By Paradise Cruise

With Halong Bay being one of the destinations of choice for travellers to Vietnam, there are many cruises to choose from, including overnight, luxury, day and half day cruises. It can take time to sort through what’s on offer to find the best option for you. Paradise Cruise understands, so in this 8-step guide we’ll help you find the cruise that’s right for you.

1. DECIDE YOUR ROUTE
There are three main cruise routes in Halong Bay:

- Halong Bay: cruise inside the UNESCO World Heritage site boundary.

- Halong Bay to Bai Tu Long Bay: Bai Tu Long Bay is somewhat similar to Halong Bay but quieter and less lively. You will find it harder to access local cultures and meet locals in Bai Tu Long Bay than in Halong Bay

- Halong Bay to Lan Ha Bay (including Cat Ba Island): Lan Ha is a small bay near Halong Bay with somewhat similar landscape and without the beautiful caves of Halong Bay.

Important note:

- According to decision 4036/QĐ-UBND of Quang Ninh People’s Committee, the two official international cruise ship ports are Tuan Chau and Hon Gai.

- If only cruising Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay, it is not a Halong Bay cruise.

2. DECIDE THE LENGTH OF YOUR CRUISE
While day trips are an option, this is suitable only for travellers who have limited time available. The 2-day, 1-night cruise is usually enough for most travellers, while the 3-day, 2-night cruise is for those who can take their time and have a more immersive experience.

>> Read more to decide if a day cruise or overnight cruise is best for you.

3. DEFINE YOUR BUDGET
For those on a tight budget, your best bet is a budget cruise, which is usually below USD 100. Travellers who have a bit more money to play with can opt for a mid-range cruise, which is usually around USD 100 to USD 150. An overnight luxury cruise is usually priced from USD 150 and above.

Travellers should note that overnight cruise categories in Halong Bay are not defined. The differences between budget, mid-range and luxury cruising usually come from onboard facilities, cabin amenities and furnishings, and the quality of the food and service. Remember that the old adage “you get what you pay for” is true in Vietnam, and it might be worth spending a few extra dollars to ensure you have an unforgettable journey in this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. SELECT YOUR CRUISE LINE, THEN YOUR BOAT
With the internet, finding out who the quality cruise operators are in in Halong Bay couldn’t be easier. Sites like TripAdvisor and online travel agents like Expedia, Booking and Agoda will help you see which cruise lines are rated highly with other passengers. Narrow it down even further by checking the websites of Halong Bay cruise operators who interest you. If you are not comfortable using the internet, ask your travel agent for their recommendation, or even friends who have travelled to Halong Bay previously.

Once you have selected your operator, choose the type of boat you think would suit you. In Halong Bay, there are only two kinds of boat: steel and wooden junk. There are three décor styles: modern, mid-century modern and traditional Asian. The websites of the cruise lines will give you more information about the boat, cabins, facilities, dining options and safety. It might also be worth considering who your fellow travellers will be. Passengers on board a Paradise Cruise vessel are mainly from America, Europe, Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

5. CHOOSE YOUR CABIN
For the best experience cruising Halong Bay, you should choose your cabin carefully. Location, size and amenities are all important considerations. A rule of thumb is that the higher the cabin, the better. And a private balcony or wide window is highly recommended for the best views. Only a few cruise lines use 100% cotton bed linen because of the high cost, so it’s worth checking to see if this is an inclusion with your cabin. You may be able to upgrade, depending on cabin availability and your willingness to pay a surcharge.

6. DECIDE ON THE RIGHT TIME TO CRUISE
Peak season in Halong Bay runs from November to March. The cooler temperatures - usually between 15° to 23° Celsius - make for ideal conditions for sightseeing and touristic activities. Prices are generally 10% to 20% higher than in off-peak season.

Temperatures in the off-peak season - which runs from April to October - are between 20° to 30° Celsius with high humidity. With an average of seven hours sunshine per day, water activities are an ideal respite from the heat. Travelling at this time of year will guarantee you the best price for overnight luxury cruising.

>> Read more about Halong Bay cruise seasons and Weather in Halong Bay.

7. DECIDE WHICH EXTRA SERVICES TO BOOK
Most cruise lines offer extra services once you are onboard, for example, spa and wellness treatments, and kayaks for rent. Many offer a transport service to and from from Hanoi to Halong Bay - or another location - by shuttle bus, private car, seaplane or helicopter. Hotel and cruise combination packages are more economical than booking your hotel and cruise separately. Visas can also be arranged if necessary.

Luxury cruises - and some mid-range lines - have spa facilities on board. Having a massage or a facial is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon after a morning of sightseeing, and is highly recommended.

>> Read more about Transportation around Halong Bay.

8. BOOK YOUR CRUISE
If you are booking your own travel online, be aware that there are many fake and scam booking sites out there. Book directly through the cruise line, an online travel agent like Expedia, Booking and Agoda, representative office or your travel agent. When it comes to the best price, check direct with the cruise operator and also with an online travel agent, and if you are travelling in peak season, book early to avoid disappointment. Regardless of how you booked your cruise, make sure you read the inclusions, exclusions, and booking terms and conditions carefully.

A handy guide to selecting the best Halong Bay cruise