Best Halong Bay Cruises for Backpackers
Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering limestone cliff and quiet water. It is one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam, and you can enjoy its views from sunrise to sunset.
For backpackers, choosing the right cruise is important. A good cruise helps you see more places for a fair price and lets you enjoy fun activities you might not get on your own. It is also a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends.
Let’s look at the best Halong Bay cruise choices for backpackers and why they are worth it.
Why
Traveling as a backpacker can be challenging, especially on a tight budget in a famous place like Halong Bay.
A backpacker cruise is a smart option because it is cheaper, more fun and still follows a similar itinerary to higher priced cruises. You can visit well known spots such as Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island and Luon Cave. You will enjoy the same views, kayaking, swimming and photo stops while spending much less.
Backpacker cruises are also very social. You can meet other travelers, join onboard parties and make new friends from around the world. Along with the fun, you still get the chance to explore lively party in castaway islands and enjoy the natural beauty of Halong.
How much does they cost?
The prices for backpacker friendly cruises in Halong Bay are usually very reasonable.
They range from about 35 USD to 150 USD per person, depending on the itinerary you choose. A day cruise normally costs 35–50 USD, while a 1 night cruise can go up to 130 USD. If you choose a 2-night trip on Castaway Island, the price may reach 150 USD, but it includes almost everything such as meals, transport, entrance fees and your own cabin.
When you compare these prices with what you would spend on accommodation, food and activities if you did not visit Halong Bay, the overall cost is actually very good value.
Duration
There are three popular options for backpackers when visiting Halong Bay: a 1 day cruise, a 2 days 1 night cruise, or 2 nights on a Castaway Island.
1 Day Cruise
A 1 day cruise is a quick option. You will be picked up in the morning and travel about 3 hours to reach Halong Bay. Once there, you will have around 6 hours to explore. During this time, you can try kayaking, visit a floating village and explore limestone caves. After the trip, you return to the harbor and head back to Hanoi in the evening.
2 Days 1 Night Cruise
This is a better choice if you want more time. After the travel time, you will have almost a full day to enjoy the bay. Staying overnight on the boat is a special experience, especially when you can enjoy the quiet morning and sunset in the middle of the bay.
2 Nights on Castaway Island
Spending 2 nights on Castaway Island gives you a full experience. You can join many activities and explore a more remote side of Halong Bay. You may wake up on a quiet island, join beach parties at night or try fun activities like climbing and swimming.
Best Halong Bay Cruises for Backpackers
Oasis Party Cruise
Oasis Party Cruise is known as the only 5-star style cruise made for backpackers. Built in 2018, it has a modern design, 3 jacuzzis, a water trampoline, a dance floor, a restaurant and a fully stocked bar. Beside the usual activities like kayaking and swimming, you can join karaoke nights or even perform on their indoor stage.
This version of the Oasis Cruise follows a quieter route in Lan Ha Bay. The 2D1N trip covers places like Frog Pond, Tra Bau and Dark & Bright Cave. The highlight is the 3D2N trip, where you spend two nights, one on the boat and one on Freedom Island, a private island with climbing, beach sports and fun evening activities.
Style: Party Cruise
Itinerary: 2D1N, 3D2N
Cost: 120 - 150 USD per person
Booze Party Cruise
Booze backpack Party Cruise is one of the newester party cruises. It comes with a performance stage, DJ booth, trampoline and a lively sound system. One of its biggest advantages is the price: dorm rooms start from only 86 USD.
Style: Party Cruise
Itinerary: 2D1N, 3D2N
Cost: From 86 USD
Le Journey Cruise
Le Journey is a small wooden boat with only 15 cabins, perfect for backpackers who want a quiet experience. It offers more privacy than most party cruises. The boat includes a mix of activities: kayaking, swimming or Cat Ba Island visiting.
Style: Budget Cruise
Itinerary: 2D1N, 3D2N
Cost: Around 110 USD per person
Amanda Premier Cruise
Amanda Premier (formerly Crown Legend Cruise) used to be a 5-star cruise. Today, it is an affordable option with private balconies in all cabin types, something rare at this price point. The metal boat is stable and comfortable, with activities like kayaking, squid fishing and Tai Chi. Vietnamese meals are also included.
Style: Budget Cruise
Itinerary: 2D1N, 3D2N
Cost: From 105 USD per person
Alova Premium Cruise
Alova Premium is a metal day boat for about 70 passengers. Operated by a long-established Go Asia Travel. It offers good service, English-speaking guides and enjoyable activities like kayaking and swimming. It’s ideal if you have limited time but still want a full Halong Bay experience.
Style: Day Cruise
Itinerary: 1 day
Cost: 50 USD per person
Conclusion
Halong Bay is full of stunning limestone mountains and beautiful water, and backpacker cruises make it easy to explore the area without spending too much.
If you're still unsure which cruise to choose, feel free to contact us for advice and options.
