Few places capture Vietnam’s natural splendor quite like Halong Bay — a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts rising dramatically from the sea. To truly appreciate its magic, a day trip isn’t enough. The best way to immerse yourself is with an overnight luxury cruise, and the Paradise Elegance Cruise 2 Days, 1 Night tour offers the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and Vietnamese hospitality.
From kayaking hidden lagoons to exploring caves and watching sunsets over the bay, this overnight journey blends relaxation and discovery aboard a classic wooden vessel designed with modern comforts.
Discover Halong Bay on a Cruise
Why Choose an Overnight Halong Bay Cruise?
A single day can feel rushed when exploring Halong Bay. The overnight cruise lets you:
- Wake up on the water to sunrise over limestone peaks.
- Enjoy Tai Chi sessions on the sundeck.
- Explore more remote corners of the bay like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island.
- Take part in evening activities such as a cooking class or squid fishing.
- Savor multiple gourmet meals included in your journey.
It transforms sightseeing into a holistic travel experience, combining culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
Discover Halong Bay on a Cruise
Highlights of the Paradise Elegance Cruise
1. Luxury Cabins & Comfort
The boat features 17 private air-conditioned cabins, each with elegant décor, ensuite marble bathrooms, and large windows offering sweeping views of the bay. After a day of exploring, you can relax in a comfortable retreat that feels both cozy and indulgent.
2. Gourmet Dining
Meals are a highlight, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included. Expect a mix of Vietnamese specialties and international dishes, served in the boat’s fine-dining restaurant. Pastries, fresh seafood, and a curated wine list elevate the dining experience.
3. Onboard Experiences
Guests can join a cooking demonstration to learn traditional Vietnamese recipes or try squid fishing under the stars at night. During the day, unwind with an optional spa treatment (extra cost), or simply enjoy cocktails on the open-air sundeck.
4. Shore Excursions
- Ti Top Island: Climb to the viewpoint for a panoramic vista of Halong Bay or swim at the sandy beach.
- Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): One of the bay’s largest and most impressive caves, featuring dramatic stalactites and stalagmites.
- Kayaking Adventures: Paddle around hidden lagoons and discover Halong Bay’s quieter corners.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ti Top Island
- 12:00 PM: Arrival at Tuan Chau Island for check-in at Paradise Suites Hotel.
- 12:15 – 12:30 PM: Transfer to the Paradise Elegance cruise by electric cart. A welcome drink greets you onboard.
- 1:00 – 1:45 PM: Lunch at Le Marin Restaurant as the boat sails deeper into the bay.
- Afternoon: Visit Ti Top Island. Hike to the viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama or relax on the beach.
- Evening Onboard:
- Attend a cooking class on deck.
- Enjoy dinner featuring local seafood specialties.
- Try your hand at squid fishing or sip cocktails under the stars.
Day 2: Halong Bay – Sung Sot Cave – Hanoi
- 6:30 AM: Begin your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck — a serene way to greet the sunrise.
- 7:00 AM: Light breakfast with pastries, coffee, and tea.
- 7:45 – 8:45 AM: Explore Sung Sot Cave, Halong Bay’s most famous grotto, with vast chambers and natural formations.
- 9:00 AM: Return to the boat, check out of cabins, and enjoy brunch.
- 10:30 AM: Disembark at Tuan Chau Island. Transfer back to Hanoi (optional shuttle available for an extra fee).
Discover Halong Bay on a Cruise
What’s Included
- ✔️ Overnight cruise on Paradise Elegance luxury boat
- ✔️ Private air-conditioned cabin with ensuite bathroom
- ✔️ All meals onboard (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- ✔️ Welcome drinks and onboard activities
- ✔️ Excursions to Ti Top Island & Sung Sot Cave
- ✔️ Kayaking experience
- ✔️ Tai Chi class on deck
What’s Not Included
- ❌ Beverages & tobacco
- ❌ Beauty spa services & massages (optional)
- ❌ Transport transfer Hanoi–Halong roundtrip (surcharge $41 per person)
- ❌ Personal expenses and gratuities
Practical Information
- Meeting Point: Paradise Suites Hotel, Tuan Chau Island, Halong
- Start Time: 12:15 PM (boarding), check-in begins at 11:30 AM
- End Point: Returns to the same location around 10:30 AM the next day
- Transfers: Shuttle from Hanoi Old Quarter available with surcharge
- Documents Required: Passport information is mandatory for ticket registration
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible
- Travelers: Infant seats available; most travelers can participate
Tips for Travelers
- Bring Comfortable Shoes: Essential for hiking Ti Top Island and exploring caves.
- Pack Light: A small overnight bag is best, as cabins have limited space.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle.
- Try Kayaking: It’s one of the most memorable ways to experience the bay.
- Consider Weather: Summer brings warmth but also rain; winter offers cooler, clearer days.
Discover Halong Bay on a Cruise
Traveler Reviews
With excellent ratings across Viator and Tripadvisor, the Paradise Elegance Cruise consistently delights guests:
- “The cabins were spacious and luxurious, the staff attentive, and the food was superb. Watching the sunrise from the deck was unforgettable.”
- “Our guide was fantastic, explaining the history of Halong Bay and leading us through Sung Sot Cave. The highlight was kayaking in the quiet lagoons.”
- “Everything was perfectly organized, from check-in to drop-off. Highly recommend upgrading to a suite if you want extra space.”
Why Choose Paradise Elegance Over Other Cruises?
- Luxury with Authentic Charm: A classic wooden ship outfitted with modern comforts.
- Intimate Experience: With just 17 cabins, the atmosphere is relaxed and never crowded.
- Balanced Itinerary: A mix of cultural activities, relaxation, and active exploration.
- Trusted Brand: Paradise Cruises is one of Halong Bay’s most established operators.
Discover Halong Bay on a Cruise
Final Verdict
The Paradise Elegance Cruise 2 Days, 1 Night Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting northern Vietnam. It combines the beauty of Halong Bay with the comfort of a luxury floating hotel. From kayaking and cave explorations to Tai Chi at sunrise and gourmet meals, this tour delivers an immersive experience that leaves lasting memories.
Discover Halong Bay on a Cruise
FAQ
1. How long is the Paradise Elegance cruise?
It’s a 2-day, 1-night tour, departing at midday on Day 1 and returning late morning on Day 2.
2. Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. Drinks are extra.
3. What excursions are included?
You’ll visit Ti Top Island, explore Sung Sot Cave, and have the option to go kayaking.
4. Can I get to Halong Bay from Hanoi?
Yes, a roundtrip shuttle service is available for $41 per person. Pickup is from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
5. Is the cruise family-friendly?
Yes, children are welcome. Infant seats are available, and families often enjoy the activities together.
6. Do I need to provide passport details?
Yes, it’s required by Vietnamese authorities to register for the cruise.
7. Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, though connection may be limited in some parts of the bay.
8. Can I book spa treatments?
Yes, spa services and massages are available at an additional cost.
