Cruise Timings

Pick-up, Boarding, Disembarkation & Return Schedule

To help you plan your journey smoothly, below is the expected timing for our cruise programs departing from Hanoi to Halong Bay. Please note that all timings are approximate and may vary depending on traffic conditions, weather, and port authority regulations.

Day 1 – Departure from Hanoi

Pick-up in Hanoi

  • 08:00 – 08:30 AM
    Expected hotel pick-up time in Hanoi (Old Quarter area).
  • Guests are advised to be ready in the lobby at least 10 minutes before the scheduled pick-up time.

Arrival at Halong International Harbor

  • 11:30 – 11:45 AM
    Expected arrival at Halong International Harbor.

Guests will complete check-in procedures at the waiting lounge before boarding.

Cruise Departure

  • 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM
    Expected departure from Halong International Harbor.

After boarding, guests will enjoy a welcome drink and safety briefing before the cruise begins.

Final Day – Disembarkation & Return

Disembarkation

  • 10:30 – 11:00 AM
    Guests check out of cabins and disembark at Halong International Harbor.

After disembarkation, guests will wait at the harbor lounge for transfer back to Hanoi.

Transfer Back to Hanoi

  • Shuttle bus departs shortly after disembarkation.
  • Expected drop-off time in Hanoi: 14:30 – 15:00 PM 

Drop-off location follows the same arrangement as pick-up.

Pick-up & Drop-off Locations in Hanoi

Hotels in Hanoi Old Quarter

Door-to-door transfer is available for hotels located in or near Hanoi Old Quarter. Please provide your exact hotel details at least 24 hours prior to departure.

Alternative Pick-up Point

For hotels outside the Old Quarter area, the default meeting point is:

  • Hanoi Opera House
    1 Trang Tien Street
    Pick-up time: 08:20 – 08:30 AM

Guests are requested to arrive at least 10 minutes early.

Important Notes

  • All timings are estimates and subject to change due to traffic or weather conditions.
  • Late arrival at the harbor may result in missed boarding.
  • We recommend allowing sufficient time for airport transfers on departure day.

What Happens If You Are Late?

We understand that unexpected delays can happen, especially due to Hanoi traffic or unforeseen circumstances. However, Halong Bay cruises operate under strict port authority regulations and fixed departure schedules.

Below is what you need to know if you are running late:

Late for Hotel Pick-up in Hanoi

If you are not present at the hotel lobby during the scheduled pick-up window (08:00 – 08:30 AM):

  • The shuttle bus cannot wait beyond a reasonable time due to other passengers.
  • You may need to arrange a private transfer to Halong at your own expense.
  • The cruise departure time at the harbor will not be delayed.

We strongly recommend being ready at least 10 minutes before pick-up time.

Late Arrival at Halong International Harbor

If you arrive after the cruise has departed:

  • Port authorities do not allow delayed departures.
  • In some cases, a speedboat transfer may be arranged to catch up with the cruise (subject to availability and weather conditions).
  • Additional charges will apply for private speedboat service.
  • If transfer by speedboat is not possible, the booking may be considered a no-show and cancellation policies will apply.

Missing the Return Transfer to Hanoi

If you miss the scheduled shuttle bus after disembarkation:

  • You will need to arrange your own transportation back to Hanoi.
  • Bai Tho Junks will not be responsible for additional transport costs in this case.

Our Advice to Avoid Delays

  • Confirm your hotel location in advance.
  • Ensure passport details are submitted on time.
  • Avoid booking tight onward flights on the same day of return.
  • Allow buffer time if transferring to the airport.

Our team is always available to assist if you anticipate any delay. Please contact us immediately so we can advise the best possible solution.