Best Budget Halong Bay Day Cruises Under $50 – Are They Worth It?

Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations—and you don’t have to spend a fortune to experience it. If you’re short on time and traveling on a budget, a Halong Bay day cruise under $50 may sound too good to be true. But in 2025, it’s still possible. This guide breaks down the best budget-friendly cruise options, what to expect, what’s included (and not), and whether they’re really worth your time and money.

Can You Really Cruise Halong Bay for Under $50?

Yes—but it comes with trade-offs. Many tour operators offer basic day cruise packages that include 4 to 6 hours on the bay, a simple Vietnamese lunch, and 1–2 sightseeing stops. These budget-friendly tours are designed for:

Backpackers.
Solo travelers.
Students.
Price-conscious tourists.

If you’re mainly interested in seeing the bay and snapping a few photos—without luxury perks—a sub-$50 cruise is more than sufficient.

5 of the most popular caves in Halong bay to explore

What’s Included in a Sub-$50 Halong Bay Day Cruise?

Standard Inclusions

4–5 hour boat cruise on Halong Bay.
Vietnamese lunch (usually a set menu).
English-speaking guide.
Visits to top sights like Titop Island or Thien Cung Cave.

halong bay one day cruise — Ti Top Island – one of the most beautiful islands in Ha Long Bay

Common Exclusions

Round-trip transfer from Hanoi (sometimes extra or low quality).
Kayaking or bamboo boat ride (may cost ~$5–$10 extra).
Drinks, tips, and personal expenses.
Entrance fees (occasionally not included in ultra-low-cost packages).

Top 3 Halong Bay Day Cruises Under $50 in 2025

Here are the top-rated, tried-and-tested cruises that deliver solid value under $50.

1. Dragonfly Cruise – Best Overall Budget Choice

A long-standing favorite among budget travelers, Dragonfly Cruise is known for its consistency and reliability. It covers the essentials with no frills—but gets the job done.

What You Get:

Cave visit + Titop Island stop.
Local-style lunch (set menu).
Friendly guide and decent service.
Optional transfer from Hanoi.
Price: ~$45 USD.
Duration: ~5 hours.
Best for: Backpackers, young groups.

2. Cozy Bay Cruise – Best No-Frills Experience

If you want a fast, cheap, and straightforward experience, Cozy Bay Cruise is one of the most affordable options on the market.

What You Get:

Shorter cruise (~4 hours).
One or two quick stops (usually a cave and lookout).
Transfer from Hanoi often included in the price.
Simple set lunch.
Price: ~$35–40 USD.
Duration: ~4 hours.
Best for: Last-minute bookings, minimalists.

3. Phoenix Day Cruise – Best Scenic Value

Phoenix Cruise is slightly more polished than most budget options and often includes kayaking in the base price, which is rare at this level.

What You Get:

Modern boat (though older than luxury options).
Sung Sot Cave + kayaking.
Buffet-style lunch with decent variety.
Transfer optional.
Price: ~$48–50 USD.
Duration: ~5 hours.
Best for: First-time visitors seeking value.

Budget Cruise Comparison Table:


Cruise Name	Price (USD)	Cruise Time	Cave Visit	Kayaking	Transfer	Meal Type
Dragonfly Cruise	~$45	5 hrs	✔	Optional	Optional	Set menu
Cozy Bay Cruise	~$35–40	4 hrs	✔	✘	✔ (Included)	Basic set
Phoenix Cruise	~$50	5 hrs	✔	✔	Optional	Buffet

Halong Bay Day Cruise: Ultimate 2025 Guide to Prices, Itinerary & Tips

Pros and Cons of Budget Cruises

Pros:

Extremely affordable.
Ideal for short visits or tight itineraries.
Covers major sights of Halong Bay.
Available daily with easy booking.

Cons:

Basic boats and minimal amenities.
Lunch is often average at best.
Larger groups = less personal service.
Itineraries are sometimes rushed or inflexible.

Are Budget Cruises Worth It in 2025?

Yes, If You:

Just want a taste of Halong Bay on a tight budget.
Prioritize sightseeing over luxury.
Are comfortable with basic services.

Maybe Not, If You:

Value quiet, intimate experiences.
Want gourmet food, sunset cocktails, or personalized guides.
Are celebrating a honeymoon or special occasion.
If you want better food, smaller groups, and comfier boats, consider mid-range cruises ($60–$90) for the best value upgrade.

Final Thoughts

A Halong Bay day cruise under $50 is a solid, scenic, and budget-friendly way to explore one of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes. While you won’t get five-star service, you will get the bay’s signature limestone cliffs, iconic caves, and a taste of Vietnamese hospitality—all at a price that’s hard to beat.