4 Types of Day Cruises in Ha Long Bay – Boat Selection Advice & Itinerary

A trip to Ha Long Bay, exploring the natural wonder of the world, is undoubtedly an amazing experience not to be missed. In this article, Vivu Halong will share information about popular boat tours, itineraries, and the characteristics of each type of boat to help you learn and choose the best tour for your visit.

Types of Day Tours in Ha Long Bay

Currently, there are four types of boats available for tourists visiting Ha Long Bay. This classification is based on the capacity of each boat: 48-passenger boats, 72-passenger boats, 99-passenger boats, and more luxurious cruise ships accommodating 200 to 500 guests.

48-Passenger Boats

The 48-passenger boats are traditional vessels designed to transport visitors around Ha Long Bay for day trips on routes 1, 2, and 4, with schedules of 4, 6, or 8 hours. Points of interest include Dog Stone Island, Cock and Hen Rocks, Thien Cung Cave, and Dau Go Cave.

These boats can accommodate a maximum of approximately 30 to 48 guests per trip.

Rental Prices:

• 3,000,000 VND for a 4-hour tour
• 4,000,000 VND for a 6-hour tour

The space is divided into two levels:

• Level 1: This is the dining area, equipped with tables and chairs for guests to relax and enjoy meals. Typically, guests are served at tables for 6 or 8 people.
• Level 2: This level is designed as a viewing area for sightseeing and taking photos, with clean wooden or plastic flooring.

For the 48-passenger boats, there are two types: wooden and iron hulls. Regardless of the material, all boats ensure safety and are registered with the Ha Long Bay Management Board and local authorities. The wooden boats feature dark-toned interiors, while the newer iron boats are more popular among customers.

In the past, these boats might have had brown sails for decoration, but now they display the national flag on the roof instead.

Currently Operating 48-Passenger Boats:

• Ha Binh Boat
• Toan Thang Boat
• Huy Loc Boat
• Dragon Fly Boat

Note: There is one restroom located on the first level.

72-Passenger Boats

The 72-passenger boats are a new generation of vessels designed for tourists visiting the bay, featuring a sturdy body made of iron and a steel frame. Depending on the type, these boats can have either 2 or 3 levels.

• Level 1: This is the dining area that serves lunch to visitors.
• Level 2: This level is a relaxation area with seating for enjoying the scenery.
• Level 3: This area is for sunbathing, sightseeing, and taking photos.

Overall, each area of the 72-passenger boats serves a similar function to that of traditional wooden boats. However, the most notable difference is their maximum capacity of up to 72 people, allowing for larger groups and featuring more modern equipment. For example, the dining area on the first level is equipped with air conditioning to accommodate guests during hot weather.

The 72-passenger boats can serve tourists on designated routes:

• 4-hour tour
• 6-hour tour
• 8-hour tour
• 4-hour dinner tour

The most popular option is the 6-hour tour from 12 PM to 6 PM.

Some currently operating 72-passenger boats include:

• Alova Boat
• Phong Hai Boat
• Cozy Boat

Note: There are two restrooms located on the first level.

99-Passenger Boats

Among the three types of boats for day tours in Ha Long Bay, the 99-passenger boats offer several advantages over the other two types. Specifically, these boats are equipped with advanced interiors and facilities, resembling a 5-star restaurant on the sea.

The boat is divided into three levels, with two dining levels and a top level for guests to check in and enjoy the scenery. With spacious accommodations, these boats can hold up to 99 guests for a tour.

• Level 1: This is the dining area serving lunch to visitors.
• Level 2: This level also serves as a dining area, featuring sofas and tables for relaxation and scenic views.
• Level 3: This area is for sunbathing, sightseeing, and taking photos. (On the La Casta Daily boat, the third level includes a small pool for children to enjoy.)

The 99-passenger boats can serve all designated day routes, but the most popular programs are the 7-hour and 8-hour tours, as well as dinner tours on the bay. These itineraries provide guests with extensive experiences and ample sightseeing time, ensuring comfortable facilities for a pleasant journey.

Some currently operating 99-passenger boats include:

• Huy Loc Boat
• La Casta Daily Boat
• Queen Boat
• Cozy Bay Boat
• Excursion Luxury Boat
• Catamaran Boat
• Jade Sails Boat

300 – 500 Passenger Cruises

These vessels are truly luxury cruises, not just regular boats. They represent a new generation of extremely luxurious cruises currently operating in Ha Long Bay. These cruises can accommodate up to 500 guests, with facilities covering 10,000 square meters.

The cruise ships typically have five levels, with two levels (usually the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th) designated as dining areas serving buffet meals, banquets, and galas upon request from groups. The upper level (commonly the 4th or 5th) is an entertainment area featuring a bar, club, spacious lounge, and swimming pool, providing ample space for guests to relax and enjoy.

Specifically, on the Ambassador Cruise, the first level includes additional resting areas for guests who wish to use them.

These cruises operate the following tour itineraries:

• 6-hour tour
• Evening dining tour

Currently serving guests are:

• Sea Octopus Cruise
• Ambassador Cruise

Day Tours to Ha Long Bay

Visitors can experience sightseeing in Ha Long Bay with various tours ranging from half a day to a full day as follows:

4-Hour Tour

• Departure: Ha Long International Port, Tuan Chau International Port
• Duration: 3.5 – 4 hours
• Departure Times: 08:00 AM (Morning Tour), 12:00 PM (Afternoon Tour)
• Sightseeing Route: Route 1
• Attractions: Dog Stone, Incense Burner, Chicken Rock, Three Caves, and Heavenly Palace Cave.
• Activities: Cave visits, kayaking, and rowing.
• Details: 4-Hour Tour

The 4-hour tour is an ideal choice for visitors with only half a day to explore. You can choose your departure time in the morning or afternoon.

For the 4-hour tour, the types of boats typically used are wooden boats with a capacity of about 48 guests. The journey will take you through famous destinations such as Dog Stone, Incense Burner, Chicken Rock, Three Caves, and Heavenly Palace Cave.

6-Hour Tour

• Departure: Ha Long International Port, Tuan Chau International Port
• Duration: 5 – 6 hours
• Departure Times: 08:30 AM (Morning Tour), 12:00 PM (Afternoon Tour)
• Sightseeing Route: Route 2
• Attractions: Fighting Cock Island, Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, Luon Cave, etc.
• Activities: Cave visits, kayaking, rowing, island excursions, etc.
• Details: 6-Hour Tour

Next is the 6-hour tour, which starts in the morning and continues into the afternoon. Due to its well-structured itinerary, this tour is a popular choice among many tourists.

Similar to the 4-hour tour, guests on the 6-hour tour are also provided with transportation via wooden or metal boats. The only difference is that this tour includes more attractions and has a longer duration.

7 – 8 Hour Tour

• Departure: Ha Long International Port, Tuan Chau International Port
• Duration: 7 – 8 hours
• Departure Times: 09:30 – 10:00 AM
• Sightseeing Route: Route 2
• Attractions: Fighting Cock Island, Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, Luon Cave, etc.
• Activities: Cave visits, kayaking, rowing, island excursions, etc.
• Lunch: Buffet

Finally, the 7 – 8 hour tour offers an extensive journey filled with exciting experiences designed for visitors. Although the sightseeing time is limited to one day, this itinerary allows tourists to explore all the captivating spots in Ha Long, such as Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave, with plenty of time for rest and exploration.

3-Hour Dinner Tour

• Departure: Ha Long International Port, Tuan Chau International Port
• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure Times: 18:00 – 21:30
• Sightseeing Route: Coastal area around Ha Long City
• Attractions: Boat port, Bai Chay Bridge, Sun Wheel, Hon Gai, Ha Long, etc.
• Activities: Dinner & sightseeing of Ha Long City at night

The dinner cruise offers visitors a new experience, exploring the stunning beauty of Ha Long City at night, in addition to the usual daytime bay tours. Outside the bay, you will enjoy the picturesque views of the city, including the Lighthouse, Boat Port, Bai Chay Bridge, and the Sun Wheel illuminated in sparkling lights.

The cruise provides an opportunity to savor a diverse culinary experience with exquisite Asian and European dishes, as well as seafood specialties from Ha Long, prepared by experienced chefs.

Additionally, guests can enjoy vibrant cultural and entertainment programs throughout the journey of exploring the bay at night

Important Tips When Choosing a Day Cruise in Ha Long Bay

To have a memorable and relaxing travel experience with beautiful memories, visitors should pay attention to the following factors when selecting a day cruise in Ha Long Bay:

1. Book in Advance: To avoid fully booked situations, especially during the summer and on weekends.
2. Costs for Private Charters: For large groups, it’s essential to understand what costs are included and excluded: entrance fees, lunch, kayaking fees, and whether a tour guide is included.
3. Review Dining Agreements: Carefully examine the agreements regarding meals to avoid unexpected service charges. Check the menu, dishes, and specific prices.
4. Safety Regulations: Read the safety regulations thoroughly and listen to the staff’s instructions while on the boat.
5. Choose Reputable Websites: When booking a tour, refer to reliable and professional websites that provide clear and detailed service consultations.

Above are all the useful tips for traveling to Ha Long with short-term tours. To help visitors have a memorable experience with beautiful memories of this picturesque region, it’s essential to choose day cruises in Ha Long Bay from reputable partners.

Vivu Halong is the leading provider of booking services for Ha Long Bay tours and cruises, offering a variety of tour options, itineraries, and types of boats. For consultation and pricing, please contact our hotline: 0789.455.888 / 0961.250.100.