Jasmine sets 2 options to cruise Halong Bay {2 days 1 night} & {3 days 2 nights}

Jasmine is a four-star junk will set the standard for services and amenities on the bay. Fitted out in the 1930′s Indochine style, the Halong Jasmine will feature 21 spacious cabins, restaurant, lounge and two special Jasmine Suites with their own jacuzzi & balcony for uninterrupted views of the bay

Download cruise fact sheet  (winword version),  (pdf version)

Location:

Distance to Hanoi or Noi Bai airport: 165 km
Distance to the nearest bank or ATM: 500m from the dock
Distance to nearest hospital: 3 km (doctor on call)

Transportation:

Transportation time from Hanoi or Noi Bai Airport 3 hours
Car rental service with driver Available
Shuttle bus service Available

Check in/ Check out:

Check in time: 12:30 PM
Check out time: 11:00 AM

Credit card accepted

Visa, Master Card, American Express

Foreign languages spoken

English, French

Accommodation

Jasmine Suite: 02
Jasmine Deluxe 09
Jasmine Premium: 12

Total of rooms: 23

JASMINE SUITE
24 sqm
Number of beds 01 King – size bed of 180 cm x 205 cm
02 adults
On uppper deck with balcony and jacuzzi
Non – smoking

JASMINE DELUXE

18 sqm
Number of beds 01 Queen – size bed of 165 cm x 205 cm
02 adults
On uppper deck with balcony
Non – smoking

JASMINE PREMIUM
17 sqm
Number of beds 02 single – size beds of 95 cm x 205 cm each
02
Non – smoking

Jasmine sets 2 options to cruise Halong Bay {2 days 1 night} & {3 days 2 nights}

Emeraude Classic Cruise Halong: Old world charm resurfaced on the calm water of Halong Bay, Vietnam with the launch of a magnificent five star vessel Emeraude modeled in the tradition of the grand old single wheeled paddle steamer of the colonial era. One of the great natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay covers an area of 1,500 km² over which are scattered thousands of limestone islands and grottoes rising from the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

The majestic beauty of the bay and its islands is only fully appreciated while meandering among the islands, fjords and islets. The original Emeraude was one of the flotillas owned by the Roque family who left Bordeaux in 1858 in search of fame and fortune. The fleet cruised along Indochina waterways and Halong Bay in the olden days. The original Emeraude sank in the Bay in 1937. Using advanced techniques, French architects painstakingly modeled the new vessel from old photos and drawings found at the Paris’ Maritime Museum. Passengers can now relax, seek total comfort in the luxurious cabins or enjoy the beautiful sea breeze on the sun deck and enjoy the splendor and serenity of nature.

The Emeraude operates daily a two day, one night cruise. For lunch and dinner, passengers get to enjoy delicious freshly caught seafood and Vietnamese specialties. In the morning, an American style breakfast is served onboard the colonial vessel. For passengers who want more than just cruising around, the Emeraude also offer afternoon tea, traditional body massages and sunrise Tai Chi classes. The trip is completely flexible offering we variety of options for all.

The ship has been undergoing imprtant maintenace works in order to ensure the safety 7 confort of all passengers and crew. The new cabin configuration of the ship from 5 July 2008 as follows:
Superior: 12 cabins
Deluxe: 22 cabins
Suite: 03 cabins

Download Cruise Fact Sheet:  (winword version),  (pdf version)

Download cruise itinerary  (winword version),  (pdf version)

Travel Itinerary

Halong Emeraude Cruise sets 3 options to cruise on Halong Bay 1 day & 2days 1night & 3days 2nights

Travel Itinerary

Bhaya sets 2 options to cruise Halong Bay {2 days 1 night} & {3 days 2 nights}

Bhaya Cruise Ship Facts by Cruises Halong Vietnam

The Halong Bay cruise ship Bhaya, pronounced “bay-a”, is a splendidly elegant blend of sumptuous old world, Imperial Vietnamese charm with modern luxury, service and refinement.

Type:                Traditional Vietnamese Imperial-style luxury Wooden Vessel
Cabins:             18 deluxe cabins
Suites:              2 royal suites
Length:             37.2 m (122 ft)
Beam:               8.3 m (27 ft)
Height:              9.4 m (30 ft)
Draft:                1.8 m (6 ft)
Speed:              6 – 10 knots

Bhaya Classic I
Launch: July 2007
Length: 37.5 m
Width: 8.2 m

Bhaya Classic II
Launch: November 2008
Length: 39.5 m
Width: 8.5 m

Bhaya Classic III
Launch: January 2009
Length: 39.5 m
Width: 8.5 m

Bhaya Classic IV (Hai Long Suite upgraded)
Launch: May 2011
Length: 35.5 m
Width: 8.2 m

As one of the largest cruise ships on Halong Bay, Bhaya is luxuriously appointed. No expense has been spared in order to recreate the imperial splendor enjoyed by Vietnam’s Emperor’s as they took their cruises of Halong Bay.

Download cruise itinerary  (winword version),  (pdf version)

Accommodation

Built in oriental style with contemporary luxury, Bhaya Cruises established new standards of luxury cruising in Vietnam when Bhaya Classic I entered service in summer 2007.
The Bhaya Classic fleet offers a total of 60 luxury cabins and suites accommodating a maximum 120 passengers for Ha Long Bay cruises or hosted events (weddings, corporate retreats, incentives, meetings, conferences, etc.).

Bhaya offers four types of intimate, luxury, personal accommodation: Deluxe Twin Cabins, Deluxe Double Cabins, Bhaya Suites and the exclusive, lavish Royal Suites.

All Cabins and Suites are finished in traditional Vietnamese hardwood giving them a rich, luxuriant warmth. The white deck heads, thatched bamboo-matting panels and expansive curtained windows deliver ambient light and views. Hand-crafted hardwoodfurniture, gold and white fittings, white bed linen and soft pastel turquoise bed runners and pillows further enhance the warmth and light.
All accommodations include airconditioning, fans, private toilets and showers (with bath in the Royal Suites), refrigerator, and picturesque ocean views as standard.
Bhaya has six 12.5m2 (41ft2) Deluxe Double Cabins. The four located on 01 Deck are aft of the Bhaya Suites with two each on the port and starboard sides. On 02 Deck, the two Deluxe Double Cabins are located aft of the Royal Suites on either side. The Double cabins feature a 160 x 200 cm (5′ 2in x 6′ 6in) double bed.

Deluxe Cabin

Our Deluxe cabin (12.5m2) offers all the amenities necessary for you to feel comfortable: twin beds or a queen-size bed, air-conditioner, wall fan, refrigerator, en-suite bathroom with shower. Each features a picture window, providing added light and memorable views.

Royal Suite

The two sumptuous Royal Suites (16.5m2) are located in the forward section of the upper accommodation deck and offer panoramic 180° views. Each Royal Suite offers all the standard amenities of the Deluxe Cabins, plus a larger ensuite bathroom with bathtub, a plush sofa, extended picture windows and an exclusive, private viewing area on the foredeck.

A cruise on board one of the junks is a wonderful experience with kids. Most junks offer 2 or 3 day itineraries with lots of activities. Meals are generally included with lots of fresh seafood. Let the tour operator know if your family is not big on seafood and they will cook up some chicken dishes too. Some tours do not include drinks and must be purchased separately. Many tours will include transportation from Hanoi (approximately 3.5 hours).

Children can join the activities on board like: cave visiting, kayaking, swimming or fishing village but they need their parents’ attention. Before each activity, children need to be told in advance about the safety so that they are more careful to follow the instructions.

Kayaking is offered by several junks however this is better suited for older children. A sunrise tai chi lesson is also an interesting activity for the kids. Evening fishing for squid is another of the fun things to do in Halong Bay with kids. You may also get to visit a fishing village or see the monkeys playing on the rocks.

Children also need to be well- equipped with life vests during all the activities.

Halong Bay should be high on your list of places to travel to in Vietnam with kids. It was definitely my family’s favorite part of visiting Vietnam. The beauty of this place is truly amazing-it is one of the most beautiful landscapes that I have seen. It is also a nice escape from the chaos of Hanoi.

The Best Junks For Kids When You Travel To Halong Bay

Bhaya Cruises is one of the best family friendly luxury junk operators. They have 7 vessels to choose from with daily departures from Hanoi. You can choose from 1 or 2 night tours with stops at the beautiful Cat ba islands. They also offer private boat Bhaya Legend rents for families. They offer a kid’s menu as well as child size life jackets. Children under 6 are free and there is a discount for kids ages 6-12 (sharing room with parent).

Paloma Cruise offers family suites that can sleep a family of 3 (2 adults and 1 child). Children’s discounts available for children under 12.

Emotion Cruise offers a family suite cabin with connecting door. One room has a double bed and the other has 2 single beds. This Halong Bay boat can sleep a family of 4. It also has a private balcony.

Victory Star Cruise is a luxury Halong junk with family connecting cabins that can sleep a family of 4. It also has triple cabins available with 1 double and 1 single bed.

Classic Sail is another option for families that travel to Halong Bay. It offers interconnecting double family rooms that can sleep a family of 4.

If you are looking for a private charter then check out Prince I Cruise as it has 2 deluxe cabins (one double, one triple) and can sleep a family of 5. Or the Bhaya Legend II has 2 suites that can sleep a family of 4.

More Family charter cruises on Halong Bay are available here

If you are traveling in a large group you will easily find junks available for a private tour.

Cruising

Tourists will have many choices with Halong bay cruises which have different about level and price. However you should choose level cruise from 3 stars to 5 stars to receive the best service and safe. General, all cruises are checked about safe and standard equipment on the cruise. Moreover, there are several relaxing services provided on the cruises including restaurant & bar, massage, cooking class, tai chi class, etc… Some famous cruises are appreciated by tourist such as: Au Co cruise, Bhaya cruise, Paradise cruise, Violet cruise, Jasmine cruise, Red Dragon Cruise… Au Co cruise is the most modern cruise in Halong bay. It was built in 2012 and it has 32 cabins with 5 star levels. This cruise was honored as luxury hotel on the sea. Paradise cruise has perennial brand with luxury cruises in Halong bay such as: Paradise cruise, Paradise Peak cruise… Tourist will surprise about luxury and professional service of these cruise. The architecture of these vessels draws its inspiration from the traditional Halong Bay junks. They have been furnished and designed to offer the utmost comfort worthy of a world-class luxury hotel and the enchanting charm of a boutique hotel.

This is relaxing paradise to enjoy peaceful time, quite. Choosing Halong bay cruises is the new travel experiences and the new way of discovery for tourists. Let‘s choose suitable cruise itinerary and explore mysterious limestone caves on Halong Bay.

Caving

Halong bay has many caves and islands. These caves are attractive destinations in route visiting Halong bay. Some famous caves are known extensively by tourist such as “Dau Go” cave, “Thien Cung” cave, “Sung Sot” cave… Magnificent masterpieces of the Creator will definitely dazzle all visitors by the magical world of stalactites and stalagmites in various sizes and shapes. Tourists are also have chance to dine in a cave and experience an exotic feeling of dining in spacious and romantic ambiance inside.

The most famous cave is “Dau Go” cave, located in Dau Go Island. “Dau Go” cave is divided into three parts. Outside part has roll in dome with ceiling look like huge oil paint picture. Beauty of this cave is praised in many poems and songs. It was honored as “caves of wonders” in World Wonder book by French. Next to “Sung sot” cave which located in Bo Hon Island and belong to centre Halong bay. This cave included two parts with stalactites with unique shape such as rock elephant, rock flower, rock water seal… Name of cave explain wonderful beauty to surprise everyone. You could easily visit “Sung Sot” cave when take part in cruise journey: Titop beach – Bo Nau cave – Me Cung cave – Luon cave – Sung Sot cave. Nearly, you could visit “Trinh Nu” cave whose name means female cave. You also see “Trong” cave which located opposite “Trinh Nu” cave. Name of this cave means male cave. The longest cave is Hanh cave which located in Cam Pha. Length of cave is 1,3 kilometer along Hanh moutain and cross out sea. If tourist want visit Hanh cave, you need to use small boat and lamp because of dark of cave. Besides, tourists explore many beautiful caves such as: Fairy cave, Thien cung cave…

Caving is always main activity of tourists when visit Halong bay. Many tourists took photograph unique caves to make remembered memories in Halong bay.

Swimming

Halong Bay is a ideal travel destination – a World Heritage Site, with thousands of limestone islands and caves. There are countless places to stop for swimming, fishing, snorkeling and kayaking when cursing around islands. There are many charming and attractive beaches; it is suitable for swimming activities such as Tra Gioi Beach, Ba Cua Beach, Tuan Chau Beach, Titov Beach, Minh Chau Beach. The stunning scenery of sheer mountain cliffs rising out of the bay makes an ideal backdrop to water-based activities.The water of beach is emerald green and turquoise color so you cannot see the bottom. Halong Bay is the safe place for swimming. Because beach is calm waters and tourists will be provided useful equipment such as: life jackets. Moreover the sailors and staff of the ship watched while you were swimming to alert you for dangers in case. Swimming in Halong bay is really nice and refreshing.

Kayaking

Kayaking is one of the most attractive actions in Halong bay. Over the last decade or so, kayaking has become a popular activity in Halong Bay, which covers an area of 1,500 square kilometers, offering many options for both the less and the more adventurous. With modern kayaking equipment, visitors can maximize on speed and maneuverability as they explore the open sea and many hidden lagoons, unspoiled beaches and floating fishing villages, they unwind on the boat and enjoy a sumptuous dinner. Travelers can paddle into peaceful lakes surrounded by Limestone Mountains and through amazing caves. Kayaking inside limestone karst is one of specialties in Halong bay. Aside from the comforts, escort boats allow your efficient experience of the remote geology and untouched culture harbored within Ha Long’s scattered limestone islands. With tranquil on-the-water sunsets and sunrises, you chances of wildlife sightings are good, and the eerie romance of the islands is unforgettable.

Kayaking is generally assumed to be very safe . Because beach is calm waters and tourists will be provided useful equipment such as: paddles, life jackets and spray kits. Kayaks of Halong are equipped with two sealed compartments for gear and ‘dry bags’ to help keep your gear safe from the elements.

Cycling and trekking

Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island is ideal trekking and cycling destinations to explore wild nature of the area around. There are lots of rare animals to sea, including green and hawksbill turtles and golden-headed languor monkeys. Visitors can choose from various trek routes, either way it is an impressive experience. When trekking on the beach, tourists will be free to enjoy cozy white sandy ground and gaze stunning seascape of Halong. We suggest the trekking in Ban Sen Island, Quan lan Island, Cat Ba Island and Titov Island (short). You can cycle in some fishing village such as Viet Hai village, Cat Ba island, Tuan Chau island.

One of the popular and cool things to do is a guided jungle trek in the Cat Ba National Park. It sounds quite an innocent and safe activity, but it is NOT and in fact can be quite dangerous. The guides usually offer two treks, an easier one lasting a few hours and a second more difficult one lasting at least 6 hours and far more demanding than the former. If you are not experienced, go for the first. If you do not have a reasonable level of fitness, don’t go at all. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes with a good grip on the ground and clothing that does not leave any skin exposed. If possible, have a first aid box with you.

Cycling in untouched regions is one of the great options for a real fishing village experience. In Halong bay, tourists will chance to visit some fishing village to explore life of fishermen and sightseeing beauty of fishing village. For travelers who love to seek real experiences deep among peaceful villages or try catching fishes. There is no better way to experience the sights smells and sounds of daily life in than by peddling slowly between lush rice paddies. Tourists could enjoy seafood to be cooked by local people and taste the perfume of the sea.  It is great fun and a naturally sociable way to meet villagers and fishermen.

Scuba- diving

Travelers coming to Halong Bay will enjoy not only the boat trip, sea kayaking but also the very scuba diving experience. Scuba diving has been recently opened in Halong Bay making this place a must-sea for underwater lovers. The time from April to December is the most wonderful period for Travellers to join “Halong Bay Scuba Diving”. The temperature of water at this time is from 26-29 celsius degrees.

Travelers can explore hidden beauty underwater with thousands of splendid coral and fish like sergeant major fish, Clark’s anemone fish. Tourists will see colorful their method survive. Underwater world will make you to feel novel, small and peaceful as come back inside your mother. Tourist will perfect relax and excited to discovery underwater world.  With internationally-licensed, well-trained scuba divers and assistants, we guarantee the safety, papering amenities with friendly and attentive management which make you unforgettable experience.

Rock-climbing

All professional climbers coming to Halong agree that Halong bay is the paradise of adventurous mountain climbing as it has thousands of islands with high lime-stone mountains.  Tourist could see countless beautiful limestone faces. To enjoy this stunning archipelago of karsts you can try climbing Rock Mountain. If you never climb Rock Mountain, guides will guide some base skills and some notice during climbing time. After a brief introduction, guides will outfit you with safe and comfortable certified UIAA harnesses, shoes, and helmets.  With the coaching of our experienced guides, climb as high as you like over the emerald waters of Halong Bay.  On a clear day your cruise home will include a majestic sunset, over calm waters, speckled with islands.

Tourists will excited to subdue high of mountain and reach true climbing experience.  From the high, tourist could obverse overview of Halong bay. There is no better way to enjoy Vietnam than getting high over the emerald waters rock climbing in Ha Long Bay. Rock climbing in Halong bay is the most unique and exciting way to make your trip to Ha Long Bay most memorable.

This activity is usually combined with kayaking to explore natural environment of Halong Bay. You can kayak into hidden lagoons, through limestone archways, grottoes, and floating villages. After that you will climb Rock Mountain to obverse overview clearly. Next, you could take part in activities: soak up the sun, sightseeing, swim, beach hop, and watch the wheeling black kites as they dive for fish.

Visiting floating villages

The floating village is a cultural heritage and tourist attraction in Halong bay, Vietnam. People have been living in these houses for hundred of year with fishing as the main income activity. This beautiful Bay is also famous for many floating fishing villages with about 600 residents who sustain through fishing and fish cultivation activities… it is a magically calm place, an escape from the hustle of Vietnam streets. There are four residential areas of fishermen living on a bay, about 400 households totaling approximately 1000 people. The fishermen live on boats and floating wooden houses in the coze-zone of Halong Bay, which is dozens of kilometers away from the mainland. They have no home or land ownership and their main livelihood is fishing and aquaculture.

The Visitors often travel to enjoy life in some villages such as: Vong Vieng Village, Cua Van Village, Ba Hang Village or Cap De Village in Hung Thang Commune. Cua Van is the largest village with about 130 floating houses and a population of about 600 people. Halong is very rich of marine resource which the fishermen live on. They often start their work in the early morning and sell achievement for large boats carrying fresh fish to markets on land.

The local villagers are the original inhabitants of Halong Bay who have lived on the sea for several generations. They were created a diverse culture of fishing and living. In the peaceful atmosphere of fishing village, tourists will be welcomed with fresh seafood and folksong performance (in Vietnamese: “hat gheo” or “hat cheo duong”).

You could easily transfer to floating village by cruise tour daily. In this cruise tour, you could both visiting floating village and join activities: swimming, kayaking, diving…You should enjoy seafood to be made by local villagers or you can buy drying product and hand-made of local people for friends and family.

Launching: March 2012
Operating Area: The Gulf of Tonkin, Vietnam: Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay

Cruise duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Facts and Figures
Number of Boat: 02
Engines: 02 Yanmar (368KW)
Length: 55.29 m
Passenger cabins: 32 all with French balcony, floor
Width: 10.43 m
Passenger berths: 66
Depth: 3.20 m
Build: 2011
Crew: 45
Air Draft: 10 m

Port Location

Address 6 Le Thanh Tong Str.Hon Gai, Ha Long City, Vietnam
Distance to nearest bank or ATM: 1 km
Distance to nearest hospital: 4 km
Distance to Hanoi airport (Noi Bai): 160 km or 3.5 driving hours
Distance to Hanoi City: 165 km or 3.5 driving hours
Distance to Haiphong airport (Cat Bi): 75 km or 1.5 driving hours
Transportation: Shuttle Bus Service
Daily departure at 8:30 am in old quarter of Hanoi
Private Car Service: On request
Helicopter Service: On request

Check in / Check out
Check in time: 12:00 am
Check out time: 10:30 am
Credit Cards Accepted: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club
Languages Spoken: English, French, Vietnamese

Accommodation
Cabin types
Au Co Suites : 02 per boat- Upper Deck (at the back)
Long Quan Suites :  02 per boat – Upper Deck (in the front)
Executives Cabins: 14 per boat- Upper Deck
Deluxe Cabins: 12 per boat (including 04 connecting cabins) – Main Deck
Family Deluxe: 2 per boat- Main Deck

Cabin Amenities (All types of Cabins)
Well-appointed en-suite bathroom
Hair dryer
Natural wooden floors
Complimentary water throughout the trip onboard
Mini bar, two complimentary water bottles daily
Bathrobes
Flat TV screen and DVD player
Deluxe Bathroom’s amenities
Centrally controlled air-conditioning.
Emergency lighting and generator
Complementary bottle of wine (01/cabin/stay)
Life jacket and life raft
In-house telephone
Fire pump, hydrants and hoses, smoke detector and fire extinguisher

Halong bay, only its name is an invitation to travel, a raise up of a dream to discover.
One of the most beautiful natural treasure in the world, classified as World Heritage Site by Unesco, one of the most famous sites in Asia, Halong bay is the “must – see” for every traveler once visit to Vietnam. Named as eighth wonder of the world, the bay covers an area of 1550 km2 where spread of nearly 3000 islands, formed like rocky limestone and are scattered strangely from the emerald water.
The legends said that, once upon a time, the dragon live in the mountain and come down to the sea, its tail move with violence and make the cost into thousands of rocky mountains. Halong Bay means ” The Bay of Dragon Descend”.

Along with the time of the nature is the people who are attached thousand of year in the bay, many fishing villages are still there, again the storm and the movement of our civilization.

Download travel itineraries
2 days 1 night (word), (pdf)
3 days 2 nights (word), (pdf)

Download Cruise Fact Sheet:  (winword version),  (pdf version)

The Emotion Cruise

General:

Designed in the 1910’s Indochina style, the Halong Emotion offers the perfect mix in traditional elegance and modern comfort. Special attention has been paid to the decoration and interior of the junk.

It features 28 comfortable rooms, a dining room with sea view, a bar and a superb sundeck.
Year in operation: 2008
Length: 50m
Width: 10m
Floors: 3
Cabin: 28 luxury cabins
Spaces: dining room, bar, sundeck
Engine:  300 HP
Generator: 120 KW
Cruising speed: 18 km/h.

Cabins:

In line with our commitment to offer guests both charm and comfort, our cabins offer a range of facilities and an elegant ambiance.

Restaurant & Bar

It is a warm and romantic atmosphere, will be the feeling you have when sitting by overlooking sea view window and being served in our restaurant. All the dishes are made of fresh materials in the coast.

Any taste of wine will be satisfied in the bar, which is located in the sundeck. And it is where you will have chance to watch the profession of our cook in barbecue

Sundeck

Located on the top floor is the 500m sundeck, excellent for sunbathing, panoramic views and – if the weather permits – barbeques. Grab a drink in the bar, lay back and enjoy a magnificent sunset.
Take advantage of the cooler air in the mornings to practice Tai Chi. Different workshops will be organised by our instructors on deck.

Activities

Halong Emotion offer you the various services on board :

• Massage – spa beauty service
• Traditional music: enjoying the Vietnamese culture by folk music
• Kayaking: exploring the bays islands by yourself
• Diving: Exploring the beauty under the water surface
• Swimming: one of the most joyous moment when you are in Halong
• Cooking classes: a chance to learn more about Vietnamese cooking style
• Taichi classes: A great way to greet a new day ( if weather permitted)
• Kite – flying

reddragon Photo

Named and designed after an authentic Chinese junk, the original Red Dragon junk plied the rivers, seas and harbors of the Far East, from Singapore to northern China.

Our Red Dragon is complete with five deluxe cabins and designed to resonate with superior class and grandeur. Larger than The Prince and Princess it is still small enough to get up close to the natural wonders, pocket lagoons and small fishing communities of Halong and Bai Tu Long bays.

As soon as you board the Red Dragon, you will be surrounded by traditional handmade artisan woodwork. Whether you are relaxing in the comfort of your own cabin, lounging on the spacious sun deck, or dinning in the cozy restaurant, you will feel treated like royalty.

This masterpiece is a wonderful option for those who need a little more space for a small group cruise of up to 11 people.

Reviews from customers:

Fantastic! I was skeptical going into this Halong Bay cruise based on all the reviews of Halong bay tours in general but boy, was I blown away by how fantastic this cruise was, We booked thru our hotel with the Indochina Junk the Red Dragon II. It is a little more than some of the other cruises but trust me, it is SO worth every penny. First, the trip was mostly thru Bai Tu Long Bay, which is less crowded and cleaner (see travel itinerary). There are only 5 cabins (10 persons total) so you don’t feel crowded out. There are sunning lounge chairs on the deck where you can relax and enjoy the view, as well as option for both indoor and outdoor dining on top of the boat. Think about that, meals with the bay cruising by you. Second, the crew and our guide were very friendly, helpful and just all around great people. Our guide Hoang Nguyen was always there to provide information (very informative which was a plus), guidance and help when you needed it but not around so much that it was annoying, most of the time you just felt comfortable and taken care of and not bothered at all. He had the perfect balance for a 2 day 1 night trip. Third, can we say delicious food! The food was so so so amazing! (that’s three “so”‘s folks). It was the ultimate never-ending delicious meal. Finally, we felt so pampered. The itinerary, crew, guide, the rooms (each room had panoramic windows and the bathroom had a window that opened) the food, the views…everything was so “Zen,” peaceful and great. Look at this review, I clearly cannot say enough about the Red Dragon cruise. I don’t rate things often but this experience was just perfect.

Read the information and consulting before choosing Itinerary

1. Two Day/One Night Itinerary

On the first day, those 3 activities, including Cave Visiting, Kayaking and Swimming, are continuously placed upon itinerary. There is no any alternative activity, the passenger can only choose to stay on boat, or, relaxing on the beach. Others request for visiting around the area by tender can be fulfilled upon request, but extra cost is a must. On the second day, a short visit to Fishing Village is taken placed, there is no alternative activity, the passenger can only choose to stay on boat

2. Three Day/Two Night Itinerary and Longer Stay

reddragon Cruises Photo

Elders or Guest with health problems (eg. Kidney problem), or Guests with no kayaking experience, are not recommended due to the long kayaking excursion (1.5 hour on the first day and 2 hour on the second day). Special Offer, including BBQ Lunch or Dinner in the Cave, is served for the whole group at the same time so individual Guest is not allowed eating on the boat separately during this activity.

Weather in Halong Bay

1. General Climate

Halong Bay belongs to the Northern Patterns of Vietnam so it is generally cooler than the Southern of the country. It experiences two main distinct seasons. In winter months, the weather gets colder and colder from November to March and considerably warmer in April (a leap into summer). This is also time to observe much cloud and frequent drizzle. The average winter temperature is 17.2°C (62.9°F). Particularly, deep inside bay is often colder; temperature may keep below 10°C (50°F) for long period. In the summer (from May to October), the whole region is quite hot. Temperature may rise to 37°C (98.6 °F) in the peaks of June and July. Halong City enjoys equitable weather with high average humidity (80%) all year round though they may occasionally be subjected to typhoons and heavy rain in late summers (September to November). The distinct features: pleasant spring (typically March-April) and autumn (October-December), a chilly winter (December- February) and a hot summer (June – July).

2. Best Time to Travel

It is possible to visit Ha Long Bay year-round, with the best time to visit from October through April, although during the winter months of December, January and February, the weather can be cool and overcast with low visibility. During the summer months from May to September, temperatures rise and storms are more likely during the rainy season.

Halong Bay Four Seasons: Spring: February to April: Temperature ~ 17°C – Misty with drizzle Summer: May to July: Temperature ~ 28°C – Clear blue sky with occasionally pouring rain Autumn: August to October: Temperature ~ 25°C – Partly cloudy, partly windy, high chance of storm Winter: November to February: Temperature ~14°C – Cloudy, cool and rainy

3. How to Wear

It is highly recommended that you check the weather forecast before packing up, some tips are: The hot season is from May to September with the temperature is 25 – 35 degree: Shorts and skirts and short sleeve shirts The cold season in Halong Bay is from October to April and the temperature is 10 – 15 degree: Sweaters, jumper, light jacket, scarf During kayaking/swimming: Swimming suits, sun block, hat, anti-insect repellent, sunglasses During visiting the cave and grottoes, visiting fishing village: Walking shoes, crocs shoes, scandals, comfortable clothes

4. Cancelation Due To Bad Weather

Without prior notice, the cruise trip could be postponed, shortened or canceled due to unexpected bad weather, including Storm/ Typhoon (summer), Foggy days (winter), Monsoon (winter). The cruise operation is out of Indochina Junk’s control so we suggest that Guests should check the Weather Forecast at least 1 day before the cruise for better preparation of backup plan.

There are 3 situations we mentioned below as most popular occurrence

4.1. Cancellation news is confirmed 1 day before the cruise (Refund is made in full by Indochina Junk- Red Dragon)

Indochina Junk will keep contact with Guests to confirm the cancellation news, and then Guests could choose the next availability to cruise or plan for any alternative options such as Hanoi City tour, Hoa Lu- Tam Coc / Trang An ( Ninh Binh), Cooking class, Perfume Pagoda tour, Mai Chau

4.2. Cancellation news is confirmed after Guests arrive at Halong Bay. Indochina Junk- Red Dragon will serve lunch and transfer Guests back to Hanoi. (refund will based on service that has been delivered to you)

Options are: Stay in a hotel in Halong city, and then cruise the very next day cruise upon weather condition and boat availability. Visit Yen Duc village, which is located 70km from Halong Bay, on the way back to Hanoi. There is 2 hour tour, 5.5 hour tour option and even overnight trip in Viet House Homestay. If it is not rainy, Yen Duc village can be an ideal alternative option closed to Halong Bay. Get back to Hanoi and enjoy other alternative tours: Sapa, Hanoi, Ninh Binh…

4.3. Cancellation news is confirmed during your staying on Indochina Junk boat (refund will based on service that has been delivered to you) If the weather is expected to be better on the next day and you are on the first day of the trip, you could stay one night in hotel (Halong city) then continue your cruise on the next day If the weather is too bad, Indochina Junk arrange the transfer you back to your hotel in Hanoi and you choose yourself other alternative options.

Safety Notice

1. Particular individuals

For safety reasons, these below Guests are not recommended to cruise overnight in Halong Bay: People with disability, such as blindness, two hand amputee. People who are unable to walk on 2 m high stairwells People who have health problems, including people with sleepwalking syndome, people who have Illusions, people with epilepsy, people who have got anxiety when being in a small place. People who are on medicines that need to be stored at a special temperature and without it their lives are in danger People who is older than 80 People who is more than 100kg weight People who is over 2 meters height

2. Poisonous plants and animals

During summer, especially May, June, July, before going to swim, Guests should ask the guide or captain for advice because it is when the poisonous jellyfish are most active

3. Emergency Storms: when storms come during the tour Guests should be calm and follow instructions of the captain and guide. Guests need to move to the highest open areas of the boats or clear space or dining areas When engines are heard operating at night when the boat is anchored Guests need to rush out of their cabins because a storm is possibly coming or there is a potential boat collision.

4. Safety Facilities Life vest in each cabin, at public area, life buoys, life raft that enough for guests and crew on board. Lighters and hammers for emergency case in each cabin. Fire alarm, fire extinguishers at different areas on board, following the standard guide and ready to use Diagram to exit in emergency case . Marine equipment: VHF radio, GPS plotting, walkie-talkie, Walter licking alarm system, water pump system, fire alarm system and fire extinguishers.

5. Onboard safety Brief introduction about the trip with itinerary, crews, activities and safety, weather information Activity warning: our guide will give short introduction and warning to visitors, depending on weather conditions and seasons features, we recommend you to listen carefully to this information. The speed canoe to transfer guest immediately to harbor in the short time regarding health safety.

Medical aid available on board Marine Search and Rescue team with essential skills and training, equipment to deal with emergency.

Bus
The buses from HCMC to Chau Doc leave from the Mien Tay bus station; the express bus can make the run in six hours and costs around 84, 000d.

The Chau Doc bus station (Ben Xe Chau Doc) is east of town towards Long Xuyen. Buses from Chau Doc leave here for Rach Gia

(40,000d, four hours), Ca Mau, Can Tho, Ha Tien, Long Xuyen, My Tho, HCMC, Soc Trang and Tra Vinh.

Bus from Can Tho to Chau Doc: get Futa buslines at 85,000 VND from Can Tho to Chau Doc and versus: Start

 Car & motorbike
By road, Chau Doc is approximately 117km from Can Tho, 181km from My Tho and 245km from HCMC.

The Chau Doc–Ha Tien road is 100km in length and is in miserable shape, but improvements were underway at research time. As you approach Ha Tien, the land turns into a mangrove forest that is infertile and almost uninhabited.

This area is considered reasonably safe during the day, but it’s not advisable to be out here after dark due to the risk of robbery in this remote, unlit area.

The drive takes about three hours, and it’s possible to visit Ba Chuc and Tup Duc en route. If you don’t plan to drive yourself, xe om drivers typically charge about US$20.

Speedboat from Saigon to Chau Doc: you can charter a Blue Cruiser or Hang Chau Express to travel from Saigon to Chau Doc

What to do in Chau Doc (An Giang, Vietnam)

A highlight of a visit to Chau Doc is a boat trip on one of the small paddle boats that collect near the western end of the park to many floating raft houses and fish farms. A second attraction, just outside Chau Doc, is Sam Mountain – more of a hillock in fact — which has reasonable views over the surrounds. The views are pretty rather than spectacular, though when combined with a visit to the pagodas around the hill’s base, this makes a worthwhile afternoon jaunt. Chau Doc is also the closest large town to the Vietnamese/Cambodian river border crossing. If you’re heading to or from Phnom Penh by boat, you’ll pass through Chau Doc, so try to allow for an overnight stay. Cruise the Mekong River between Chau Doc and Phnom Penh takes 5 hours.  Hang Chau express and Blue Cruiser are the 2 best  transporters in Chau Doc

Some short waterways to visit Chau Doc and the area:

- 1/2 day: Vinh Te Canal, Sam Mountain, Floating farm, Cham Village

- 2 and 1/2 hours: Floating Farm, Cham Village

- 2 and 1/2 hours: Floating Farm, Cham Village and Con Tien Bridge

- 3 and 1/2 hours: Khanh Hoa Island and Masjid Iman Mosque

- 5 hours: Long Khanh Island and Tra Su forest

Where to stay:
I recommend Chau Pho Hotel. Located in the ideal place in the ceter of Chau Doc town, Chau Pho Hotel is a good option for midrange accommodation in Chau Doc town. You will find a number of bars, restaurants, shopping centers in the vicinity of the hotel, which give rise to a bustling zone. Moreover, Chau Doc Market is located just 500 meters away from the hotel and can be visited to spend leisure time. Meanwhile, it takes a distance of just 15 minutes to access the famous pilgrimage place, Lady Chua Xu Temple and other historical monuments like Sam Mountain, Tay An Pagoda etc, from Chau Pho Hotel.

 Chau Doc Maps

You can see Chau Doc map on Google, or Click here Chau Doc Map by Thomas. He draws also map to Sam Mountain

Whether you’re looking to sail on a full luxury Halong Bay cruise to discover Halong Bay 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days or 5 days,… we’ll find you the most luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam at the best price guaranteed, but as important most suitable to your expectations.

We represent top quality brands such as  Au Co Cruise, Paradise Luxury Cruises,Violet Cruise, Bhaya Cruises, Jasmine Cruise …. which offer several extended itineraries at various times throughout the year that be of interest you. Spend your time on a well-deserved cruise around Halong Bay or overnight in Halong Bay, Vietnam you want to explore further. These are the world of heritage’s favorite all-inclusive in Halong Bay, Vietnam, everyday is different and as relaxing or exciting as you want to make it.

How to choose the right cabin on board?

Choosing a Halong Bay cruise cabin can be fun and challenging at the same time, and not just a little bit frustrating on occasion. Before booking your cabin on board, ask yourselves these questions:

Do you tend to get seasick?

Do you prefer to nest peaceably on your balcony rather than hangin’ with the crowd around the bar area?

Conversely, is your idea of a stateroom simply a place to flop into bed at 1 a.m. — no fancy notions necessary?

And do you, like me, tend to go just a little bit crazy if your bed faces aft when you know you’re moving forward?

Despite the fact that some cruise lines present as many as 20 or more “categories” per ship, it’s helpful to remember that there are essentially only four types of cabins on any cruise vessel:

Inside: no window, in an inside corridor

Outside: window or porthole with a view to the outside

Balcony: includes a verandah that allows you to step outside without going up to a public deck

Suite: a larger cabin, often with separate living and sleeping areas, and a wide variety of extra amenities and perks.

Here are top luxury cruises on Halong Bay:

AU CO CRUISE 3 Days – 2 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $ 590.00

PARADISE LUXURY 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $ 239.00

VIOLET CRUISE 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $329.00

JASMINE CRUISE 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $224.00

GINGER CRUISE 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $208.00

INDOCHINA SAILS 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $230.00

VICTORY STAR 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $175.00

VALENTINE CRUISE 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $224.00

BHAYA CRUISE 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $198.00

EMERAUDE CRUISE 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $182.00

EMOTION CRUISE 2 Days – 1 Night Detail Itinerary & Program from $160.00

In the above rates, the price usually includes:

• Transfer Hanoi- Halong- Hanoi by private car/ shuttle bus
• Welcome Cocktail
• Cruise Itinerary and Program
• Entrance and Sightseeing Fees
• In-house English-speaking Tour Guide
• Luxury Cabins and Suites with A/C
• Luxury en-suite Bathroom
• All meals on board
• Kayaking (included & subject to availability)
• Insurance, Taxes

Travel tips: We have some promotions in Summer Season on Paradise Cruise