The Complete Guide
To Choosing The Best Halong Bay Family Cruises
A cruise in Halong Bay is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family. Here are some essential tips for choosing the right tour for you.
Halong Bay is a stunning natural wonder – a scattering of lowering limestone rock formations rising out of the blue-green waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Dotted with secret caves and grottos, floating through this surreal landscape feels like drifting through an ancient watercolour painting.
An overnight cruise is the best way to explore Halong Bay with your family, as it offers you more time to relax and enjoy the destination. There are many different options to choose from, so take your time and select the best cruise experience for your needs.
Things to Consider Before A Halong Bay Family Cruise
One of the initial factors you will need to consider when searching for the right Halong Bay family cruise is your budget. If you have a higher budget, you will be able to charter a boat for just you and your family and take a private cruise.
If you have a mid-range budget, there is the option to take a cruise on a boat with a family suite or two cabins that connect. Be sure to mention that you are traveling with children, as you may be able to get a discount. You can also consider renting a large cabin and having an extra bed added for your child.
Take your time and research what the different boats are like… making sure to check the safety information and read reviews from previous guests. Don’t forget to also book your travel from Hanoi to Halong Bay – a private car is likely to be your best option.
Another thing to consider when booking a Halong Bay family cruise is whether or not your family members will need any special food or accommodation while on the boat. For example, if anyone in your family is a vegetarian you should let the cruise operators know in advance so that they can make sure that there is enough food choices provided onboard.
There is also the question of where your cruise will take you. You can choose an itinerary that will take you to Cat Ba island, which will offer you more activities. Staying in Halong Bay center means you will enjoy a more active atmosphere, so if you want a quieter and more peaceful night it is better to stay in Bai Tu Long Bay.
Popular Family Cruise Options
Below are the 4 most popular and most-booked Halong Bay family cruises that you might want to consider.
Glory Legend Cruise Halong
One of the great things about booking a family cruise on the Glory Legend Cruise Halong is that children under the age of four travel for free and children 4-12 years receive a discounted price. A trip onboard this luxury vessel includes swimming at either Ti Top or Soi Sim Beach, visiting the Surprise Cave and a fascinating ceramics workshop. Tours are 2-3 days in length and you’ll also have the option of kayaking on the 3rd day.
Aclass Legend Cruise Halong
For a top notch budget option, you could consider booking a connecting suite on the Aclass Legend Cruise Halong. This unforgettable cruise will begin with a buffet dinner and will take you through the heart of Halong Bay, visiting a pearl farm, a floating village and the Surprise Cave. You and your family will also be able to enjoy kayaking, tai chi lessons and swimming in an isolated lagoon.
Signature Cruise Halong
The Signature Cruise is another option for a superb family trip. Children under the age of 4 sail for free and those aged 4-12 receive a discount. This is one of the largest boats, so the advantage is that you’ll be able to book a spacious cabin with plenty of room for everyone. If you have a large family, the Elite Family Suite Cabin gives you enough room for four adults and two children.
Signature Royal Cruise Halong
For a cruise experience that is a cut above the rest, consider treating your family to an escape on the Signature Royal Cruise Halong. This high end cruise offers unrivaled levels of luxury, including five star dining and beautifully designed suites. Book one of the beautiful Family Suite Cabins and enjoy visiting the pearl farm, kayaking and watching the sunset from the deck with your family.
Tips for a Halong Bay Family Cruise
The most important thing to remember is to pack as light as possible. You won’t be gone for long, so you can take a smaller bag and leave all of your unnecessary luggage with your hotel in Hanoi. That way, you won’t have to drag a huge suitcase onto the ship with you.
For the best possible travel experience on your Halong Bay cruise, keep these tips in mind:
- Bring a life-vest for your young children, which should be worn at all times onboard.
- Take some toys, books and games to entertain your children while on board, as this will make the journey more enjoyable for them.
- Bring bottled water, as it can be more expensive to purchase while on the cruise. The same is true for snacks.
- Don’t forget your personal documents such as passport, etc. You may need to show your passport to board the ship.
- Insect repellent as the mosquitos will come out in the evenings.
- Sunscreen and a hat.
- Extra batteries and memory card for your camera.
- Waterproof jacket in case of rain.
- Swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim.
- If you visit between May and October – bring short sleeves shirts and shorts.
- If you visit from October to May – bring long pants and a sweater as Halong Bay gets quite cool.
- Flip flops are ideal footwear for relaxing onboard the ship and sport shoes are perfect for hiking in the caves.
- If you get seasick easily, don’t forget to bring a few tablets.
- Always keep your eyes on young children and make sure they are safe on the boat.
Sit back, relax and enjoy your Halong Bay family cruise!