How to cruise Ha Long Bay on a budget

Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. Its stunning scenery of limestone karsts, emerald waters, and hidden caves is breathtaking for both domestic and foreign tourists.

However, Ha Long Bay cruises can be expensive, especially if you are on a tight budget. Still, there are plenty of great budget-friendly Ha Long Bay cruises available.

In fact, with a little planning, you can find a cruise that fits your budget and still have an amazing time.

The beauty of Ha Long Bay. Photo by Xuan Duong

Many travelers believe that the higher the price, the better the service. However, you can still enjoy Ha Long Bay cruises to the fullest without breaking the bank.

There are numerous operators that provide a pleasant cruise at an affordable price in Ha Long Bay. These cruises are typically small in size, with 6–10 cabins on board.

Despite their small size, the cabins have all basic amenities, including a comfortable bed, TV, en-suite bathroom, and a large window with a view of the magnificent bay.

Another advantage of these budget cruises is that there aren't many passengers on board due to their modest size, making them ideal for travelers who prefer a quiet and tranquil atmosphere.

These cruises not only visit Ha Long Bay but also parts of Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, which were previously thought to be only accessible by luxury or mid-range cruises.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, some cruises include a private balcony and a Jacuzzi.

All of the cruises in Ha Long Bay follow the same itineraries, so you can visit all the major attractions, even on a tight budget.

These cruises will take you to most of the bay's famous sites, such as Sung Sot Cave, Luon Cave, and Ti Top Island. These areas let you engage in a wide range of water activities such as kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling.

If you want to experience something more authentic and avoid the crowds, look for a cruise that sails through Lan Ha Bay, a lesser-known area in Ha Long Bay located to the south.

Cruising Ha Long Bay. Photo by Khac Toan Nguyen

Aside from sightseeing, there are plenty of cultural activities on board to introduce you to Vietnamese traditions. Practice Tai Chi, learn how to cook Vietnamese specialties, or try your luck at nighttime squid fishing.

There are ways to choose the best budget cruise around Ha Long Bay, given the wide range of options.

It is always important to set a budget before you begin shopping so that you don’t overspend.

If you only want to go for a day trip, the cost will likely be around US$40–50 per person.

Budget overnight cruises may cost $70–110. This includes all meals, lodging, activities, and transportation from Hanoi.

You can find even cheaper cruises, but they may have fewer amenities or activities.

Once you have narrowed down your options, read reviews from other travelers who have taken the cruises you're thinking about taking. This can provide you with a better sense of the cruise's quality, food, and activities.

Another thing to keep in mind is that Ha Long Bay cruises can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons in December or April. It’s a good idea to book your cruise ahead of time, especially if you're going during the summer.

If you’re looking for an array of cruises, you can check out CruiseInHalongBay.com by clicking here, where you can find offers on everything from boutique boat cruises to modern iron ship cruises in Ha Long Bay.