In the morning, guests who book the transfer service will be picked up from hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter or a designated meeting point between 07:00am-07:45am. The comfortable drive to Halong Bay takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, with a short rest stop en route.
Arriving at Halong Cruise Port around 10:30am-11:30am, guests are transferred by electric cart to Iris Day Cruise. After boarding, a welcome drink is served while the cruise manager introduces safety guidelines and the day’s itinerary. Iris then begins its graceful journey through the iconic seascape of Halong Bay, passing hundreds of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters.
As the cruise sails deeper into the bay, guests are invited to enjoy a premium buffet lunch onboard, featuring fresh Halong seafood, sashimi, sushi, BBQ selections, and a variety of Asian and European dishes (a set menu is served when the number of guests is under 30). Dining takes place in the elegant restaurant with panoramic bay views, creating a relaxing and memorable culinary experience.
After lunch, the cruise stops to explore Sung Sot Cave, the largest cave in Halong Bay, renowned for its magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. The journey continues to Luon Cave, where guests may choose to kayak or take a bamboo boat through a serene, enclosed lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs.
Later in the afternoon, Iris Cruise visits Titop Island, offering free time to swim at the beach or hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the bay. Returning onboard, guests unwind as the cruise slowly heads back toward the harbor, enjoying a canapé party accompanied by live music on the sundeck or relaxing in the four-season Jacuzzi pool while admiring the sunset scenery.
Iris Day Cruise concludes at Halong Cruise Port around 5:00pm. Guests using the transfer service return to Hanoi, arriving at their hotels at approximately 7:30pm-8:00pm.
Note: Itinerary may be adjusted based on weather, tides, or port regulations. Wi-Fi is available in public areas but may be limited due to the bay’s geography.
You may see other options?
Bai Tu Long Bay Day Cruises: quieter routes & pristine scenery
Lan Ha Bay Day Cruises: emerald waters & Cat Ba landscapes
Halong Bay Overnight Cruises