10 Best Lan Ha Bay Cruises for Every Budget

Nestled in Cat Ba Biosphere to the South of Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay is a quieter neighbor but nothing short of amazing. While covering over 7000 hectares with only about 400 limestone islands, Lan Ha Bay boasts plenty of natural beaches and lagoons, offering a perfect retreat for peace-seekers and nature-lovers.

To unveil the best of Lan Ha Bay, just like Halong, cruising is always a must. Whether you love to glide on the calm bay on a kayak, take a leisurely sampan boat ride through the cave, or immerse yourself in the crystal clear water, Lan Ha Bay cruises serve you at its best. This article reveals the 10 Best Lan Ha Bay cruises for every budget, followed by some useful tips for your planning. Let's check it out!

What to expect from Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Similar to Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay cruises also come with varied options, from budget-friendly to high-end. Luxury cruises are usually newer vessels offering stylish accommodation, premium amenities, personalized services and 5-star standards. Budget-friendly cruises, while offering 3 to 4-star-standard amenities and services, still deliver a memorable journey for a great value.

All Lan Ha Bay include well-equipped cabins with private bathrooms, restaurants serving Vietnamese or fusion cuisine, bars with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and a large sundeck for relaxing and admiring the view. Guests can choose hour-long to several-day trips, but the most popular are 2 day/1 night (2D1N) and 3 day/2 night (3D2N) itineraries.

Based on each cruise, the program may include kayaking, bamboo boat rides, swimming, cycling around Cat Ba Island’s village, or visiting caves. Comparing the cruise highlights, itineraries, and prices to your travel style is the best way to find the ideal cruise for you.

Top 10 Best Lan Ha Bay Cruises

Stellar of the Seas

2D1N: ~$300/person (free bus transfer)

3D2N: ~$550/person (free bus transfer)

Operated by Aclass Group, Stellar of the Seas is one of the most reputable luxury cruises in Lan Ha Bay. The 22-cabin vessel exudes a modern but elegant design with many modern facilities. What sets the cruise apart is personalized service by the professional butler and crew team who always pay close attention to details and support you 24/7.

• Highlights:
  • Exceptional butler service and attention to detail.
  • Private balconies and ocean-view bathtubs in all cabins.
  • Gourmet dining with BBQ by the pool, 8-course fine dining, curated wine list.
  • 4 day/3 night itinerary is available for extended stays.
  • Modern facilities: 50-sqm four-season pool, mini-golf course, spa & fitness room, wine & cigar cellar, bar, restaurant.
  • Activities: kayaking, swimming, bamboo boat ride, sunset party, squid fishing, cooking class, Taichi session, golf class, spa, drone photography, live music.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Ao Ech area - Dark & Bright Cave.
  • 3D2N: Ao Ech area - Viet Hai Village - Local homes & bamboo houses - Secluded beach - Dark & Bright Cave.
  • 4D3N: Ao Ech area - Viet Hai Village - Local homes & bamboo houses - Secluded beach - Trung Trang Cave - Dark & Bright Cave.
• Best for: Couples, solo travelers, small families seeking luxury comfort and personalized service.

Capella Cruise

2D1N: ~$220/person (optional bus: $35/person)

3D2N: ~$430/person (optional bus: $35/person)

Launched in 2020, Capella Cruise stands out with its Aesthetic Indochina architecture and top-of-the-range amenities like waterslide, cigar & poker club, swimming pool, spa, etc. The cruise boasts 30 spacious cabins with multiple options accommodating up to 5 guests, making it ideal for couples, families, or groups.

• Highlights:
  • Varied room types with family rooms sleeping 4 to 6 people.
  • All rooms have a private balcony and an ocean-view bathtub.
  • Outdoor waterslide and floating pool - best for active travelers or kids.
  • Elevator available - Friendly for people with limited mobility
  • Food quality is rated excellent by former travelers.
  • Activities: swimming, kayaking, cooking class, happy hour, canape, taichi
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Ao Ech - Dark/Bright Cave
  • 3D2N: Ao Ech - Viet Hai Village - Ba Trai Dao Area - Dark/Bright Cave
• Best for: Honeymooners, families with kids, energetic friends seeking luxury comfort, diverse activities and unique experiences.

Orchid Classic Cruise

2D1N: ~$220/person (optional bus: $40/person)

3D2N: ~$390/person (optional bus: $40/person)

Orchid Classic is one of the pioneers among luxury Lan Ha Bay cruises.  The 14-cabin Indochine-style boat offers an intimate atmosphere, excellent dining and dedicated service. Accommodation on Orchid Cruise is among the largest on the bay, ideal for couples or families.

• Highlights:
  • Spacious cabins (36 - 45sqm) with all private balconies and bay-view tub
  • Inter-connecting rooms are available for families and groups of 3-4.
  • Personalized service thanks to a smaller capacity.
  • Excellent cuisine catering to diverse diets like vegetarian and gluten-free, non-seafood.
  • Well-trained and courteous staff.
  • Activities: swimming, kayaking, visiting a cave, cooking class, Taichi, Happy Hour, fishing.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Dark/Bright cave or Ba Trai Dao Area - Trung Trang Cave
  • 3D2N: Dark/Bright cave or Ba Trai Dao Area - Viet Hai Village - Ba Men Temple - Trung Trang Cave.
• Best for: Couples seeking romance and privacy, solo travelers or families seeking quiet luxury and high-standard service.

Heritage Binh Chuan Cruise

2D1N: ~$210/person (optional bus: $35/person)

3D2N: ~$405/person (optional bus: $35/person)

Setting sail in 2019, Heritage Binh Chuan quickly earned rave reviews for its unique theme, world-class service, and exceptional dining experience. Blending local culture and Indochine architecture and history, Heritage Binh Chuan offers modern comfort and timeless charm while cruising Lan Ha Bay.

• Highlights:
  • All rooms with balconies and seating area.
  • Elegant design with sophisticated furniture.
  • Modern amenities: outdoor pool, art gallery, fitness room, spa, souvenir, library.
  • Fine-dining restaurant with gourmet menus and well-selected drinks.
  • Hospitable & professional staff.
  • Activities: kayaking, bamboo boat, swimming, cooking class, afternoon tea, Vovinam.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Tra Bau Area - Dark/Bright Cave
  • 3D2N: Tra Bau Area - Ba Trai Dao Area - Dark/Bright Cave
• Best for: Culture and art lovers, solo travelers and groups looking for a boutique luxury experience, couples seeking sophistication.

Mon Cheri Cruise

2D1N: ~$180/person (optional bus: $35/person)

3D2N: ~$330/person (optional bus: $35/person)

Experience the European elegance blended with Vietnamese charm on Mon Cheri Cruise - the notable mid-range cruise in Lan Ha Bay. Not a brand-new cruise, but Mon Cheri brings excellent comfort and service at a more affordable price. Besides well-designed menus with Vietnamese and European delicacies, the vessel ensures a fun-filled journey with large cabins, stylish restaurant and bar, jacuzzi pool, mini-golf course, spa and fitness room.

• Highlights:
  • Elegant and spacious cabins with private balconies.
  • Delicious menu of both Western and Vietnamese dishes. Halal food options are available.
  • Connecting rooms are ideal for friends and families.
  • Activities: kayaking, bamboo boat, swimming, Happy Hour, cooking class, squid fishing, Taichi.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Tra Bau Area - Trung Trang Cave
  • 3D2N: Tra Bau Area - Viet Hai Village - Secluded lagoon - Trung Trang Cave
• Best for: Couples and families love high-standard service at a reasonable price.

Peony Cruise

2D1N: ~$170/person (optional bus: $35/person)

3D2N: ~$295/person (optional bus: $35/person)

Peony is renowned as one of the best value-for-money options in Lan Ha Bay. With its modern design, well-maintained facilities, balanced itinerary, and attentive service, Peony provides a delightful cruising experience that you should not miss.

• Highlights:
  • All rooms have a spacious balcony and a relaxing bathtub.
  • Great balance of activities and relaxation.
  • Halal food options are available.
  • Friendly and helpful staff.
  • Activities: kayaking, bamboo boat, swimming, Happy Hour, cooking class, squid fishing, Taichi.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Tra Bau Area - Trung Trang Cave
  • 3D2N: Tra Bau Area - Viet Hai Village - Secluded lagoon - Trung Trang Cave
• Best for: Solo travelers, couples, and groups seeking a reliable and comfortable cruise with a nicely crafted itinerary.

Doris Cruise

2D1N: ~$160/person (optional bus: $30/person)

3D2N: ~$305/person (optional bus: $30/person)

Operating from 2022, Doris Cruise boasts new and modern facilities, offering a boutique experience at a mid-level price range. Guests will stay in chic cabins measuring 35 to 60 sqm, relax in the outdoor jacuzzi pool, and enjoy stunning scenery from the spacious sundeck. The less-touristy itinerary and dedicated staff make Doris Cruise a worthwhile mid-range cruise in the area.

• Highlights:
  • Large rooms with ocean-view bathtubs and private balconies.
  • Balanced schedule with diverse activities: Kayaking, swimming, visiting a cave, cooking class, Happy Hour, squid fishing, Taichi.
  • Tasty food with vegetarian options.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Tra Bau Area - Dark/Bright Cave
  • 3D2N: Tra Bau Area - Viet Hai Village - Ba Trai Dao Area - Dark/Bright Cave
• Best for: Honeymooners or couples preferring intimacy, soloers and groups looking for a less-crowded itinerary and comfortable cruise.

Sena Cruise

2D1N: ~$150/person (optional bus: $25/person)

3D2N: ~$285/person (optional bus: $25/person)

Sena is one of the most sought-after options for mid-range Lan Ha Bay cruises. With just 16 cozy cabins, the cruise promises a tranquil atmosphere, followed by a less-busy route, and warm service by a friendly crew team. An onboard spa is available to enhance your relaxation.

• Highlights:
  • Clean and fully-equipped rooms, all with balconies
  • Welcoming and supportive staff and clean rooms.
  • Affordable price.
  • Activities: Kayaking, swimming, cooking class, Happy Hour, Taichi.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Ba Trai Dao Area or Dark/Bright Cave - Ao Ech Area
  • 3D2N: Ba Trai Dao Area or Dark/Bright Cave - Viet Hai Village - Pristine Area - Ao Ech Area
• Best for: Solo travelers, couples, and small groups seeking peace and great value.

Calypso Cruise

2D1N: ~$130/person (optional bus: $25/person)

3D2N: ~$255/person (optional bus: $25/person)

Starting from US$130/person, Calypso offers a cost-saving journey with simple but comfortable cabins, classic but enjoyable itineraries, less frills but hearty meals, and especially, dedicated service. Get an authentic experience with a deep natural and cultural indulgence on Calypso Cruise.

• Highlights:
  • Traditional junk-style boat.
  • Spacious cabins among budget cruises in the bay.
  • Jacuzzi on top deck.
  • Itinerary with kayaking included.
  • Friendly and helpful staff.
  • Activities: Kayaking, swimming, cooking class, Happy Hour, Taichi.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Dark/Bright Cave - Trung Trang Cave
  • 3D2N: Dark/Bright Cave - Viet Hai Village - Ba Trai Dao Area - Trung Trang Cave
• Best for: Budget travelers, solo adventurers, and small groups appreciating local-style cruises

Sapphire Cruise

2D1N: ~$125/person (optional bus: $30/person)

3D2N: ~$250/person (optional bus: $30/person)

Sapphire Cruise invites you to experience the best of Lan Ha Bay without overspending. All 21 cabins are fully equipped with air conditioning, large windows and private balconies, comfy bedding, and toiletries. A private jacuzzi in almost all cabins adds extra comfort during your stay.

• Highlights:
  • Best value for money.
  • Almost all cabins have a private jacuzzi
  • Friendly, helpful staff and clean rooms.
  • Kayaking is included.
  • Activities: Kayaking, swimming, cooking class, fishing squid, Taichi.
• Itinerary:
  • 2D1N: Secluded area - Dark/Bright Cave
  • 3D2N: Secluded area - Ba Trai Dao Area - Viet Hai Village - Dark/Bright Cave
• Best for: Backpackers, budget travelers, or families on a tight budget.

Tips to plan an ideal Lan Ha Bay Cruise trip

• Define your budget and travel priority (price, design style, amenities, itinerary, route,…) to easily narrow down your options.
• Seize the best rates in the off-season from May to September.
• Book early in the high season (October to April) to get early-bird promotions.
• Avoid the holiday season (Christmas, New Year, Vietnamese Lunar New Year) if you don't like the crowds and holiday surcharge.
• Watch out for hidden fees like transfers from Hanoi, drinks onboard, bank fees for card payments (~3-4%), etc.
• Best weather to visit: March to May and October to November.
• Avoid or check the weather forecast carefully when booking trips during the stormy season from June to September.
• Essentials to bring: What to Pack: Light clothes, sunscreen, and swimwear during hot seasons. Warm & waterproof jackets, light raincoats during cold seasons, and comfortable hiking shoes for cave visiting.