Halong Bay Itinerary: Choosing Between 1 Night and 2 Nights
Overnight cruises are the best way to experience Halong Bay at its fullest. The remaining question is whether to take 1-night or 2-night cruises. With similarities in itineraries and activities, options may make you confused.

The decision hinges on your interest in activities, sights, and budget. This article compares 1-night and 2-night cruises in Halong Bay to simplify your choice.
Itinerary Comparison

Halong Bay Route
Experience 1-night and 2-night cruises in Halong Bay with Paradise Elegance cruise:
Paradise Elegance 1 Night Itinerary
Day 1
Your adventure begins at Tung Sau pearl farm and Titop island for kayaking, swimming, and trekking. Enjoy dinner and cocktails upon returning to the cruise.
Day 2
Visit Sung Sot cave before checking out and disembarking.
Itinerary Map
Paradise Elegance 2 Night Itinerary

Day 1
Explore Tung Sau pearl farm and Titop island. Evening entertainment includes a sunset party, romantic dining, and squid fishing.
Day 2
Engage in kayaking at Luon cave, followed by a visit to Cua Van fishing village to learn about local fishermen.
Day 3
After breakfast, visit Sung Sot cave and return to Tuan Chau harbor for your final farewell.
Bhaya Cruise 3D2N Itinerary

Day 1
Discover kayaking in Tung Sau area and enjoy a sumptuous dinner and evening activities.
Day 2
Kayak in Luon cave and explore Cua Van fishing village.
Day 3
Join a morning Tai Chi session and visit Sung Sot cave before returning to port.
Summary
1-night itinerary |
2-night itinerary |
|
---|---|---|
Cruise port |
Tuan Chau pier, Halong international port |
|
Duration |
24 hours |
48 hours |
Main attractions |
Sung Sot cave, Tung Sau pearl farm, Titop island |
Sung Sot Cave, Tung Sau pearl farm, Titop island, Cua Van fishing village, Luon cave |
Main activities |
Kayaking, bamboo boat rowing, swimming, mountain climbing, cave exploring |
Kayaking, bamboo boat rowing, swimming, mountain climbing, cave exploring |
Recommended cruises |
Paradise Elegance cruise, Bhaya cruises, Athena Luxury cruise, Glory Legend cruise |
Lan Ha Bay Route

Lan Ha Bay is also a popular destination with various overnight cruises. Let’s review the 1-night and 2-night itineraries of the Orchid Classic and Stellar of the Seas cruises.
Orchid Classic (2D1N)

Day 1
Visit the Tra Bau area for swimming and kayaking. Evening entertainment includes a sunset party, dinner, and movie night.
Day 2
Join a tai chi class before breakfast, and explore the Dark & Bright cave. After brunch, return to the harbor.
Orchid Classic (3D2N)

Day 1
Visit Tra Bau area for swimming and kayaking, followed by a sunset party with drinks and evening games.
Day 2
Discover Viet Hai village by biking or an electric car, and swim at Ba Trai Dao area. Enjoy another sunset party and feast on dinner.
Day 3
Explore Dark & Bright cave with kayaking, followed by brunch before heading back to port.
Stellar of the Seas (2D1N)

Day 1
The cruise departs from Tuan Chau marina to scenic spots in Lan Ha Bay, allowing for kayaking and sunbathing. Evening includes a BBQ dinner.
Day 2
Visit Dark & Bright cave for kayaking or bamboo boat rides. Disembark at noon.
Stellar of the Seas (3D2N)

Day 1
After lunch aboard, explore a Lagoon natural area for swimming and kayaking. Enjoy onboard activities including playing golf and movies.
Day 2
Visit Viet Hai village and swim at a natural beach, followed by evening activities on the cruise.
Day 3
Start with tai chi, followed by breakfast, then explore Dark & Bright cave before heading back.
Summary
1-night itinerary |
2-night itinerary |
|
---|---|---|
Cruise port |
Tuan Chau pier, Got pier |
|
Duration |
24 hours |
48 hours |
Main attractions |
Tra Bau area, a Lagoon natural area, Dark & Bright cave |
Tra Bau area, Viet Hai fishing village, a Lagoon natural area, Dark & Bright cave, Ba Trai Dao beach |
Main activities |
Swimming, kayaking, sunbathing, onboard entertainment |
Swimming, kayaking, rowing bamboo boat, sunbathing, biking, night entertainment activities onboard |
Recommended cruises |
Orchid Classic cruise, Stellar of the Seas cruise, Mon Cheri cruise, Scarlet Pearl cruise, Peony Cruise |
Price Comparison
Cruises |
1-night itinerary |
2-night itinerary |
---|---|---|
Paradise Elegance cruise |
USD$375/room |
USD$899/room |
Bhaya cruises |
USD$360/room |
USD$720/room |
Orchid Classic cruise |
USD$576/room |
USD$959/room |
Stellar of the Seas cruise |
USD$554/room |
USD$1250/room |
The Bottom Line
Itinerary |
Pros |
Cons |
---|---|---|
2 days 1 night |
|
|
3 days 2 nights |
|
|
Ultimately, choosing between a 1-night or 2-night excursion in Halong Bay depends on your availability and finances. A 3D2N adventure is ideal for those wanting to maximize their experience, while the 2D1N option works well for those pressed for time.
The tourism authority of Quang Ninh noted that 65% of visitors to Halong Bay opt for a 2D1N cruise itinerary, 20% prefer a 3D2N, and merely 10% choose a day cruise.