REVIEW · HANOI

2-Day or 3-Day: Halong&Lan Ha Bay Cruise 5* balcony,bathtub

★ 4.4 · 47 reviews From $148 Operated by Doria Cruise 5 star · Bookable on GetYourGuide
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Halong and Lan Ha Bay are best seen from the water, and this Doria Cruise gives you a comfortable cabin, private balcony, and bathtub while moving between limestone islands and quiet coves. The 3-day version adds Viet Hai Village, while the 2-day trip focuses on the cruise itself, kayaking, swimming, and Dark and Bright Cave.

I like the modern ship and friendly crew, with guides such as William and Ashley receiving especially warm praise. I also like the useful mix of activities: a cooking class, sunset party, kayaking, bamboo boat ride, squid fishing, and time on the sundeck.

The main caution is food and pacing. Some meals have been well received, but others have been judged poor, and several activities can feel rushed or repetitive. Swimming beside the ship may also mean dealing with engine fumes rather than reaching a quiet beach.

Key points to know before booking

2-Day or 3-Day: Halong&Lan Ha Bay Cruise 5<em> balcony,bathtub – Key points to know before booking’ /></p> <ul> <li><strong>Choose three days for Viet Hai Village:</strong> The longer cruise includes a bicycle or electric-car visit, a local family stop, and swimming near Ba Trai Dao Islet.</li> <li><strong>Expect a stylish but not flawless ship:</strong> Cabins are clean and spacious, with balconies, bathtubs, modern facilities, and a small outdoor pool.</li> <li><strong>The 2-day plan is the shorter version:</strong> You get the first and final days, including Tra Bau, Dark and Bright Cave, and the main onboard activities.</li> <li><strong>The transfer takes time:</strong> Hanoi pickup is around 8:20 to 8:40 a.m., and the full journey includes road traffic and a tender boat ride to the cruise.</li> <li><strong>Food is the most uneven part:</strong> Breakfast and buffet lunch may be better than the set evening menus, but meal quality can vary.</li> <li><strong>Weather controls the program:</strong> Swimming, kayaking, and cave visits may change because of weather, tides, or operating conditions.</li> </ul> <h2>A comfortable ship with a busy first afternoon</h2> <p><img width="487" height="650" decoding="async" src=