Top 5 budget-friendly cruises for great value in Halong Bay

Cruising Halong Bay isn't just for upscale travelers, it's also a noteworthy experience for those on a budget. Apart from abundant luxury cruises constantly advertised out there, there are plenty of affordable options offering great comfort and service, just make sure you know how to choose the best value for your needs. Make the most of your trip with our well selected Five Best Budget-Friendly Cruises in Halong Bay by values in this article.

What do budget-friendly cruises mean?

Ranging from $110 to $140 per person per night, budget cruises in Halong Bay typically offer 3-star-standard comfort. The cabins may not be too large or stylish but well-equipped with a private bathroom, bathroom amenities, and an ocean view window or balcony. Meals may not be fancy in presentation but the variety and taste are satisfying, with a blend of Vietnamese and fusion cuisine and available vegetarian options. Onboard facilities may be older and basic, such as a restaurant, bar, and sometimes a spa, but the atmosphere and experience are memorable.

Cheap prices do not mean a bad overall experience. Choosing a budget cruise with the best value for your needs is a smart way to make the most of Halong Bay.

Top 5 budget-friendly Halong Bay cruises for great value

Whether you're traveling solo or with a partner, friends, or family, prefer relaxation or adventure, love socialization or privacy, there is certainly a budget cruise catering to your needs. Below are the Top five best budget-friendly cruises in Halong Bay you will need!

Amanda Cruise - Ideal for families or friends

Amanda Cruise is among the best budget cruises in Halong Bay, especially for families and friends. The traditional-style vessel features 25 well-equipped cabins ranging from 20sqm up to 60 sqm. All cabins provide stunning bay views from either windows or balconies. Triple and family rooms are available for small families with 2 kids or groups of 3 to 4 friends.

Amanda Cruise offers a wide range of activities for every age, from discovering a cave, kayaking, swimming, joining a cooking class, fishing for squid, or practicing Taichi. A complimentary in-room herbal foot bath is a plus for your relaxing experience.

Highlights:

• Facilities remain in good condition since the cruise was launched in 2022.
• Complimentary herbal foot bath elevates relaxation.
• Triple cabins are ideal for families and small groups.
• Diverse activities for every age.
• Attractions include Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, Titop Island.

Price:

• 2D1N: $125/person
• 3D2N: $225/person
• Shuttle bus: $20/person/round trip

Le Journey Luxury - Top pick for couples

Find the best romance on Le Journey Luxury Cruise! The vessel size is not too big, not too small, nicely balancing socialization and privacy space. Featuring 35 to 55sqm with comfy bedding and modern comfort, all 18 rooms boast a private balcony with a seating area, creating perfect romance for couples. Offering a luxury touch at an affordable price, Le Journey Cruise is a must for lovers, honeymooners, or couples celebrating an anniversary on a budget.

Highlights:

• Le Journey Cruise offers well-maintained amenities.
• The boat itself has a great size, ideal for both socialization and privacy.
• Rooms are spacious with private balconies, maximizing privacy for couples.
• The vessel cruises to the tranquil Lan Ha Bay with highlights: Ba Trai Dao Beach or Dark-Bright Cave, and Tra Bau Area.

Price:

• 2D1N: $133/person
• 3D2N: $255/person
• Shuttle bus: $25/person/round trip

Hera Classic Boutique - Best activities

Activity lovers looking for budget-friendly cruises in Halong Bay cannot ignore Hera Classic Boutique. The cruise provides not only an array of outdoor activities on Halong Bay route but also unique onboard experiences such as Sunset Party, cooking class, Happy Hour, squid fishing, bamboo dancing, a fashion show of traditional costumes, and herbal foot bathing. A spa is also provided for an extra fee to enhance relaxation.

Hera Classic Boutique Cruise consists of 19 cabins, measuring 20 to 40sqm. Double/single/triple cabins are available, suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families.

Highlights:

• The cruise operates in Halong Bay with plenty of activities: kayaking through Luon Cave, swimming or hiking at Titop Island, visiting Sung Sot Cave.
• Unique onboard experiences: bamboo dancing, cultural fashion show, herbal foot bath.
• Spa service is available.
• Family cabins can sleep up to 4 adults.

Price:

• 2D1N: $110/person
• 3D2N: $215/person
• Shuttle bus: $20/person/round trip

Treasure Junk - Ultimate privacy escape

Treasure Junk stands out as a perfect escape for privacy seekers thanks to its compact size and secluded itinerary. With only 14 cozy cabins, Treasure Junk provides intimate space and ideal quietness for natural indulgence. The itinerary to the most pristine and peaceful area of Bai Tu Long Bay adds extra privacy and offers a great chance for cultural immersion.

Highlights:

• 14 cabins provides great privacy
• Unique itinerary to the remote area - Bai Tu Long Bay
• Highlight activities: Kayaking at Cong Do Area, cooking class, squid fishing, taking a sampan boat ride at Vung Vieng floating fishing village
• Amenities: Bar, restaurant
• A great chance for visitors to deeply explore nature and culture

Price:

• 2D1N: $125/person
• 3D2N: $248/person
• Shuttle bus: $30/person/round trip

La Regina Classic - Best for soloers

Look for a budget-friendly cruise with great ambiance for solo travelers? Look no further than La Regina Classic Cruise. Launched in 2022, this classic vessel has 22 cabins with a capacity of 44 guests, creating an ideal atmosphere for both privacy immersion and social interaction. Although rooms are compact (15 - 27sqm), comfy beddings and modern amenities promise a comfortable stay.

La Regina Classic sails to the tranquil Bai Tu Long Bay where you can admire stalactites and stalagmites in Thien Canh Son Cave or kayak/take a sampan boat to Vung Vieng Village - one of the most ancient floating villages in Halong.

Highlights:

• Great capacity for both relaxation and connection with travelers worldwide.
• Cozy cabins are well-equipped with modern amenities.
• Unique route to Bai Tu Long Bay with exciting activities like exploring a cave and a fishing village.

Price:

• 2D1N: $105/person
• 3D2N: N/A
• Shuttle bus: $30/person/round trip

Tips to book the best value cruise

To save the best while still getting an experience matching your expectations, here are a few tips you need to know:

• Identify your top priorities to narrow down your options.
• Book during the low season (May - September) for the best price.
• Avoid holidays (e.g., Christmas, New Year, Lunar New Year...) if you want to save on holiday surcharges.
• Book through a reputable travel agent to avoid scams.
• Check with your travel agent for last-minute, flash sales, and early-bird deals.
• Read revised reviews from previous guests to choose a good travel agent or cruise company.
• Provide your estimated budget and travel preferences for accurate advice.

Conclusion

The Top 5 budget-friendly cruises above prove that no need to spend too much for a memorable Halong Bay experience. Just with a smart choice and proper expectations, travelers can certainly find a trip with great value. Ready for a trip worth every penny? Contact Halongbaytours for our expert advice!