Halong Bay
3 Biggest & Most Common Halong Cruise Scams to Avoid

3 Biggest & Most Common Halong Cruise Scams to Avoid

Ways to Avoid Scams when Booking Halong Cruise

Rachel Tran Rachel Tran | Updated February 3, 2025

Halong Bay boasts thousands of gorgeous islands, a system of spectacular caves and a number of modern entertainment centers. What is highly recommended here is spending one night on the cruise, enjoying a romantic dinner and contemplating the first sunlight emerging from the horizon. It would sound perfect only without Halong cruise scams. This article will point out the most common unwanted situations you hope to stay away.

1. Low Quality Services

Services on Halong cruise

How it is:

Many travelers book Ha Long Bay cruises online for convenience—compare options, check prices, and reserve with just a few clicks. But finding a trustworthy agency or cruise operator isn’t always easy.

Some companies use fake photos or don’t even have a proper business license. Even pricier options can be disappointing—boats don’t match the pictures, staff are unhelpful, and you might be moved to another boat or forced to share a cabin. Complaints? Useless. Deposits? Hard to get back. A bad cruise can ruin your whole trip.

How to avoid and deal with it:

  • Be cautious with deposits – Only pay upfront if the agency or cruise is well-reviewed.
  • Watch out for deals that are too cheap – If the price is unrealistically low, expect hidden fees or poor service.
  • Book through reputable sources – Check reviews on TripAdvisor, Traveloka, and other trusted platforms. Get recommendations from friends or experienced travelers.

>>> Recommendation for you: Halong Bay Cruise 2 days | Luxury Halong Bay Cruise

2. Extra Charges

Extra charges on Halong Cruise

How it is:

Seeing is believing, right? Booking a cruise in person lets you check out the options firsthand. But looks can be deceiving!

Picture this: You’re at the port, unsure which cruise to pick. A friendly local approaches, saying, “No pressure! Just some helpful info for you.” They describe a dream cruise—spacious rooms, fresh seafood, kayaking, and a stunning itinerary—all for just $35 (thanks to special discounts). Sounds amazing, doesn’t it?

You book it. But by the end of the trip, you’re hit with a $400 bill. The tout is long gone, and the cruise owner won’t budge—you’ve used the services, after all.

How to avoid and deal with it:

  • Trust your instincts: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. A luxury experience won’t come at a dirt-cheap price.
  • Book with the cruise company: Always deal directly with official staff, not random touts.
  • Clarify all costs upfront: Ask what’s included and who to contact if there’s an issue.

3. Cruise Cancellation

Cruise cancellation

How it is: 

Cruises to Ha Long Bay can get canceled due to bad weather, security issues, technical problems, or unexpected events. These cancellations are decided by the Ha Long Bay Administration and often happen at the last minute.

How to avoid and deal with it:

  • Know the cancellation policy – Always check the refund terms before booking. Reliable cruise operators publish their policies online, but it’s best to confirm directly with them.
  • Understand your refund rights – In most cases: Full refund if canceled before departure. Partial refund if canceled mid-trip (you only pay for what you used).
  • Keep proof – If a cruise refuses a refund, have screenshots of the policy, contracts, or recorded agreements to support your claim.

A one-night Ha Long Bay cruise is worth it, but only if you book with a trustworthy agency. Look for companies with clear contact info and strong reviews. If something goes wrong, make the best of your trip—and share your experience to help other travelers avoid Halong cruise scams!

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