Review · CRUISES & BOAT TOURS
FULL package – 3D2N on 5* Luxury Cruise explore Lan Ha Bay and Halong Bay
Two bays, three days, one polished escape. This cruise combines Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay with a private balcony cabin, included meals, kayaking, caves, beaches, and onboard activities. I especially like the small maximum of 15 people and the range of things to do, from Tai Chi at sunrise to cooking classes and sunset gatherings. The main drawback is the early schedule, with mornings beginning around 6:00 or 6:15, plus extra charges for drinks and personal spending.
I also like that the cruise goes beyond the usual Halong Bay circuit. Cat Ba Island, Trung Trang Cave, Van Boi Bay, floating villages, and the Dark and Bright Cave give the three days some variety. Still, the published pickup details show both an 8:30 start time and a 9:00 to 9:30 hotel pickup window, so you should confirm the exact collection time before departure.
Key points to know before booking

The package includes more than sightseeing from the deck. You can kayak, swim, relax on beaches, join cooking classes, attend Tai Chi, and take part in sunset activities.
Kayaking and cave visits are the strongest choices if you want a closer look at Lan Ha Bay. Swimming and beach time offer a slower alternative. Tai Chi is a good fit if you like a calm start, while the cooking class gives you something social to do onboard.
The cruise also offers movies and spa treatments. Since spa services are not listed among the included items, treat them as optional extras. The same applies to personal spending more generally.
The schedule is full enough that you should not expect long, empty afternoons every day. That is a benefit for people who like variety, but less appealing if your ideal cruise means doing very little. The private balcony helps balance the organized program.
Who will enjoy this cruise most
I would recommend this trip to someone who wants a polished introduction to Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay without arranging each part separately. It is particularly suitable for couples, small families, and solo visitors who prefer a small group rather than a large ship.
You should also like early mornings and guided activities. The first two mornings begin around 6:00 or 6:15, and the days include several scheduled stops. If you want to sleep late and set your own pace, a shorter or less structured boat stay may suit you better.
The cruise is a good choice if a private balcony matters to you. It is also useful for anyone who wants Cat Ba Island included rather than seeing only the water routes around Halong Bay.
The package may be less attractive if you are mainly looking for the cheapest possible way to see the bays. You can expect extra spending on drinks and personal items, and the $620 price reflects comfort, transport, meals, and a small group rather than bare-bones sightseeing.
Practical details before you pay
Confirmation is provided at booking, and most people can participate. The maximum group size is 15, which is one of the package’s best practical features.
The exact pickup time needs clarification because the information gives both 8:30 and 9:00 to 9:30. Confirm the time, pickup point, and any possible transfer surcharge before departure.
The cruise requires suitable weather. If poor conditions cause cancellation, you are offered another date or a full refund. Cancellation terms are strict near departure: cancel at least six full days ahead for a full refund, two to six days ahead for a 50 percent refund, and less than two days ahead for no refund.
Should you book the Mon Chéri three-day cruise?
Book it if you want comfort, variety, and simple planning in one package. The private balcony, maximum group size of 15, included meals, and two-bay route give the trip a strong value case at $620, especially when you also want Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay included.
Think twice if you dislike early starts, scheduled excursions, or extra charges for drinks. For the right person, this is a well-rounded cruise with attentive guides, clean cabins, good food, and plenty to do. Confirm the pickup time and added costs first, then book if a small luxury ship sounds more appealing than a crowded day boat.
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately three days and includes two nights on the cruise.
Where does the tour begin?
Pickup is offered from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The route then continues by highway to the pier area near Hai Phong, with Tuan Chau Island listed as the first stop.
What time does pickup take place?
The detailed schedule gives a pickup window of 9:00 to 9:30, while the meeting information lists an 8:30 start time. Confirm your exact pickup time before departure.
Which bays does the cruise visit?
The route covers Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
Does the room have a private balcony?
Yes. The accommodation is described as a large room with a private balcony.
Are meals included?
Yes. All meals are included in the package.
Are drinks included?
No. Drinks and personal expenses are not included.
What activities are included?
Included activities include kayaking, a cooking class, a sunset party, swimming, beach time, and Tai Chi exercises.
How many people can join the cruise?
The maximum group size is 15 people.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel at least six full days before the start time for a full refund. Cancellation two to six full days ahead receives a 50 percent refund. Cancellation less than two full days before departure is nonrefundable. If poor weather causes the cruise to be canceled, you are offered another date or a full refund.
More Three-Day Trips in Hanoi
- 3-day Motorbike Ha Giang Loop Luxury Tour With Easy Rider
★ 4.9 · 298 reviews - Luxury Cruise 5 star Top Tier Lan Ha bay 2D1N/ 3D2N
★ 5.0 · 145 reviews - CELINA Cruise 6* Luxury Lan Ha bay 3D2N With 2 Ways Transfer
★ 4.5 · 70 reviews - From Hanoi: 3 Days Luxury Sapa Trek & Fansipan Peak with Dcar
★ 5.0 · 43 reviews
Just added around Hanoi
- From Hanoi: 3 Days Luxury Sapa Trek & Fansipan Peak with Dcar★ 5.0 · 43 reviews
- Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Mua Cave – 1 Day / By Luxury Limousine & Small Group★ 5.0 · 18 reviews
- Ha Long Symphony Cruise Luxury Day Tour from Harbor with Pick up★ 4.5 · 5 reviews
- REINA – Ha Long Luxury Day Cruise★ 4.0 · 5 reviews
- LUXURY SAPA TOUR 2D1N -Stay At 5 Star Hotel-Transfer by sleep bus★ 5.0 · 41 reviews
- From Hanoi: 2 Days Luxury Sapa Trek & Fansipan Peak with Dcar★ 5.0 · 18 reviews
- Private LUXURY Hanoi City Full day guided tour★ 4.5 · 21 reviews
- RITA CRUISE – LUXURY 5 STAR CRUISE in HALONG BAY from HANOI★ 4.5 · 24 reviews
Cruises & Boat Tours, compared.

Amsterdam Luxury Canal Cruise + Unlimited Drinks & Bites option
Read our review →
Luxury Saloon Boat Cruise with Cocktails & Waffle
Read our review →
Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Cruise on Luxury Yacht
Read our review →
Luxury Saloon Boat Cruise with Cocktails & Waffle
Read our review →
Los Cabos Luxury Sailing, Snorkel and Lunch Cruise
Read our review →
Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise
Read our review →Browse the lists this tour appears in


