I'm planning a trip to Vietnam and would love to go to Halong Bay. The only cruises I can find are only for 1 or 2 nights and seem to be quite expensive (about $400USDpp). I suppose I'd like to know:

1. Are there any longer cruises? Or would 2 nights be enough?

2. Are there any that are more reasonably priced?

Check Sinh Cafe travel agents in Ha Noi.

They have 3 nights cruises which include Cat Ba and are cheaper than the luxury cruises you are finding.

I think it cost us around $80 each for a two day trip ncluding a night at Cat Ba island...which I'd recommend.

I found the cheaper ones but you stay on the Cat Ba Island instead of on the boat. I'd really like to stay on a boat.

There are dozens and dozens of boats that do this trip. I would prefer one that lets you stay out on the water on the boat. I can't remember the price of the trip I did, but it wasn't that much. I found it when I was in Hanoi and booked it for a few days later. I shopped around to find a good deal. I really enjoyed the trip.

Travelfish is a great source of info for SEA: http://www.travelfis...bout-halong-bay

OP,

Yes, check travel fish and other sites. There are a lot of companies offering Halong Bay tours, and you can get current reviews about them on the web.

Travelfish is a great source of info for SEA: http://www.travelfis...bout-halong-bay

That's some great information. I also used Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree for info...as well as references from some travelers I met while there. Maybe Trip Advisor can help also?

It is a beautiful bay...enjoy! Stay on the boat for the night in an isolated bay if you can...beautiful.

If you can, go when the moon is full.

Travelfish - wow, amazingly I have never heard of this before. Amazing information, really handy.

Yes, I think I will be there for the full moon. Lucky timing I guess.

I'm looking into a couple of options and really want to book before we go.

Lovely place....