The short answer
- Ideal length
- 1 night (2 days)
- Fewest boats
- Bai Tu Long Bay
- Best kayaking
- Lan Ha Bay
- Best months
- March to May, September to November
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a seascape of around 1,600 limestone islands rising from emerald water in the Gulf of Tonkin. In 2023 UNESCO extended the listing to include the neighbouring Cat Ba archipelago, home to Lan Ha Bay.
Hundreds of boats cruise these waters, from simple day boats to luxury ships with balcony cabins. Choosing well makes the difference between a crowded day and one of the highlights of your trip.
Ha Long, Lan Ha or Bai Tu Long?
| Ha Long Bay | Lan Ha Bay | Bai Tu Long Bay | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where | The main bay, closest to Ha Long city | South, beside Cat Ba Island | North east of Ha Long Bay |
| Crowds | Busiest, especially at the famous caves | Quieter | Quietest |
| Highlights | Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, Ti Top Island viewpoint | Kayaking through lagoons and caves, Cat Ba National Park | Floating fishing villages, untouched islands |
| Typical boarding port | Tuan Chau | Tuan Chau or Cat Ba | Ha Long city (Hon Gai) |
| Best for | First timers who want the famous sights | Active travellers and kayakers | Peace, quiet and photography |
Many cruises combine two areas, for example sailing from Ha Long Bay into Lan Ha Bay. Check the route on the tour page.
Day trip, 1 night or 2 nights?
| Option | Time on the water | Good for | Downsides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day trip from Hanoi | About 4 to 5 hours | Very short trips | About 5 hours of driving for a few hours on the water, and the busiest routes |
| 1 night (2 days) | About 24 hours | Most travellers | Some time is spent boarding and checking in |
| 2 nights (3 days) | About 48 hours | Relaxing and reaching quieter areas | Can feel long if you do not like boats |
Tip: Most transfers take about 2.5 hours each way from Hanoi on the expressway. Many cruises include a shuttle from the Old Quarter; check whether it is shared or private.
Live prices: 1 night cruises
Prices vary hugely by boat, cabin and season. This snapshot is worked out from the cruises listed on our site right now.
Live prices: 2 night cruises
What is usually included
| Usually included | Often extra |
|---|---|
| Cabin with private bathroom | Drinks (most boats do not allow your own) |
| All meals on board, often seafood | Tips for the crew |
| Kayaking or bamboo boat trip | Spa treatments |
| Cave and island visits, entrance fees | Transfer from Hanoi, on some cruises |
| Tai chi on deck at sunrise, cooking demonstration | Seaplane or helicopter transfers |
How to choose a good cruise
- Read recent reviews and look at the route, not just the boat. A quieter route matters as much as a nicer cabin.
- Smaller boats (under 20 cabins) feel more personal; bigger ships are steadier and have more facilities.
- Check what happens if the cruise is cancelled for weather. Reputable operators refund or rebook.
- If you have mobility problems, ask about steps: tenders, caves and viewpoints involve climbing.
When to go
March to May and September to November bring the best mix of calm water and clear views. Winter (December to February) is cool and often misty, which can be atmospheric but hides the islands. From July to September storms sometimes force the authorities to stop all cruises for a day or two.
Average daily high / low and monthly rainfall
| Month | HanoiHa Long is similar |
|---|---|
| Jan | 20° / 14°18 mm |
| Feb | 21° / 15°26 mm |
| Mar | 23° / 18°44 mm |
| Apr | 28° / 22°90 mm |
| May | 32° / 25°188 mm |
| Jun | 33° / 27°240 mm |
| Jul | 33° / 27°288 mm |
| Aug | 32° / 27°318 mm |
| Sep | 31° / 26°265 mm |
| Oct | 29° / 23°130 mm |
| Nov | 26° / 19°43 mm |
| Dec | 22° / 15°23 mm |
Rounded long term averages. Blue shading marks the wetter months. Individual years can be hotter, colder or wetter.
Want a cruise built into your Vietnam trip?
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Frequently asked questions
Is a Ha Long Bay day trip worth it?
Only if you have no other option. You spend about five hours on the road for a few hours on the water. One night on board is far better value for your time.
Which is better, Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay?
Lan Ha Bay is quieter and better for kayaking. Ha Long Bay has the most famous caves and viewpoints. Many cruises visit both.
Are Ha Long Bay cruises cancelled in bad weather?
Yes. When storms approach, the authorities stop cruises, most often from July to September. Good operators refund or rebook.
Sources we checked
Vietnam month by month
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