Halong Bay, a world natural wonder featuring thousands of jagged limestone karsts rising majestically from emerald waters, has long been a dream destination for travelers worldwide. This destination not only boasts breathtaking landscapes and sublime waterscape but also conceals mystical caves, serene floating fishing villages, and countless engaging experiences. To fully unveil the splendor of Halong Bay, travelers can choose from a diverse range of itineraries thoughtfully designed to suit every preference and desire. From embarking on a voyage to explore magnificent caves and swimming at pristine beaches to experiencing unique floating village cultures or simply cruising the bay during sunset, every journey promises to create unforgettable memories.
In particular, 2024 marks a new milestone in Halong Bay tourism with the debut of 3 exclusive tour routes, bringing the total number of itineraries to 8 and promising more diverse and captivating exploration experiences than ever before. Let us update you with comprehensive details on these 8 routes to help you plan a seamless and truly memorable Halong Bay escape!
Detailed Guide to the 8 Halong Bay Tour Routes
According to Decision No. 2119/QĐ-UBND issued on July 22, 2024, by the People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province, Halong Bay officially operates 8 distinct tourist cruise itineraries. To serve these routes, a total of 502 cruise vessels are currently operational on the Bay.
| Routes | Tariff | Attractions Included |
|---|---|---|
| VHL1 | 310,000 VND/person | Thien Cung Cave – Dau Go Cave – Stone Dog Islet (Hon Cho Da) – Ba Hang Cave – Incense Burner Islet (Hon Dinh Huong) – Fighting Cocks Islet (Hon Trong Mai) |
| VHL2 | 310,000 VND/person | Soi Sim Beach – Titov Island – Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave – Tung Sau Lagoon – Me Cung Cave – Bo Nau Cave – Luon Cave – Trong (Drum) Cave – Trinh Nu (Virgin) Cave – Dong Tien Lake |
| VHL3 | 260,000 VND/person | Cua Van Floating Cultural Center –Tien Ong Cave – Ba Ham Lake – Ba Men Temple – Ang Du Lagoon – Bamboo Forest |
| VHL4 | 260,000 VND/person | Co Cave (Thien Canh Son) – Thay Cave – Cap La Cave – Vung Vieng Fishing Village – Tung Ang Ecological Area – Cong Do Island – Hon Xep Park |
| VHL5 | 310,000 VND/person | Thien Cung Cave – Dau Go Cave – Stone Dog Islet – Ba Hang – Incense Burner Islet – Fighting Cocks Islet – Gia Luan Pier (Cat Ba – Hai Phong) |
| VHL6 | 150,000 VND/person/trip | Elephant Foot Islet (Hon Chan Voi) – Ba Cửa Lagoon – Tung Lam Island – Cap Bai Islet (the terminal point adjacent to Gia Luan, Lan Ha Bay – Hai Phong) |
| VHL7 | 600,000 VND/person | Halong Bay exploration following itineraries VHL1-2-3-4 (exclusively for discovery cruises) |
| VHL8 | 70,000 VND/person/trip | Tuan Chau International Passenger Port – Halong International Cruise Port – Nam Cau Trang Port |
According to statistical data, Route 2 attracts an overwhelming majority of visitors with 2,366,464 arrivals (accounting for 73.57% of total visitors). Following closely is Route 1 with 742,287 visitors (23.07%). The remaining routes record much more modest numbers: Route 4 with 93,203 visitors (2.9%), Route 3 with 11,608 visitors (0.36%), and Route 5 with a mere 2,922 visitors (0.09%). Additionally, itinerary Route 8, dedicated to restaurant vessels offering dining and sightseeing, welcomed 118,023 visitors (across 835 trips operated by 4 vessels) and currently does not charge sightseeing entrance fees.
Important Notes:
- For routes (VHL 6, 7, 8), the pricing and itineraries officially take effect from May 1, 2025.
- Route VHL8 (Halong Bay Coastal Itinerary) is exclusively designed for restaurant boats.
- Route VHL7 allows luxury yachts to freely combine destinations from the 4 routes VHL1, VHL2, VHL3, and VHL4, resulting in an extended itinerary lasting up to 12 hours.
- Ticket prices are inclusive of Tuan Chau port entry fees.
- Children under 1.2 meters in height and individuals with severe disabilities enjoy complimentary admission.
Halong Bay Route 1 Details
Route 1: Tuan Chau Port → Thien Cung Cave → Dau Go Cave → Stone Dog Islet → Ba Hang Cave → Incense Burner Islet → Fighting Cocks Islet
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: 3 – 4 hours.
- Ticket Price: 310,000 VND/person (including Tuan Chau port entrance fee).
- Highlights: A classic sightseeing route focusing on Halong Bay’s most magnificent and breathtaking caves, suitable for all travelers, especially families with children.
Detailed Itinerary:
Key attractions of Route 1
Beginning the journey from Tuan Chau Port, guests will board a cruise to embark on an exploration of the Halong Bay wonder. The first destination is Thien Cung Cave, one of the most stunning caverns adorned with shimmering, ethereal stalactites that create a scene reminiscent of a heavenly realm. Next, the vessel takes guests to Dau Go Cave, which bears the glorious historical imprint of the nation with its soaring stone pillars and legends surrounding Tran Hung Dao. Leaving Dau Go Cave, travelers will admire the Stone Dog Islet, a unique islet shaped like a faithful hound guarding the bay. Following this is Ba Hang Cave, where guests can freely kayak through three interconnected caves, discovering the hidden beauty within. The journey continues to the Incense Burner Islet, an iconic symbol of Halong Bay recognized by its distinct vertical peak. Finally, the cruise pauses at Fighting Cocks Islet, a renowned pair of limestone karsts shaped like two courting roosters, symbolizing eternal love and fidelity.
Read more: 4-Hour Halong Bay Cruise (Route 1): Includes transfers & guide
Halong Bay Route 2 Details
Route 2: Tuan Chau Port → Soi Sim Beach → Titov Island → Sung Sot Cave → Tung Sau Lagoon → Me Cung Cave → Bo Nau Cave → Luon Cave → Trong Cave → Trinh Nu Cave → Dong Tien Lake
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: 6 – 7 hours.
- Ticket Price: 310,000 VND/person (including Tuan Chau port entrance fee).
- Highlights: A nature-focused journey combining cave exploration, swimming, and outdoor activities, perfect for active travelers and adventurers.
Detailed Itinerary:
Key attractions of Route 2
Departing from Tuan Chau Port, guests will immerse themselves in the fresh sea breeze. The first stop is Soi Sim Beach, a pristine, secluded beach featuring crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. Next, the vessel docks at Titov Island, where travelers can enjoy swimming, relaxing on the crescent-shaped beach, and taking in panoramic views of Halong Bay from the summit. After unwinding on the island, the journey proceeds to Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, one of the largest and most magnificent caverns in Halong Bay, adorned with fantastical, diverse stalactite formations. Following this, the cruise sails through Tung Sau Lagoon, a tranquil, sheltered bay ideal for kayaking or scuba diving to admire coral reefs. The cave exploration continues at Me Cung Cave, featuring an intricate, multi-chambered structure that evokes the feeling of wandering through a mystical labyrinth. The ship then brings guests to Bo Nau Cave—steeped in legend regarding the mythical brown pelican—and Luon Cave, where visitors can take a bamboo boat or kayak through a water archway to admire the unique landscape. Finally, the journey concludes with visits to Trong Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, and Dong Tien Lake, each harboring captivating legendary tales.
Read more: 6-Hour Halong Bay Cruise (Route 2): Includes transfers & guide
Halong Bay Route 3 Details
Route 3: Tuan Chau Port → Cua Van Floating Cultural Center → Tien Ong Cave → Ba Ham Lake → Ba Men Temple → Ang Du Lagoon → Bamboo Forest
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: Designed for overnight cruises on Halong Bay
- Ticket Price: 260,000 VND/person (including Tuan Chau port entrance fee).
- Highlights: A cultural-historical route introducing guests to local fisherman lifestyles and the heritage of Halong Bay.
Detailed Itinerary:
Key attractions of Route 3
Setting off from Tuan Chau Port, the journey brings guests to the Cua Van Floating Cultural Center, one of the largest floating fishing villages in Halong Bay. Here, travelers experience the daily life of local fishermen, explore traditional floating houses, learn about fishing and aquaculture practices, and savor regional seafood specialties. Leaving the village, the ship proceeds to Tien Ong Cave, which preserves significant archaeological artifacts testifying to prehistoric human habitation in Halong Bay. Next, visitors admire the serene beauty of Ba Ham Lake, a secluded body of water encircled by towering vertical cliffs that form a peaceful, poetic landscape. The voyage continues to Ba Men Temple, a sacred shrine dedicated to the Mother Goddess of Water – the protective deity of maritime fishermen. Finally, the cruise glides past Ang Du Lagoon and the Bamboo Forest, two destinations boasting pristine, tranquil natural scenery that instills a deep sense of relaxation.
Halong Bay Route 4 Details
Route 4: Tuan Chau Port → Co Cave (Thien Canh Son) → Thay Cave → Cap La Cave → Vung Vieng → Tung Ang Ecological Area → Cong Do Island → Hon Xep Park
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: Designed for overnight cruises on Halong Bay
- Ticket Price: 260,000 VND/person (including Tuan Chau port entrance fee).
- Highlights: An ecological route unveiling the unspoiled charm of Halong Bay through its caves, fishing villages, and ecological sanctuaries.
Detailed Itinerary:
Key attractions of Route 4
Departing from Tuan Chau Port, the vessel transports guests to Co Cave (Thien Canh Son), a cavern featuring exquisite stalactite formations that evoke a fairytale realm. Next, the itinerary visits Thay Cave, associated with legends of a benevolent healer. Leaving Thay Cave, guests explore Cap La Cave, renowned for its pristine, mystical allure. Subsequently, the ship calls at Vung Vieng fishing village, a tranquil settlement where visitors can learn about local lifestyles and enjoy fresh seafood. The journey continues to the Tung Ang ecological area, home to a diverse mangrove forest that shelters numerous rare flora and fauna species. Afterward, the cruise sails past Cong Do Island with its majestic landscapes and concludes at Hon Xep Park, where guests can partake in recreational activities.
Routes 3 and 4 are exclusively reserved for overnight Halong Bay cruises. Guests can view detailed cruise options for these routes here: #tieu-paxuan-tham-vinh-halong-cruise
Halong Bay Route 5 Details
Route 5: Tuan Chau Port → Thien Cung Cave → Dau Go Cave → Stone Dog Islet → Ba Hang → Incense Burner Islet → Fighting Cocks Islet → Gia Luan Pier (Cat Ba – Hai Phong)
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: 6 – 7 hours.
- Ticket Price: 310,000 VND/person (including Tuan Chau port entrance fee).
- Highlights: Combines Route 1 with Gia Luan Pier (Cat Ba), expanding the travel experience to explore both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.
- Note: This route requires chartering a private vessel.
Detailed Itinerary:
Key attractions of Route 5
Route 5 begins similarly to Route 1, taking guests through renowned landmarks such as Thien Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, Stone Dog Islet, Ba Hang Cave, Incense Burner Islet, and Fighting Cocks Islet. After exploring Halong Bay, the cruise continues onward to Gia Luan Pier (Cat Ba – Hai Phong), the gateway to Lan Ha Bay. Here, travelers can choose to swim, kayak, explore floating fishing villages, or extend their journey into Lan Ha Bay..
Halong Bay Route 6 Details
Route 6: Halong International Cruise Port / Tuan Chau International Passenger Port → Elephant Foot Islet → Ba Cua Lagoon → Tung Lam Island → Cap Bai Islet (adjacent to Gia Luan, Lan Ha Bay – Hai Phong)
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: Approximately 6 hours.
- Ticket Price (Estimated): 150,000 VND/person/round trip.
- Highlights: A novel itinerary exploring the pristine and majestic waters of Lan Ha Bay (Hai Phong).
- Note: Visitors must charter a private vessel for this route.
Detailed Itinerary:
Route 6 is a newly launched itinerary departing from Halong International Cruise Port or Tuan Chau International Passenger Port. The voyage guides guests to Elephant Foot Islet, an eye-catching landmark resembling a massive elephant reaching out to the sea. Next, the vessel passes through Ba Cua Lagoon, a serene, poetic bay. The subsequent stop is Tung Lam Island, where visitors can explore primary forests, swim, and engage in outdoor excursions. Finally, the cruise pauses at Cap Bai Islet, the terminal point adjacent to Gia Luan Pier and Lan Ha Bay, opening doors to further discover the coastal splendor of Hai Phong.
Halong Bay Route 7 Details
Route 7: Halong Bay exploration following itineraries VHL1-2-3-4 (exclusively for discovery cruises)
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: 12 hours
- Ticket Price (Estimated): 600,000 VND/person.
- Highlights: A flexible itinerary allowing charter yachts to freely combine destinations across routes VHL1, VHL2, VHL3, and VHL4.
- Note: Visitors must charter a private vessel for this route.
Detailed Itinerary:
Route 7 is a specialized itinerary designed for discovery yachts, offering maximum flexibility for travelers. Guests can select and combine their favorite destinations from the four routes VHL1, VHL2, VHL3, and VHL4 to curate a bespoke journey.
Routes 5 and 6 are designated for private yacht charters: Halong Bay Cruise Rates and Vessel Pricing
Halong Bay Route 8 Details
Route 8: Tuan Chau International Passenger Port → (coastal sightseeing points) → Halong International Cruise Port → Nam Cau Trang Port
Route Characteristics:
- Duration: Flexible, typically from late afternoon to evening (e.g., 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM).
- Ticket Price (Estimated): 100,000 VND/person/trip.
- Highlights: A cruise combining gourmet dining aboard with panoramic night views of Halong city, delivering a uniquely relaxing and romantic experience.
Detailed Itinerary:
