INCLUSIONS OF BAI TU LONG BAY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS CRUISE TOUR
- 02 nights' accommodation aboard a 5-star overnight cruise, following the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights itinerary, in the selected cabin category confirmed at the time of booking.
- 07 standard meals included in the itinerary, served at the onboard restaurant with a pre-arranged menu.
- Welcome drinks and cold towels upon boarding.
- Activities including kayaking or bamboo boat rowing, cave exploration, swimming, and night squid fishing after dinner (kayaking is complimentary; bamboo boat rowing at Vung Vieng Fishing Village incurs an additional charge of VND 50,000/person).
- Complimentary morning Tai Chi sessions on the sundeck, scheduled throughout the cruise.
- Complimentary cabin decorations for honeymoon, wedding anniversary, and birthday celebrations upon prior request.
- Complimentary tea, coffee, and traditional Vietnamese snacks provided in the cabin.
- Complimentary movie screenings with popcorn snacks at the restaurant (applicable from the latest updated date onward).
- Dedicated Vietnamese- and English-speaking tour guides onboard throughout the journey.
- Entrance tickets to attractions included in the itinerary: Cong Do Area, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Thien Canh Son Cave.
- Service fees and sightseeing insurance as specified in the Bai Tu Long Bay entrance tickets.
TOUR EXCLUSIONS
- Round-trip transportation between Hanoi and Ha Long, departing from designated pick-up points in the city centre.
- Additional drinks ordered at the bar, bottled wine, soft drinks, bottled beverages, and other drinks beyond the complimentary selection.
- Spa, relaxation massage, and premium beauty services onboard.
- Laundry and ironing services throughout the cruise.
- Tips for tour guides and cruise staff, as well as other personal expenses not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
- VAT in accordance with regulations, applicable if guests require an official VAT invoice.
ITINERARY OF BAI TU LONG BAY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS CRUISE
The Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights cruise itinerary follows a scheduled timetable, which may be slightly adjusted depending on weather conditions. Any changes will be communicated by the tour guide before or during departure. Each day combines sightseeing and bay activities with relaxing breaks, ensuring a comfortable and well-balanced journey.
Day 1: Ha Long – Cong Do – Onboard Activities
12:45 – Pick-up at Ha Long International Cruise Port
Guests gather at the waiting lounge to complete check-in procedures. Staff will assist with transferring luggage onto the boat. A tender boat will then take guests from the pier to Athena Royal Cruise, anchored in the bay.
12:45 – Safety Briefing and Welcome Drinks
As the cruise departs, the captain and cruise manager introduce the onboard safety regulations and provide a brief overview of the itinerary while guests enjoy welcome drinks. This is also an opportunity to familiarise yourself with the restaurant and sundeck areas.
13:30 – Lunch and Cruise to Cong Do
Athena Royal begins its journey towards Bai Tu Long Bay, passing through the spectacular limestone landscapes of Ha Long Bay. A set-menu lunch featuring local specialities and international cuisine is served at the onboard restaurant.
15:00 – Explore Cong Do Area, Swimming and Kayaking
The cruise anchors in the calm waters of Cong Do. Guests are provided with life jackets and paddles for kayaking around the tranquil waters, limestone cliffs, and hidden lagoons. Alternatively, guests can enjoy swimming at the secluded sandy beach.
16:00 – Leisure Time and Relaxation
After swimming or kayaking, guests return to the cruise to relax in their cabins, sunbathe on the sundeck, or book an optional massage service through the cruise manager. This is an ideal time to capture beautiful photographs of the bay and sunset.
17:30 – Cooking Class
The onboard chef hosts a cooking demonstration featuring traditional Vietnamese dishes such as fresh spring rolls, fried spring rolls, or a simple Vietnamese salad. Guests can participate in preparing the dishes and enjoy tasting their own creations.
18:00 – 19:00 – Happy Hour
A Buy 1 Get 1 Free promotion is available on selected beverages at the sundeck bar or onboard restaurant (excluding bottled wine). Guests can take advantage of this special offer to enjoy their favourite drinks at attractive prices.
19:00 – Set-Menu Dinner
Dinner is served as a set menu at the table, featuring fresh seafood alongside a balanced selection of Asian and European dishes. Each course is served individually by the onboard staff, creating an intimate fine-dining experience in the heart of the bay.
21:00 – Evening Entertainment Onboard
After dinner, guests can watch movies, enjoy small games at the restaurant, try night squid fishing at the stern, or unwind with an optional massage service (additional charge). The cruise anchors overnight in the bay, offering a peaceful atmosphere for a relaxing evening.
Day 2: Explore Vung Vieng Fishing Village – Afternoon Tea – Leisure Activities
06:30 – Morning Tai Chi Session on the Sundeck
Start the day with a 30-minute Tai Chi session in the fresh morning air while enjoying the sunrise over the bay. The Tai Chi instructor will guide guests through gentle movements suitable for different age groups and beneficial for overall well-being.
07:00 – Breakfast at the Restaurant
A buffet breakfast is served with coffee, tea, milk, drinking water, pastries, bread, eggs, fresh fruit, cereals, and a selection of hot dishes. Guests can enjoy a light breakfast before joining the morning activities.
08:30 – Transfer Boat for Day 2 Excursion
A smaller transfer boat picks up guests from the main cruise for a deeper exploration of the quieter areas of the bay, characterised by crystal-clear waters and peaceful natural scenery. This excursion focuses on water-based activities and discovering the traditional lifestyle of local fishermen.
09:45 – Visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village, Kayaking or Bamboo Boat Rowing
The boat anchors near Vung Vieng Fishing Village, one of the famous fishing communities that still preserves the traditional lifestyle of fishermen in Northern Vietnam. Guests can enjoy complimentary kayaking or choose a traditional bamboo boat rowed by local residents (additional charge: VND 50,000/person). The journey takes guests through floating houses, fish farms, and pearl cultivation areas.
12:30 – Lunch on the Transfer Boat
Lunch is served at the table aboard the transfer boat, featuring familiar Vietnamese dishes in a cosy and welcoming setting. Guests can enjoy the local flavours of Ha Long while surrounded by the beautiful bay scenery.
14:30 – Tea Break and Traditional Vietnamese Tea Experience
After lunch, guests are invited to enjoy afternoon tea and light refreshments while learning about the traditional Vietnamese tea-drinking culture and the art of tea appreciation.
16:00 – Return to the Main Cruise, Relaxation and Sunbathing
Guests return to the main cruise and continue enjoying the sundeck, relaxing in their cabins, or using the spa services according to their preferences. This period allows guests to recharge after a day of exploration, maintaining a comfortable balance between activities and relaxation.
17:30 – Second Cooking Class
The second cooking class introduces another Vietnamese speciality, offering guests an additional opportunity to interact with the chef and fellow passengers. This activity is suitable for guests of different ages, especially families travelling with children.
18:00 – 19:00 – Happy Hour on the Sundeck
The beverage promotion returns, allowing guests to enjoy cocktails or their favourite drinks while admiring the beautiful late-afternoon scenery of the bay.
19:00 – Dinner and Evening Activities
The second dinner onboard is served as a set menu at the table. After dinner, guests can continue watching movies, playing games, trying squid fishing, or simply relaxing in their cabins while admiring the nighttime bay views through the windows or private balconies.
Day 3: Thien Canh Son Cave – Brunch – Check-out
06:30 – Morning Tai Chi Session
The morning Tai Chi session continues as the cruise travels from its overnight anchorage towards Thien Canh Son Cave in the Cong Do conservation area. This is an ideal opportunity to combine gentle exercise with the beautiful early-morning scenery.
07:00 – Breakfast
Breakfast is served in the same style as on previous days. Guests are advised to manage their breakfast time accordingly to join the cave excursion on schedule.
08:00 – Explore Thien Canh Son Cave
The cruise arrives at the sightseeing point, where guests disembark and climb approximately 200 stone steps leading to the cave entrance. Inside, visitors can admire a relatively pristine system of limestone stalactites and stalagmites with minimal artificial intervention. From the area outside the cave, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Bai Tu Long Bay and capture stunning landscape photographs.
09:00 – Return to the Cruise and Check-out
After the cave visit, guests return to the cruise, pack their belongings, and place their luggage outside the cabins for staff assistance with transferring it ashore. Check-out procedures are completed at the onboard reception desk.
09:30 – Brunch and Settlement of Additional Expenses
A brunch combining breakfast and lunch is served to ensure guests remain comfortable during the journey back to the mainland. Guests can also settle any additional expenses incurred during the cruise, including beverages, spa treatments, and laundry services (if applicable).
10:45 – Arrive at the Pier and End of the Journey
Athena Royal returns to Ha Long International Passenger Port. The tour guide says farewell and assists guests in collecting their luggage. From here, guests can take a transfer back to Hanoi or continue with their own travel arrangements. Those wishing to explore more of the Cat Ba – Lan Ha area can also combine this trip with a full-day Lan Ha Bay cruise tour.
BAI TU LONG BAY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS TOUR PRICES
BAI TU LONG BAY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS TOUR POLICIES
1. Child Policy
- Complimentary for 01 child aged 1–4 years sharing the parents' existing bed.
- 01 child aged 5–10 years sharing the parents' existing bed: 75% of the adult tour price.
- The second child under 5 years requiring an extra bed: 75% of the adult tour price.
- Children aged 11 and above: charged at the adult rate and entitled to full services.
2. Cancellation and Refund Policy
- Cancellation immediately after booking: 10% of the total tour price.
- Cancellation 10–15 days before departure: 30% of the total tour price.
- Cancellation 5–10 days before departure: 50% of the total tour price.
- Cancellation 3–4 days before departure: 75% of the total tour price.
- Cancellation 0–2 days before departure: 100% of the total tour price.
- Cancellations during public holidays and Lunar New Year: non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. The above cancellation policy does not apply.
- If the tour still operates despite rainy or windy weather conditions but guests voluntarily cancel, a 100% cancellation fee will apply.
3. Discount Policy
- 5$ discount per guest for groups booking from 4 guests onwards.
- 5$ discount per guest for returning customers who have previously booked tours with Cat Ba Du Ky Travel.
4. Additional Service Surcharges
- The tour price applies to the standard cabin category. If guests wish to upgrade their cabin category onboard, please contact the booking department of Cat Ba Du Ky Travel for further details.
- The tour price is calculated per guest, based on 2 adults and 1 child under 4 years old sharing one cabin. For single occupancy (1 guest per cabin), an additional surcharge of 80% of the tour price applies.
- Christmas (24 December) and New Year's Eve (31 December) surcharge: 55$/adult and 40$/child.
- Lunar New Year surcharge (30 December – 3 January): 15$/guest.
IMPORTANT NOTES AND PREPARATION TIPS FOR THE BAI TU LONG BAY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS CRUISE TOUR
To make your Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights cruise experience as enjoyable as possible, you should prepare essential documents, suitable clothing, and personal belongings while keeping in mind the onboard safety regulations.
- Personal identification documents: Adults must bring a valid original National ID card/Citizen ID card or passport. Children should bring their original birth certificates or notarised copies. International visitors and overseas Vietnamese should prepare their passports and visas (if required under immigration regulations). These documents are necessary for port clearance and cruise check-in procedures.
- Clothing and footwear: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for activities on the sundeck, kayaking, and cave exploration. It is also recommended to bring one or two nicer outfits for taking photographs onboard and enjoying dinner. A light jacket is useful as the sea breeze can become chilly in the evening, especially during winter. Soft-soled trainers or sandals are more suitable than high heels, particularly when climbing the stone steps to Thien Canh Son Cave.
- Personal essentials: Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, swimwear, and a lightweight towel or cover-up for swimming and kayaking. Basic medications such as motion sickness tablets, cold medicine, headache relief, and digestive supplements are also recommended, especially for families travelling with children. Do not forget your phone charger, power bank, and camera if you wish to capture memorable moments around the bay.
- Cash and additional expenses: It is advisable to bring a reasonable amount of cash to cover extra drinks, staff tips, souvenir purchases, or spa services. Avoid carrying excessive cash or valuable jewellery for safety reasons. The cruise may accept certain cashless payment methods, but small amounts of cash are still convenient when making quick purchases ashore or paying for small services.
- Onboard safety regulations: Guests must follow all instructions provided by the tour guide and cruise staff, especially when moving between different areas, boarding or disembarking from tender boats, and participating in kayaking activities. Life jackets must be worn correctly during water-based activities or whenever required by the crew. Do not swim or jump into the water from the cruise without permission, and never leave the group at sightseeing locations. Avoid running or playing on the sundeck while the cruise is moving or when the deck is wet and slippery.
- Weather and health considerations: Check the weather forecast for Bai Tu Long Bay – Ha Long before departure to prepare appropriate clothing and personal items. Guests with a history of cardiovascular conditions, high blood pressure, asthma, or other underlying health conditions should inform the booking consultant or tour guide in advance to ensure appropriate assistance when needed. Avoid eating excessively or consuming too much alcohol before physically demanding activities such as kayaking or climbing stone steps to maintain a comfortable physical condition.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) ABOUT THE BAI TU LONG BAY 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS CRUISE TOUR
1. Where Does the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise Tour Depart From?
The 5-star cruise picks up guests at Ha Long International Passenger Port, usually in the Sun Group Port or Hon Gai area. The exact departure location will be confirmed before the trip.
For guests booking a package with transfer services, the vehicle typically picks them up between 07:30 and 08:30 from Hanoi Old Quarter and selected hotels in the city centre, or from an agreed meeting point. The vehicle then travels along the Hanoi – Ha Long Expressway and takes guests directly to the port for cruise check-in.
Guests arranging their own transportation should arrive at the port approximately 30–45 minutes before boarding time to complete check-in procedures and avoid missing the cruise departure.
2. Is the Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise Tour Suitable for Families with Young Children?
A premium 5-star cruise is suitable for families travelling with young children thanks to its stable onboard environment, spacious shared areas, and relatively relaxed itinerary. The cruise offers family cabin categories or extra beds upon request, with additional charges depending on the child's age. Children's life jackets are available onboard, and the cruise features spacious decks and safety railings. However, parents must always supervise their children, especially around the sundeck and stairways.
When booking, parents should provide the children's exact ages, heights, and numbers so that the booking consultant can advise on the applicable pricing policy, arrange suitable cabins, and prepare additional services if available.
It is also advisable to bring milk, snacks, and essential children's medication, as these products are not specifically available for sale onboard.
3. What Is the Best Time to Take the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise Tour?
Bai Tu Long Bay can be visited throughout the year, but certain periods offer particularly favourable weather conditions.
From March to May, the weather is generally cool and pleasant, with gentle sunshine and less heavy rainfall, making it ideal for photography, kayaking, and swimming. From September to November, the air becomes cooler, the skies are often clear, and the bay's scenery is particularly picturesque. Visitor numbers are also generally lower compared with the summer season.
Summer, from June to August, is suitable for families travelling during school holidays. The weather is sunny and the sea is warm, although storms and tropical depressions may occur, potentially requiring itinerary adjustments for safety reasons.
If you need to travel on a specific date, it is advisable to book early to secure your cabin and allow sufficient time to arrange alternative plans if weather conditions require minor changes.
4. Is Kayaking Included in the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise Tour?
For most of the itinerary, kayaking activities are included in the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights cruise package and take place in designated calm-water areas.
Specifically, guests can usually enjoy kayaking at Cong Do or around Vung Vieng Fishing Village, depending on the daily arrangements and weather conditions.
If the kayaking policy changes during certain periods, any applicable surcharge will be clearly communicated under the tour exclusions section during the booking consultation.
For a more comfortable kayaking experience, guests should prepare swimwear or quick-drying clothes, a lightweight towel, and a waterproof bag for their phones or other small electronic devices.
5. Is Seasickness Common When Cruising in Bai Tu Long Bay?
The 5-star overnight cruise features a large steel hull and modern equipment, providing a relatively stable sailing experience. As a result, the rocking sensation is generally less noticeable than on smaller boats.
However, guests who are prone to motion sickness should still take precautions. It is recommended to take motion sickness medication approximately 30 minutes before departure, following the dosage instructions on the packaging.
Throughout the journey, avoid looking down at the water for extended periods. Instead, go up to the sundeck, breathe in the fresh air, and focus on the horizon to help reduce dizziness. Avoid eating excessively immediately before the cruise departs to minimise discomfort.
If you have a history of severe seasickness, inform the booking consultant or tour guide in advance so that appropriate assistance can be provided when necessary.
6. Are Wi-Fi and Charging Sockets Available on the Cruise?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available onboard. However, signal strength depends on 4G network coverage across the bay, so connection speeds may vary depending on the location.
Basic online activities such as messaging, web browsing, and social media are generally supported. However, video conferences and large data transfers may experience interruptions.
Electrical sockets are available in the cabins, restaurant, and bar areas for charging electronic devices. Guests are advised to bring a power bank and a suitable travel adapter if their devices use a different plug standard.
7. What Meals Are Included in the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise Tour?
The Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights cruise package includes the main meals served onboard according to the standard itinerary.
- Day 1: Lunch and dinner.
- Day 2: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Day 3: Light breakfast and brunch or an early lunch before the cruise returns to the pier.
The menu offers a diverse selection of dishes, prioritising fresh seafood alongside Asian and European cuisine to accommodate different dining preferences.
Special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian meals, seafood-free options, or food allergies, may be accommodated where possible, provided that guests inform the booking team before making their reservation.
Beverages such as wine, cocktails, soft drinks, beer, and other drinks are not included in the tour price and must be paid for separately according to the onboard menu.
8. What Are the Swimming Regulations During the Cruise Tour?
During the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights cruise tour, guests are only permitted to swim in designated areas approved by the crew or tour guide, where swimming boundaries and safety supervision are provided.
These regulations apply to both experienced and inexperienced swimmers to ensure everyone's safety.
Guests are strictly prohibited from jumping into the sea from the cruise, swimming outside designated areas, or leaving the group to swim or kayak without prior permission.
All water-based activities must comply with the life jacket requirements and schedules communicated by the cruise staff.
9. When Should You Book the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise Tour?
Booking time directly affects cabin availability, pricing policies, and your flexibility when making minor changes to travel arrangements.
For regular weekdays during the low season, booking approximately 5–10 days in advance is recommended to secure a wider choice of cabins and arrange your personal itinerary conveniently.
During peak periods such as summer, weekends, and public holidays, booking 3–4 weeks in advance is advisable. For large groups or guests requiring multiple adjacent cabins, booking 1–2 months ahead will provide a better chance of securing availability, selecting preferred cabin categories, and making adjustments to departure dates if necessary.
10. Are There Other Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise Tours Available?
In addition to the Bai Tu Long Bay 3 Days 2 Nights cruise tour, visitors can choose from the following alternative itineraries to explore the beautiful Bai Tu Long Bay:
