Halong Bay Tours & Trips
Picture limestone peaks rising from emerald waters creating Vietnam's most photographed seascape. Halong Bay's scattered islands hide hidden caves, calm lagoons perfect for kayaking, protected coves for swimming. Tours include exploring vast chambers and kayaking between karsts through otherworldly scenery. The sunsets here go on forever, giving you memories to last a lifetime.
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Anna • traveled in February
The cruise was a great experience! We did the 2 nights and 3 days, which I would also recommend. The activities on day 2 were really nice. The food on the ship is to die for, we were very enthusiastic about it. The rooms are very nice and clean, we would definitely do it again :)
Halong - Lan Ha Bay 3 Day 2 Night 5-Star Cruise & Private Balcony Cabin - SL
Sui • traveled in October
Vietnam Tour Fun had been providing excellent service and support throughout our trip. Ms Mai Hoa started to connect with us a few days before we arrived Vietnam. She was contactable throughout the whole trip. We scheduled to have Halong Bay cruise in the last 2 days in our itinerary. However a typhoon was approaching Vietnam and the government announced no cruise was allowed to set sail for safety reason. Ms Mai Hoa immediately contacted us and offered alternative trips for choosing. The difference in the tour fee was refunded to us after our trip finished. We were very happy with the services of Vietnam Tour Fun and Ms Mai Hoa. We had a great time there.
The Beauty of Northern Vietnam in 8 Days - J
Jackie • traveled in November
We had a great time on our tour and discovered a lot about Buddhism and Thailand culture. It was a terrific mix of activities and also time off to independently explore the places we were staying in. Our guides shared a lot about current Thai society (food, traditions, and habits). The hotels were almost all excellent. The beaches are absolutely magnificent.
Spirit of Southeast Asia in 16 Days: A Voyage of Culture & Calm - (Vietnam,Thailand,Bali)
Table of contents
- The best Halong Bay tour packages
- Travel Halong Bay your way
- Best tour companies for Halong Bay tours
- Popular Halong Bay Cruise Ships
- Best places to start your Halong Bay tour
- Discover Halong Bay tours for every budget
- Halong Bay tours for every type of group
- Top Halong Bay travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Halong Bay
- Contact our Halong Bay travel experts
- What our customers ask about Halong Bay Tours & Trips
The best Halong Bay tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaHalong Bay travel expert at TourRadar
Halong - Lan Ha Bay 3 Day 2 Night 5-Star Cruise & Private Balcony Cabin
68 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The food, activities, the organization, rooms are so comfortable and so is the bathroom.”
IMARTINO, traveled in February
Luxury awaits aboard this Halong Bay cruise with private balcony cabins. The route includes kayaking through Dark and Bright caves, cycling in Viet Hai fishing village, and dawn tai chi sessions. Gourmet meals, cooking classes, and swimming at Three Peach Islets round out the experience.
Duration 3 days Destinations Hanoi, Halong Bay Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Ha Long Bay Lux Cruises Tours From
- NZ$543
Melody of Vietnam and Bali In 15 Days
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was very informative. He gave us lots of great recommendations for the rest of our holiday through Vietnam.”
Capucine, traveled in April
Duration 15 days Destinations Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Cu Chi, Bali Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Dutch Operator Realistic Asia From $5,100
55% Off- NZ$2,295+$763 local paymentsYou save $2,805
Vietnam Express Southbound
317 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“An absolutely life changing experience. Very immersive and educational.”
Russell, traveled in May
The majestic 1,600 limestone islands of Halong Bay reveal themselves over two days. Paddle through hidden caves, meet locals at floating fishing villages, and rest on traditional junk boats. The UNESCO World Heritage waters showcase authentic Vietnamese life.
Duration 10 days Destinations Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $2,220
15% Off- NZ$1,887You save $333
Exquisite Vietnam 11 Days - Sapa/ Halong Bay/ Phu Quoc Island
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The service provided was outstanding, with attention to detail and personalized care throughout the entire journey.”
Jardine, traveled in April
Era or La Regina Royal Cruise navigates Halong Bay's 3,000 limestone islets. Crystal waters invite kayaking, while morning Tai Chi energizes deck-side guests before cave exploration. Seafood feasts and luxury cabins await, with options from 3-star Cozy Boutique to 5-star Era Cruise.
Duration 11 days Destinations Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Phu Quoc Island, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Spanish Operator PrestiGo Asia From $3,386
45% Off- NZ$1,862You save $1,524
Hanoi & Halong Bay North of Vietnam
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Her prices are very reasonable. I don't believe you could find a nicer and more helpful tour operator.”
Annie, traveled in November
The 3-star Cozy Bay Cruise offers luxurious overnight stays in UNESCO-listed Halong Bay. Activities include kayaking limestone formations, swimming at Titop Island, and touring Surprising Cave, plus cooking classes and morning Tai Chi sessions.
Duration 4 days Destinations Hanoi, Halong Bay Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Swallow Travel From
45% Off- NZ$365
Charming Vietnam 12 Days - Sapa / Halong Bay / Mekong Delta
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trek was suitable and so much fun! this trip was great value for money and all team was superb.”
Gania, traveled in August
Cozy Boutique Cruise sails emerald waters, featuring cave exploration and kayaking adventures. Sunrise Tai Chi sessions on deck precede fresh seafood feasts against a backdrop of thousands of limestone islands. Day and night views of the bay come with 5/5-rated guide service.
Duration 12 days Destinations Hanoi, Hoa Lu, Sapa, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Mekong Delta, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Russian Operator PrestiGo Asia From $3,929
45% Off- NZ$2,161You save $1,768
Luxury cruises cut through Halong Bay's emerald waters, stopping at limestone caves and floating villages. Traditional Vietnamese cooking classes, morning Tai Chi sessions, and scenic kayaking fill the days. Families and couples split bookings equally on this adventure.
Duration 3 days Destinations Hanoi, Halong Bay Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Wonderscape Travel From $590
15% Off- NZ$502You save $89
Luxury Halong Bay Cruise and Mountain Resort - 6 Days
14 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Halong Bay is a new favorite place! This experience was magical. We are so grateful for the memories!”
Tina, traveled in January
Paradise Sails cruise, rated 4.7/5, showcases Halong Bay's finest views. Amazing Cave, emerald waters, and authentic floating villages highlight the journey. Premium cabins provide comfort while fresh seafood and cooking demonstrations complement limestone karst views.
Duration 6 days Destinations Hanoi, Mai Chau, Tuan Chau, Halong Bay, Titov Island Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Legend Travel Group From $981
55% Off- NZ$441+$592 local paymentsYou save $539
Classic Vietnam
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“We had a great time due in no small part to the efficient organisation of the Intrepid team. Tourism is increasing in Vietnam and that makes us part of a problem we noticed; over tourism.”
William, traveled in November
Traditional junk boats navigate Ha Long Bay's emerald waters, featuring Surprise Cave and limestone formations. Ti Top Island offers optional kayaking, while air-conditioned cabins and fresh seafood complete Vietnam's most spectacular natural wonder experience.
Duration 15 days Destinations Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $4,095
10% Off- NZ$3,686You save $410
Vietnam Experience 15 Day
100 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It wouldn't be anywhere near the same without him! From cultural and experienced knowledge, to engaging conversations.”
Harry, traveled in August
Luxury awaits aboard overnight cruises through Halong Bay's emerald waters. Hidden bays invite swimming while limestone caves beckon kayakers. Premium cabins provide comfort while taking in the UNESCO-listed seascape, rated 4.8/5 by guests.
Duration 15 days Destinations Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta Age Range Ages 18-49 Operator INTRO Travel From
10% Off- NZ$3,499
Travel Halong Bay your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Halong Bay tours
From what our travelers tell us, Intrepid, Realistic Asia and S Viet Travel are the top picks for Vietnam tours, each with their own strengths. Intrepid's guides like Thanh, Bien Tran and also Chinh get mentioned again and again in reviews for making the history and culture really come alive during the tours. Realistic Asia's Northern Vietnam Adventure hits the sweet spot - you're hiking through rice terraces, meeting local families and exploring mountain villages. That's what makes it a proper adventure, not just sightseeing from a bus. What stands out about S Viet Travel is how their team handles all the details. Their agents Hannah and Hien are quick to respond to questions and sort out any issues, which our TourRadar customers really appreciate. They're good at adjusting things on the fly to match what travelers want to see and do. I keep hearing from people who've done these tours that it's the little touches that make the difference - like when guides take you to their favorite local spots or help translate conversations with villagers. These companies seem to understand that's what turns a regular tour into something special.
Popular Halong Bay Cruise Ships
Best places to start your Halong Bay tour
Most people (about 92% of our travelers) start their Halong Bay adventure from Hanoi, though some join from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and also Siem Reap. Our booking data shows that planning about 70 days ahead gives you the best pick of boats, cabins and dates - particularly useful during the busy October to March period. If you're after a quieter experience, try visiting in the shoulder months of April-May or September-October when the weather's still nice but you'll see fewer tourists around. The luxury boats are worth considering for their roomy cabins and top-tier service, though mid-range cruises deliver great value with similar itineraries. Want something more authentic? Look into extending your trip to Bai Tu Long Bay, where local fishing communities and smaller tourist numbers give you a genuine peek into life on these historic waters.
Discover Halong Bay tours for every budget
Halong Bay tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Halong Bay travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
Solo Travelers94 tours- Couples86 tours
- Seniors (50+)37 tours
Best time to visit Halong Bay
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter cruises from December through February really shine when it comes to clear weather activities. The overnight luxury boats get great feedback - our guests start their day with tai chi on deck before heading to Sung Sot Cave when visibility peaks. You'll find traditional cooking demos and nighttime squid fishing under the stars on several routes. While the 5-star vessels with spa services and private balconies are popular this season, the 3-star boats follow similar routes with fewer crowds and solid service too.
- 75 tours
- popular 87 tours
- 85 tours
- Spring 2026
March to May brings ideal conditions and our widest range of tour options. Premium cruises mix morning cave visits with afternoon kayaking near Trinh Nu Cave's rock formations. Many travelers opt for 2-3 day trips that include cycling in Viet Hai Village and guided walks in Cat Ba National Park. Our customers love tours that balance active elements like swimming and hiking with cultural touches - they'll catch a water puppet show in Hanoi before heading out, then visit local fishing villages once on the bay.
- 85 tours
- popular 86 tours
- 71 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer tours between June and August put water activities front and center. Early risers join sunrise tai chi, then spend extra time kayaking hidden lagoons and swimming at quiet beaches. Several well-rated options combine bay exploration with bike rides through Cat Ba Island's shaded national park paths. The overnight cruises work really well - you'll join sunset deck parties and evening cooking classes, perfect for staying active while dodging the midday heat.
- 69 tours
- popular 83 tours
- 81 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
September through November brings clear skies and pleasant temperatures - perfect for longer exploration. Top picks include early cave visits when the light's just right for photos, afternoon stops at pearl farms and sunset drinks with limestone peaks as your backdrop. Many guests book tours mixing traditional junk boats with modern comforts - think upscale meals and spa time between kayak outings. The multi-day trips into quieter Lan Ha Bay get excellent feedback these months, offering both active exploration and peaceful downtime.
- popular 84 tours
- 83 tours
- 72 tours
Contact our Halong Bay travel experts
Andrei
Expert in Halong Bay at TourRadar
Andrei is one of our seasoned Halong Bay Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Halong Bay tours answered!
- Choose from 148+ Halong Bay tours
- 968 verified reviews by TourRadar customers
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Call us
+64 4888 0182What our customers ask about Halong Bay Tours & Trips
When's the best time to visit Halong Bay for great weather and fewer tourists?
You'll love visiting in spring around March-April or fall September-October when temperatures are just perfect at 22-25°C and the humidity won't bother you too much. It's ideal for getting out on the water especially if you're keen on kayaking Lan Ha Bay or exploring inside Sung Sot Cave. You'll see fewer tourist boats than in summer and the visibility is really clear which photographers love. If you're into moody landscapes try an early morning tour in autumn - the misty views around Ti Top Island at sunrise are absolutely stunning.
Looking for a quieter experience? Which hidden bays near Halong should you check out?
Head to Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay they're just as beautiful with those amazing limestone formations but you'll only see about 20-30% of the tourists that pack into Halong. Lan Ha Bay's got this great little place called Viet Hai village where you can really experience local life visit traditional houses and even try those interesting fish-foot massages. If you're into kayaking the Dark & Bright Cave area is fantastic and over in Bai Tu Long there's this gorgeous spot called Three Peaches Beach perfect for a peaceful swim away from the crowds.
What unique activities can you try on Halong Bay cruises besides the usual kayaking and caves?
Start your day with sunrise Tai Chi on the premium cruise decks followed by Vietnamese coffee tasting it's a great way to ease into the morning. When evening comes you can catch traditional water puppet shows performed by local families or try your hand at squid fishing the old-school way. Some cruises throw these amazing sunset cocktail parties up on the top deck with views that'll take your breath away while others offer these really relaxing herbal wood foot baths using local plants. If you're into photography you can join special sunrise shoots at Surprise Cave or try capturing that magical bioluminescent plankton at night.
Should you do a day trip or overnight cruise on Halong Bay? What should help you decide?
Day trips run about 8-10 hours and focus on the must-sees like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island giving you roughly 4-5 hours actually out on the bay. Overnight cruises let you venture further out to places like Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay plus you get those lovely morning Tai Chi sessions cooking classes and evening activities. Think about what matters to you - luxury overnight cruises give you those nice cabins with private balconies while day trips mean more travel time but they're 40-50% cheaper. Weather makes a big difference too spring and fall are your best bet for clear views and outdoor activities.