Bai Tu Long Bay

Swan Cruise

Swan Cruise offers a cozy cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay with comfortable cabins, friendly crew, and well planned activities. A good option if you want quiet routes and good value.

The Four Promises

Book the boat. We cover the rest.

Four things we put in writing on every booking — because the cruise line won't.

Weather Cover

If weather forces a change, your concierge reaches you 72 hours out — before the news does — and handles every rearrangement. Premium adds priority rebooking on an equivalent-or-better vessel.

Sailing Guarantee

If your vessel cancels for any reason, we place you on an equal-or-better ship, same dates — or a full refund plus credit. Your trip sails either way.

Price Guarantee

See a lower public price for the same cabin and date after booking? We refund the difference. On Premium, your rate is protected and resolved through an upgrade rather than a transaction.

Concierge Guarantee

Every detail, as promised — or made right. We watch over your trip and fix issues before you notice. No claim forms, no arguing.

All cabin types

Deluxe Cabin

18 sqm
Half Size Ocean View
Double / Twin / Triple

Suite Cabin

sqm
Half Size Ocean View
Double / Twin / Triple

Suite Balcony Cabin

28 sqm
Full-Size Ocean View
Twin / Double
9.1/10 (9 reviews)

The ship

Swan Cruises is deluxe vessel operating in Halong Bay. It has a boutique decoration that caters for travelers seeking an intimate and genuine experience.

Our cruises feature multiple choice of cabin that will meet travelers ‘s demand such as family cabins with inter- connecting door, triple, twin, double, especially honeymoon cabins with private balcony, and luxury dining room. You will be served by a well-trained team with the best quality of services. Excitement and relaxation, your time spent with us exploring one of the most spectacular places on Earth will never be forgoten.

We have all things you need for a most relaxing cruise trip

Jacuzzi pool

Jacuzzi pool

Jacuzzi pool

Jacuzzi pool

Jacuzzi pool

Jacuzzi pool

Jacuzzi pool

Jacuzzi pool

The itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi – Bai Tu Long Bay – Cong Do – Cap La Island

07.45 – 8:30: Our bus will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and start your trip to explore the most amazing bay in the North of Vietnam. On the way, we will have a quick stop in the middle of the way to rest.

11.30-11.45: Arrive at our waiting lounge at Ha Long International cruise port, you will have a bit of time to relax. Wait for our captain to finish the registration and transfer by tender to our boat.

12.00-12.15: Enjoy a welcome drink and spend a couple of minutes briefing about safety on the boat and activities included then we check in our cabin.

13.00: A delicious Vietnamese set menu will be served while leisurely cruising further into Bai Tu Long Bay.

15.00: Arrive in the kayaking area – that is Cap La Island. Enjoy kayaking through the karst and breathtaking nature, swimming, and relaxing.

17.40: Get back to the boat and enjoy our Sunset party while our cruise sails to the overnight anchorage. Attend a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. You can quickly learn a simple but delicious Vietnamese dish that Gordon Ramsey (a 2 Michelin Star Chef) used to guide – Nem Cuon or challenge yourself in fruit and vegetable carving.

19.00: Sumptuous set dinner on board.

20.30 – 22.00: Free time to challenge yourself in Vietnamese puzzle games or gather your group/family for a board game; try your luck with squid fishing or simply have a cocktail and enjoy the quiet night on the bay. 

Day 2: Bai Tu Long Bay – Thien Canh Son Cave – Halong Port

06.00:  Sunrise Tai-chi section on the sundeck or catch a morning view of the stunning bay’s landscape with a cup of tea or coffee.

07.00: Breakfast will be served in Western style, familiar to you to fulfil your strength and ready for another exploring day.

08.00: Explore the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave.

09.00: Upon return to the boat you will have about 30 minutes to freshen up and finish packing.

10.00: Attend a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. You can quickly learn a simple but delicious Vietnamese dish that Gordon Ramsey (a 2 Michelin Star Chef) used to guide – Nem Cuon or challenge yourself in fruit and vegetable carving.

11.00: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat.

12.00: Back to the harbor and disembark at Ha Long cruise port

12.30: Our bus will take you back to Hanoi.

17.00: End of service.

Important notes:

1. Schedule and activities:

  • The program may be subject to change depending on weather conditions or specific tides without announcing to visitors in advance.
  • Time in the schedule is only relative. The specific time will be announced by our tour guide on the day of departure.
  • All activities are included in the program. Guests can choose to relax themselves and enjoy the scenery on board, without having to fully participate in activities above.

2. Menu and meals:

  • The trip with full meals on board.
  • The menu on board is daily standard for all visitors. If there are personal requirements such as diet, vegetarian … Please advise us when booking the tour or tour guide in advance. After embarking, it is no longer changeable due to the stock limit condition.
  • Identifications and personal belongings should be brought.
  • Original passport / ID card (required for check-in).
  • Cash.
  • Camera.
  • Personal wares: Sunglasses, hats, sun scream, sport shoes, casual wears.
Day 1: Hanoi – Bai Tu Long Bay – Cong Do – Cap La Island

07.45 – 8:30: Our bus will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi and start your trip to explore the most amazing bay in the North of Vietnam. On the way, we will have a quick stop in the middle of the way to rest.

11.30- 11.45: Arrive at our waiting lounge at Ha Long International cruise port, you will have a bit of time to relax. Wait for our captain to finish the registration and transfer by tender to our boat.

12.00-12.15: Enjoy a welcome drink and spend a couple of minutes briefing about safety on the boat and activities included then we check in our cabin.

13.00: A delicious Vietnamese set menu will be served while leisurely cruising further into Bai Tu Long Bay.

15.00: Arrive in the kayaking area – that is Cap La Island. Enjoy kayaking through the karst and breathtaking nature, swimming, and relaxing.

17.40: Get back to the boat and enjoy our Sunset party while our cruise sails to the overnight anchorage. Attend a Vietnamese cooking demonstration. You can quickly learn a simple but delicious Vietnamese dish that Gordon Ramsey (a 2 Michelin Star Chef) used to guide – Nem Cuon or challenge yourself in fruit and vegetable carving.

19.00: Sumptuous set dinner on board.

20.30 – 22.00: Free time to challenge yourself in Vietnamese puzzle games or gather your group/family for a board game; try your luck with squid fishing or simply have a cocktail and enjoy the quiet night on the bay.

Day 2: Full Day Activities In The Bay

06.30: Start your day with a Tai Chi routine on the sundeck or catch a morning view of the stunning bay’s landscape with a cup of tea or coffee.

07.00: Breakfast will be served in Western style, familiar to you to fulfill your strength, and ready for another exploring day.

08:30: Transfer to another small day boat to go deeper into the bay.

09:30 – 11:00: Go to visit Thay Cave. Swim and kayak around this area

11:30 – 13:00: A delicious lunch at noontime is served.

13:00 – 14:00: Visit Vung Vieng fishing village and pearl farming.

14.30 – 15:00: Return to the main Swan Cruise boat; take a break, enjoy the sunset party afterward and Cooking Class.

19.00: Dinner will be served.

20.30 – 22.00: Free time for joining games, you may also try your luck with squid fishing.

Day 3: Bai Tu Long Bay – Thien Canh Son Cave – Halong Port

06:00: Sunrise Tai-chi section on the sundeck or catch a morning view of the stunning bay’s landscape with a cup of tea or coffee.

06.30: Breakfast will be served in Western style, familiar to you to fulfill your strength, and ready for another exploring day.

07.15: Explore the well-hidden Thien Canh Son Cave.

08.30: Upon return to the boat, you will have about 30 minutes to freshen up and finish packing.

09.30: Check out.

10.00: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat

10.30: Back to the harbor

11.15 – 11:30: Disembark at Ha Long Cruise Port.

11.30 – 12:00: Our bus will take you back to Hanoi.

15.30: End of service.

Important notes: 

1. Schedule and activities:

  • The program may be subject to change depending on weather conditions or specific tides without announcing to visitors in advance.
  • Time in the schedule is only relative. The specific time will be announced by our tour guide on the day of departure.
  • All activities are included in the program. Guests can choose to relax themselves and enjoy the scenery on board, without having to fully participate in activities above.

2. Menu and meals: 

  • The trip with full meals on board.
  • The menu on board is a daily standard for all visitors. If there are personal requirements such as diet, vegetarian … Please advise us when booking the tour or tour guide in advance. After embarking, it is no longer changeable due to the stock limit condition.
  • Identifications and personal belongings should be brought.
  • Original passport / ID card (required for check-in).
  • Cash.
  • Camera.
  • Personal wares: Sunglasses, hats, sun scream, sports shoes, casual wear.

Timings shift with the weather and the port authority. Your concierge sends the final confirmed schedule 48 hours before you sail.

Terms & Conditions

Inclusions

  • Fully furnished cabin with window ocean view.
  • English-speaking guide on board.
  • All meals onboard mentioned (02 lunch, 01 dinner, 01 breakfast or 03 lunch, 02 dinner, 02 breakfast).
  • Complimentary 2 bottles of water in each cabin.
  • Entrance and sightseeing fees.
  • Kayaking.
  • Cooking class.

Exclusions

  • Transfer Hanoi – Ha Long – Hanoi (upon request).
  • Beverages, personal expenses.
  • Surcharge on Christmas, New Year, and Lunar New Year.
  • Tips for guide/driver/crew & all other services and items not mentioned specifically above.

 

Cancellation & Refund Policy

1. From 1 to 5 cabins

  • Up to 30 days before your cruise date: Free of charge
  • 15 – 29 days before your cruise date: 25% of the total price
  • 7 – 14 days before your cruise date: 50% of the total price
  • 3 – 6 days before your cruise date: 75% of the total price
  • Less than 3 days: Full charge

2. From 6 to 10 cabins and above

  • Up to 50 days before your cruise date: Free of charge
  • 35 – 49 days before your cruise date: 50% of the total price
  • 20 – 34 days before your cruise date: 75% of the total price
  • 10 – 19 days before your cruise date: 100% of the total price
  • Less than 10 days: Full charge
We reserve the right to cancel your bookings under some unavoidable circumstances like weather harbour and need to return Hanoi immediately: Full refund will be made.
Cruise cancellation is informed when guests arrive at Tuan Chau harbor and a day trip is permitted, our cruise will arrange a day trip for guests with quotation as below:
  1. Transportation Hanoi – Tuan Chau – Hanoi
  2. Lunch: 18 USD/ pax
  3. Day trip: Charged 50% as 2 day/1 night tour

Cruise cancellation is informed when guests are on a 3day/ 2night cruise and need to shorten the cruise, quotation as below:

  1. Finish 2 day/1night itinerary: Charged as 2 day/1 night tour
  2. Cruise until 17:00pm on the second day: Charged 75% as 3 day/2 night tour

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the ideal time for a cruise in Halong Bay?

The optimal time for cruising is from October to April, featuring cooler, stable weather. Nonetheless, Halong Bay’s allure is year-round, with each season offering a distinct charm. Read more about the best time to travel to Halong Bay.

What activities can guests enjoy on family friendly cruises?

On family-friendly cruises, guests of all ages can enjoy a diverse array of activities designed for both fun and cultural immersion. These include:

  • Family Kayaking: Glide through Halong Bay’s tranquil waters, offering a peaceful and bonding experience for the family.
  • Tai Chi for All Ages: Start the day with gentle Tai Chi sessions on the deck, suitable for both adults and children to relax and rejuvenate.
  • Cultural Tours: Explore local fishing villages, providing an educational and engaging experience for the whole family to learn about the local way of life.
  • Cave Explorations: Discover the wonders of Halong Bay’s famous caves, an adventure that fascinates both kids and adults alike.
  • Vietnamese Cooking Classes: Participate in family-friendly cooking classes, where you can learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes, a fun and interactive experience for everyone.

Each cruise is designed to offer a variety of experiences that cater to family interests and provide enriching activities that make your journey through Halong Bay memorable and enjoyable.

What are the Safety Measures on board a cruise boat?

Our luxury cruise ship has been certified to ensure fire safety and is fully equipped with life jackets for all guests. Additionally, we conduct annual repairs and upgrades to our yachts, ensuring they remain in top condition and provide all passengers with a safe and enjoyable experience.

Can I book a Halong Bay Private Family or Group Cruise?

Private charters are available on most boats; please get in touch with us, and our consultants will support your booking experience.

Halong Bay Cruise Price: How much does a cruise cost?

Prices vary based on the cruise, season, and room type but will fall between 110 USD and 500 USD per person per night (double/twin sharing).

What Mid-Range & Budget Cruises are good for family or group trips?

When is the ideal time for a honeymoon or romantic cruise in Halong Bay?

The optimal time for cruising is from October to April, featuring cooler, stable weather. Nonetheless, Halong Bay’s allure is year-round, with each season offering a distinct charm. Read more about the best time to travel to Halong Bay.

Can I book a Private Honeymoon Cruise in Halong Bay?

Private charters are available on most boats; please get in touch with us, and our consultants will support your booking experience.

What sets your romantic cruise picks apart from standard cruises?

We recommend more intimate, smaller boats with large private suites to enjoy the sweeping landscapes of the bay. When booking your Halong Bay honeymoon cruise or romantic trip, don’t hesitate to request special touches to make your trip memorable. Whether it’s a room adorned with roses, a bottle of champagne waiting for you, or a private terrace room for more intimate moments, these personalized details can significantly enhance the romantic atmosphere of your voyage. Our team is dedicated to making your experience unforgettable, and we welcome any specific requests to tailor your cruise to your unique preferences.

When is the ideal time for a budget cruise in Halong Bay?

The optimal time for cruising is from October to April, featuring cooler, stable weather. Nonetheless, Halong Bay’s allure is year-round, with each season offering a distinct charm. Read more about the best time to travel to Halong Bay.

Verified Customer Reviews

9.1/10 (9 reviews)
Caleb Ramsey
May 1, 2025
9.17/10

Although we were initially hesitant to book this tour because of some negative feedback, we ultimately decided it was a good investment for the price. We opted for the 3-day, 2-night package and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The staff deserves a special shoutout for their hard work in making sure our experience was pleasant. Sebastian (Quoc) stood out with his friendliness and willingness to assist. Our tour guides, Sunday and Man, were excellent. Sunday even treated us to a performance on the second evening, which added a lovely personal touch. He was engaging and very accommodating. The activities offered were enjoyable, providing us with stunning views and the chance to visit a fascinating fishing village. While the boat could benefit from some updates, considering the cost, it was still a great choice. Highly recommend!

Lukas Müller
March 16, 2025
9.5/10

The journey was an absolutely fantastic experience. The staff anticipated every need with great attentiveness. The cuisine was outstanding, and the activities, notably thanks to Mr. Sunday, were a true highlight. Much appreciation for everything. It would be wonderful to see this level of organization and service back home in Germany!

Landon Pierce
March 7, 2025
9.5/10

From beginning to end, the journey was fantastic. Sunday, our guide, was a true gentleman, attentive to all guests right from the outset, with nothing being too much trouble. He contacted us in advance to confirm pickup details and answer any queries about the two-day trip, being incredibly helpful throughout. The bus rides to and from Ha Long Bay were smooth, with the vehicle providing great comfort. Onboard, the Swan Cruise team treated us like VIPs, greeting us warmly with smiles and refreshing drinks. The rooms were spacious, tidy, and well-equipped. The activities were a blast, thoughtfully chosen and well-organized. Dining was a true pleasure, with all dietary needs accommodated effortlessly. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in search of a dependable and considerate tour operator. Sunday truly made the experience memorable, making us feel remarkably special. Thank you, Sunday, and all the best in your future endeavors.

Hans Müller
February 1, 2025
7.5/10

What an awful experience on this ship. It lacks any resemblance to Vietnam and could easily pass for a vessel on the Rhine. The booking page and website offer photos that don’t match the reality. The ship is in bad condition, and the cabin cleanliness leaves much to be desired. Some lamp fixtures are even missing. The cruise itself only sails for a couple of hours before stopping, then resumes the next day for another short journey. The food is mediocre, nothing to write home about. The scenery is lovely, but that’s the only positive aspect. Overall, a huge letdown.

Minh Nguyen
January 23, 2025
8.5/10

Our journey was a 2-day, 1-night cruise exploring Bai Tu Long Bay. Sadly, like many places in Vietnam, the area struggles with litter, and Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay are no different. As we cruised through the bay, we constantly saw plastic debris floating in the water. One of the activities was kayaking to a nearby beach for a swim. However, those hoping to enjoy the water might be disappointed, as there was an oily film on the surface, and the beach was littered with trash. What truly disheartens me is that these cruise operations are a major industry, with more than 300 boats navigating the waters daily, yet no one seems to be stepping up to clean the bay. Our main aim was to admire the natural beauty, but unfortunately, the pollution spoiled our experience.

Eve Harrison
December 19, 2024
9.5/10

Opting for the 3-day, 2-night cruise was a decision based on the thought that this might be our sole opportunity to visit. We specifically chose Bai Tu Long Bay to avoid the crowds that Ha Long Bay is known for. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience! The cabin exceeded my expectations in terms of size for a cruise ship. The meals were delicious, and they took great care to cater to our vegetarian daughter’s needs. My only gripe is the abundance of food—I dislike seeing it go to waste! The crew was incredibly welcoming. Honestly, I have no criticisms and would confidently recommend Swan Cruises!

Isaac Hudson
December 1, 2024
9.5/10

Our journey with Swan Cruise was absolutely amazing, and our guide, Sunday (Phoć), truly enhanced the experience! The schedule was expertly crafted, offering a delightful blend of activities such as kayaking, swimming, fishing, a cooking class, tai chi, and exploring breathtaking caves. Every activity was captivating and smoothly executed, allowing us to completely dive into the wonders of Halong and Bai Tu Long Bay. The accommodations were cozy and well-kept, and the cuisine was outstanding – some of the finest we tasted on our trip. My only recommendation would be to tweak the timing of the kayaking session. It was arranged right after lunch, and having a few hours to relax beforehand would have been perfect. Overall, it was a remarkable adventure, and I wholeheartedly recommend Swan Cruise to anyone traveling to Vietnam!

Lillian Hayes
October 16, 2024
9.83/10

The trip was absolutely delightful, with stunning scenery, exceptionally delicious cuisine, and a luxurious cabin. Perhaps the highlight was our wonderful host and entertainer, “Mr. sunday.” I am truly grateful for such an amazing experience.

Tuan Le
July 1, 2024
9.33/10

We embarked on a delightful overnight cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay. The journey to and from Hà Nội was smooth and pleasant, with a fascinating stop at a pearl factory where we took a short break for coffee and a restroom visit. The ship had a charming, vintage appeal. Our rooms were conveniently connected, offering plenty of space and comfort, complete with lovely bathrooms. Despite certain areas of the ship showing their age, it was kept clean and in good condition. The crew was both attentive and polite, and the dining experience was exceptional. We eagerly joined in most of the onboard and shore activities, all expertly led by our outstanding guide, Mr. Sunday, who impressed us with his professionalism, kindness, and extensive knowledge. Memorable moments included kayaking, taking a refreshing swim in the bay, making spring rolls, learning about the monochord, and participating in early morning Tai Chi on the top deck. The bay’s stunning beauty made the trip worthwhile, although it was unfortunately marred by litter. Some crowded conditions at the boat terminal and during activities did detract somewhat, but our enjoyment was enhanced by our guide’s wit and skill.

Not sure Swan Cruise is your right choice?

Tell us who is travelling and what you want out of the two days. If another boat in our fleet fits better, we will say so.