As it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. Cruising in Halong Bay is the most popular way to experience this wonder of nature. Find the list of TOP 10 best Halong Bay Cruises 2023 offering exclusive travel experience on the most luxurious Halong Bay cruise.
Taking 1 day Halong Bay tour from Hanoi might be enough when time is very limited, but for anyone who has plenty of time and are not on a tight budget we would recommend taking an overnight cruise in Halong Bay and fully admire its natural beauty. Choose one of the best Halong Bay cruises 2023 for the most luxurious cruise experience.
Top 10 Best Halong Bay Cruises 2023
The list of Top 10 best Halong Bay cruises 2023 includes cruises that are the best rated cruises of this year as well as the most luxurious Halong Bay cruise that was recently launched.
1. Elite of the Seas
Elite of the Seas, launched in 2021, is the first 6-star cruise in Vietnam that is also the most luxurious Halong Bay cruise at the moment. The cruise brings extremely memorable experiences to visitors as they provide not only premium cruise service with the highest safety standards but also a completely unique experience with a wonderful cruise on Halong Bay, with meticulous designs in every detail, attentive services, exceptional cuisine, delicious food.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from four options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights / 4 days 3 nights / 5 days 4 nights.
Rooms and facilities
Elite of The Seas Cruise has 35 elegant spacious rooms, full of finest comforts such as fine dining restaurant, outdoor and indoor bar, wine and cigars cellar, mini-golf course, open year-round large swimming pool, sauna spa & massage, fitness room, children playroom.
The types of accommodation on Elite of the Seas cruise are as follows:
- Elite Junior Suite, 28 sq. m
- Elite Senior Suite, 30 sq. m
- Elite Executive Suite, 32 sq. m
- Elite President Suite, 60 sq. m
Highlights of Elite of the Seas
Most luxurious cruise in Halong Bay
Mini golf course and fitness available
Largest in-cruise swimming pool
Panoramic balcony and bathtub in all cabins
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Elite of the Seas price check here: Elite of the Seas.
2. Stellar of the Seas
Stellar of The Seas, launched in 2018, is one of the leading 5-star cruises in Halong Bay. The cruise in Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay comes with the highest level of customer service and an unbeatable relaxing environment that is sure to exceed your highest expectations of any and all Halong Bay cruises.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from four options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights / 4 days 3 nights / 5 days 4 nights.
Rooms and facilities
With an aesthetic design and luxurious vibe, Stellar of The Seas combines 22 elegant and spacious cabins on 1st and 2nd decks. Each cabin comes with a private balcony or large sun terrace and a bathtub. A luxurious restaurant, a panoramic bar, a wine and cigars cellar and a mini golf club are just some highlights among numerous amenities.
The cabins on Stellar of The Seas are as follows:
- Junior Suite, 28 sq. m
- Senior Suite, 30 sq. m
- Executive Suite, 32 sq. m
- Presidential Suite, 60 sq. m
Highlights of Stellar of the Seas
Ultra-luxury cruise
Mini-golf course on board available
50m2 swimming pool with the bay view
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Stellar of the Seas price check here: Stellar of the Seas Cruise.
3. UniCharm Cruise
UniCharm Cruise, launched in 2018, does not follow the beaten path of other cruises but takes tourists to the peaceful neighbor of Halong Bay, which is Lan Ha Bay. The exclusive excursion of Lan Ha Bay is a true journey back to nature. A variety of amazing things are waiting for tourists along the way, which can only be found on UniCharm Cruise.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from two options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights.
Rooms and facilities
UniCharm Cruise ship includes 23 rooms of moderate size, all with large glass windows overlooking the sea. Each bedroom has wooden floors, has a private balcony except for the family room and can add an extra bed. The restaurant with a capacity of 48 guests serves fresh seafood and Vietnamese and European specialties.
Highlights of UniCharm Cruise
4-star cruise with standard services and modern style
Comfortable cabins with all necessary amenities and facilities
A breath-taking overview of Cat Ba Island on Ngu Lam Peak
Challenging outdoor activity breaks and affordable prices
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current UniCharm Cruise price check here: UniCharm Cruise.
4. Erina Cruise
Erina Cruise, launched in 2022, is one of the best mid-range options for your Halong Bay trip. It is your perfect venue to explore the beauty of Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay, Vietnam's premier natural attraction. With beautifully appointed suites, top-notch facilities, and excellent services, Erina Cruise proudly brings to passengers the brand new and unforgettable experiences.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from two options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights.
Rooms and facilities
Erina boasts state-of-the-art facilities for travelers’ relaxation and recreation such as an outdoor jacuzzi pool on the third deck, sky bar by the pool, and spa and gym. Erina includes a luxurious restaurant where you can savor plenty of dishes from Vietnam or other nations, a large sundeck with comfy sun loungers for unwinding, and thoughtful-equipped rooms with a balcony and en suite bathroom. Erina Cruise offers 27 deluxe cabins overlooking the vast ocean.
Highlights of Erina Cruise
Rooms with bathtub and balcony
Varied local and European cuisine
Outdoor Jacuzzi pool
Interesting activities: kayaking, swimming, cave visiting, cooking class, especially relaxing Tai Chi
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Erina Cruise price check here: Erina Cruise.
5. Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises
Genesis Regal Cruise, launched in 2019, is a combination of the traditional quintessence of the Vietnamese Royal family and the neoclassical style of French-Indochine. The cruise has a high aesthetic, is associated with many traditional cultures of Vietnam, and blends with European luxury and modernity to create a delicate, elegant, and profound beauty.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from two options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights.
Rooms and facilities
French-Indochine concept is tastefully applied in suites’ interior design. 20 cabins of different types cater well for all personal demands with private balcony and en-suite bathtub. All rooms are provided 24-hour butler service and you’ll be supported by a team of warm-hearted staff. Highlights of the cruise facilities are the top-notch Tonkin restaurants, the Sail bar, and the Sunset bar.
Highlights of Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise
Elegant Indochine-style
Luxury decoration
Spacious cabins all with private balcony
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Genesis Luxury Regal Cruise price check here: Genesis Luxury Regal Cruises.
6. Le Theatre Cruise
Le Theatre Cruise, launched in 2019, is a high-quality cruise ship, promising high safety and comfort for passengers. At Le Theatre Cruise you feel like you are lost in a resort paradise with many convenient services such as spa & massage system for great relaxation, restaurant, bar, ocean-view pool, etc. The 5-star Le Theatre Cruise features a minimalist, sophisticated design.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from two options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights.
Rooms and facilities
The ship includes 21 luxurious cabins with the main white and brown colors, with a private balcony overlooking the bay. The large bathroom is equipped with a bathtub. On the ship can be found plenty of multi-functional amenities including outdoor furniture, terrace, and sundeck, spa & massage, live entertainment, and other fun-filled activities.
Highlights of Le Theatre Cruise
A luxury cruise offering a wonderful space with state-of-the-art amenities
Foot bath on board
Vietnamese cuisine, creative dishes, and excellent cocktails at the restaurant and bar
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Le Theatre Cruise price check here: Le Theatre Cruise.
7. Mon Chéri Cruise
Mon Chéri Cruise is one of the most luxurious 5-star cruises in Lan Ha Bay aiming to serve high-class tourists. The cruise boat is designed and built based on the idea of a yacht. A perfect blend of the classic sophistication of Europe and the rustic nature of Vietnamese style created an elegant and luxurious yacht. The boat's interior is decorated with dark brown tones and woodwork.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from two options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights.
Rooms and facilities
Mon Chéri Cruise boat has 18 luxurious and spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking Lan Ha Bay. This cruise is suitable for those traveling as a family or in group because the boat also offers connecting cabins. Mon Chéri Cruise offers full facilities including restaurant, bar, fitness equipment and spa.
Highlights of Mon Chéri Cruise
You can visit 2 bays in one trip as both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay are visited during this cruise
On the second day, there is a cycling activity at Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island
The cruise is serving the widest range of special foods: authentic Halal food with Halal certificate, vegetarian, kosher and gluten-free food
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Mon Chéri Cruise price check here: Mon Chéri Cruise.
8. Heritage Binh Chuan
Heritage Binh Chuan, launched in 2019, offers an authentic experience, accommodating a range of 40 to 60 passengers, ensuring an intimate and refined cruise through the Gulf of Tonkin. Passengers immerse themselves in Vietnam's culture, history, art, and its people while voyaging amidst the awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from three options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights / 4 days 3 nights.
Rooms and facilities
Heritage Binh Chuan's built-in 20 boutique cabins, including 6 Delta Suites, 10 Ocean Suites, 2 Captain Suites, and 2 Regal Suites. Despite having a different design, all units are spacious, ranging from 33 to 46 sq. m, and clad with high-end amenities. The design is mainly inspired by the Indochine style but still able to express the tradition and culture of past time. The cabins have their own private balconies and a large bathroom with huge glass windows for green Bay vista. There is a large sun lounge for multi activities such as morning Vovinam, outdoor cooking class, event parties, afternoon tea, or just simply lying on the benches to admire the stunning Bay.
The only seasonal pool of Lan Ha cruise, and one of the largest on-board swimming pools, is located on the top floor. Vietnamese local food and international dishes are served at L’Indochine and Le Tonkin restaurants, a wine cellar, and a lounge bar. There is also a piano lounge, an art gallery, and a boutique spa for other relaxing experiences.
Highlights of Heritage Binh Chuan
Unique architecture exudes tradition and history
Spacious cabins with private balcony
Swimming pool on sundeck
Upscale facilities such as galleries, libraries, poolside bars, and souvenir shops
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Heritage Binh Chuan price check here: Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan.
9. Orchid Classic Cruise
Orchid Classic Cruise, launched in 2016, is one of the most popular cruises in Halong Bay. It is one of top cruises reviewed on TripAdvisor and the majority of reviews say that it's "Excellent". Orchid Classic Cruise boat cruises through Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay on unique tourist route that is claimed to be passing by the most beautiful bays in this area.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from two options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights.
Rooms and facilities
The cruise boat has 14 luxury cabins with private balcony and a king-size bed that can accommodate 28 people. Each cabin has a large window with a panoramic view overlooking the bay. The other zones on the cruise boat are well designed such as fantastic public space and fine dining area.
The cabins on Orchid Classic Cruise are as follows:
- Balcony Suite, 36 sq. m
- Family Suite, 72 sq. m
- Premium Suite, 36 sq. m
- Family Premium Suite, 72 sq. m
- Orchid Exclusive Suite, 45 sq. m
Highlights of Orchid Classic Cruise
Orchid Classic Cruise is the first cruise that started sailing to Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Lan Ha Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in Vietnam
There is a Jacuzzi and sundeck which was newly opened in September 2019
Top rated cruise with excellent reviews online
On the second day, there is a cycling activity at Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Orchid Classic Cruise price check here: Orchid Classic Cruise.
10. Hermes Cruise
Hermes Cruise, launched in 2022, is a 5-star cruise fleet promising luxury experiences in Halong Bay. Apart from a luxury restaurant and bar, and a spa with professional massage services, Hermes Cruise impresses travelers with 2 outdoor swimming pools, offering an unforgettable trip for all travelers. Hermes Cruise sets sail on Halong Bay and stops by the highlights of the Heritage site such as Surprise Cave, Titop Island, Trong Cave, Dong Tien Lake, Me Cung Cave, and pearl farm village.
Cruise duration
The duration of this Halong Bay cruise can be chosen from two options: 2 days 1 night / 3 days 2 nights.
Rooms and facilities
Hermes Cruises owns 18 luxury cabins, high-class restaurants, 2 outdoor swimming pools and many outstanding facilities. The rooms are spaciously designed, with an area of 28–64 sq. m, meticulously and passionately designed in neoclassical style to bring you the most comfortable moments of rest. All rooms have a large private balcony with glass doors, making the room brighter with natural light, and giving guests a panoramic view of the beautiful Halong Bay.
Besides, you can also experience delicious and attractive dishes at the luxury restaurant and professional massage services at the Spa right on the cruise. The spacious sundeck area with open space and outdoor bar will also provide memorable relaxing moments.
Highlights of Hermes Cruise
18 luxury cabins, meticulously and passionately designed in neoclassical style
All cabins with private balcony and Jacuzzi tub
The first and only cruise in Halong Bay owning two outdoor swimming pools
Halong Bay Cruise price
For current Hermes Cruise price check here: Hermes Cruises.
Other Good Halong Bay Cruises
There are many cruises sailing in Halong Bay and not all good cruises could make into our TOP 10 list of the best Halong Bay cruises. Other good Halong Bay cruises that are also worth checking are listed below.
Dora Cruise – truly 5-star cruise to discover the new route from Halong – Natural World Heritage site in Vietnam and Lan Ha Bay – the largest and most glamorous bay in Cat Ba
Rita Cruise is a new 5-star yacht with captivating neoclassic style, exploring the fascinating landscape of Halong Bay – Lan Ha Bay
Emperor Cruise is inspired by the lavish lifestyle of Emperor Bao Dai, the last Emperor of Vietnam and designed to be a sanctuary that ensures each and every moment counts for guests in Halong Bay
Aqua of The Seas Cruise is a 5-star luxury super yacht offering an ultimate cruising experience through the spectacular landscape of Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay
Capella Cruise was launched in August 2020 with a mission to become the most brilliant cruise in the Gulf of Tonkin, pioneering outstanding facilities and attentive services that never been experienced in magical landscape of Halong & Lan Ha bay
Where to book Halong Bay Cruise?
Most of Halong Bay cruises can be conveniently booked via online travel agencies like Booking.com, Agoda, Klook, GetYourGuide or through a local agency like Visithalongbay.com.
We suggest you to read the reviews of the cruise you're interested in before deciding as there are many types of cruises in Halong Bay, from standard junks to 5-star luxury cruise ships, so you can choose Halong Bay cruise depending on your budget and preferences.
Sample Itinerary of Halong Bay Cruise
Halong Bay 2D1N Cruise
Day 1: Start the cruise, Luon Cave area for kayaking, Titop Island, Sunset Tea Break, Seafood Dinner, Squid Fishing
Day 2: Breakfast, Surprising Cave (Sửng Sốt), Cooking Class (Vietnamese Spring Rolls), Lunch, Return to Hanoi
Halong Bay 3D2N Cruise
Day 1: Start the cruise, Luon Cave area for kayaking, Sunset Tea Break, Seafood Dinner, Squid Fishing
Day 2: Breakfast, Head islet and Drum Area, Kayaking, Swimming, Private Beach visit, Lunch, Pearl Farm, Titop Island, Cua Van Floating Village, Sunset Tea break, Dinner
Day 3: Breakfast, Surprising Cave (Sửng Sốt), Cooking Class (Vietnamese Spring Rolls), Lunch, Return to Hanoi
Best time to visit Halong Bay
Halong Bay can be visited on any month. However, each season has advantages and disadvantages.
February to April
It is a good time to cruise in Halong Bay as the weather in Northern Vietnam is getting warmer. Most of the days see a good weather with blue sky and only on some days a little rain is expected. The temperature on these months may vary between 15-30 degrees Celsius. The number of tourists visiting is still lower.
May to August
This is the summer time of Halong Bay. The temperature is rising. On some days, there is a little rain but mostly the days are sunny with clear bright sky. During this time you can expect to make the most beautiful pictures of the bay. Those who love activities will definitely enjoy cruising in summer because you can surely do all the activities in Halong Bay such as kayaking or swimming without worrying about the weather. The disadvantage of visiting Halong Bay during this period is that it's the high season and the prices are higher and the bay is crowded by tourists.
September to November
If you are worried about the weather and doesn't want to experience bad weather in Halong Bay, then you should avoid this time of the year because there is a high chance of monsoon. When visiting Halong Bay during these months, it is recommended to bring warm clothing and waterproof jackets. Depending on luck, you can still experience some sunny days with clear blue sky. The advantage of visiting Halong Bay during this period is that it is the low season and you can expect to see fewer tourists and get a discount for many cruises.
December and January
If you like cold weather, we recommend you to come to Halong Bay during this time of the year because the temperature keeps getting lower. The weather is not as hot as in the summer and it can be cloudy all day. However, some days still bring clear blue skies. These months is the time of holidays and celebrations like Christmas and New Year so the cruises often have special offers for this occasion.