If You Go to Vietnam for Halong Bay Day Cruise, Where Should You Start?

When travelers dream of Vietnam, Halong Bay often tops their list. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts, is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Asia. While many visitors stay overnight on cruises, a Halong Bay day cruise is an excellent choice for those short on time or looking for a budget-friendly yet unforgettable experience.

But here’s the key question: if you only have one day, where should you start your Halong Bay adventure? Whether you’re flying into Hanoi, staying in Halong City, or coming from another part of northern Vietnam, your starting point will determine how smooth and enjoyable your day trip is.

Let’s break it down.

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Why Choose a Halong Bay Day Cruise?

A day cruise is perfect for travelers who:

Have limited time in Vietnam.
Prefer a short, flexible itinerary.
Want to save money compared to overnight cruises.
Are based in Hanoi or nearby cities.

Most day cruises last between 4 to 8 hours, offering highlights like kayaking, cave exploration, swimming and a fresh seafood lunch onboard. You still get the magical Halong Bay experience without committing two or three days of your itinerary.

The Main Starting Points for a Halong Bay Day Cruise

Where you begin your journey matters. The right starting point ensures you spend more time cruising and less time in transit.

From Hanoi – The Most Popular Starting Point

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and the most common starting point for a Halong Bay day cruise.

Distance: 2.5 to 3 hours via the Hanoi–Halong expressway.

Transport options:

Shared shuttle bus (affordable but slower).
Luxury limousine van (comfortable, direct).
Private car (best for flexibility and groups).

Why start from Hanoi?

Most tourists already land in or pass through Hanoi.
Early morning departures get you to Halong in time for a 10:30–11:00 a.m. cruise.
Easy to book combined transfer + cruise packages.

For first-time visitors, Hanoi is the most convenient and stress-free choice.

Halong bay day cruise - Hanoi to Halong local bus — Hanoi to Halong local bus

From Halong City – Staying Local for Convenience

If you plan to stay in Halong City the night before or after your cruise, you’ll be steps away from the action.

Transfer time: 10–20 minutes to Tuan Chau Marina.

Advantages:

No early wake-up calls.
Opportunity to enjoy Halong nightlife, seafood restaurants and local markets.
Perfect if you want to combine a Halong Bay day cruise with exploring the city.

This is the smartest option for those who dislike long car rides and want to maximize relaxation.

From Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong)

Hai Phong’s Cat Bi Airport is an alternative for international or domestic travelers who want to skip Hanoi.

Distance: Around 1.5 hours to Got Pier (Lan Ha Bay) or 2 hours to Tuan Chau Marina.

Why it works:

Shorter journey compared to Hanoi.
Convenient for direct domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang.

While not as popular as Hanoi, Hai Phong is becoming a rising starting point thanks to its airport access and proximity to Lan Ha Bay cruises.

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From Ninh Binh – A Less Common Starting Point

Ninh Binh, often called the “Halong Bay on land,” is another fascinating region of northern Vietnam. Some travelers try to combine both destinations in one trip.

Distance: 4–5 hours by car to Halong.
Pros: Scenic route, efficient for combo itineraries.
Cons: Long travel time makes it less practical for a true one-day experience.

If you have two or three days, you can pair Ninh Binh with Halong for a diverse experience. But for a simple day cruise, it’s better to start from Hanoi or Halong City.

Choosing the Right Port for Your Halong Bay Day Cruise

Halong Bay has multiple departure ports and the one you choose shapes your experience.

Tuan Chau International Marina – The Main Hub

Largest and busiest port.
Home to most luxury day cruises.
Ideal for first-timers who want variety and easy access.

Halong bay day cruise - Tuan Chau Marina harbour — Tuan Chau Marina harbour

Hon Gai International Harbor

Departure point for Bai Tu Long Bay tours.
Quieter alternative, with fewer crowds and a more “authentic” feel.
Great for those who want to escape the busiest parts of Halong.

Got Pier (Hai Phong)

Gateway to Lan Ha Bay, a less touristy part of the region.
Convenient if flying into Cat Bi Airport.
Perfect for travelers seeking serenity and kayaking opportunities.

How to Get From Your Starting Point to the Cruise Port

Here are the best transfer options depending on your starting location:

Hanoi → Halong: Expressway shuttle bus, limousine van, or private transfer.
Hai Phong → Got Pier: Taxi or pre-arranged private car.
Ninh Binh → Halong: Long private car ride (recommended for multi-day itineraries only).

Pro tip: Many cruise operators include transportation from Hanoi or Halong hotels in their packages. Always ask in advance—it can save time, money and stress.

Best Time to Plan Your Halong Bay Day Cruise

Timing is everything, especially when your adventure lasts only a day.

Best months: October to April (cooler, drier, clear skies).
Avoid: July to September (typhoon season with occasional cancellations).
Summer bonus: May to June offers sunny weather, great for swimming, but expect heat and humidity.

For photography and comfort, spring and autumn are ideal.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Maximize your Halong Bay day cruise with these insider tips:

Book early if traveling during peak seasons (December–March, summer holidays).
Choose hotel + cruise packages for smooth transfers.
Leave Hanoi early to avoid traffic and catch the morning cruise.
Opt for a luxury limousine if you want comfort on the road.
Pack light: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light jacket and a camera.

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Recommended Itinerary for a Halong Bay Day Cruise

A typical 6-hour cruise itinerary looks like this:

07:00 a.m. – Depart from Hanoi (if starting there).

10:30 a.m. – Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina and board your cruise.

11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Cruise highlights:

Visit limestone caves like Sung Sot or Thien Cung.
Kayak or bamboo boat ride around lagoons.
Swim at Titop Island or explore fishing villages.
Enjoy a seafood lunch onboard.

04:00 p.m. – Return to port.

07:30 p.m. – Arrive back in Hanoi (if returning the same day).

This itinerary gives you the essence of Halong Bay in just one day.

Where Should You Start Your Halong Bay Day Cruise?

So, where should you begin your journey?

Hanoi – Best for most tourists, easy access, and tour packages.
Halong City – Ideal if you want convenience and relaxation.
Hai Phong – Great for travelers flying in directly.
Ninh Binh – Best suited for multi-day combined trips.

No matter where you start, a Halong Bay day cruise is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Vietnam journey. With proper planning, you’ll have a smooth trip and plenty of time to soak in one of the world’s most stunning seascapes.