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.
Ready to Book Your Cruise?