Comprehensive Guide for Visitors from Singapore to Halong Bay - Plus Cruise Tips

Widely known as a world UNESCO heritage site, Halong Bay never ceases to amaze visitors with its stunning beauty and well-preserved values. Beyond towering karst rock and emerald water, the site's rich culture and long history make it a must-see for travelers worldwide, including Singaporeans. 

Thanks to a direct and short flight from Singapore to Vietnam, Halong Bay suits both week-long vacations or few-day breaks. And of course, cruising is definitely the best way to experience as much of what Halong Bay has to offer. Floating on the sea, witnessing the magic changes of landscapes from dawn to dusk, and listening to interesting stories about locals' daily life. Check out the comprehensive guide for visitors from Singapore to Halong and get ready for an activity-filled and fun adventure ahead!

1. Getting from Singapore to Halong Bay

As direct flight from Singapore to Halong is unavailable, visitors have to fly from Singapore to the most convenient airport and get another transport to Halong.

It takes just only 3 hours from Changi Airport to Hanoi Airport (Photo: Daturnus via Pexels)

Flights to Vietnam

Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi, Vietnam) is the nearest and most convenient airport from Changi International Airport (Singapore). The direct flight takes approximately 3.5 hours at the price range of SGD 275 to 650 per person per round trip. Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, or Scoot Air are the best options for budget-conscious travelers while Singapore Airlines are ideal for upscale ones seeking premium service.

From Hanoi to Halong Bay

Getting directly from Hanoi Airport to Halong Bay is convenient but more costly, usually suitable for short-time trips. Those planning to spend time in Hanoi can choose some affordable options from the center. See the highlights of each transport below to find your best match:

	Pros	Cons
Seaplane/ helicopter	Shortest way (45 minutes transfer + 15 minutes sightseeing)	Most expensive (~SGD 573 per way per person) Only 7-kg luggage allowed
Private car	Door-to-door pick up Time saving (2.5 hours)	Expensive (~SGD 141/car/way)
Cruise shuttle bus/ Mini-van	Affordable (~SGD13 - 26 per way per person)	Longer time than private car (~3 hours) Only in Hanoi Old Quarter
Local bus	Cheapest (~SGD10 - 15 per way per person)	Longest time (3.5 - 4 hours) Language barrier Potential scam

2. Visa & Entry Requirements for Singaporeans

Singapore passport holders are exempt from Vietnam visas (Photo: Chuttersnap via Unsplash)

As citizens of one of the ASEAN countries, Singaporeans are exempt from Vietnam visas for 30 days under the bilateral agreement between the two countries. Accordingly, Singaporean citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance and are allowed to enter Vietnam if they have a valid passport and comply with the conditions under Vietnamese law. Specifically:

• Have a passport with at least 6 months of validity and one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
• Have a valid entry purpose: tourism, visiting relatives, short-term business.
• Not violating Singaporean laws and prohibited from entering Vietnam.

How to enter Vietnam under visa exemption:

• Prepare original Singaporean passport, return air ticket and accommodation address.
• Show your passport to the immigration officer at the border gate.
• Receive an entry stamp with permitted stay period on your passport (maximum 30 days for Singaporean passport holders)

Important note: Check the stay period carefully. Overstaying will violate Vietnamese law and can result in punishment and prohibition of entry.

3. Best Time to Visit Halong Bay from Singapore

Spring and Autumn are perfect for visiting Halong Bay from Singapore (Photo: Peony Cruises)

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the 2 most ideal times for Singaporeans to visit Halong Bay. In details:

• March - May: With the average high temperature of 28-30°C, Halong Bay in Spring can cool down the heat of up to 32°C in Singapore. The weather is not yet hot like summer or cold like winter. It is dry and slightly sunny, perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking, swimming, or hiking to the cave.
• September - November: While heavy rains come frequently in Singapore this time, Halong invites you to enjoy cool temperatures, low rainfall and clear blue skies. Autumn in Halong is great for photo hunting, exploring the fishing villages, or cycling through jungles on Cat Ba Island.

Moderately recommended:

• June - August: Best time for water activities, lots of sunshine, low season with great deals but higher chance of storm and frequent showers.
• December - February: The driest time, chilly weather, misty landscapes, peak season at New Year, Christmas, and Lunar New Year.

4. Choosing the Right Cruise - Popular Options for Singaporeans

The rising number of brand-new cruises in Halong ensure every traveler finds their perfect option, either short or long, cost-saving or luxurious.

4.1. Cruise by duration: Day-long, 1 Night or 2 Nights

Day cruises are ideal for tight schedules (Photo: Du thuyền JadeSails - Top Luxury Day cruise)

• 2 Days/1 Night: This option is always recommended for all first-timers to Halong. With a 4 to 5-day trip, Singaporeans totally can spend 2 days in Halong to see all the highlights and enjoy multiple activities from kayaking, swimming, visiting a cave, to watching the sunset, fishing squid, and doing Taichi.
• 3 Days/2 Nights: To see most of the bay, Singaporeans should choose this option. It allows you to explore remote areas and totally immerse in pure nature without feeling rushed. For this itinerary, you can even visit a floating village like Cua Van or Vung Vieng, explore Cat Ba Island by bike, or leisurely kayak in a quiet area.
• Day-long: Best for those with limited time (like 3-4 day Vietnam tour). Although it covers some highlights of the bay, the traveling time is quite long (approx. 5.5 - 6 hours both ways) while visitors only have 5 - 7 hours on the bay.

4.2. Cruise by category: Luxury, Mid-level, or Budget

Luxury cruises offer modern facilities and a variety of experiences (Photo: Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan Cat Ba Archipelago)

• Luxury cruises: Upscale travelers looking for modern comfort like fine dining, jacuzzi pool, sky bar, spa, large room with private balcony, mini golf. Some of the bests are Elite of the Seas, Indochine Cruise, Catherine Cruise, Orchid Classic, Mon Cheri Cruise.
• Mid-level cruises: Adequate modern comfort for both relaxing and entertaining like spa, pool, gym, bar. Some favored options are La Casta Cruise, Peony, Rosy Cruise.
• Budget cruises: With limited modern amenities, budget cruises save the most but still create a memorable journey with well planned itinerary, diverse dining experience, and dedicated service. Top picks are Amanda, Mila, or Renea Cruise.

4.3. Cruise by area: Halong, Lan Ha, or Bai Tu Long Bay

Large sandy beach in Halong Bay (Photo: Ambassador Cruise)

• Halong Bay - The main, most bustling area: Best for active travelers, looking for large beaches and islands, giant caves with stalactites. Top Halong Bay cruises are Paradise Elegance, Ambassador Cruise, Grand Pioneers, Catherine Cruise. 
• Lan Ha Bay - The extended, more tranquil area: Ideal for those looking for a balance of relaxation and activities. Some best are Indochine, Orchid Trendy, Capella Cruise.
• Bai Tu Long Bay - The extended, most pristine, quiet area: Those prioritizing privacy and quietness may choose this area, with some best options like Signature Cruise, Signature Royal, Renea, Swan Cruise.

5. What to Expect Onboard

Joining a cruise trip is more than just sightseeing. Singaporeans can have a complete experience from dining, relaxing, and entertaining.

• Well-equipped rooms with view: All overnight cruises include well-equipped cabins with large windows or private balconies, bathrooms with toiletries, and modern air-con. Rooms feature double/twin/triple beds or may be connected to accommodate from solo travelers to families with kids.
• Diverse cuisine for different palates: Most cruises blend Vietnamese and international cuisine in the menu. All serve vegetarian and kid menus while some offer Halal menu with certificates such as Mon Cheri, Ambassador Cruise, Grand Pioneers Cruise, Catherine Cruise.
• Diverse amenities: Higher-level cruises include more modern amenities. Unique amenities like waterslide, mini golf, kid playroom, sauna, art gallery…are usually included in luxury cruises. Other mid-range or budget cruises offer basic amenities like pool, bar, restaurant, or spa.
• Plenty of onboard and offboard activities: All activities are well planned in advance, such as kayaking, taking a bamboo boat, visiting a cave, swimming, cycling, cooking class, sunset party, fishing squid, Taichi/Vovinam/Yoga.

6. Practical Tips for Singaporean Travelers

Some cash is recommended for Halong Bay cruise (Photo: Mynotme via pexels)

Here are some best travel tips for Singaporeans when first visiting Halong Bay:

• Currency: SGD or USD may be accepted by the agent, but the best way is to exchange your money to VND, especially when you do not want to pay a bank fee when paying by card. The best places for money exchange are a bank or a gold shop in Hanoi center.
• Power plugs: The standard voltage in Vietnam and Singapore is similar (220 & 230V), no need for a voltage converter. However, Singaporeans need a universal adapter as Vietnam uses plug types A, C, D instead of type G.
• Health & safety: While all Halong cruises must meet international safety standards, the medical equipment and medicine are limited onboard. Bring your personal medicine and consult your doctor if you have any special health problems.
• Travel insurance: Basic insurance is covered onboard, but travel insurance for cruise cancellation & medical emergencies is highly recommended.
• Tipping: Not mandatory. Suggested tips are around USD 5–10/day/person if you are satisfied with their service. It is a great way to support them.

7. Suggested Itinerary for Singaporeans Visiting Halong

Based on the most typical time Singaporeans usually spend in Vietnam, here is a 5 day 4 night itinerary including Halong Bay that you can refer to:

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival - Free & Easy - Overnight in Hanoi

Upon arrival at Hanoi Airport, transfer to your hotel in Hanoi Center. You have a free day for exploring the Old Quarter with highlights like Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, St Joseph Cathedral, Temple of Literature, etc. A city tour by bus or Hanoi street food tour is recommended. Meals on your own. Overnight in Hanoi hotel.

Day 2: Hanoi -  Halong Bay - Overnight on cruise

Get picked up at your hotel and start a 2.5-hour drive to Halong bay. Check in onboard, enjoy lunch while the ship starts cruising to the bay. Enjoy stunning limestone islands, join activities like visiting a cave, kayaking, or swimming. Sunset from the sundeck should not be missed. After dinner, free time for squid fishing, talking with fellow travelers, or stargazing. Overnight on cruise.

Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Overnight in Hanoi

Start a new day with tranquil dawn. After breakfast, the tender takes you to visit the last attraction in the tour. Return to the vessel to prepare for check out and a hearty brunch in the restaurant. Disembark at noon and get back to Hanoi at around 3 pm. Free time for shopping, cafe, or massage. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 4: Ninh Binh City Tour - Hanoi

Start a 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh. Hop on a sampan boat gliding through stunning limestone caves at Trang An Scenic Complex or hike to the top of Mua Cave and witness the breathtaking view of Ngo Dong River and rice fields. Back to Hanoi at around 19:30. Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 5: Hanoi Departure

You have free time to go shopping and unwind until the transfer to Hanoi Airport to catch the flight back to Singapore. End of the trip.

8. Is a Halong Cruise Worth It for Singaporeans?

Definitely YES!

Halong Bay offers unique experiences amidst the iconic scenery of limestone mountains, a refreshing break from Singapore's year-round heat, and convenient flights to suit either weekend getaways or extended stays. Catering to budget-conscious to upscale travelers, from soloers to couples or families, Halong cruises promise unforgettable experiences at exceptional value compared to many costly cruises in Singapore.

In conclusion:

If you’re visiting Vietnam from Singapore, Halong Bay is not to be missed! Towering limestone karst rocks, tranquil emerald waters, and fun-filled cruises ensure a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. Don't just see Halong Bay, experience it from the deck of a cruise, and you will surely get more than what you expect. Plan your trip early for the best flight and cruise or connect with a trusted local agent for expert advice!