Ultimate One-Day Halong Bay Tour Guide: Super Detailed Itinerary & Tips
Folks, if you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, a one-day excursion to Halong Bay is an absolute must! This guide is brimming with essential tips to ensure your adventure is seamless and unforgettable.

📍Booking Channels
Hanoi’s bustling streets are lined with numerous travel agencies, all capable of arranging a fantastic one-day tour to Halong Bay. You can choose from 3-star, 4-star, or 5-star cruises. There’s no need to rush into booking online; the prices there can be exorbitant and a waste of your hard-earned money.

💴Tour Fees
We booked our tour for $45 per person, which included a 5-star cruise, round-trip transportation, a buffet on board, and visits to three breathtaking spots. The price is negotiable, and after comparing about three different agencies, they offered this rate without any haggling. So, don’t hesitate to try and get a better deal!

🚗Journey
The journey to Halong Bay takes approximately two and a half hours each way, including a brief 30-minute stop at a pearl shop. While the bus does make a stop here, there’s no pressure to buy. Think of it as a convenient rest break and a chance to stretch your legs—the time flies by.

🍱Buffet
The buffet on the cruise was a delightful surprise, featuring small octopus and a variety of seafood, along with a selection of fresh fruits. However, drinks and water come at an extra cost. The guide will advise against bringing bottled water on board, but if you discreetly pack some in your bag, no one will check.

I brought along six or seven bottles of Coke, soda, and orange juice, determined not to spend extra, and thoroughly enjoyed my meals and refreshments on the boat. In the evening, there’s also a happy hour on the deck during the return journey. Whether it’s enjoyable or not, that’s for you to discover!

🌅Exploring 3 Scenic Spots
1️⃣ Surprise Cave Adventure: Step into a natural wonder where the scenery is like a masterpiece crafted by nature. Every photo you take here will leave your friends in awe.
2️⃣ Moon Lake, Speedboat Ride, and Monkey Encounters: Zip through uniquely shaped rocks by speedboat, and you might even spot some lively and adorable monkeys.

It’s an exhilarating and fun experience.
3️⃣ Climbing Resurrection Island: Ascend to the top of the mountain and be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Halong Bay. The vista is truly breathtaking and invigorating.

If you have any questions, feel free to follow me and ask anytime. I’m here to share all the insights and tips I know!