Budget Halong Bay cruises are tailor-made for young travelers and solo adventurers seeking affordable yet memorable experiences. These cruises attract those who love to party, socialize, and connect with like-minded people while exploring one of the world’s most stunning destinations. Ideal for backpackers and young explorers, budget cruises provide a lively and friendly atmosphere perfect for forming new friendships.

Beyond the social aspect, these best budget Halong bay cruises offer incredible value with delicious meals, exciting onboard activities, and visits to iconic attractions like Sung Sot Cave and Titop Island. Travelers can enjoy happy hours, fun-filled karaoke nights, and opportunities for bonding over shared adventures like kayaking or cooking classes.

What to expect on a budget Halong Bay cruise?

For young and solo travelers, a best budget Halong Bay cruise isn’t just about the destination – it’s about the connections and memories you make along the way. 

  • Affordable prices: Budget cruises keep costs low while offering excellent amenities and experiences. Perfect for young travelers and backpackers!
  • Social atmosphere: Lively, youthful vibes make these cruises ideal for meeting new people and forming friendships.
  • Delicious food: Indulge in fresh seafood, buffets, and vegetarian options, all while enjoying the view of Halong Bay.
  • Exciting activities: From kayaking and cooking classes to karaoke and squid fishing, there’s never a dull moment onboard.
  • Visits to popular attractions: Even budget cruises include must-see spots like Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave.
  • Great perks: Many cruises offer extras like happy hours, free transportation, and other surprises to enhance your experience.

Top 5 best budget Halong Bay cruises

Here are the top 5 best budget Halong Bay cruises that we suggest you for a best experience as a young and solo traveler when visit the north of Vietnam:

Apricot Cruise

Apricot Cruise stands out among Halong Bay’s budget options for its affordable pricing and welcoming, lively atmosphere. It has become a favorite choice for young travelers who are eager to combine adventure with social interaction. This cruise is perfect for forming new friendships while exploring the best of Halong Bay.

  • Transportation included: Yes (round-trip shuttle bus from Hanoi).
  • All-Inclusive: Yes.
  • Itinerary: Includes visits to Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and kayaking around floating villages.
  • Facilities: Comfortable cabins, dining area, sundeck, and karaoke lounge.
  • TripAdvisor rating: 4.7/5 
  • Highlights & complaints: Guests praise the friendly staff and fun activities but note that cabins can feel small.

Bhaya Classic

Blending traditional Vietnamese charm with modern comforts, Bhaya Classic offers a serene yet social atmosphere ideal for solo travelers. This cruise is tailored to adventurers who appreciate cultural immersion and meaningful experiences while enjoying the beauty of Halong Bay.

Bhaya Classic blends traditional Vietnamese charm with modern comforts, offering a serene yet social atmosphere. It’s perfect for solo travelers seeking cultural immersion.

  • Transportation included: Yes (luxury limousine transfer from Hanoi).
  • All-Inclusive: Yes.
  • Itinerary: Covers Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, Luon Cave, and Cua Van Floating Village.
  • Facilities: Wooden cabins with panoramic windows, sundeck, restaurant, and bar.
  • TripAdvisor rating: 5/5 
  • Highlights & complaints: Guests love the authentic Vietnamese experience and attentive service. Some mention limited vegetarian options.

Legend White Dolphin Cruise

Legend White Dolphin Cruise is a boutique option designed for travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized Halong Bay experience. Its smaller group sizes make it perfect for those who value privacy and tranquility.

  • Transportation included: Yes (shuttle bus from Hanoi).
  • All-Inclusive: Yes.
  • Itinerary: Includes Bai Tu Long Bay, Thien Canh Son Cave, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village.
  • Facilities: Boutique cabins with sea-view windows, sundeck, and dining area.
  • TripAdvisor rating: 4.7/5
  • Highlights & complaints: Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and personalized service but note limited onboard entertainment options.

Fantasea Cruise

Fantasea Cruise is the perfect option for young travelers who want an energetic and fun-filled adventure. It’s particularly popular among backpackers thanks to its youthful atmosphere and budget-conscious approach.

  • Transportation included: Yes (round-trip shuttle bus from Hanoi).
  • All-Inclusive: Yes.
  • Itinerary: Covers Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Cat Ba Island.
  • Facilities: Traditional wooden boats with dining area, sundeck, and lounge bar.
  • TripAdvisor rating: 4.15/5 (79 reviews).
  • Highlights & complaints: Guests enjoy the social vibe and affordable pricing but mention that facilities could use some upgrades.

Cristina Diamond Cruise

Cristina Diamond Cruise is known for combining affordability with modern style and excellent service. It’s an excellent choice for solo travelers who want comfort without sacrificing their budget.

  • Transportation included: Yes (round-trip shuttle bus from Hanoi).
  • All-Inclusive: Yes.
  • Itinerary: Includes Bai Tu Long Bay, Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Vung Vieng Fishing Village.
  • Facilities: Modern cabins with private balconies, sundeck, and dining area.
  • TripAdvisor rating: Not specified.
  • Highlights & complaints: Guests love the spacious cabins and BBQ dinners but note occasional delays in transportation.

Conclusion

A best budget Halong Bay cruise offers young and solo travelers affordable adventures with exciting activities, iconic attractions, and vibrant atmospheres. Choose options like Apricot Cruise, Bhaya Classic, Fantasea, and more for a memorable experience in Halong Bay.

Total 127 cruises

Emperor Cruise

Halong Bay - Me Cung Cave - Luon Cave - Tung Gau Area - Viet Hai Village - Ba Trai Dao Islets - Lan Ha Bay
  • 2 Days 1 Night, 3 Days 2 Nights

Bhaya Premium Cruise

Halong Bay - Ti Top Island - Surprise Cave - Cua Van Fishing Village - Luon Cave - Trinh Nu Cave - Tung Sau Pearl Farm
  • 2 Days 1 Night, 3 Days 2 Nights
  • Family with Kids
  • Custom
  • Vegetarian
  • Sustainable
$281

Hera Grand Cruise

Halong Bay - Ti Top Island - Surprise Cave - Luon Cave - Lan Ha Bay - Dark and Bright Cave - Ba Trai Dao Islets
  • 2 Days 1 Night, 3 Days 2 Nights

Emeraude Premium Private Charter Halong Bay

Halong Bay - Thien Cung Cave - Fighting Cocks Islet - Surprise Cave - Ti Top Island - Me Cung Cave - Luon Cave - Drum Cave
  • Private cruise

Emeraude Min Cruise

Halong Bay - Thien Cung Cave
  • Day cruise

Dragon Legend Cruise

Bai Tu Long Bay - Hon Co Island - Thien Canh Son Cave - Vung Vieng Fishing Village - Cong Dam Area - Cap La Island
  • 2 Days 1 Night, 3 Days 2 Nights

Signature Cruise

Bai Tu Long Bay - Vung Vieng Fishing Village - Thien Canh Son Cave - Cong Dam Area
  • 2 Days 1 Night, 3 Days 2 Nights

Alova Premium Day Cruise

Halong Bay - Sung Sot Cave - Ti Top Island
  • Day cruise

Phoenix Day Cruise

Sung Sot Cave - Ti Top Island - Halong Bay
  • Day cruise

Victory Star Cruise

Halong Bay - Ti Top Island - Surprise Cave - Drum Cave - Luon Cave
  • 3 Days 2 Nights, 2 Days 1 Night