Ha Long Bay Cruise 1 Night in 2025–2026: Complete Guide & Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Ha Long Bay Cruise 1 Night: Everything You Need to Know in 2025 – 2026

Overview of Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, is Vietnam’s most iconic natural destination. With nearly 1,600 limestone islands rising from emerald waters, the bay offers an awe-inspiring landscape like no other.

The Legend Behind the Name

The name “Ha Long” means “descending dragon,” rooted in a legendary tale where divine dragons created the bay’s islands to protect Vietnam from invaders. This myth enriches the bay’s natural grandeur with cultural and spiritual depth.

Geological Formation and Evolution

Formed over 500 million years through tectonic shifts and limestone erosion, Ha Long Bay’s dramatic karsts and caves are the result of natural forces sculpting the landscape across millennia.

A Biodiversity Hotspot

Ha Long Bay is home to rich ecosystems, from coral reefs and mangroves to tropical forests and underwater marine life. It supports over 200 fish species, 450 mollusk types, and numerous rare plant species.

A Gateway to Vietnamese History

Archaeological findings show human activity dating back tens of thousands of years, with the bay playing key roles in maritime trade and national defense—most notably during battles against Mongol, Chinese, and French forces.

Cultural Heritage and Floating Villages

The bay’s floating fishing villages are living cultural treasures, showcasing traditional ways of life passed down through generations. These communities embody a deep connection between people and the sea.

The Magic of an Overnight Cruise

Spending a night aboard a Ha Long Bay cruise offers a rare chance to connect with this enchanting landscape. Under starlit skies and surrounded by towering limestone pillars, it’s an immersive experience that day trips simply can’t match.

2 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise 160$

2 Day Lan Ha Bay 5 Star Cruise 160$

Bai Tu Long Bay Cruise 130$

3 Day Halong Bay 5 Star Cruise 320$

Why Choose a Ha Long Bay Cruise 1 Night Experience

When planning your visit to Ha Long Bay, you’ll encounter various touring options, from quick day trips to extended multi-night cruises. However, the Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experience offers a perfect balance that has made it the most popular choice among travelers. Here’s why spending one night aboard a cruise in these magical waters provides an ideal introduction to the bay’s wonders:

The Perfect Balance of Time and Experience

A Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night package allows you to strike the optimal balance between experiencing the bay’s highlights and fitting your visit into a broader Vietnam itinerary. Unlike day trips that feel rushed and hardly scratch the surface of what the bay offers, an overnight cruise gives you approximately 24 hours on the water—enough time to visit major attractions, participate in activities, and still have moments of peaceful contemplation.

For many travelers with limited vacation time, committing to longer two or three-night cruises may be impractical, especially when hoping to explore other Vietnamese destinations like Hanoi, Sapa, or Hoi An. The one-night option efficiently delivers the essence of Ha Long Bay without requiring excessive time commitment.

Witnessing the Bay’s Complete Daily Cycle

One of the most compelling reasons to choose a Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experience is the opportunity to witness the bay transform through different times of day. Each phase of the day presents the limestone karsts and emerald waters in new light:

Afternoon exploration: Your cruise typically begins with daytime exploration of caves, islands, and swimming spots when you can clearly see the bay’s details.
Sunset magic: As the day winds down, witness the spectacular sunset over the karst landscape—a photographer’s dream moment when the limestone formations turn golden and cast long shadows across the water.
Evening tranquility: Experience the rare peaceful quality of the bay after day-trippers have departed and most tourist boats have anchored for the night.
Stargazing opportunities: On clear nights, the minimal light pollution allows for magnificent stargazing from the deck of your cruise ship.
Misty sunrise: Early risers are rewarded with mystical dawn views as morning mist weaves between the karst formations, creating an ethereal landscape unlike any other time of day.

These transitional moments between day and night offer the most magical perspectives of Ha Long Bay, experiences entirely missed by day-trippers.

Deeper Immersion in the Bay’s Atmosphere

An overnight stay allows you to experience Ha Long Bay when it’s at its most serene. After day-trip boats return to harbor in the late afternoon, overnight cruisers enjoy a noticeable shift in atmosphere. The waters become calmer, the iconic landscapes more peaceful, and the experience significantly more immersive.

This quieter evening atmosphere provides an authentic connection with the natural environment that’s impossible to achieve during the busier daylight hours. Many travelers report that their favorite memories come from these tranquil evening moments—whether practicing tai chi on deck at sunrise, enjoying a drink while watching the sunset paint the karsts in golden hues, or simply listening to the gentle lapping of water against the boat while stargazing.

Access to Premium Activities

Most Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night itineraries include activities that day trips simply cannot accommodate due to time constraints. These typically include:

Extended kayaking explorations through hidden lagoons and around dramatic karst formations
Visits to less-crowded caves and grottoes that day tours often skip
Swimming or snorkeling opportunities in secluded bays
Cooking demonstrations of Vietnamese cuisine
Squid fishing in the evening
Morning tai chi sessions on the deck
Visits to floating villages where you can learn about traditional water-based lifestyles

These activities provide a more comprehensive and varied experience than what’s possible on shorter visits.

Quality Dining Experiences

The culinary experience aboard a Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night journey typically includes multiple freshly prepared meals featuring local specialties and seafood. Most cruises include:

A welcome lunch upon boarding
A special dinner experience
Breakfast with spectacular morning views
A farewell lunch before disembarkation

The relaxed pace allows for properly enjoying these meals rather than rushing through them. Many cruises also offer cooking demonstrations where you can learn to prepare Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls or local seafood specialties.

Better Value for Money

While day trips might seem less expensive initially, a Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night package often represents better overall value. When you calculate the included accommodation, multiple meals, guided activities, and transportation, the overnight option typically offers more comprehensive value than separate bookings would cost. Additionally, the quality of experience per dollar spent skews heavily in favor of overnight cruises.

Optimal Introduction for First-Time Visitors

For first-time visitors to Ha Long Bay, the one-night cruise provides an ideal introduction. It allows you to experience the bay’s highlights and get a feel for its unique atmosphere without overcommitting. Should you fall in love with Ha Long Bay and wish to return for a more extended stay in the future, this initial overnight experience gives you valuable firsthand knowledge to plan that subsequent visit.

The Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night format has become the standard choice for good reason—it effectively balances comprehensive experience with practical time constraints, offering the essence of what makes this natural wonder so magical while fitting conveniently into broader travel itineraries.

Best Time to Take a Ha Long Bay Cruise 1 Night Adventure

The timing of your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experience can significantly impact your enjoyment, comfort, and the overall quality of your adventure. Ha Long Bay experiences distinct seasonal variations that affect weather conditions, water clarity, crowd levels, and pricing. Understanding these patterns will help you select the optimal time for your overnight journey.

Seasonal Overview

Ha Long Bay’s climate can be divided into several distinct seasons, each offering different advantages and challenges for overnight cruising:

October to December: The Ideal Season

Why it’s excellent for a Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experience:

Temperature ranges from 17-24°C (63-75°F)—comfortably cool but not cold
Minimal rainfall with sunny, clear days
Excellent visibility for admiring limestone karsts
Generally calm waters ideal for kayaking and swimming
Moderate humidity levels enhancing overall comfort

October through December represents the sweet spot for Ha Long Bay cruising. The summer heat has dissipated, typhoon season has ended, and the colder winter temperatures haven’t yet arrived. This period offers the perfect balance of pleasant weather, good visibility, and suitable conditions for all outdoor activities typically included in overnight cruises.

January to March: Winter Season

Considerations for your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night journey:

Cooler temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F)
Often misty or foggy conditions, particularly in the mornings
Less rainfall than other seasons
Water too cool for comfortable swimming (typically 17-19°C)
Atmospheric views with mist swirling around karst formations

While winter brings cooler temperatures that may limit swimming enjoyment, many photographers and atmosphere-seekers specifically choose this season for their Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experience. The ethereal mist that frequently envelops the limestone formations creates a mystical, otherworldly environment perfect for photography. Pack warmer clothing for deck activities, especially in the evenings and early mornings when temperatures can feel quite chilly on the water.

April to June: Spring Transition

What to expect during spring on your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night adventure:

Warming temperatures from 21-30°C (70-86°F)
Increasing humidity levels
Occasional spring showers, typically short-lived
Good water clarity most days
Vibrant greenery on the islands
Fewer tourists than peak summer months

Spring represents a transitional period with generally pleasant conditions. April typically offers comfortable temperatures and good visibility, while May and June see temperatures rising as summer approaches. During this period, you might experience brief afternoon showers, but these rarely disrupt cruise activities for long. The increasing temperatures make swimming more enjoyable, and the islands display lush vegetation.

July to September: Summer Monsoon Season

Challenges for your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night booking:

Hot temperatures from 27-33°C (81-91°F)
Very high humidity (often 80-90%)
Frequent heavy rainfall and storms
Potential typhoon activity (particularly August-September)
Reduced visibility on some days
Higher chance of cruise cancellations due to weather

Summer brings challenges for Ha Long Bay cruising, including the highest rainfall of the year and occasional typhoons that can disrupt sailing schedules. The combination of high temperatures and extreme humidity can feel uncomfortable, especially for travelers unaccustomed to tropical conditions. However, this season also offers significant discounts (often 20-70% off standard rates), making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers willing to risk some weather disruptions.

Important note: If booking during typhoon season (particularly August-September), ensure your cruise operator offers flexible rebooking or refund policies in case of cancellations due to severe weather.

Crowd Considerations

Beyond weather patterns, consider these crowd-related factors when timing your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night adventure:

Peak Tourist Seasons

December-January: Holiday season brings higher occupancy rates and premium pricing
July-August: European and American summer holidays coincide with local school breaks
Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet): Dates vary annually (January-February) but bring heavy domestic tourism

Quieter Periods

April-May: After spring holidays but before summer peak
September-October: After summer holidays but before winter peak
Weekdays: Generally less crowded than weekends, as weekend mini-breaks are popular with domestic tourists

Price Fluctuations Throughout the Year

The cost of your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experience will vary significantly by season:

Highest prices: December-January holiday period (especially Christmas and New Year)
Mid-range prices: October-November and February-April
Lowest prices: May-September (monsoon season discounts)

Many cruise operators offer special promotions during the monsoon months (May-September) with discounts ranging from 20-70% off peak season rates. If budget is a primary concern and you’re willing to accept weather-related risks, summer bookings provide excellent value.

Special Times to Consider

Full Moon Nights

Booking your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night adventure during a full moon creates an extraordinary experience. The limestone karsts silhouetted against the moonlit sky create unforgettable views, and many cruise operators offer special evening activities during these nights. Check lunar calendars when planning your trip to coincide with this monthly phenomenon.

Sunrise Optimization

The direction and quality of light during sunrise significantly impact your morning photography opportunities. In winter months (December-February), sunrise occurs later (around 6:30-7:00 am), allowing for more comfortable viewing. In summer months (June-August), sunrise occurs very early (around 5:00-5:30 am), requiring an earlier wake-up but providing longer daylight hours for activities.

Ideal Booking Windows

Given all these factors, here are the optimal times for different types of Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experiences:

For perfect weather: Late October to early December
For photography: January (misty mornings) or October-November (clear light)
For budget travel: May-September (with weather contingency plans)
For swimming and water activities: June or September (warm water without peak crowding)
For avoiding crowds: Weekdays in April, May, or late September

Understanding these seasonal patterns helps you align your expectations with the likely conditions during your visit. While weather can never be guaranteed, strategic timing significantly increases your chances of experiencing Ha Long Bay under optimal conditions during your overnight cruise adventure.

Ha Long Bay Cruise 1 Night Itineraries

A Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night journey typically follows a structured yet flexible itinerary designed to showcase the bay’s highlights while allowing sufficient time for relaxation and personal exploration. While specific schedules vary between cruise operators, most follow a similar pattern with activities distributed across a roughly 24-hour period. Understanding the typical flow of these itineraries helps you select the cruise that best matches your interests and activity preferences.

Standard Itinerary Framework

Most Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night packages follow this general timeline:

Day 1: Embarkation and Afternoon Exploration

Morning:

7:30-8:30 AM: Hotel pickup in Hanoi (exact time depends on your location)
8:30 AM-12:00 PM: Transfer to Ha Long Bay harbor via expressway (approximately 2.5-3 hours)
12:00-12:30 PM: Check-in at cruise terminal, welcome briefing
12:30-1:00 PM: Board the cruise ship, cabin assignment
1:00-2:00 PM: Welcome drink, cruise orientation, and lunch service as the ship begins sailing

Afternoon:

2:30-4:30 PM: First excursion (typically a major cave system like Sung Sot Cave or Thien Cung Cave)
4:30-6:00 PM: Kayaking session, swimming opportunity, or visit to a floating village
6:00-7:00 PM: Return to main vessel, freshen up time
7:00-8:30 PM: Dinner service
8:30-10:00 PM: Evening activities (squid fishing, movie screening, or leisure time)
10:00 PM onwards: Free time and overnight on the bay

Day 2: Morning Activities and Return

Early Morning:

6:00-6:30 AM: Sunrise viewing opportunity
6:30-7:30 AM: Morning tai chi session on deck (optional)
7:30-8:30 AM: Breakfast service

Mid-Morning:

8:30-10:00 AM: Second excursion (often to Ti Top Island for panoramic views, a different cave system, or additional kayaking)
10:00-11:00 AM: Return to cabins, packing, and check-out procedures
11:00 AM-12:00 PM: Cooking demonstration and final lunch while cruising back to harbor

Afternoon:

12:00-12:30 PM: Disembarkation
12:30-4:00 PM: Return transfer to Hanoi

This framework provides approximately 24 hours in Ha Long Bay, with about 22 hours actually spent aboard the cruise vessel and engaging in bay activities.

Popular Route Variations

While the standard itinerary follows a similar structure across operators, the specific destinations and routing can vary significantly. Here are the most popular route variations for Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night journeys:

Classic Ha Long Bay Route

The most traditional route focuses on the central area of Ha Long Bay proper, including:

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): The largest and most impressive cave system in the bay
Ti Top Island: Featuring a beach and a viewpoint accessible via 400+ steps
Luon Cave: Explored by kayak or bamboo boat through a limestone tunnel
Ho Dong Tien area: A secluded area for swimming and kayaking
Cua Van or Vung Vieng floating village: Traditional fishing communities

This classic route offers the iconic postcard views of Ha Long Bay and its most famous attractions. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see the bay’s highlights but may be more crowded due to its popularity.

Bai Tu Long Bay Route

Located northeast of Ha Long Bay proper, Bai Tu Long Bay offers similar karst landscapes with significantly fewer tourists:

Thien Canh Son Cave: Less visited but equally impressive cave system
Vung Ha area: Pristine waters ideal for swimming and kayaking
Cong Dam area: Featuring a geological park and spectacular rock formations
Cong Do area: Known for its protected coral reef systems
Vung Vieng fishing village: More authentic and less commercialized than villages in the main bay

This route provides a more peaceful experience away from the tourist crowds while still showcasing equally stunning landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a more serene experience and those returning for a second visit to the region.

Lan Ha Bay Route

South of Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay connects to Cat Ba Island and features:

Dark & Bright Cave: Twin caves connected by a tunnel, accessed by small boat
Tra Bau area: Secluded location for swimming and kayaking
Van Boi Beach: Pristine beach for swimming
Cai Beo floating village: One of the oldest floating villages in the region
Cat Ba National Park vistas: Views of the forested limestone outcrops of Cat Ba Island

This route combines spectacular seascapes with glimpses of the forested karsts of Cat Ba National Park. It’s excellent for active travelers interested in more extensive kayaking opportunities and those who want to see a different facet of the region.

Activity-Focused Itineraries

Beyond geographical routing, many operators offer Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night packages focused on particular activities or experiences:

Adventure-Focused Itineraries

These emphasize active exploration through:

Extended kayaking sessions (up to 2 hours)
Rock climbing opportunities on certain karst formations
Swimming in multiple locations
Hiking to viewpoints on islands
Cycling excursions on larger islands

Adventure itineraries typically spend less time sailing and more time engaging in physical activities. They’re ideal for younger travelers and those seeking an active experience.

Relaxation-Focused Itineraries

These prioritize leisure and wellness through:

Longer periods anchored in scenic bays
Onboard spa services (massage treatments, facials)
Extended sunbathing opportunities
Multiple sunset/sunrise viewing sessions
Onboard yoga or meditation classes

Relaxation cruises typically feature higher-end vessels with better onboard amenities and more spacious sun decks. They’re perfect for honeymooners, couples, and those seeking rejuvenation.

Culinary-Focused Itineraries

These highlight Vietnamese gastronomy through:

Elaborate multi-course meals featuring local specialties
Cooking demonstrations with participation opportunities
Fresh seafood selection experiences
Wine pairing dinners
Market visits (on certain routes)

Culinary cruises typically operate on luxury vessels with professional kitchen facilities and trained chefs. They appeal to foodies and those interested in Vietnamese cuisine.

Seasonal Itinerary Adjustments

Cruise operators adjust Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night itineraries according to seasonal conditions:

Summer Adjustments (May-September)

More swimming opportunities in multiple locations
Extended time on beaches when available
Earlier morning activities to avoid afternoon heat
Alternative indoor activities planned in case of sudden storms
Flexible scheduling to work around weather patterns

Winter Adjustments (December-February)

Later sunrise activities due to morning mist
More cave explorations (which maintain consistent temperatures)
Less emphasis on swimming opportunities
Additional onboard activities during cooler evenings
More time allowed for photography during the magical misty periods

Special Interest Itineraries

Some operators offer themed Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experiences catering to specific interests:

Photography cruises: Timed to optimize lighting conditions with stops at the most photogenic locations
Wellness retreats: Featuring onboard yoga instructors and healthy meal options
Honeymoon packages: Offering romantic touches like private dining and cabin decorations
Family-friendly cruises: With activities suitable for children and family cabins
Heritage tours: With greater emphasis on cultural aspects and local traditions

When booking your Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night journey, carefully review the specific itinerary details rather than just the price point. The routing and activity focus will significantly impact your overall experience. For maximum enjoyment, select an itinerary that aligns with your interests, physical capabilities, and what you most hope to experience in this magnificent natural wonder.

Types of Ha Long Bay Cruise 1 Night Options

The market for Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experiences spans a wide spectrum, from basic budget-friendly options to ultra-luxurious floating boutique hotels. Understanding the different categories and what they typically offer helps you select the vessel that best matches your expectations, preferences, and budget. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the main cruise categories available:

Budget Cruises (US$85-140 per person)

Budget Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night options provide basic accommodations and experiences at the most affordable price point. These vessels typically feature:

Vessel Characteristics:

Converted traditional wooden boats or older vessels
Small cabins (typically 8-12 m²) with basic amenities
Shared bathrooms on some of the most budget-friendly options
Simple communal areas with limited space
Basic sundeck with plastic furniture
Capacity for 20-40 passengers

Onboard Experience:

Simple Vietnamese meals with limited menu options
Basic bedding and towels
Functional but no-frills bathrooms (often with weak water pressure)
Essential safety equipment
Limited onboard activities
Larger tour groups for excursions (10-15 people per guide)

Pros:

Most affordable way to experience an overnight stay on Ha Long Bay
Cover the same major attractions as pricier options
Good option for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers
Often create a social atmosphere with communal dining

Cons:

Can be crowded with less personal space
Basic comfort levels with potential maintenance issues
Limited food quality and variety
Fewer included activities
Less attentive service with higher guest-to-staff ratios

For travelers focused primarily on experiencing Ha Long Bay at the lowest possible price point who don’t mind sacrificing comfort and amenities, budget cruises provide a functional option that covers the main highlights of the bay.

Mid-Range Cruises (US$140-200 per person)

Mid-range Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night options represent the most popular category, offering a significant step up in quality and comfort from budget alternatives without reaching luxury price points.

Vessel Characteristics:

Well-maintained wooden or steel-hulled vessels
Private cabins (12-15 m²) with en-suite bathrooms
Air conditioning and hot water systems
Pleasant communal spaces including dining room and lounge areas
Spacious sun deck with wooden furniture
Capacity for 15-30 passengers

Onboard Experience:

Good quality multi-course meals featuring Vietnamese specialties
Comfortable bedding with quality linens
Clean private bathrooms with reliable hot water
Comprehensive safety systems
Range of included activities (kayaking, cave visits, etc.)
Smaller excursion groups (6-10 people per guide)

Pros:

Excellent value for money with good balance of comfort and price
Reliable operations with established safety procedures
Good food quality and usually inclusive of most activities
More personalized service than budget options
Often include round-trip transfers from Hanoi

Cons:

Can still feel somewhat commercial rather than exclusive
Variable quality between operators in this category
Basic rather than luxurious furnishings
Limited premium activities or personalization

For most travelers, mid-range cruises hit the sweet spot of comfort, experience quality, and value. This category represents the standard Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experience that delivers reliable quality without unnecessary luxury premiums.

Premium Cruises (US$200-350 per person)

Premium Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night journeys offer upscale experiences with superior comfort, service, and amenities.

Vessel Characteristics:

Beautifully designed wooden or modern steel vessels
Spacious cabins (18-25 m²) with large windows or private balconies
Well-appointed bathrooms with quality fixtures
Elegant public areas with tasteful décor
Expansive sun deck with comfortable loungers
Capacity typically limited to 12-24 passengers

Onboard Experience:

Gourmet dining with multiple options and fine presentation
Premium bedding and luxury linens
High-end bathroom amenities and fluffy towels
Professional and attentive service (higher staff-to-guest ratio)
Comprehensive activities program with quality equipment
Small excursion groups (4-8 people per guide)

Pros:

High-quality experience in all aspects
More spacious accommodations and public areas
Superior dining experiences with better ingredients
Professional, well-trained staff providing personalized service
Premium inclusions like welcome drinks, fruit baskets, and sometimes onboard credit
Less crowded and more relaxed atmosphere

Cons:

Significant price premium over mid-range options
May offer similar itineraries to less expensive cruises despite higher cost
Can feel unnecessarily luxurious for some travelers looking primarily for the natural experience

Premium cruises appeal to travelers who appreciate higher service levels, more spacious accommodations, and an overall more refined experience. They’re particularly popular with couples celebrating special occasions and travelers accustomed to upscale accommodations.

Luxury Cruises (US$350-600+ per person)

Luxury Ha Long Bay cruise 1 night experiences represent the pinnacle of overnight cruising on the bay, with standards comparable to 5-star hotels.

Vessel Characteristics:

Meticulously designed vessels with premium materials throughout
Large cabins (25-40 m²) often with private balconies
Luxurious bathrooms with premium fixtures (some with bathtubs)
Multiple elegant public spaces including library, spa, bar, and restaurant
Expansive multi-level decks with premium furnishings
Limited capacity (typically 8-20 suites) ensuring exclusivity

Onboard Experience:

Gourmet cuisine prepared by professional chefs, often with à la carte options
Fine dining service standards with premium beverages
Luxury hotel-quality bedding and amenities
Spa services available onboard
Highly personalized service with butler options on some vessels
Private or very small group excursions
Premium activities with high-end equipment

Pros:

Exceptional quality in all aspects of the experience
Highly personalized service with staff anticipating needs
Exclusive access to less-visited areas (some luxury operators have private moorings)
Gourmet dining experiences with premium ingredients
Superior comfort comparable to luxury hotels
All-inclusive pricing on many vessels (including premium beverages)

Cons:

Very high price point that may be difficult to justify for a single night
May feel unnecessarily opulent for those primarily interested in natural attractions
Less authentic “Vietnamese” experience due to international luxury standards

Luxury cruises