Halong Bay day cruise or overnight cruise: which one should I choose?
Halong Bay Day Cruise Opportunities
A day trip on Halong Bay typically lasts from 4 to 6 hours, allowing visitors to experience some of its stunning sights.
A Glimpse of Halong Bay
If you're budget-conscious and short on time, the economical day cruise is ideal. Most cruises visit key attractions like Sung Sot Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and Titop Island, while offering activities such as swimming, kayaking, and climbing.
Photo: @_halongbay_ - Titop Island
On a Phoenix Day Cruise, guests are transported from Hanoi and embark around noon. The traditional junk sails past beautiful islets and stops at Thien Cung Cave, one of Halong Bay's highlights.
On a L’Azalee Classic Cruise, experience Sung Sot Cave after lunch and enjoy kayaking at Luon Cave for unforgettable memories.
Photo: @lllrrrphotos - Luon cave
Admire Stunning Halong Bay Views from Above
To reach Halong Bay uniquely and quickly, opt for a seaplane. A scenic 60-minute flight by Hai Au Aviation is available, offering breathtaking aerial views.
Flight schedule:
| Flight route | Departure time | Arrival time | Public fare | |
| 16 Apr – 30 Sept 2025 | 1 Oct – 31 Oct 2025 | |||
| Hanoi - Halong | 9:00 | 10:00 | 8,000,000 VND | 10,000,000 VND |
| Halong - Hanoi | 12:30 | 13:30 | 8,000,000 VND | 10,000,000 VND |
| Hanoi - Halong | 14:30 | 15:15 | 4,500,000 VND | 4,500,000 VND |
| Halong - Hanoi | 16:00 | 16:45 | 6,000,000 VND | 8,000,000 VND |
Currently, L’Azalee Classic Cruise is the only day cruise partnered with Hai Au Aviation for a flight-inclusive 1-day itinerary.
L’Azalee Classic Cruise
Pros:
- For those with limited time and budget, day tours offer a fantastic way to see Halong Bay.
- These cruises feature well-planned itineraries to highlight the best spots.
- Day trips are ideal for families with kids or those prone to seasickness.
Cons:
- Limited time prevents deep cultural immersion and visiting all attractions.
- Not enough opportunity for beach sports and nighttime activities.
Why Choose a Halong Bay Overnight Cruise?
Unlike a rushed day tour, an overnight cruise allows ample time for exploration and enjoyment.
Capture Breathtaking Bay Views from the Seaplane
Currently, L’Azalee Deluxe and Emeraude Cruises offer packages combining overnight stays with a 25-minute scenic seaplane flight over Halong Bay.
Enjoy Numerous Fun Activities Onboard and Off
The key benefit of an overnight cruise is experiencing the full charm of Halong Bay.
Pelican Cruise
A 2-day, 1-night tour on Pelican Cruise: check-in at noon, lunch onboard, then visit Tung Sau, swim at Titop Beach, attend a cooking class, and enjoy evening entertainment. Day two includes a visit to Sung Sot Cave and a brunch buffet before disembarkation.
Photo: @tranit.photo - Sungsot cave
A 2-day, 1-night tour with Margaret Cruise: departing from Tuan Chau Harbour, sail to a pearl farm and Titop Island for swimming and climbing. Enjoy a sunset party, cooking class, and evening squid fishing. Day two features a visit to Sung Sot Cave and a farewell brunch.
Margaret Cruise
Pros:
- Gain in-depth knowledge about Halong Bay.
- Participate in a wide variety of activities.
Cons:
- Overnight cruises may not suit those with tight schedules.
- Less budget-friendly for some travelers.
Conclusion
Both day cruises and overnight cruises have unique advantages and disadvantages, so choose based on your time, budget, and preferences.
See more: Best Cruises in Halong Bay
