My cruise stops in Halong and I’m considering going to Hanoi.
Is it worth it or should I stay in Halong instead?
It depends on what you want to see. Hanoi offers culture, old streets, and food, while Halong is more about scenery
Keep in mind you’ll spend around 5 - 6 hours on the road for a Hanoi trip
If it’s your first time in Vietnam, Hanoi is worth it. Otherwise, staying in Halong is more relaxing
What time does your ship depart?
Oh 14:00 next day
So you have day 1 and 1/2 day in day 2 to travel. It's quite boring if you just stay in Halong all the time. You may consider doing Halong bay day tour on arrival, then get dropped off in Hanoi, stay the night in Hanoi. Next morning, return to cruise ship
Can do day tour in Hanoi and overnight there, return to Halong in the morning of day #2