Top 7 Best Halong Bay Day Cruises for Every Budget (2025 Update)

Halong Bay’s limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and legendary caves make it one of Vietnam’s most stunning destinations—and you don’t need to spend the night to experience it. Whether you’re a backpacker on a budget or a traveler seeking luxury, a Halong Bay day cruise in 2025 offers exceptional value and unforgettable views in just one day. In this updated guide, we compare the 7 best Halong Bay day cruises across three budget levels, helping you find the perfect option for your time, taste, and wallet.

Why Choose a Day Cruise in Halong Bay?

Day cruises are the perfect way to soak in the beauty of Halong Bay without committing to an overnight stay. Ideal for travelers with limited time or those based in Hanoi, these cruises typically run from 4 to 7 hours and include key highlights such as caves, kayaking, and beach stops.

Benefits of a day cruise:
Lower cost than overnight cruises
Easy round-trip options from Hanoi
Flexible schedules
Ideal for short trips or multi-stop Vietnam tours

Vietnam Launches Remarkable Cave Dining Accompanied by Cultural Spectacle

How We Chose These 7 Cruises

We analyzed traveler reviews, pricing data, 2025 itinerary updates, cruise safety ratings, and onboard service quality to curate a list that covers:

Luxury and semi-luxury options
High-value mid-range cruises
Affordable, no-frills experiences
Reliable operators with consistent reviews

Top 7 Best Halong Bay Day Cruises

1. Halong Catamaran – Best for Luxury Lovers

This sleek, modern catamaran sets a high bar for one-day cruising. Think open-air decks, a jacuzzi, glass-walled dining, and no more than 40 guests onboard.

Highlights:

Premium buffet lunch
Spacious sun deck & bar
Kayaking & swimming at Titop Island
Professional English-speaking staff
Price: ~$135 USD
Duration: 6 hours on the bay
Ideal for: Couples, honeymooners, luxury travelers

2. Genesis Day Cruise – Best Premium Experience Under $100

With plush limo transfers from Hanoi and a smooth, spacious cruise design, Genesis hits the sweet spot between price and comfort.

Highlights:

Buffet lunch with vegetarian options
Sung Sot Cave + kayaking
Hotel pickup/drop-off included
Price: ~$95 USD
Duration: 6 hours
Ideal for: Couples, small families, mid-range travelers

3. JadeSails – Best Semi-Luxury Cruise

Offering fewer passengers per trip and an ultra-modern look, JadeSails stands out for attentive service and a premium vibe without breaking the bank.

Highlights:

International fusion meals
Kayaking and cave exploration
Rooftop deck with panoramic views
Price: ~$120 USD
Duration: 6–7 hours
Ideal for: Couples, foodies, design-conscious travelers

4. Paradise Explorer – Best Classic Luxury Cruise

From one of Halong Bay’s most established cruise brands, Paradise Explorer delivers polished luxury on a tight schedule.

Highlights:

Gourmet lunch
Stops at Luon Cave & Titop Island
Signature onboard hospitality
Price: ~$140 USD
Duration: 6 hours
Ideal for: First-time visitors, families, upscale travel

5. Dragonfly Cruise – Best for Budget Travelers

Dragonfly is a reliable choice for those looking to experience Halong Bay without spending a fortune.

Highlights:

Basic set lunch
Group tour of key sites
Optional kayaking
Price: ~$40–$50 USD
Duration: 4–5 hours
Ideal for: Solo travelers, backpackers

6. Alova Cruise – Best Mid-Range with Balanced Features

Comfortable seating, solid food, and a consistent itinerary make Alova a great middle-ground option.

Highlights:

Sung Sot Cave + kayaking
Free Hanoi pickup
Buffet lunch
Price: ~$65 USD
Duration: 6 hours
Ideal for: Balanced travelers, small groups

7. Cozy Bay Cruise – Best No-Frills Experience

If you’re short on time and just want to tick Halong Bay off your list, Cozy Bay Cruise is simple, cheap, and efficient.

Highlights:

Quick sightseeing tour
Local-style lunch
Good for last-minute bookings
Price: ~$35 USD
Duration: 4 hours
Ideal for: Budget-conscious, tight-schedule tourists

Cruise Comparison Table


Cruise Name	Price (USD)	Duration	Meals	Kayaking	Best For
Halong Catamaran	~$135	6 hrs	Gourmet	✔	Luxury seekers
Genesis Cruise	~$95	6 hrs	Buffet	✔	Mid-range comfort
JadeSails	~$120	6–7 hrs	Fusion	✔	Couples, scenic lovers
Paradise Explorer	~$140	6 hrs	Gourmet	✔	Families, 1st-timers
Dragonfly Cruise	~$45	4–5 hrs	Local	Optional	Budget travelers
Alova Cruise	~$65	6 hrs	Buffet	✔	Value seekers
Cozy Bay Cruise	~$35	4 hrs	Local		Quick getaways

What’s Included in Most Day Cruises?

Round-trip hotel transfers (from Hanoi or Halong)
Vietnamese lunch (buffet or set menu)
All sightseeing tickets (Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island)
English-speaking guide
Kayaking or bamboo boat (varies)

Always check your cruise’s inclusions and what costs extra.

Travel Tips for Booking a Halong Bay Day Cruise

Book early if traveling between October and April
Check refund policies (especially in rainy season)
Pack essentials: sunscreen, hat, swimwear, motion sickness meds
Bring cash for tips and drinks onboard

Pro tip: Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect Halong Bay’s fragile ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

A Halong Bay day cruise is one of the best ways to experience Vietnam’s natural beauty in a short amount of time. Whether you’re after luxury, value, or speed, these top 7 cruises for 2025 cover all the bases—letting you tailor your experience to your time and budget.