Halong Bay gets way more fun here. This 2 day Oasis Bay Cruise on the large Genz Cruise mixes serious scenery with active water play, onboard jacuzzis, and a party style night with live DJ energy.

What I like most is the way the day is built for different moods. You get real time outside on Halong Bay for kayaking and the onboard trampoline style fun, then you can slow down with jacuzzis. I also appreciate the straightforward touring setup, including pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, an English speaking guide, and a full furnished en-suite cabin with A/C and hot water.

One consideration: this is not a quiet, sit-still cruise. The schedule includes party activities and a DJ night, so if you want a low-key “library on the water” vibe, you might find the atmosphere more upbeat than expected.

Key highlights you’ll care about

• Genz Cruise size and setup, with a maximum of 68 travelers for a social feel without feeling out of control
• Active Halong Bay time, with kayaking plus water trampoline style fun on the water route
• Outdoor jacuzzi time, scheduled as a relaxation block when you want a break from activities
• Onboard party night, including live DJ and cruise team dance performance
• Cat Ba island included overnight feel, with dinner on board and nightlife style games
• Comfort basics included, like A/C, hot water, and en-suite cabin plus meals and entrance fees

From Hanoi to Tuan Chau: the start feels organized

The day begins in Hanoi, with pickup offered from the Old Quarter between 08:15 and 08:45. This matters because Halong Bay logistics can get messy when you have to coordinate taxis and separate tickets. Here, the cruise company handles the round trip within the Old Quarter area via shuttle bus.

The timing is also realistic. You’re not rushed into the boat before you’ve had a proper morning, then you arrive at Tuan Chau Harbour around late morning. After check in, you have lunch onboard, which gives you a comfortable entry point before you start moving through Halong Bay.

If you’re the type who likes to know what your morning will look like, this schedule is clear. You’ll spend the first half of Day 1 traveling and settling in, then the “fun block” starts after lunch.

Tuan Chau check-in and lunch: the calm before the water games

At around 11:00 to 11:30, you arrive at Tuan Chau Harbour at number 24. Check in is set for noon, and you’ll be welcomed with a drink before lunch. Lunch runs about 12:30 to 13:30, which is enough time to eat without feeling like you’re racing the clock.

Why this part is more valuable than it sounds: it sets you up for the afternoon without stress. You get onboard, you know where everything is, and you’re fed before you head into kayaking and beach time. If you’ve ever done day trips that “start at full speed,” you’ll appreciate the calmer ramp up here.

Also, the cruise offers complimentary morning tea and coffee, plus mineral water in your cabin. It’s not a huge thing, but those little extras reduce the temptation to pay for small items you can get included.

Halong Bay afternoon: kayaking plus trampoline style fun

The big daytime highlight is Halong Bay itself, scheduled from about 14:00 to 16:00. This is your main outdoor activity window, and it’s built around movement, not just photos.

You’ll explore the bay with kayaks, with additional beach and water play mentioned in the program. Then there’s trampolines for fun with friends. If you’re traveling with a group, this is often where the laughs happen because you’re not just standing around. You’re sharing time on the water and moving in the same direction.

Here’s the practical takeaway: this cruise works best if you’re comfortable doing water activities in an active, group setting. If you prefer a slow sightseeing pace only, you might find this part too “hands on.” But if you want Halong Bay to feel like an experience, not just a viewpoint, the structure makes sense.

The best recovery time: jacuzzis from 16:00 to 18:30

After the active block, you shift into relaxation from around 16:00 to 18:30. The cruise includes outdoor jacuzzi time around the ship, which is a smart design choice. It gives you a planned way to cool down without hunting for quiet space on a busy day.

If you’re kayaking, even at a casual level, your arms and shoulders will notice. This is where jacuzzis turn from a “nice extra” into a genuinely useful recovery break. You’re also less likely to skip it because it’s already in the schedule.

Cat Ba dinner and night life: DJ energy and games

Evening on Day 1 is centered on Cat Ba, with dinner onboard around 19:00 to 20:00. That’s followed by night activities from about 20:30 to 23:00.

This is where the cruise lifestyle shows up. You’ll have a cruise team dance performance, plus a Live DJ party, along with games and other activities. There’s also mention of a sunset party with fresh fruits and happy hour earlier in the included list, so the vibe isn’t just random, it’s built into the experience.

What to expect, practically: you’ll want to plan for a night that can feel social and energetic. If you’re traveling with friends, it’s an easy way to meet people without going to a separate bar. If you’re solo, it can also help because you’re not just staring out at dark water for two hours.

And food helps the mood. Dinner is included, and the onboard cooking gets strong praise in the provided information, including mention of a talented chef. That matters because a party night is only fun when you’re not eating something disappointing.

Day 2 dawn and breakfast: the calm start

Day 2 starts early, and the program leans into the idea of a fresh start. Around 06:30 you’ll rise and shine to catch the morning conditions, then breakfast runs about 06:45 to 09:00.

This isn’t a late start where you miss the “first light” feeling. The cruise is built around the idea that sunrise and sunrise-like views are part of the magic, so your morning is organized for it. Breakfast is light, and it’s served onboard, which keeps logistics simple.

If you prefer mornings that begin with a plan, this schedule does that for you. Even if you’re not chasing dawn photos, having a structured breakfast time can make you feel less rushed.

Morning on Halong Bay and check-out rhythm

After breakfast, you’ll pack and prepare to check out around 09:30 to 10:00. There’s also a clear note that you’ll settle drinking bills at the main bar in the dining room. That’s your “heads up” moment for spending, because beverages are not included beyond what’s listed.

Lunch is served onboard again from about 10:15 to 11:30. So even though you disembark at noon-ish, you’re not leaving hungry.

Then, at 12:00 you get off board. A shuttle bus picks you up from the waiting lounge, and the tour wraps around 15:00 with drop-off back in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

That timing is fairly important for value. You’re not stuck waiting around on the edge of your itinerary. You get a full day rhythm, then you’re back in Hanoi by mid-afternoon.

Cabin comfort: en-suite basics that actually matter

One reason this cruise is easy to recommend for couples and solo travelers is the cabin setup. The ship includes full furnished luxury en-suite cabins with A/C and hot water.

Why that’s a big deal: Halong Bay trips can be a mix of sea time and activity time, so the ability to shower comfortably and cool down at your own pace changes the trip. An en-suite cabin means you’re not sharing facilities across the whole ship.

Also, the cruise provides complimentary mineral water in the cabin. Combined with included meals and other small inclusions, it reduces how often you’ll need to grab small purchases during the day.

Food, drinks, and the extra costs to plan for

Included meals are a clear strength: breakfast, dinner, and two lunches are all part of the package. There’s also welcome drink, complimentary morning tea and coffee, and mineral water in your cabin.

Drinks are where costs can creep in. The tour notes beverages run from $5 to $10, and you’ll settle drinking bills at the main bar during checkout. The included list also mentions a sunset party with fresh fruits and happy hour, so some drink-style moments are included, but not unlimited consumption.

If you’re budget-minded, keep it simple: treat the included drinks as your baseline and only pay for what you truly want. Also remember there’s a public holiday surcharge listed as +$20, so check your calendar if your travel dates land on a holiday.

Value for $228: where the price makes sense

At $228 per person for a 2 day cruise, the value comes from stacking multiple things that would normally cost separate money or separate logistics.

You’re paying for:

• round trip style shuttle within the Hanoi Old Quarter area
• entrance and sightseeing fees
• meals across two days
• key activities like kayaking
• snorkeling style water fun elements like trampolines and outdoor jacuzzi access
• onboard entertainment like live DJ
• a cabin with A/C, hot water, and en-suite setup

If you tried to copy this trip on your own, you would likely spend money on transfers, separate ticketing, and guides, and still struggle to match the “one price includes a full schedule” feel. That’s why this works well for people who want comfort plus activity without running a spreadsheet.

That said, if you know you won’t use the onboard party elements and water play, you might feel like you’re paying for a vibe you won’t fully enjoy. This cruise is built for an active, social experience.

Who this cruise suits best (and who might prefer something else)

This Oasis Bay Cruise is a strong fit if you want:

• a Halong Bay trip with action, not only sightseeing
• a social atmosphere, with DJ night and crew-led activities
• comfort on board, especially with A/C and hot water
• a schedule that returns you to Hanoi by mid-afternoon on Day 2

It may not fit as well if you want:

• quiet, slow travel with minimal group energy
• a “mostly on land” experience, since the schedule centers on water play and time onboard
• a trip where you plan to spend most evenings in silence

Because the maximum group size is 68 travelers, it’s not a huge floating festival, but it’s also not the kind of cruise where you can expect total solitude. You should enjoy being around people.

Should you book the 2 day Oasis Bay Cruise to Halong Bay from Hanoi?

My honest take: book it if you want Halong Bay with a built-in itinerary that mixes scenery, water activities, and social fun. The combination of kayaking, trampolines, scheduled jacuzzi time, and an onboard party night is a rare mix in the value range.

You should also consider booking if you like clear structure. Pickup timing is set, meals are included, and you’re back in Hanoi by about 15:00. It’s the kind of trip that reduces decision fatigue.

Skip it if you want quiet above all. This cruise leans into energy, and the onboard entertainment is part of what you’re paying for.

FAQ

FAQ

What time does pickup start in Hanoi?

Pickup runs between 08:15 and 08:45 from the Hanoi Old Quarter area.

Where do we go first on arrival day?

You’re taken to Tuan Chau Harbour (number 24) and then check in on the cruise around noon.

How long is the cruise?

The experience is listed as about 2 days, with the tour ending around 15:00 on the second day.

Is kayaking included?

Yes. Kayaking is included in the tour features and included list.

Are jacuzzis included?

Yes. Outdoor jacuzzi time is included.

Is there a DJ or onboard entertainment?

Yes. There is live DJ on board, plus a night program that includes cruise team dance performance and other games.

What meals are included?

Breakfast is included on Day 2, dinner is included on Day 1, and lunch is included twice, on both days.

Are beverages included in the price?

Beverages are not included beyond what’s specifically listed. Beverages are noted as $5 to $10, and you’ll settle drinking bills at the main bar during checkout.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I change my booking or get a refund if I cancel?

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.