Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 155 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay worth booking?
Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay is a 7-hour experience in Hanoi, Vietnam, from $89 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 155 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (155)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $89 per person
7 Hours Experience the Heritage of Halong Bay ONBOARD SEA OCTOPUS Sea Octopus was named after the symbol of the sea with the mission of bringing visitors to the Bay an unforgettable journey of gastronomy that will awaken all your senses with the beauty of nature, the savory taste, the luxurious facility, and the perfect service.
What you get
- Optional add-ons or special arrangements can be requested
- Onboard Insurance, Full life jackets onboard
- The services of our professional crew
- Round-trip Shuttle Bus Transfers: Hanoi ~ Halong Port ~ Hanoi (Limousine Van - Applied for TG1)
- Welcome drinks, In-house English-speaking Tour Guide
- Lunch
About this experience
7 Hours Experience the Heritage of Halong Bay ONBOARD SEA OCTOPUS Sea Octopus was named after the symbol of the sea with the mission of bringing visitors to the Bay an unforgettable journey of gastronomy that will awaken all your senses with the beauty of nature, the savory taste, the luxurious facility, and the perfect service.
What's included
Included
- Optional add-ons or special arrangements can be requested
- Onboard Insurance, Full life jackets onboard
- The services of our professional crew
- Round-trip Shuttle Bus Transfers: Hanoi ~ Halong Port ~ Hanoi (Limousine Van - Applied for TG1)
- Welcome drinks, In-house English-speaking Tour Guide
- Lunch
- Entrance and Sightseeing Fees
Not included
- Kayak rental, Personal expenses
- Tips & all services, items are not mentioned specifically in the list above!
What you'll see and do
Sung Sot Cave
Sea Octopus Cruise leaves Halong International Cruise Port. Passengers embark and enjoy a welcome drink and fresh fruit while watching a short video of cruise information, safety guidelines, and an environmentally sustainable travel guide. Visit Sung Sot Cave. This is the largest and one of the most beautiful caves in Halong bay, ... The journey continues taking you to loads of fun. You can choose one of two following activities:
60 minutes here · Admission included
Hang Luon Cave
1-Explore Luon cave by bamboo boat or kayak. Luon Cave is a beautiful destination in Halong Bay with a unique entrance leading to a skylight surrounded by steep cliffs reflecting on the surface of calm clear water. 2- Experience the thrill on a private canoe tour to discover the magnificent beauty of Halong Bay (PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO) ..... 14:45 - 15:30 The cruise moves to the coastal area, and returns to the Port, end of your journey.
45 minutes here · Admission included
Ti Top Island
Ti Top island is located about 14 kilometers to the east of Bai Chay tourist harbor. It has a beach that is shaped like a crescent moon and is known for its tranquility and beautiful still blue waters. The sands of the beach have been dyed white by the ocean’s surf creating a perfect picture of paradise.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Bai Tho Mountain
Not so much a mountain as a hill, Bai Tho Mountain is only 650 feet (200 meters) high. This makes the mountain easy to climb and to get to the top should not take more than 30 minutes. Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with a splendid view of the Bay and of Halong City. It is said that here is where you’ll truly understand why it’s called Halong or in English: Descending Dragon.
Pass by without stopping
Hon Ga Choi Island
Fighting Cock Islet is a popular tourist destination and is regarded as the symbol of Halong Bay, Vietnam. Resembling the shape of a rooster and a hen standing opposite to each other, the islet creates an interesting visual and attracts tourists’ curiosity.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Start from Hanoi City Center:
->Sea Octopus Vessel: Was named after the symbol of this Halong’s specialty with the mission of bringing visitors to the Bay an unforgettable ... ->Loads of fun activities: From kayak between karst limestone outcrops and thrills on a bamboo boats to sipping on cocktails you’ve mixed and shaken you ->First 5 Star Day Cruise: Sea Octopus Cruise is the first and largest 5-star day cruise in Halong Bay. The ship is elegantly designed and possesses ... Duration: 12 hours: -The journey including pick up & drop off in Hanoi City Center (4,5 hours road trip + more than 7 hours visit the Halong Bay) ->Lunch w Quintessence of A&E: Lunch at Bayside Delight restaurant (1st floor) or Sea Breeze (2nd floor) with 100 Quintessence of Asian & Eurasian cuisine! ->World Nature Heritage Site: Explore Halong Bay including: Sung Sot cave, Luon cave, Titop island, Bai Tho Mountain, Dinh Huong - Ga Choi islets. ->Private A/C car/mini van: Private new modern air-condition car (On Request) or Limousine van (Default) round-trip transfer to/from Hanoi City Center. ->Welcome Drinks upon check-in: You will be served a welcome drinks and provided with a cold towel upon check-in on vessel. Pickup included
Start at Halong Cruise's Port:
->Sea Octopus Vessel: Was named after the symbol of this Halong’s specialty with the mission of bringing visitors to the Bay an unforgettable ... ->Loads of Fun Activities: From kayak between karst limestone outcrops and thrills on a bamboo boats to sipping on cocktails you’ve mixed and shaken you ->First 5 Star Day Cruise: Sea Octopus Cruise is the first and largest 5-star day cruise in Halong Bay. The ship is elegantly designed and possesses ... Duration: 7 hours: The journey only including about 7 hours visit around Halong Bay with pick up & drop off guest at: Halong Int'l Cruise's Port ->Lunch w Quintessence of A&E: Lunch at Bayside Delight restaurant (1st floor) or Sea Breeze (2nd floor) with 100 Quintessence of Asian & Eurasian cuisine! ->World Nature Heritage Site:: Explore Halong Bay including: Sung Sot cave, Luon cave, Titop island, Bai Tho Mountain, Dinh Huong - Ga Choi islets ->Welcome Drinks upon check-in: You will be served a welcome drinks and provided with a cold towel upon check-in on vessel. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, zh-TW, th, ko, ja, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Halong Luxury Cruise Lines Jsc,.
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Swimming or kayaking excursions may be cancelled or replaced by land activities due to poor weather. Unused services are not subject to a refund.
- Meals onboard are fusion: Vietnamese, seafood and international. Guests should advise any special food preferences, allergies or dietary requirements at least three (3) days prior to cruise date.
- Advance registration is required with full name, date of birth, nationality, gender, passport number and visa expiry date for all passengers. A valid passport is required upon check-in. Otherwise, boarding may be denied by port authority.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 155 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
6 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
155 verified traveler reviews for Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Service & the Experience doesn't get much better than this!
Just got off what an amazing experience. Staff unbelievable service, great food and activities. Highly recommended.
via Tripadvisor
Overnight Cruise
We spent 2 days, 1 night on the ship & found the staff brilliant and the activities brilliant also. Would highly recommend this ship.
Response from the operator: Dear Irishvisitor2020, It was our honors to provide you a comfortable stay. Nothing pleases us more than hearing your compliment about the cruise, the attentiveness and excellent service of our staff. Please rest assured that your precious comment will be shared with the cruise team. We are sure that this feedback will serve as an encouragement to all of our staff. We wish to have the opportunity to welcome you back to our cruise and provide you another memorable stay Best regards, Huong Hai Sealife Cruises Team
via Tripadvisor
THE best crew!
Mr Ha and Mr. Viet did everything to make our stay Great! All the staff is extremt friendly, Happy and helpfull. THE kajaking was amazing! A must! Perfect schedule, Great food and really nice rooms with balcony. Highly recomended to choose this company! Good with safety on excursions and excellent English speaking. We hade THE best time! Thank you so much!!!
Response from the operator: Dear K145JQcarolines, It is very pleasing to know that you had an excellent overall experience at our cruise from the arrival to the departure, the colonial atmosphere, the pleasant breakfast and rest assured that your kind words will be shared to staff and I am sure that this will push them to strive even harder for excellence. Best regards, Huong Hai Sealife Cruises Team
via Tripadvisor
Great overnight cruise
Had a really great experience on the Huong Hai Sealife cruise. Halong bay is just beautiful. The staff were very accommodating, friendly and helpful. They made my birthday special by surprising me with a cake. Excellent food. Great activities. A pleasant couple of days in Ha Long Bay. Thank you to Mr Ha, Mr Viet and rest of the staff. Would definitely recommend.
Response from the operator: Dear Bhavin1204, We wish to have the opportunity to welcome you back to Huong Hai Sealife Cruise and provide you another memorable trip. It is very pleasing to know that you had an excellent overall experience at our cruise from the arrival to the departure, the colonial atmosphere. Rest assured that your kind words will be shared to our team and I am sure that this will push them to strive even harder for excellence. Best regards, Huong Hai Sealife Cruises Team
via Tripadvisor
Beautiful scenery and wonderful service
Wow! Halong Bay is beautiful!! The staff are very friendly and helpful. The boat is clean and view in morning from the lovely big windows is absolutely amazing. Highly recommend 😊 thanks you to Ha and the wonderful staff
Response from the operator: Dear Cherieb3viet, We are much obliged to you for kind words which you wrote about our cruise. Please keep all your beautiful memory in mind. Best regards, Huong Hai Sealife Cruises Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $89 to $119
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 54
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hanoi.
How much does Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay cost?
+
Prices start at $89 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hanoi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay take?
+
Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Hanoi is not rushed.
Is Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 155 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hanoi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay?
+
Around 54 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Hanoi can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Hanoi and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Hanoi within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Hanoi?
+
On Outty we rank every Hanoi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Ha Giang Loop 3-Day Small Group - from Hanoi, (Group/Individual) HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR, Incense Village Quang Phu Cau, Hat Village and Hanoi City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Hanoi?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Hanoi?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay?
+
Included: Optional add-ons or special arrangements can be requested; Onboard Insurance, Full life jackets onboard; The services of our professional crew; Round-trip Shuttle Bus Transfers: Hanoi ~ Halong Port ~ Hanoi (Limousine Van - Applied for; and Welcome drinks, In-house English-speaking Tour Guide. Not included: Kayak rental, Personal expenses; and Tips & all services, items are not mentioned specifically in the list above!. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1695 listed pickup locations in and around Hanoi. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay offered in?
+
It is offered in German, Chinese, Thai, Korean, Japanese, English, Italian, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay?
+
Across 155 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, photo opportunities, good for families. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
What booking options are available for Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay?
+
There are 2 options to choose from, including Start from Hanoi City Center:, Start at Halong Cruise's Port:. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Sea Octopus Cruise | First 5 Star Vessel | 7h Explore Halong Bay.
Pick your date
