Overnight Mercury Cruise: 2-Day Lan Ha & Halong Bay Escape from Hanoi

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

You step off the tender into warm salt-scented air as limestone towers wink across a green sea—Mercury Cruise casts off from Tuan Chau and slips into the quieter channels of Lan Ha Bay.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 days.

Fitness level

Suitable for travelers in light to moderate physical condition; short paddles and swimming optional.

Frequently asked questions

Where does boarding start and how do I get there from Hanoi?

Boarding is at Tuan Chau harbor; most operators include a hotel pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter with a 3.5–4 hour transfer by private van or bus.

Are kayaking and swimming included?

Yes—guided kayaking and opportunities to swim or take bamboo-boat rides are standard parts of the two-day itinerary, weather permitting.

What is the cabin standard and are bathrooms private?

Mercury Cruise offers suite cabins with private bathrooms, showers and in some cases bathtubs, plus common areas like a dining room and sun deck.

Is the trip suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

The cruise is family-friendly but not recommended for those with significant mobility issues because of tenders, ladder transfers, and wet surfaces; infants must sit on laps.

Local insights

Wildlife

White-bellied sea eagles
Long-tailed macaques on outlying islets

History

Halong and Lan Ha’s limestone karsts formed over millions of years; the bay has long supported floating fishing communities whose work continues alongside tourism.

Conservation

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage area; choose operators that limit single-use plastics, respect no-anchor zones, and follow local waste management practices.

About Rose Tourist

Rose Tourist operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationHa Long, Quảng Ninh

Tours offered4+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Bring seasickness remediesEven calm bays can get choppy; carry motion-sickness tablets or acupressure bands for the tender transfer and open-water stretches.

Waterproof your essentialsUse a small dry bag or pouch for passports, phone, and camera during kayaking and bamboo-boat rides.

Shoes for wet surfacesNon-slip deck shoes or sandals protect you during transfers, ladder climbs, and slippery piers.

Cash for local purchasesBring some Vietnamese đồng for small purchases in floating villages or tips—cards aren’t accepted everywhere.

Recommended gear

Light waterproof jacket: Quick protection from sudden rain and wind on deck or during shore excursions.
Non-slip deck shoes: Improve traction on wet surfaces and during shore landings.
Seasickness medication or bands: Reduce nausea during tender transfers and open-water stretches.
Waterproof phone case / dry bag: Protect electronics and documents during kayaking and bamboo-boat trips.