Bai Tu Long Bay extends Ha Long Bay to the north-east, with the same limestone pinnacles and far fewer boats: it is the option to pick if Ha Long's crowds put you off. From Hanoi, allow 2.5 to 3.5 hours by road to the departure port (Hon Gai or the Van Don area) and a 2-day/1-night cruise: about 96 to 228 USD per person depending on the boat category on reseller listings seen in October 2026, and 180 to 350 USD for 1 night according to a specialist guide. The transfer from Hanoi is often extra (for example 25 USD per person each way on a 3-day offer).
Highlights
The limestone islets and calm waters
The same landscapes as Ha Long, with more isolated anchorages. Kayaking is nicer here, with less traffic.
The rock arches and rowing boats
The cliffs pierced by arches are explored by rowing boat or kayak. 2-day programmes often include a floating fishing village and a cave (Thien Canh Son), sometimes with squid fishing or a cooking class.
Sunset and the night on board
The real plus of a Bai Tu Long cruise: there are fewer boats and the bay is calmer.
The islands of Quan Lan and Van Don
For a longer stay ashore, beaches and fishing villages (check prices when booking).
Practical info
Tips
- Compare recent reviews, which vary a lot from boat to boat. Check what is included: the Hanoi transfer and cave entrances are sometimes optional. From December, prices rise by 25 to 35% (holiday season). To avoid paying top price for Ha Long, see the Ha Long Bay day cruise, the luxury cruise and Lan Ha, the other alternative.
How to get there
From Hanoi, 2.5 to 3.5 hours by expressway to Hon Gai or Van Don (limousine: 350,000 to 500,000 VND per person each way according to a guide). Most cruises include hotel pickup in Hanoi, sometimes as an option.
Opening hours
Nearby
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