Hanoi to Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night - 2025 Itinerary & Cruise Guide

If your schedule is tight and you still want a good Ha Long Bay experience, then this 2-day 1-night trip from Hanoi is what you need.
You will enjoy cruising, kayaking, seafood meals, sunset views, and much more – all that in one convenient trip.
VIET DOVE Travel has put together the perfect itinerary for the Ha Long Bay 2D1N experience.

Table of Contents
    Breathtaking Aerial View of Ha Long Bay Cruise Tour.
    Breathtaking Aerial View of Ha Long Bay Cruise Tour.

    Why 2D1N Is Ideal for First-Time Travelers.

    You will get both Sunset & sunrise on the bay.
    Ideal time for caves, kayaking, sightseeing, etc.
    Perfect balance between price & experience.
    Easy to fit into your Hanoi travel plan.

    How to Travel from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay (2025 Update)

    Distance: 150km - ~2.5 hours

    • Limousine van (highly recommended)

    Comfortable seats, good driver, fixed schedule (approximately 300-350k VND).

    • Private Car

    Ideal for large families or groups (1.6-1.9 million VND/one way).

    • Shuttle Bus
    Famous Fighting Cock Rock in Ha Long Bay Vietnam.
    Famous Fighting Cock Rock in Ha Long Bay Vietnam.

    2 days 1 night Ha Long Bay from Hanoi itinerary

    Here is what to do in 2 days in Ha Long Bay:
    Day 1: Arrival in Ha Long Bay & Exploration

    • 8:00 AM: Start of transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.
    • 11:00 AM: Arrival in Ha Long Port.
    • 12:00 PM: Boarding & Buffet Lunch on the Cruise.
    • 2:00 PM: Visit a Cave (depending on the cruise: Sung Sot / Thien Cung).
    • 3:00 PM: Kayaking / Bamboo Boat.
    • 5:00 PM: Sunset Party + Swimming pool.
    • 7:00 PM: Dinner on the Cruise.
    • 9:00 PM: Squid Fishing / Evening Entertainment.
    Adventurous Kayaking into Mysterious Caves Ha Long Bay.
    Adventurous Kayaking into Mysterious Caves Ha Long Bay.

    Day 2: Morning Activities & Return to Hanoi

    • 6:00 AM: Tai Chi on the Deck during Sunrise.
    • 7:00 AM: Light Breakfast.
    • 8:00 AM: Visit Luon Cave / Titop Island.
    • 10:30 AM: Brunch & Disembarkation.
    • 12:00 PM: Back to the Harbor.
    • 2:30-3:00 PM: Arrival in Hanoi.
    Family enjoying breakfast on luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay.
    Family enjoying breakfast on luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay.

    Cruise Suggestions for 2D1N Trips

    Depending on your budget:

    • Budget (~1.8–2.2M VND):
    • Mon Cheri (standard)
    • Ambose Cruise
    • VDream Cruise

    Medium range (2.5–3.5M VND):

    • Paradise Elegance
    • Stellar of the Seas (offers off-season promotions)
    • Sena Cruise

    Luxury (4–6M VND):

    • Ambassador II
    • Scarlet Pearl
    • Heritage Binh Chuan
    Luxury Cruise Sailing at Golden Sunset Ha Long Bay.
    Luxury Cruise Sailing at Golden Sunset Ha Long Bay.

    Tips for First-time Overnight Cruises in Ha Long

    • Bring swimwear and a light jacket
    • Don’t miss the sunset; it’s the best moment to take photos!
    • Find out about the route of your cruise: Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay?
    • Bring cash for drinks, tips, and souvenirs.
    • Feeling seasick? Take the pill 30 minutes before departure.
    • Book in advance when planning weekend or holiday trips.
    Stunning Sunset Cruise Experience in Ha Long Bay Vietnam.
    Stunning Sunset Cruise Experience in Ha Long Bay Vietnam.

    Budget breakdown (2025 Estimate)

    Item

    Cost (USD/person)

    Notes

    Hanoi–Ha Long transport

    25–35

    Limousine

    Cruise (2D1N)

    130–250

    Mid-range

    Extra expenses

    20–40

    Drinks, tips

    Total trip

    180–300 USD

    Great value

    Ideas After Your Cruise

    • Bai Tu Long Bay (less crowded).
    • Yoko Onsen Quang Hanh (relaxation).
    • Quang Ninh Museum (culture).

    Back to Hanoi for:

    • Street Food in Old Town.
    • Water Puppet Show.
    • Train Street Photo Spots.
    Traditional Water Puppet Show in Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam.
    Traditional Water Puppet Show in Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam.

    Conclusion

    The 2D1N Ha Long Bay tour from Hanoi is the perfect combination of nature, culture, and convenience. With the smooth transportation, the beautiful cruises, and the delicious food, you'll have the most unforgettable experiences.
    VIET DOVE Travel provides limousine transfers and cruise packages with clear prices.

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