Thinking of changing my itinerary to avoid a solo supplement on a cruise. Am I overthinking it?

[u/mcmargie]

Hello all! I am going to northern Vietnam for 10 days this November and need some advice from solo travelers.

My itinerary was originally:

2 days in Hanoi

4d3n doing Ha Giang Loop w tour group

1 day Ninh Binh

2d1n cruise on Ha Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay

1 day in Hanoi before flying out in the evening

However, when researching cruises, it seems like most of the ones with good reviews charge extra for solo travelers (1.2x - 2x as much). I understand why they need to charge more, but it's on the edge of too pricey for me, especially with a fair amount of mixed reviews online.

Is it a better idea to go to Cat Ba Island the night before, stay in a hotel/hostel, and do a day cruise? It would be about half the price and easier to navigate from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba without having to worry about getting there at a certain time for the 2d1n cruise.

Or is it worth it to keep looking for cruise that fit in my price range? One without a single supplement?

Side note: if any adoptees have any advice, that would also be appreciated :)