the fishing villages in the region and the Pearl Farming Village. For the authentic Vietnamese tour, book at the Rosy Cruise for your next trip.
- 23 Hang Voi Street (Floor 5th), Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi | +84 024 3939 3555
- Check prices, availability or book Rosy Cruises
Pelican Halong Cruise
Bringing a modern twist to Vietnamese design, Pelican Halong Cruise brings you to the wondrous corners of Hạ Long Bay. The fleet is probably the most iconic ship design.
Embellished with traditionally styled sails, the company entices guests with its French architecture and interiors. This is also one of the few companies that doubled down on security and safety. The ship has the latest monitoring system to make sure each passenger is taken care of during the entire trip.
Pelican Cruise’s itinerary is probably the most diverse tour on this list. Most of the cruises would only pass by one to three tourist spots each day, but with Pelican’s Cruise’s 3-day tour, you’ll be able to cover various locations including Tuan Chau Island, Ti Top Beach, Tung Sau Area, Bai Tu Long Bay, Luon Bo Area, the Cua Van Village, Sung Sot Cave, and Me Cung Lake.
- 36 Hoa Cúc, Hà Khẩu, Thành phố Hạ Long, Khu đô thị Đảo Hoa, Hà Khẩu | +84 569 573 366
- Check prices, availability or book Pelican Halong Cruise
Indochina Sails Cruise
For a deep dive into the Vietnamese culture, check out the Indochina Sails Cruise. Get to experience pearl gathering at the bay’s pearl farm. The tour also introduces the historical background of each site.
The itinerary for the 3-day trip also includes kayaking the waters of the bay with towering limestone peaks as your backdrop. You’ll also explore the hidden treasures of Luon Cave (either by foot or by kayak).
At night, guests experience the joy of squid fishing. If you reel in a catch, you can request the chef to cook it for you. Then, the morning arrives with a refreshing beginner’s course of Tai Chi.
The fleet is inspired by traditional Vietnamese design. The luxury cabins have wide glass windows that allow you to experience the ever-changing views of the bay during the cruise.
The company is a strong proponent of responsible tourism. They partner with local communities and indigenous tribes who live long the islands of Hạ Long Bay. They also provide financial support to the children of the fishermen in the region.
- 27A6 Dam Trau, Hai Ba Trung, Ha Noi | +84 377 200 604
- Check prices, availability or book Indochina Sails Cruise
Lapinta Cruise Lan Ha Bay
Lapinta Cruise is the type of fleet that can make you feel like you’re surrounded by family. The company is known for its warm welcome and extraordinary service.
The ship is also smaller than the others on this list. With only 16 cabins, the company focuses on providing high-quality connections that enliven your trip. And since it’s a smaller community of travelers for each trip, the entire voyage also encourages guests to connect. Who knows? You may make another friend along the way!
The Lapinta Cruise itinerary focuses on exciting atmospheres. The first day would start right off the bat (after lunch hour). You’ll be able to visit three islets along the day. Throughout the 3-day cruise, be prepared to trek, bike, and kayak along the various islands and river bends you’d visit in this cruise.
With this cruise, there’s a balance between water and land locations. You’d also have a shopping opportunity when you go to the smaller villages along the bay. If you’re looking for a more active itinerary, Lapinta Cruises is a top choice for you.
- 3rd Floor – No 9, Phu Doan St., Hoan Kiem, Hanoi | +84 96 875 43 12
- Check prices, availability or book Lapinta Cruise Lan Ha Bay
Halong Athena Cruise
Athena Cruise is one of the younger fleets on this list. Though they’ve only existed since 2016, the company has already earned a 5-star rating. The ship has three gorgeous decks you can explore during the cruise.
Athena Cruise’s 21 luxury cabins have five different styles to custom-fit your needs. There are suites perfect for honeymooners, and cabins that are big enough to fit the entire family.
The fleet also offers a unique take in cruising the famous Hạ Long. Unlike most cruises, they will pass by the lesser-traveled Bai Tung Bay. This route will access the unpolluted islets around the bay. This route will pass by the beautiful Vung Vieng Floating Fishing Village, the Thien Canh Son Cave, and other areas where guests can kayak and swim.
- 6A Lê Thánh Tông, Hồng Gai, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh | +84 898 251 599
- Check prices, availability or book Halong Athena Cruise
Alisa Premier Cruise
Named after a princess, the Alisa Premier Cruise is another up-and-coming big name in the Hạ Long cruise industry. The company just started last February 2018, and it has already established its name in the luxury cruise community.
Alisa Premier Cruise is a small operation. Though this may look like a downside, this actually makes it an advantage for the guests. The service is high quality, and the treatment is more personable.
The cabins offer a unique experience with their traditional design. For those who are planning a family and friends cruise, the Alisa Premier Cruise is one of the few that has a family suite cabin with adjoining suites.
The company is also one of the most competitively priced on this list. So, if you want to experience a luxury cruise on a mid-tier budget, the Alisa Premier is one of the best ways to go. Whether it’s kayaking, row boating, or tai chi lessons in the morning, the Alisa Premier can bring you the best experiences in discovering Hạ Long!
- Lounge 16, Tuan Chau Marina, Halong Bay, Quang Ninh Halong Bay | +84 24 3689 5999
- Check prices, availability or book Alisa Premier Cruise
Paradise Luxury Cruise
If we’re talking about the elite service providers in Hạ Long Bay, then Paradise Cruise is one of the top players in town. They have four different luxury cruises: Luxury, Elegance, Peak, and Grand. Though these cruises vary in pricing, they will have the same VIP-quality service and deluxe cabins. The difference would be in the itinerary and the activities you can do in the fleet.
For their 3-day journey, you’ll experience a seascape vacation as the fleet travels the entire bay towards Tuan Chau Island. You’ll visit the popular Ti Tov island where you can get a stunning view of the bay. You can also do swimming activities while the fleet stops by this area.
There will also be a plethora of 5-star food offered throughout the day. Vietnamese cuisine, of course, will be a highlight of the menu. If you want to experience an elegant and luxurious cruise, go with the Paradise Cruise company.
- Bến, Cổng 3, 4, Phà Tuần Châu, Tuần Châu, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh | +84 90 609 96 06
- Check prices, availability or book Paradise Luxury Cruise
Signature Royal Halong Cruise
Get on board the Signature Royal Cruise as you explore the wonders of Vietnam. This one-of-a-kind fleet passes the international standards for modern equipment and deluxe cabins.
Feel like a royal in their air-conditioned cabins that come with parquet flooring, a full wardrobe, a minibar, and an en suite bathroom. The topping on the cake would be the spectacular sea view you get as you look out of the suite.
The cruise will pass by the popular sites of the bay. However, the cruise will also stop by the lesser-known area of Cong Dam. At Cong Dam, guests can enjoy the sandy beaches of the region. You’ll have the entire morning to unwind and go on various adventures in this region. For a laid-back cruise, choose the Signature Royal for your next trip.
- Tuần Châu, Thành phố Hạ Long, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam | +84 98 966 81 16
- Check prices, availability, or book Signature Royal Halong Cruise
Stellar of the Seas Cruise
Contemporary luxury: this is the theme at Stellar of the Seas Cruise. The company has been serving tourists for more than a decade now. They know the ins and outs of the bay. At the same time, they have a dedicated research team that curates the itinerary of the cruise.
If you plan to make a tradition of doing a Hạ Long Bay cruise, the company’s tours change constantly. You can expect to have a unique and unforgettable experience for every trip.
The fleet’s sundeck, located on the 4th floor, is its most iconic feature. Most of the guests spend their time here, unwinding and enjoying world-class drinks. Guests have also enjoyed the cooking classes held at the fleet. Chefs will teach you about Vietnam’s popular dishes that you can do at home. This way, you can recreate your memories even after you go back.
- 10 Phan Chu Trinh, Str, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội | +84 24 3771 3045
- Check prices, availability or book Stellar of the Seas Cruise
Sealife Legend Cruises Halong
The last one on the list is a company that has been lauded by previous guests because of its outstanding customer service. Previous travelers noted how exceptional the experience is from the beginning to the end.
If rejuvenation is the priority for your trip, Sealife Legend Cruises is the best choice for you. Unlike other cruises, the tour doesn’t include too many physical activities. The fleet has a premium spa service, you can also unwind during the hours where there’s no activity scheduled.
We could consider dinners the highlight of this cruise. They have live bands playing, wine tasking, a jacuzzi on the sundeck, and a scrumptious Vietnamese menu. Just note that the menu is mostly seafood. You can contact the company in advance to let them know about your dietary preferences.
- No 2, San Ho1 Road, Coral Bay Villas, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh | +84 904 223 626
- Check prices, availability, or book Sealife Legend Cruises Halong
Thanks for checking out the best cruises around Hạ Long Bay. Have a wonderful time ahead exploring the area’s amazing waterways, villages, and caves.
Minera Hot Springs Binh Chau – near Vung Tau
