I want to see both Halong Bay and Hanoi. Can I combine them in one shore excursion?
For a short stop, not overnight one, I only recommend Halong bay tour. You'd better join the Group tour departs at 10am or 12:00 or morning private boat to avoid the crowds and enjoy every moments rather than racing like that
For one day cruise stops, ships usually dock around 7 or 8 AM and depart between 7 and 9 PM. So, it's definitely possible to do both, but you'll be on a very tight schedule
It's true that you will feel like taking a race!
7am docks
7:30-8am, get ready for pick up for Halong bay PRIVATE boat tour 4 hours
12:00, end, head to Hanoi by private car
14:30, Hanoi Old Quarter arrival, walk around the old town, see the lake, temple on it, Train street, have a bowl of Pho, return to the ship
16:30, leave Hanoi
20:00, Halong port arrival
21:00, depart
You were right. It looks too rushed. What do you recommend