Ha Long Bay Cruise Discount Code 2025: Book Your Vietnam Adventure for Less

Searching for a Ha Long Bay cruise discount code? You've found the right guide. We sailed through Ha Long Bay's emerald waters on the Orchid Trendy Cruise in September 2022, and it was one of the highlights of our eight months exploring Southeast Asia. Here's everything you need to know about booking a Ha Long Bay cruise, including how to save money and what to expect on board.

Best Ha Long Bay Cruise Deals (Klook Discount Code)

Before we dive into our experience, let's talk savings. The best way to book Ha Long Bay cruises is through Klook with our exclusive promo code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK. This code works on all Ha Long Bay cruise bookings and gives you the best available rate plus additional discounts.

Top Ha Long Bay Cruise Options on Klook

Orchid Trendy Cruise (3D2N) - This is the ship we sailed on for our three-day adventure. With 20 well-appointed cabins, this boutique cruise offers an intimate Ha Long Bay experience without the crowds of larger vessels. The rooms feature large windows with stunning bay views, and the service was impeccable. Use code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK to save.

Starlight Cruise 5-Star (3D2N) - For a luxury 3D2N experience, the Starlight Cruise delivers five-star service with premium amenities. This cruise includes the full three-day itinerary with that essential relaxing middle day, plus upgraded dining and spa facilities. Apply promo code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK at checkout for the best rate.

Grand Pioneers Cruise (2D1N) - If you're limited on time or budget, the Grand Pioneers offers a quality 2D1N experience with visits to Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island. While we strongly recommend 3D2N if possible, this is a solid shorter option. Use code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK to save.

Our Ha Long Bay Cruise Experience: Why 3D2N Was Perfect

We departed from Hanoi early on a September morning in 2022 for our three-day, two-night adventure. The drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay takes about three to four hours, depending on traffic. Most cruises include transportation from Hanoi, but double-check when booking.

Booking the 3D2N cruise was one of the best decisions we made in Vietnam. That middle day on the ship made all the difference. While 2D1N cruises rush from activity to activity with barely time to breathe, the three-day option gave us that magical full day to simply exist in Ha Long Bay. We could swim when we wanted, kayak at our own pace, lounge on the deck watching the limestone karsts drift by, and actually feel like we were on a vacation rather than checking boxes on a tour itinerary.

Boarding the Orchid Trendy Cruise

When we arrived at the port, the organized chaos of dozens of cruise ships boarding simultaneously was impressive. Our Orchid Trendy Cruise stood out with its sleek design and smaller size compared to some of the massive vessels around us. The 20-cabin capacity meant we'd have a more intimate experience than those boarding ships with 50+ rooms.

The welcome aboard was warm and professional. Fresh towels, welcome drinks, and a thorough safety briefing set the tone. Our cabin exceeded expectations. Large windows framed the limestone karsts perfectly, and the bed was surprisingly comfortable for a cruise ship. The bathroom was modern and well-maintained, something we appreciated after months of staying in budget accommodations across Southeast Asia.

Day One: Sailing Into a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ha Long Bay earned its UNESCO World Heritage status for good reason. As we sailed away from the port on day one, the dramatic limestone pillars rising from emerald waters became more numerous and impressive. With three young daughters aboard (Lily was 7, Harper was 3, and our youngest was just 1), we worried about keeping everyone entertained over three days. Those concerns evaporated quickly.

The cruise staff organized activities perfectly throughout our three days. On day one, we kayaked through hidden lagoons, where the silence was broken only by our paddles dipping into the calm water and our girls' excited whispers about the caves they spotted. The kayaking brought us close to the karsts in a way that's impossible from the ship, and even our youngest enjoyed the gentle paddle with Lindsay.

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) was another day one highlight. The name fits. The entrance opens into a massive cavern illuminated by colorful lights highlighting the stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. Our girls were mesmerized, asking questions about how the formations developed and spotting shapes in the rock formations. The cave is large enough that even with multiple tour groups inside, it never felt crowded.

Day Two: The Middle Day That Changes Everything

This is why we recommend the 3D2N cruise over anything shorter. Day two had optional morning activities, but the pressure was completely off. We woke naturally (well, as naturally as you can with a one-year-old), had a long breakfast, and then decided what we wanted to do.

We chose to kayak again in the late morning when the light was beautiful and fewer boats were around. The girls were more confident the second time and actually helped paddle. After kayaking, we returned to the ship for lunch and then spent the afternoon exactly how we wanted: swimming off the boat, reading on deck, and Lindsay even got an hour at the spa while I kept the girls entertained.

That afternoon was magical in a way that's hard to describe. No rushing to the next activity, no checking our watches, just our family floating among ancient limestone karsts with nothing to do but enjoy being there. The girls played card games on deck. We took photos without feeling like we needed to document everything. We talked about our travels, where we'd been, and where we wanted to go next.

The 3D2N cruise also took us deeper into the bay than the 2D1N route typically goes. We sailed into Lan Ha Bay, which is part of the same karst system but less crowded. The scenery was just as stunning, but we saw maybe five other boats all afternoon instead of the dozens near the main Ha Long Bay attractions.

As the sun set on day two, we realized this middle day had been the highlight of our entire cruise. Not the activities or the caves or the famous viewpoints, but simply having time to be present in one of the world's most beautiful places without any agenda.

The Food: Better Than Expected Across Three Days

Cruise food can be hit or miss, but the Orchid Trendy's restaurant consistently impressed us across all our meals. Breakfast featured both Western and Vietnamese options. Fresh tropical fruit, pho, spring rolls, eggs prepared to order, and strong Vietnamese coffee started each day right. The girls loved the French toast and fresh mango.

Lunch and dinner showcased Vietnamese cuisine with some international dishes mixed in. The seafood was incredibly fresh, which makes sense given our location. Grilled fish, steamed prawns, and squid prepared multiple ways appeared at most meals. The staff accommodated our vegetarian requests without any issues, and they were patient with our picky eaters.

Over three days, the menu rotated enough that we never felt like we were eating the same meals. Having six full meals plus snacks on board meant we really got to experience the range of what the kitchen could do.

One evening, the crew organized a cooking demonstration on deck. We learned to make fresh spring rolls, and the girls had a blast trying to wrap their rolls as tightly as the chef demonstrated. We still make spring rolls at home now, using the techniques we learned that evening on Ha Long Bay.

Sunset and Sunrise: The Magic Hours Over Three Days

We experienced two sunsets and two sunrises on our 3D2N cruise, and each one was different. The sunsets from the deck were spectacular. As the sun dipped behind the limestone karsts, the bay transformed. The emerald water turned golden, then pink, then deep purple. Other cruise ships lit up in the distance, creating a floating city of lights among the ancient stone formations.

We watched traditional fishing boats with their distinctive red sails pass by, and our guide explained how these fishermen live on the water year-round, their floating villages part of Ha Long Bay's living culture.

Both mornings, we woke up early (which isn't hard with young children) and joined other early risers on deck for tai chi as the sun rose. The instructor led us through slow, deliberate movements while the bay awakened around us. Fishing boats headed out, other cruise ships started their engines, and the karsts emerged from the morning mist. Having two mornings meant even the kids got into the routine and looked forward to the tai chi sessions.

Ha Long Bay Cruise Duration: 2D1N vs 3D2N

This deserves its own section because it's one of the most important decisions you'll make when booking. We chose the 3D2N option and we're so glad we did.

Why We Chose 3D2N (And You Should Too)

Most travelers default to the two-day, one-night cruise because it's cheaper and shorter. But here's what you're actually getting with the typical 2D1N schedule:

Day 1: Depart Hanoi at 8am, arrive at pier around noon, board ship, immediate lunch, kayaking in early afternoon, cave visit, return to ship, dinner, sunset viewing, sleep.

Day 2: Sunrise tai chi at 6:30am, breakfast, one morning activity (like Ti Top Island), checkout by 10am, disembark by 11am, back in Hanoi by 3pm.

Notice what's missing? Any actual time to relax on the ship. You're constantly moving from one scheduled activity to the next.

The 3D2N Difference: That Magic Middle Day

The three-day, two-night cruise adds a full middle day that transforms the entire experience. Our day two on the Orchid Trendy was absolutely perfect. We woke up without an alarm, had a leisurely breakfast while watching the morning mist lift off the karsts, and then the day was ours.

There were optional activities if we wanted them, but the pressure was off. We kayaked in the late morning when the light was perfect, swam in the afternoon when we felt like it, and Lindsay enjoyed the spa while I entertained the girls on deck. That afternoon, with no schedule and nowhere to be, we all just sat together watching the limestone formations drift by. The girls colored, Lindsay read, and I finally felt like we were actually on vacation rather than on a tour.

The 3D2N cruises also venture deeper into the bay and into Lan Ha Bay, reaching more remote areas with fewer boats. You'll see different caves and islands than the standard 2D1N route, and you'll have time to actually enjoy them rather than rushing through.

Our Honest Recommendation

If you can afford the extra $100-200 per person and have the time, absolutely book the 3D2N cruise. That middle day isn't just "nice to have," it's when Ha Long Bay transforms from a beautiful place you visited into an experience you'll actually remember. The 2D1N cruise works if you're on a very tight budget or schedule, but you'll be missing the best part of cruising Ha Long Bay: the chance to simply be there.

We're glad we did. The climb took about 20 minutes at our pace (with many breaks for the little ones), but the panoramic view from the top was worth every step. The 360-degree vista of Ha Long Bay from above revealed the true scale and beauty of this natural wonder. We could see dozens of cruise ships scattered among hundreds of limestone pillars, all set against the turquoise water.

The beach at Ti Top's base offered a chance to cool off after the climb. The water was warm and clear, perfect for a quick swim before heading back to the cruise.

What We Wish We'd Known Before Booking

Looking back at our Ha Long Bay cruise experience and having talked to other travelers about their trips, here's what we wish someone had told us:

Weather matters more than you think.

We visited in September during the shoulder season. The weather was mostly sunny with occasional rain showers, which actually made for dramatic photos. The summer months (June-August) are hot and humid with frequent rain. Winter (November-February) can be surprisingly cool and misty. Spring (March-May) offers the best weather, but also the highest prices and most tourists.

Consider 3D2N for the full experience.

We booked the three-day, two-night cruise and cannot recommend it strongly enough. The middle day transforms the entire trip from a rushed tour into an actual vacation. You have time to truly relax on the ship, swim at your leisure, and soak in the bay's beauty without constantly moving to the next activity. The 2D1N cruises pack everything into back-to-back schedules with early departure times. If your budget and schedule allow, the extra day is absolutely worth it and makes Ha Long Bay feel like the destination it deserves to be rather than just another stop on your Vietnam itinerary.

Book directly through Klook for the best prices.

We compared prices across multiple booking sites and travel agencies. Klook consistently offered the lowest rates, especially when using our discount code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK. Plus, their customer service in English was excellent when we had questions.

The cruise schedule is flexible.

While the itinerary listed specific times for activities, the actual timing was more relaxed. If you're tired, skip an activity. Want to spend more time kayaking? The staff accommodated that. Don't feel pressured to do everything.

Pack light, but bring the essentials.

You won't need much on the cruise, but sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes for cave exploration, and a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces are crucial. We used a dry bag for our kayaking excursion to protect our phones and cameras.

Staying Connected: Ha Long Bay WiFi and Data

The Orchid Trendy Cruise offered WiFi, but it was spotty at best. This is true for most Ha Long Bay cruises, as you're sailing among limestone karsts with limited cell tower coverage. We relied on our Holafly Vietnam eSIM for data when we needed it. Use code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off.

The intermittent connectivity was actually refreshing. For 48 hours, we weren't constantly checking emails or scrolling through social media. We were present with our family and the spectacular scenery around us.

That said, if you absolutely need reliable internet (for work or staying in touch with family), download any important documents or entertainment before boarding. We downloaded several movies and audiobooks for the girls, though they barely touched them given how engaged they were with the cruise activities.

Ha Long Bay vs Lan Ha Bay: Which Cruise Should You Choose?

Many travelers ask whether they should cruise Ha Long Bay or neighboring Lan Ha Bay. We chose Ha Long Bay for our trip, but here's what we learned from other travelers about the comparison:

Ha Long Bay is the more famous option. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with dramatic limestone karsts and more cruise options. The bay sees more boat traffic, especially during peak season. This was fine for us because the bay is massive, and we rarely felt crowded except when boarding and disembarking.

Lan Ha Bay is part of the same karst system but less developed and less crowded. Cruises here tend to be smaller and more focused on kayaking and water activities. If you want a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Lan Ha Bay might be better. However, the iconic Ha Long Bay views are in Ha Long Bay proper.

We don't regret choosing Ha Long Bay. The recognition as a UNESCO site is well-deserved, and even with other boats around, the bay's immense size meant we often felt alone among the karsts.

Family-Friendly Ha Long Bay Cruises: Tips for Traveling with Kids

Traveling with three children under eight years old, we worried about how they'd handle the cruise. Here's what worked for us:

Choose a cabin with a window or balcony.

Being able to see outside helped prevent any seasickness and kept the girls entertained during downtime. The Orchid Trendy's large cabin windows were perfect.

Bring motion sickness medication.

The water in Ha Long Bay is generally calm, but some children are sensitive to any boat movement. We had children's Dramamine just in case (we didn't end up needing it).

Let them be part of the activities.

The kayaking, cave exploration, and cooking class gave the girls hands-on experiences they still talk about. Don't treat the cruise as something to observe; participate fully.

Flexible schedule is key.

Some cruise lines cater more to families than others. We found the staff on the Orchid Trendy to be incredibly accommodating when we needed to adjust meal times or take breaks from activities.

Pack snacks.

While the cruise provides plenty of food, having familiar snacks for the kids helped with picky eating moments and gave us something to offer during the long drive from Hanoi.

The Environmental Reality of Ha Long Bay Tourism

We can't write about Ha Long Bay without addressing the environmental challenges the bay faces. Over the past few decades, the dramatic increase in tourism has put pressure on this fragile ecosystem. We noticed plastic waste floating in some areas, and our guide openly discussed the ongoing efforts to clean up the bay and regulate the cruise industry.

Many cruise operators, including the Orchid Trendy, are working to minimize their environmental impact. They use modern waste management systems, limit single-use plastics, and educate passengers about protecting the bay. As travelers, we can support these efforts by choosing responsible cruise operators and being mindful of our own environmental impact during the trip.

The Vietnamese government has been tightening regulations on Ha Long Bay cruises, limiting the number of boats allowed and imposing stricter environmental standards. This is positive for the long-term health of the bay, though it does mean cruise prices have increased in recent years.

Beyond the Cruise: Exploring Hanoi Before and After

Most Ha Long Bay cruises include transportation from Hanoi, so you'll likely spend some time in Vietnam's capital city before or after your cruise. We spent five days in Hanoi total, sandwiching our two-day cruise in the middle.

Hanoi was our introduction to Vietnamese culture after a month in Bangkok. The city's energy, incredible street food, and rich history made it one of our favorite cities in Southeast Asia. The Old Quarter's narrow streets filled with motorbikes, street food vendors, and coffee shops gave us a crash course in Vietnamese urban life.

Don't miss the water puppet show in Hanoi. This traditional Vietnamese art form was a hit with our kids and provided cultural context for the scenes we saw carved into rocks at Ha Long Bay's caves. The show is about an hour long, which is perfect for children's attention spans.

We also visited the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, explored the Temple of Literature, and ate more pho than we could count. The French colonial architecture throughout the city tells the story of Vietnam's complex history, and our girls asked thoughtful questions about the buildings and monuments we encountered.

Booking Your Ha Long Bay Cruise: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to book your Ha Long Bay adventure? Here's exactly how to do it:

Step 1: Choose Your Cruise Duration

Decide between 2D1N (budget-friendly but rushed) or 3D2N (more expensive but includes a full relaxation day on the ship). We recommend 3D2N if your schedule and budget allow. Then browse Klook's Ha Long Bay cruise options. Filter by duration, price range, and amenities. Read recent reviews to get a sense of what each cruise offers.

Step 2: Select Your Dates

Ha Long Bay cruises run year-round, but the best weather is from March to May and September to November. We visited in September and had excellent weather with fewer crowds than the spring months.

Step 3: Add to Cart and Apply Discount Code

At checkout, enter promo code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK in the discount field. This works on all cruise bookings and will give you the best available rate.

Step 4: Confirm Transportation

Most cruises include round-trip transportation from Hanoi hotels. Confirm your pickup location and time. The drive is 3-4 hours each way, so factor this into your schedule.

Step 5: Prepare for Your Trip

You'll receive a confirmation email with detailed instructions, including what to bring, pickup times, and contact information. Download the Klook app to access your booking offline during your trip.

Ha Long Bay Cruise Costs: What You're Actually Paying For

Ha Long Bay cruise prices vary widely based on the vessel, season, and length of cruise. Budget cruises start around $100-150 per person for a 2D1N trip, while luxury cruises can exceed $400 per person.

The Orchid Trendy Cruise falls in the mid-range category, typically priced around $200-250 per person. This includes all meals, activities, transportation from Hanoi, and accommodation in a comfortable cabin. Children's rates are available and significantly discounted.

What you're paying for isn't just the accommodation and transportation. You're paying for the UNESCO World Heritage Site experience, the included activities (kayaking, cave visits, cooking class), all meals, and the convenience of having everything organized for you. When you break it down by meal and activity, the value becomes clear.

Booking through Klook with code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK typically saves you 5-15% compared to booking directly with the cruise operator or through other booking platforms. The discount code applies to most cruise options on Klook, not just the ones we've highlighted.

Should You Book a Ha Long Bay Cruise?

If you're in Vietnam, yes. Ha Long Bay lives up to its reputation as one of Southeast Asia's must-see destinations. The limestone karsts, emerald water, and unique ecosystem create scenery unlike anywhere else in the world.

For families, the cruise format works surprisingly well. Everything is organized, meals are included, and the activities keep children engaged while being educational. The cruise gives you a contained adventure that's easier to manage than navigating Vietnam's cities with young kids.

For couples or solo travelers, Ha Long Bay offers either romantic isolation or opportunities to meet other travelers, depending on which cruise you choose. The smaller, more upscale cruises like the Orchid Trendy provide a more intimate experience, while larger budget cruises have a social hostel-like atmosphere.

The only travelers who might want to skip Ha Long Bay are those who've already seen similar karst formations in places like Guilin, China, or Thailand's Phang Nga Bay. Even then, Ha Long Bay's scale and the cruise experience make it worth considering.

Watch Our Ha Long Bay Cruise Videos

Want to see what a Ha Long Bay cruise actually looks like? We documented our entire experience on our YouTube channel.

Watch our Ha Long Bay cruise vlog to see the Orchid Trendy Cruise, the activities, meals, and what two days on Ha Long Bay really feels like with a family.

Check out our Vietnam travel highlights, which includes our Ha Long Bay experience plus our time in Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Final Thoughts: Ha Long Bay Was Worth the Hype

We've visited famous tourist destinations that disappointed us. Ha Long Bay wasn't one of them. Despite the crowds, the environmental challenges, and the somewhat touristy nature of the cruise experience, Ha Long Bay delivered on its promise of spectacular natural beauty.

The cruise format, which initially seemed limiting, actually enhanced our experience. Having accommodation, meals, and activities organized meant we could focus on enjoying the bay with our family rather than worrying about logistics. The Orchid Trendy Cruise provided the perfect balance of structure and flexibility, comfort and adventure.

Would we do it again? Absolutely. We've already talked about returning to Vietnam when the girls are older and doing a longer cruise that explores more of the bay. Ha Long Bay is the kind of place that rewards repeat visits, revealing new perspectives each time.

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, book your Ha Long Bay cruise through Klook and use code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK for the best rates. Whether you choose the Orchid Trendy like we did or one of the luxury options like Grand Pioneers, you're in for an unforgettable experience among the limestone karsts of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ha Long Bay Cruises

How much does a Ha Long Bay cruise cost?

Ha Long Bay cruises range from $100 to $500+ per person depending on the cruise line, cabin category, and season. Mid-range cruises like the Orchid Trendy typically cost $200-250 per person for 2D1N. Book through Klook with code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK for the best rates.

Is 2 days 1 night enough for Ha Long Bay?

While the 2D1N cruise is the most popular option for budget-conscious travelers, we actually recommend the 3D2N cruise if your schedule and budget allow. The 2D1N itinerary feels rushed with back-to-back activities and early departures. The 3D2N cruise includes a full middle day on the ship where you can truly relax, swim at your leisure, and enjoy the bay without constantly moving to the next activity. That extra day makes a huge difference in the overall experience.

What is the best time to cruise Ha Long Bay?

March to May and September to November offer the best weather with comfortable temperatures and less rain. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid with frequent showers. Winter (December-February) can be cool and misty but creates dramatic photos.

Do Ha Long Bay cruises include meals?

Yes, all Ha Long Bay cruises include meals. The Orchid Trendy Cruise included breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. The food quality exceeded our expectations with fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties. Vegetarian options are available when requested.

Is Ha Long Bay cruise worth it with kids?

Absolutely. Our three daughters (ages 1, 3, and 7) loved the cruise. The kayaking, cave exploration, and swimming kept them engaged. Choose a 2D1N cruise for younger children to prevent restlessness. The Orchid Trendy staff was excellent with kids.

How do I get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?

Most cruises include round-trip transportation from Hanoi hotels. The drive takes 3-4 hours each way. If your cruise doesn't include transport, you can book it separately through Klook or hire a private car. Don't attempt public transportation with luggage.

Can I swim in Ha Long Bay?

Yes, most cruises include swimming stops at beaches like Ti Top Island. The water is warm and generally clean in designated swimming areas. Bring appropriate swimwear and water shoes for rocky areas.

What should I pack for a Ha Long Bay cruise?

Essentials include sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes for caves, light jacket for air-conditioned spaces, swimwear, and a dry bag for kayaking. Most cruises provide toiletries. Pack light as cabin storage is limited.

Is WiFi available on Ha Long Bay cruises?

Most cruises offer WiFi, but it's unreliable due to the bay's remote location among limestone karsts. We recommend getting a Holafly Vietnam eSIM with code ADAMANDLINDS for data when needed, though connectivity is still limited in the bay.

Are Ha Long Bay cruises safe?

Yes, reputable cruise operators like the Orchid Trendy and Grand Pioneers maintain high safety standards. All cruises provide life jackets and conduct safety briefings. The waters in Ha Long Bay are generally calm. Choose cruises with good safety ratings on Klook.

Can I book a Ha Long Bay cruise last minute?

While last-minute bookings are possible, we recommend booking at least a week in advance for better cabin selection and rates. Peak season (March-May) requires even earlier booking. Klook offers instant confirmation when you book online.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

Most nationalities require a visa for Vietnam. Requirements vary by country and change frequently. Check current requirements for your nationality well before your trip. E-visas are available for many countries and can be processed online.

What activities are included in Ha Long Bay cruises?

Standard activities include kayaking through lagoons and caves, visiting Sung Sot Cave or other caves, swimming at Ti Top Island or similar beaches, tai chi sessions, cooking demonstrations, and meals on board. Some luxury cruises add spa treatments, wine tastings, or specialized activities.

Is motion sickness a problem on Ha Long Bay cruises?

The waters in Ha Long Bay are generally calm, and motion sickness is rare. However, if you're sensitive to any boat movement, bring motion sickness medication. We had medication for our kids but didn't need it during our cruise.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. When you book through our Klook links using code ADAMANDLINDSKLOOK, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our family travels and keeps our content free. We only recommend cruises and services we've personally used and genuinely recommend.