Explore on your own rating
Bay cruises are easy to book; Hanoi is too far for a DIY day.
Where ships dock
- Ha Long International Cruise Port (Bãi Cháy)
- Tenders from anchorage in the bay (some ships)
Getting to town
Ha Long town is near the port. Hanoi is about 150–160 km away (2.5–3.5 hours).
Bay boat tours are the main event; Hanoi is a very long day.
Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.
Money & entry
Currency: Vietnamese đồng (VND).
Entry: Vietnam: U.S. citizens need a visa. Vietnam offers e-visas (evisa.gov.vn); cruise passengers going ashore may instead get a port-issued entry arranged through the ship. Requirements vary by line; confirm with your cruise line well ahead. (Unverified against an official source this check.)
Top sights nearby
- Hạ Long Bay limestone karsts (UNESCO; boat tour)
- Sung Sot cave
- Hanoi (long tour)
Beaches
- Bãi Cháy beach
Safety & tips
- Book bay tours with reputable operators.
- Hanoi trips eat the whole day.
- Confirm visa requirements early.
Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.
⏰ Back to the ship on time
Use tours with guaranteed return.
Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.