Ha Long Bay is a must-see destination for any traveler to Vietnam. The unusual beauty of the bay’s karst landscape, emerald waters, and lush vegetation are simply breathtaking. For those seeking a unique experience, a Ha Long Bay luxury cruise is perfect to take it all in. There’s everything from opulent junk boats to ultra-deluxe ships. We’ll highlight the best cabins, activities, and all the comforts on board each vessel. But before we review each cruise, here are some quick tips.
Best Cruises For Families
Junior connecting suites on Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises
- Le Theatre Cruises – Classy old-school luxury. Family suites have two double beds, or for more space, there’s the interconnecting Junior suite with one double room and a twin room. There’s a wide menu choice, high tea, and family-friendly staff. They have on-land hiking and biking activities, but you should check for kids’ bikes before booking.
- Doris Cruise – The family suites have inter-connecting bedrooms. Triple suites are also available for families with young children. For dining, the menus cater to various dietary needs. Most guests will enjoy the jacuzzi on the stern, but the cruiser doesn’t have a swimming pool.
- Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises – This cruise has the most room options for groups compared to other Halong Bay cruises. You can choose from Triple family suites with three beds or Interconnecting junior suites with 2 bedrooms. An alternative option is the Senior family suite with an extra-large double bed, a single, and upstairs living quarters.
Best Cruises For Couples
Romantic dining on Emperor Cruises Legacy Ha Long
- Stellar of the Seas Cruise – Stellar is a hip and vibey cruise liner that goes to quieter locations. There’s also a private yacht for transfers and romantic outings to additional sites. President and Executive suites are the best for their large windows and spacious sun terraces. You can enjoy romantic dining, a panoramic bar, a wine and cigar cellar, and luxury spa services.
- Scarlet Pearl Cruises – This is a more affordable cruise for budget couples. But can arrange extra romantic tours like catamaran sunset cruises or diversions to small islet channels. The President suite is the best choice with a wide, rounded bed and a small jacuzzi on the private sundeck. There’s no pool, but you can join yoga and cooking classes.
- Emperor Cruises Legacy Ha Long – This is one of the most exclusive and luxurious Halong Bay cruises. All 10 suites are decorated with antiques and artworks capturing the life of Vietnam’s last reigning monarch. Third deck King cabins have the best views. You can enjoy your private terrace, a jacuzzi bathtub, the spa, and in-cabin dining. There are two restaurants onboard with lovely decor for intimate dining.
Best Cruises For Solo Travelers
Economy single cabin on Le Theatre Cruises
- Scarlet Pearl Cruises – A more affordable choice that includes activities like island forest hiking, visiting villages, cycling, and fishing. The Golden Pearl suite has the best high-deck panoramic views. There’s no pool, but you can join yoga sessions, work out in the small gym, or join cooking classes.
- Le Theatre Cruises – One of the few cruises to offer an economy single cabin, although the Panorama suite is a nice treat. There’s plenty of opportunity to get to know people over select wines in the Piano Lounge, and there is also a luxury spa.
- Paradise Elegance Cruise – For solos, the Deluxe balcony suite is very comfortable. You’ll love the terrace, perfect for some quiet time with a book. It’s a larger cruise liner with plenty of sociable areas to meet new people, especially around the pool or bar. There’s a spa, a wellness center, and butler services if you prefer more time alone. They also offer 2-night meditation and retreat cruise.
Most Affordable Halong Bay Cruises
Honeymoon Suite Cabin on Rosa Cruise
Halong Bay cruise prices can vary depending on the season, the type of cabin, and the length of the cruise. However, some of the cruises that are generally considered more budget-friendly options include:
- Rosa Cruise – from USD$313/night
- Aspira Cruises – from USD$346/night
- Doris Cruise – from USD$350/night
- Sena Cruise – from USD$380/night
These are all excellent options considering they still include luxurious amenities onboard. While more affordable, these cruises are more expensive than other travel experiences in Halong Bay.
1. Elite of the Seas
Elite of the Seas is a four-deck cruiser with 35 opulent balcony or terrace suites. The first day includes transfers and relaxing onboard, but from the second day, activities pick up the pace. On the first night, there’s a sumptuous 8-course welcoming dinner. For the best stay, try the Elite Presidential suite with surround windows, an outdoor shower, and a sun terrace. Regardless of the suite, you’ll get an in-room ocean-view bathtub. Wake up to the bay’s surreal beauty, or for early risers, join in with Thai Chi. Onboard, relax in the pool, head to the spa, work out in the gym, or enjoy some mini-golf. During downtime, you’ll love the elegant Panoramic bar and Wine & Cigars Cellar down below.
- Guest Reviews: Beautiful room with a large balcony and a bay view. Exceptional food and 5-star service.
- Best Cabin: Elite president suite
- Packages: 1 to 4 nights
- Prices: from USD$686/night
2. Stellar of the Seas Cruise
Stellar of the Seas is the elder ‘sister’ of Elite of the Seas. With a stylishly classic ambiance, only premium suites have an in-room bathtub by the window. The itinerary skirts to quieter, more unusual destinations, although equally attractive. Your first day is already action-packed with sea lagoon kayaking. For the welcoming dinner, there’s a full-spread barbecue with night and squid fishing afterward. The spa is very welcoming after a day of travel, and the poolside bar is a social hotspot. On Stellar of the Seas, they offer private yacht service for transfers and additional tours.
- Guest Reviews: The views from our suite were incredible. The BBQ dinner and the happy hour cocktails were amazing.
- Best Cabin: Presidential suite with sun terrace
- Packages: 1 to 4 nights
- Prices: from USD$615/night
3. Dragon Legend Cruise
Dragon Legend Cruise offers a Ha Long Bay experience in quintessential Vietnamese style. Their 24-cabin Junk cruiser has the early 1900s feel with Vietnamese wood interiors, original art, and local crafts. Each itinerary also concludes with a local water puppet performance. One-night tours start with kayaking and swimming at a private beach and finish with evening squid fishing onboard. Two-night cruises include a beach barbecue lunch and discovering hidden lagoons. Onboard, they have a saltwater pool as well as a spa with a sauna and steam room. You can choose a double or twin deluxe room, both come with an ocean-view bathtub in the ensuite. Dining includes indoor and outdoor with buffet spreads, set menus, and also a la carte.
- Guest Reviews: We had an amazing time. Our room was comfortable and the food was delicious.
- Best Cabin: Deluxe double room
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$720/night
4. Le Theatre Cruises
Le Theatre Cruises is for experiencing old-school refined luxury, catering to families, couples, and singles. Only Panorama Suite has full surround windows so book early for this gem. Although the other cabins, like the Le Theatre Suite and Executive Suite, are just as luxurious. For dining, the Opera Restaurant is a stunning ballroom design with a grand staircase. Recline to select wines and spirits in the Piano Lounge with its rich leather chairs and sofas. Or, head to the spa’s top-class treatments set to the old-world grace of Hanoi chic. Itineraries go to popular locations and include kayaking, swimming, and a bit of island village cycling. Breakfast and lunch are buffets while dinner is set course with local and international cuisine.
- Guest Reviews: Our executive suite was unbelievable. We loved the sunset party and the delicious seafood.
- Best Cabin: Panorama suite
- Packages: 1 night
- Prices: from USD$418/night
5. Scarlet Pearl Cruises
Scarlet Pearl is more affordably priced but with comfortable luxuries all the same. Tours come with the unique option of catamaran sunset cruises or adventures into smaller channels.For tw o-night tours, there’s island forest hiking, visiting villages, cycling, fishing, and secluded beaches. Overall, itineraries allow for more onboard relaxation while food and beverage services are less refined. For accommodations, the Presidential suite is the most sumptuous with a private terrace. The Family suite has interconnecting rooms and the Pearl suite has a lovely private sundeck. Enquire before booking whether spa services are available or not.
- Guest Reviews: Fantastic 3-day 2-night cruise. We loved our suite’s private balcony and the food was wonderful.
- Best Cabin: President Scarlet Pearl
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$597/night
6. Doris Cruise
The Doris Cruise has overnight and two-night cruises around Halong Bay. One and two-day tours visit popular sights and include a little swimming and kayaking. The two-night tour allows for more activities with village cycling and time at hidden sandy beaches. Inside the cruiser, you’ll find nice luxury fittings, especially the rooms. Family suites have a connecting room with a balcony, also perfect for a group of friends. For the best comforts, the Executive suite has a lovely four-poster bed while the Honeymoon suite has a secluded private terrace. Onboard, the top deck is a large sun deck with plenty of loungers. There’s no swimming pool, but the extra large heated jacuzzi at the stern is great in cooler weather.
- Guest Reviews: Fabulous suite with fantastic views. Lots of food choices. Wished we had booked an extra night.
- Best Cabin: Family suite
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$350/night
7. Paradise Elegance Cruise Halong
Paradise is one of the top water tourism providers in Ha Long Bay and Paradise Elegance is their premium luxury cruiser. Onboard is a refined piano bar, a wellness center, and butler services for premium rooms. On the top deck, you’ll find a large jacuzzi where you can enjoy cocktails as well. Your taste buds will come alive at Le Marin restaurant with some of the finest dining available on a luxury cruiser. Highlights are a light European breakfast, a traditional set lunch menu, and BBQ dinners. There are Balcony suites, but the Terrace suites have the best views. They offer two and three-night cruises with a more unique itinerary than just the popular destinations. Unlike any other luxury cruise, the Elegance also offers a 2-night meditation and retreat cruise.
- Guest Reviews: Our suite was large with a nice private balcony. Enjoyed the cocktail happy hour and live music.
- Best Cabin: Suite with terrace
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$384/night
8. Emperor Cruises Legacy Ha Long
Emperor Cruise Legacy is a refined experience of Vietnamese royal opulence of the 1930s. Luxury adornments, antiques, and commissioned artworks define all public spaces and its 10 exclusive cabin suites. These suites draw their inspiration from the life and times of the last Nguyen monarch, King Bao Dai. All cabins have a balcony, a private terrace, and a jacuzzi bathtub. The Royal suites, located on the third deck, have the best views from their sun terraces. In the King suites, you’ll see decor based on the life of King Bao Dai, while the Queen suites feature Queen Nam Phuong. Dining is likewise inspired by courtly opulence with select beverage pairing. In-cabin dining is available at any time and there are scheduled beach barbecues. All services like supervised activities, and even the spa, are included in your cruise package.
- Guest Reviews: Beautiful suite with a jacuzzi tub and private balcony. Good food and great service.
- Best Cabin: Royal suite
- Packages: 1 night
- Prices: from USD$650/night
9. Rosa Cruise
Rosa is a comfortable cruiser although the décor somewhat dated. The jacuzzi pool is a nice feature, and the bar is great, but not the height of luxury. For families and groups, the Interconnecting suite is a popular choice. Couples may prefer something more spacious like an Executive or Honeymoon suite each with a private terrace. The itinerary features popular places and includes bamboo boating instead of kayaking. Meals are buffet style with a good selection of seafood and vegetarian dishes, but not so much local fare. There is no spa service onboard, but there are game activities, fishing at night, and morning Thai Chi. Rosa Cruise is a great option if you’re on a tighter budget.
- Guest Reviews: Amazing 3 days. Incredible views, delicious food, and the trips off the boat were great fun.
- Best Cabin: Family connecting suite cabin
- Packages: 1 to 3 nights
- Prices: from USD$313/night
10. Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises
The Genesis Luxury Regal features a lovely interior in neoclassic French-Indochina design. It’s a 20-cabin cruiser with suites for couples, families, and groups. For the most luxurious cabin, the Regal suite has full-length panoramic windows and a private terrace. You’ll enjoy the Tonkin restaurant with its top-rated sous Chef. For wines around the world try The Sail Bar, but Sunset Bar is the best place for evening cocktails. On the one-night cruise, you can enjoy prime kayaking near Han Lan Bay. The longer two-night cruise includes fishing villages, island cycling, and swimming at secluded beaches. After a fun day, you can relax with a spa massage or head to the jacuzzi pool.
- Guest Reviews: Large suite with spectacular balcony views. The food was excellent and the day trips were really fun.
- Best Cabin: Regal panorama terrace suite
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$455/night
11. Rosy Cruises
Rosy Cruise offers one and two-night Halong Bay cruises in modest yet stylish luxury. The boat has a lovely top wooden deck and a heated jacuzzi at the stern. You can also pop by the spa for relaxing massages and beauty treatments. All cabins have balconies, but Luxury suites have the best window views. The Honeymoon and Executive suite have a larger terrace and the Family suite has an interconnecting room. Itineraries are much the same as similar-priced tours with onboard activities like cooking demos and night fishing. The gourmet restaurant serves mostly European cuisine with vegetarian options.
- Guest Reviews: Our room was wonderful and close to the water. The food was great and we really enjoyed the kayaking and swimming.
- Best Cabin: Luxury suite with private balcony
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$746/night
12. Sena Cruises
Sena Cruises presents a more young-at-heart and casual affair with luxury. The cruise boat is also a more intimate three-decker having only 16 well-fitted cabins. The one-night cruise is quite standard and, if you’re pressed for time, they also have a one-day itinerary. Two-night cruises are more worthwhile, as they explore scenery from the movie Kong Skull Island. Sena Terrace suites are the roomiest with a flexible room configuration to fit your needs. Another spacious option is the Family suite with a connecting room. Spa treatments and massages are available with prior booking.
- Guest Reviews: Everything was perfect. Big comfortable cabins and excellent food.
- Best Cabin: Sena terrace suite triple
- Packages: 1 to 2 night
- Prices: from USD$380/night
13. Aspira Cruises
Aspira Cruises is another affordable vessel that still feels luxurious with a crisp boutique-like interior. Besides 1 and 2-night itineraries, they also offer unique packages with hotel stays on land. The best cabin on board is the Presidential suite which comes with a lovely moon bed and a sun terrace. But the Executive suite is just as good with similar luxuries like a private spa bath. Connecting suites are available for those traveling as a group. The public outdoor deck areas are especially nice, not to mention the heart-shaped jacuzzi. For some relaxing time out, you can make a booking at the spa.
- Guest Reviews: Luxurious cabin with bathtub overlooking the bay. Enjoyed kayaking and relaxing by the pool.
- Best Cabin: President suite
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$346/night
14. Orchid Classic Cruise
Orchid Classic is a three-deck cruiser offering a little more exclusive luxury with only 14 cabins. It’s an Indochine Junk outfitted with the most fabulous wooden decks and French neoclassical interiors. The Family suite offers extra comfort being two interconnecting suites. For couples, the best room is the Exclusive suite with a jacuzzi bathtub and spacious balcony. Their itineraries avoid the most crowded locations, and the first day has a unique excursion on Cat Ba Island. Other activities include cycling, kayaking, fishing, and the onboard jacuzzi pool. If you’re after more relaxation, the premium spa has its own jacuzzi and sauna room. For dining, the onboard restaurant serves quality Vietnamese and fusion cuisine.
- Guest Reviews: Our suite was huge with a full-length deck and a soaking tub with a full window view.
- Best Cabin: Family suite
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$634/night
15. La Regina Grand Cruise
La Regina Grand is a cruiser decked out in a style reminiscent of the 1930s era of Vietnam. On the first day, you’ll be kayaking and relaxing on an island beach. On day two, they’ll take you through the narrow inlets of Lan Ha Bay on local boats. For two-night tours, you can explore caves on Bat Ba Island and bike to Viet Ha village. Their itineraries are comparatively quieter and more relaxed. If you’re traveling as a group, stay in the luxurious 2-level Lan Ha duplex suite, or the Lan Ha trio suite. There’s an onboard spa for those who prefer a slower pace as well as common areas to relax.
- Guest Reviews: The food was delicious and the day trips were fun and relaxing. Wifi wasn’t the best though.
- Best Cabin: La Han duplex suite
- Packages: 1 to 2 nights
- Prices: from USD$393/night
What To Expect On Halong Bay Cruises
- Accommodation – Cabins vary a lot depending on the price as well as the grade of the cruiser. Luxury suites usually come with a private sun terrace, a view bathtub, and perhaps an outdoor shower. You can expect all cabins to have a private ensuite.
- Activities – Itineraries don’t vary that much between cruises. Activities usually include kayaking around islands, drop-offs to island caves, beach barbeques, swimming, and often cycling or hiking are included. These come at no extra cost but may change due to weather or boat crowding. Onboard, there could be a pool, communal jacuzzi, a bar, and also mini golf. Some cruises have Thai Chi, yoga, cooking demonstrations, and night squid fishing.
- Dining – Cruise prices include all meals, limited drinks, and sometimes snacks. Some cruises serve a welcoming dinner, a la carte, set menu, or buffet for less expensive cruises. Lunch is usually buffet if not a beach barbecue, and in-cabin dining is an option for more luxury cruises.
- Things To Pack – For the most part, a small sports bag or a carry-on suitcase will suffice for a couple of nights. The most important things to pack are swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. A pair of good-gripping sneakers is best for on-land activities and a windbreaker or sweater for the colder seasons. Don’t forget your passport, a water bottle, a small knapsack bag, and extra cash. Lastly, bring appropriate dining attire if you’re on a more luxurious cruise.
Best Time To Go On Halong Bay Cruises
The peak months are generally from September through to December. The temperature is lower during this time and there is much less chance of rain or choppy waters. From December, temperatures can drop to 17℃ (63°F). While from January to February, the weather will be cloudy and cold. March is not a bad month but from May the chances of rain increase. July is the wettest and hottest month reaching 29℃ (84°F), so trips can be uncomfortable.
How Many Days Are Enough For Halong Bay Cruises?
The most adequate experience lasts for 3 days with 2 nights on board. Activities on the first day are limited due to boarding and outward cruising. The third day is usually until noon before departing back to port. An overnight cruise is also possible, but if you want the complete experience, a 3-night cruise is recommended. Some cruises like Elite of the Seas, have cruises for up to 4 nights.
Find More Cruises in Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay Cruise Prices
| Ha Long Bay Cruises | Prices/Night |
| Elite of the Seas | from USD$686/night |
| Stellar of the Seas Cruise | from USD$615/night |
| Dragon Legend Cruise | from USD$720/night |
| Le Theatre Cruises | from USD$418/night |
| Scarlet Pearl Cruises | from USD$597/night |
| Doris Cruise | from USD$350/night |
| Paradise Elegance Cruise Halong | from USD$384/night |
| Emperor Cruises Legacy Ha Long | from USD$650/night |
| Rosa Cruise | from USD$313/night |
| Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises | from USD$455/night |
| Rosy Cruises | from USD$746/night |
| Sena Cruises | from USD$380/night |
| Aspira Cruises | from USD$346/night |
| Orchid Classic Cruise | from USD$634/night |
| La Regina Grand Cruise | from USD$393/night |
