Cruise Ships Visiting Halong Bay: Port of Call and Visa Requirements
For traveler’s dropping in on Halong Bay on an international cruise there is limited time to make the most out of their trip. Visitors on international cruises should be clued up on everything they can do to make their overnight stay go smoothly. To help save time, we’ve gathered all the essential information that travelers need to get all the boring bits out of the way so that the fun can begin!
Requirements to Enter the Mainland
Foreigners generally need a visa or an official permit to enter Vietnam. It's advisable to let your cruise operator handle the application, which is often without additional fees.
Overnight stays in Halong Bay require police registration, typically managed by cruise operators using passengers’ passport details.
| Nationality | Passport Requirements | Visa Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Yes | Yes |
| United Kingdom | Yes | No (60 days) |
| Australia | Yes | Yes |
| Canada | Yes | Yes |
| India | Yes | Yes |
| France | Yes | No (60 days) |
| Germany | Yes | No (60 days) |
| New Zealand | Yes | Yes |
Tip: Please visit our visa exemption page for an updated list of visa requirements for Vietnam and Halong Bay.
How to Get from the International Cruise Ports to the Local Ports
Halong International Cruise Port (http://www.halongport.vn/)
International cruise liners dock at four ports in Halong:
- Van Hai Port
- Cai Lan Port
- Vinashin Port
- Halong International Cruise Port
Shuttle services may be arranged by cruise operators. Transfers typically take about 30 minutes. For favorable weather, small boats may also operate.
Travelers should verify transfer arrangements directly with their cruise operator, as extra fees may apply. Taxis are available if shuttle services aren’t offered, and it is essential to use the meter.
How to Book a Halong Bay Tour and For How Long?
Booking a Halong Bay tour should be done online in advance through cruise operator websites or comparison platforms. Direct contact via email or phone is also an option. Advance booking is crucial, as demand often exceeds supply.
If pre-booking isn't feasible, online booking while in Halong Bay is safer to avoid scams. Options include day cruises and 2-day, 1-night cruises, depending on individual schedules.
Always ensure that tours allow enough time to return to your main cruise.
Choose your day trip carefully to ensure timely return to your international cruise ship.
What International Cruises Visit in Halong Bay?
Celebrity MILLENNIUM visiting Halong Bay
Diamond Princess Cruise
Diamond Princess stops at Cai Lan Port during various Asia cruises. In 2023, it featured on the Southeast Asia Lunar New Year itinerary starting January 16.
Azamara Cruise
Azamara typically allows 29 hours in Halong Bay, docking at Cai Lan Port or operationally moving to Bai Chay Tourist Wharf.
Celebrity Cruise
Included in many itineraries, Celebrity usually docks at Cai Lan Port, offering premium service and experiences. Check for updates at their website.
Holland America Line
Holland America calls at Bai Chay Port during their 'Far East' cruises, blending stops in China and Japan with excursions catering to diverse interests.
Seabourn Cruises
Seabourn options like the 7-Day Pearls of Vietnam cruise highlight Halong Bay while enriching experiences through local expert-led excursions.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Arriving at Bai Chay Terminal, Norwegian emphasizes flexible guests' choices, including diverse dining and entertainment options.
Crystal Cruises
Known for ultra-luxury, Crystal offers exceptional service and dining curated by top chefs, alongside diverse entertainment and enrichment programs.
Silversea Cruises
Docking at Tuan Chau port, Silversea focuses on personalized service and immersive experiences, with a strong emphasis on fine dining and wellness options.
