Our family of three enjoyed a mostly relaxing cruise that offered beautiful scenic views. Having previously cruised with another company in 2019, we noticed how much the local maritime landscape has changed. There is a significantly higher volume of boats on the water now, which occasionally impacts the pristine views. However, we recognize that this is a systemic issue of regional over-tourism rather than a reflection of this company's operations. The primary area in need of improvement is the accommodations. The staterooms are somewhat outdated and would benefit greatly from a complete renovation to bring them up to modern standards. On a positive note, the hospitality we experienced was five stars. The crew members are excellent, with special recognition deserved for Merlin, who was exceptionally attentive, welcoming, and proactive throughout our meal services. Additionally, the culinary team provided a very good dinner menu, and we thoroughly enjoyed participating in the interactive cooking demonstration.
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- Pick up & Drop off at hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter,food,guide,entrance fee
Excludes
- Drinks
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Traveler pick up offered
Itinerary
Day 1
1
Pick up & Drop off at hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter
09h10: You will be collected from Hanoi Old Quarter to take the new highway to Got Ferry Terminal – Cat Hai Town, Haiphong City where we arrive at around 11h30. The passengers have a chance to experience on longest and newest bridge in South East Asia area. You can take special tea at cruise’s lounge by warm welcome. 12h15: Transfer by tender to the cruise 12h30: We welcome our guests onboard then check in, enjoy Welcome Drink, receive cruise briefing, safety instructions and check in. Start cruising and explore Halong Bay - one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. 13h00: The cruise proceeds to Da Chong islet, where you can see a lighthouse built by the French over 100 years ago. Have International Buffet Lunch while passing via the islets of Con Vit area. These amazing limestone karst formations rise up out of the sea in an impressive manner. This area is untouched, as not many cruise ships use the route via the Cat Ba Island - Thoi Quyt area - Coc Ngoi islet - through Gia Luan harbor where is belong to Cat Ba National Park 15h00: We progress to Trung Trang cave by our bus on Cat Ba island which is located in the middle of Cat Ba National Park with Kim Giao forest around the cave. Trung Trang Valley is the largest valley on Cat Ba Island. The valley covers an area of approximately 300 hectares, has a depth of 10m to 30m and is around 15km in the middle of Cat Ba National Park. Trung Trang Cave measures 300m lengthwise through the mountains. The cave was carved by nature for more than 2000 years. The cave has many stalactites that take on various shapes that will awe and inspire visitors to use their imagination. 17h00: The ruise gets in the less populated area at Tra Bau area where is located in Lan Ha Bay. You will enjoy the green emerald and cool water by swimming 17h45: Returning the cruise, you can watch the magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin. Onboard you may join a traditional cooking class. Our chef will instruct you in the making of some Vietnam dishes. In the early evening the boat has its Happy Hour deal Option: Massage service available. Please book with Cruise Manager directly (please see massage menu) 19h30: Sumptuous Candlelight Deluxe Dinner Set Menu is served. Enjoy delicious local food prepared and served for you by our wonderful onboard catering staff. This is a delightful meal in an intimate romantic setting 21h30: Enjoy the landscape of the bay at night up on the top deck. Relax whilst enjoying drinks from the bar. Try your hand at night squid fishing, watching a movie in the restaurant. Overnight on board. Option: Massage service available. Please book with Cruise Manager directly (please see massage menu) 23h00: End of Day One program
Day 2
2
06h00: Why not rise early to witness the bay at its very best whilst enjoying an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck; after which we serve light breakfast. Upon completing breakfast continue our journey and head out in canoes to explore the bay in the area where the Toi Sang cave is situated. 9h30: Visitors then return cruise for check-out procedures 10h00: Whilst cruising back you can enjoy a delightful brunch 10h30: Tea Ceremony is served at the restaurant. You will learn how to enjoy Vietnamese tea and Vietnamese cultural at this ceremony. Joining Tea Ceremony with our crews team and have great fun with us! 11h35: We return to the quay side in the south of the bay, where our visitors disembark. We bid farewell at GOT ferry, this is the end of the program. We hope you have enjoyed your time with us and wish you a safe onward journey. 14h00: Back to your drop-off point in Old Quarter Center. End of the trip
Language Offered
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
Reviews
We experienced some difficulties due to the typhoon, but the staff at orchid went above and beyond to help us, allowing us to enjoy part of our reservation. The experience was truly unforgettable. The boat, the crew, the food, and the breathtaking surroundings are all highly recommended. Our guide, Bang, and Miss Jess did everything possible to make our trip a memorable one. Thank you, Mr. Bang and Miss Jess, for your outstanding hospitality and dedication!
I was a little sceptical about the Halong Bay Cruise on the Orchid Classic which was included in our itinerary as I had head that the Bay was full of boats and very touristy. However, our cruise more than exceeded our expectations. We were welcomed in the waiting lounge and efficiently transferred onto a speed boat to take us to the main boat. We were welcomed like royalty onto the main Orchid Classic boat by the crew and immediately went to the restaurant for a delicious buffet lunch. We then went to our room - OMG!!! It was beautiful - fabulous views into the bay, with a private balcony and the bathroom.......there was a free standing tub looking out over the bay! It was so impressive. As we sailed yes, there were a lot of other boats heading out which wasn't ideal, but we soon veered away from the main throng. The bay is so beautiful we took numerous photos and then we anchored up for kyaking and/or a dip. My husband went off on a kyak whilst I relaxed in the tub, admiring the view! We had a cooking demo (not brilliant to be honest!) and cocktails before a delicious dinner. It was an advantage for us that the boat was not full, so we had plenty of space in the dining room and around the boat. Some then went to fish for squid, but we opted for an early night. I had the best night's sleep and unfortunately didn't make it to the sun rise tai chi session. We had breakfast before heading out to an island to visit some caves - interesting but not a highlight for me. Back on the boat, brunch was served as we sailed back to port. I really felt our crew could not have done more for us on this cruise, the food and service were excellent. I would thoroughly recommend the Orchid Classic one night cruise as an excellent way to see the stunning Halong Bay.
Had a fantastic time very relaxing beautiful views excellent staff especially Chris he was very attentive and welcoming i am having a great time and would recommend no question and will return.
Orchid Cruises is a must-do! Our short trip through Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay was nothing short of amazing. The boat is stunning, with huge cabins and private balconies perfect for soaking in the incredible views. Everything was flawlessly planned, from cave kayaking to morning Tai Chi. A huge shoutout to Hardy at the bar for his top-tier service and great energy! The food was fantastic, the crew was stellar, and the whole experience felt both luxurious and personal. It was a definite highlight of our Vietnam vacation, and we can’t recommend it enough
An overnight cruise was definitely the right choice. This option gave ample time for not only enjoying the beautiful and peaceful atmosphere of Halong Bay, but also allowed us to get to know our fellow passengers, and to take part in interesting and engaging activities (cooking demonstration, visit to Cat Bah and its caves, and taking part in a Tai Chi lesson on the top deck at sunrise). A day cruise would not have allowed us to do all this. Because our boat was quite small (14 cabins), our cabin was very large and comfortable. All the staff were so welcoming and attentive, with special shoutouts to Tien (our main guide and entertainments manager) and our wonderful waiter Jack who was always focused on making our two-day experience so enjoyable and unforgettable. Thank you once again to all the crew - we can highly recommend this 2-day 1-night cruise with Orchid Cruises.
Orchid Cruises in Ha Long Bay was an outstanding experience, especially on one of their very small five-cabin boats. The intimate size made the trip feel exclusive and relaxed, with personalized service that was exceptional from start to finish. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely eager to make sure every detail was perfect. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, with limestone karsts and calm waters at every turn. The shore excursions were a great balance of activity and exploration, and the biking portion was a highlight, allowing us to experience the area at a slower, more immersive pace. Back on board, the pool and hot tub were wonderful places to unwind while soaking in the views. The cooking class on the boat was another standout, fun, interactive, and a great way to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine. Everything about the experience felt thoughtfully designed and well executed. If you’re looking for a Ha Long Bay cruise that feels personal, comfortable, and high quality, Orchid Cruises’ small boats are an excellent choice.
We went on this tour in Nov, one night 1.5 days. It was fantastic. The boat is large and really nicely decced out the staff very attentive and the cruise itself lovely. The cabins are roomy and really nice and you have privacy from the next one. The scenery is amazing. We were lucky enough to have great weather. The food on the boat was really good - restaurant quality. And they made sure you any allergies etc were dealt with. What I would say is this - the activities are kayaking (and you are left alone in the bay) but this is only for 1 hour including getting to and staying on the beach - and an early cave trip the next day (5 -6 am). There is also early Tai Chi and a cookery class. What I liked less is it is a bit of a machine, your second day is when they prepare the boat for the next set of people so you need to check out and have a light brunch. BUT the crew are very much cleaning so you are surrounded by cleaners and bags of rubbish - slightly takes the edge of the glamour! ALSO the big thing is that the drinks menu has a lot of expensive wine on it - the cheapest is about £25. Yes £25 and they push the wine a lot - this is legit the prices are there - so just be mindful. It is am amazing experience so I would do it. The water for me wasn't swimable in and i heard there was a lot of jelly fish.
Our trip on the Orchid Classic was really enjoyable. From the start to finish we were looked after amazingly well by all the staff especially by Chris who provided an excellent service.
The cruise was great: the boat stuff were all very friendly and helpful, especially the cruise manager, Bang, and a waiter nicknamed Smily. The food was great, very diversified and very esthetic. The cabin was romantic and the activities were very very nice: kayaking, expedition to a fabulous cave, and even a cooking class on deck!
Superb boat, very beautiful and wonderful crew who go out of their way to provide an excellent service . The bay is beautiful but there are a lot of boats. The cabin was excellent with a lovely balcony and the food was very good . Drinks are over priced, there is a 2/1 cocktail Hour which helps. I would recommend this trip . 2 nights is about right . Shout out to Thomas who was great, as were all the crew !
Fantastic team on board the Orchid 2 lead by Lily our cruise supervisor. We were apprehensive about Harlong Bay due to poor reviews about the water condition. However we loved every minute of this trip. The boat was great, fantastic room with lots of space and a balcony to enjoy the view. We went kayaking and swimming, and visited the cave on Cat Ba Island. We were very lucky with the weather which also added to the experience. Would highly recommend Orchid Cruises, excellent service and every need taken care of. A special shout out to Lily who was just excellent at her job and made our holiday even more memorable.
Loved this experience and Win was amazing!! Everyone was so nice and the service, activities, food, and people were perfect. Mr. Dong was an amazing tour guide and cared so much about our experience
The people were very nice. Good hospitality, and service. The views were very nice and the ocean was very refreshing and clear. Waiter Nani was awesome.
Amazing experience, great for families with young kinds. The staff were so welcoming and the food was bountiful and delicious. They all were really sweet with our two kids. Loved the exercusions too, especially the biking on Cat Ba. Highly recommend!
We enjoyed the cruise quite a lot. The ship was really comfortable and the staff very nice. Really packed 24 hours. The drinks were relatively expensive. Happy hour compensates of course. But that didn’t work for wine lovers.
Wonderful 2 day/1 night journey at Ha Long/Lan Ha Bay. Special thanks to Smiley for his excellent and attentive service at meal times, and to Mr Dong for guiding everyone through the transfers and activities.
I really enjoyed the trip. It was very relaxing. All the excursions, activities and meals were outstanding and fun experiences. Nani and Emanuel were great parts of the staff and made the trip feel extra special. They went above and beyond to help out and give an amazing experience. The ship was luxurious but also authentic and good amount of culture. The advertising of Halong Bay itself got my hopes up and was a little disappointed of the bay itself, but that has nothing to do with how good orchid cruises was. Be ready for very hot temperatures in the summer
Cruise was super comfortable, itinerary was fun. We were super well taken care of by James. He was so attentive to our needs and treated us like royalty. He also makes really yummy drinks! Definitely recommend this cruise, look for James!
Enjoyed a 2D1N cruise with orchid cruise. James, our waiter, was especially attentive and kind. He made it truly a once in a lifetime experience. Highly recommend!
Beautiful and well run cruise. Top notch services especially from Tuan in the dining and Bang with all the fun activities. They were so attentive, helpful and personable! Perfect experience with family that will stay in our memories for a lifetime.
The service was amazing. The views and drink were top notch. Nani was an amazing host. Lots of activities to do. The set course menus were also delicious.
The experience was amazing. Excellent food, amazing ammenities and the most valuable asset they can have is the friendly staff onboard. Thank you Ben for the service provided and for always being looking after us. You made our stay much better.
The trip was amazing! Gin, VyVy, Mina, and Emanuel, among others, helped make it a great experience with very high quality meals and beverage service throughout. The scenery was beautiful, and the cabins were super comfortable accommodations for myself and the group of friends I was traveling with.
The staff here were very welcoming. Food was delicious and the room was very very spacious. We had a wonderful time here even though it was for one night. James was excellent excellent in his service to us.
James gave the best service on board Orcgard Cruse in Halong Bay. Food was fantastic overall service wax fabulous. Top job
Better than anticipated. The cruise trip was magical and every staff members are so attentive. Our favorites are Amy, Nani and Gin!! Def would come back. Our cruise manager Emmanuel has been wonderful as well.
We had a wonderful experience on the Classic ship! The food and ship were excellent, and the service was top notch — especially Merlin and Mie. Would absolutely come back!
Relaxing cruise with a very friendly team. Amazing landscapes, nice food and cocktails, beautiful bedroom. Cool activities like massage, kayaking, cave exploring... Thanks for the smiles, will recommend to my friends!
Truly wonderful in every way. Beautiful scenery, fabulous 5star ship and exquisite food. If you’re in north Vietnam, you must go on this cruise Special mention to our waiter Gin who could not have been more professional, courteous and attentive…this is proper 5 star luxury.
1 night on the boat and it was a great experience ! Nice activities ! Amazing boat and friendly and smiling staff, I recommend it!
Nice vibe, cosy environment and excellent service and hospitality! However, there was no kayaking at the dark brig hit cave even though it’s in the website. We also did not get to stop by a beach.
Outstanding experience - the room was as beautful as advertised, the activities were all well organized, and the food and drinks exceeded expectations. The staff could not have been friendlier and more dedicated to making an incredible experience. We did the 2 day + 1 night cruise. Highlights were the cave tour, kayaking and swimming in the bay, and the happy hours. Hao long bay is truly a natural wonder of the world - the views as you sail through the bay are breathtaking. While it has become quite popular with tourists over the years it still felt peaceful and not overcrowded out on the bay. Would highly recommend making this a part of your Vietnam trip. While the various cruise lines all seem quite similar online, we were happy to have chosen Orchid cruises as our trip provider.
The attention to details made by the crew was amazing. Everyone is friendly and affable. The dinner was beautifully presented and tasted delicious. Hardy was especially easy to speak to and funny.
Very nice cruise. Our room was perfect, except for the fact that there wasn‘t a bathroom door. But that was the only think we didn‘t like. The Service was excellent, Sarah was very attentive. The trips very very nice and the food and the drinks were perfect!
Great experience from checking in to boat activities to getting off. We had the 2 days, one night in the largest room in the back. The schedule is pretty full and everything start promptly. Our server, Elli, made our trip as my son is a very picky eater. He wouldn’t eat all the fancy prepared food and Elli was able to talk to the Chef/kitchen staff to accommodate his unrefined tastes on multiple occasions. Would definitely reserve again (Do the longer trip) and specifically request for whatever ship Elli was working on as she knew how to take care of my son’s food requests.
Exceptionnal, Wonderful. Linh was very attentive ! I recommend this cruise. Very romantic for a couple, and the ship is amazing, not too much big, so authentic
Very fun activities (kayaking, swimming, cooking demonstration, cave exploring) that made our relaxing stay also a fun adventure. Ms Green and Mr Emmanuel were standouts!
An amazing experience , beautiful views and scenery. Rooms were top class with incredible views of ha long bay. Food was also amazing quality. Our server Win was absolutely amazing and incredibly attentive. would 100% recommend this cruise, it is a once in a lifetime experience.
Fabulous cruise, with Orchid Cruise Classic. Exception service, facilities and activities. Food was delicious , they had special food for vegetarians. Loved every minute. Super friendly people who knows how to look after their guests. Win our waiter and Dong the host were excellent.
The staff were excellent, very cordial and always very helpful. Our chef, Win's food was very tasty. Every item on the menu was delicately prepared and well received by my taste buds. Will do this over and over again. Wonderful experience.
Merlin was a great server! The food was so good and she was super attentive and a wonderful host. Overall the cruise was wonderful.
Overall the cruise was very good. The food was excellent. The all crew including Win, Mel and the chef have been really kind. I just recommend to wisely chose the room as the one we had was pretty noisy overnight because it was very close at the front of the boat.
I loved my stay in orchid cruise. Hospitality was exceptional and staff here is awesome!! James and Tommy were amazing!!! Highly recommend if you are planning to visit halong bay!!!
The team was excellent- especially Luis and Vin. We loved seeing the beautiful bay. The rooms were large, clean, and comfortable. I loved the view of the bay at morning and night from our private balcony. We were celebrating our honeymoon and the team went above and beyond to celebrate us- it was very kind!
We had a great time on the Orchid Classic Cruise. A really special shout out to Colada, our server on the boat. He was super attentive to all of our needs. In addition to this, the captain Mr Bang was very informative. Hardy on the bar was a great guy.
Good food, good drinks, great room, very good views! Service is great! Trip went great, I liked it. Alex is great service! Thank you!
Great view and the stuff very helpful. Suite with balcony amazing. Good drinks and very affordable price during happy hour!
Great experience exceeding expectations. Staff very friendly and fantastic service. Food on board 5 star. Would highly recommend.
Staff were great and speak english well . Hard working people very nice experience 👍 Food and drinks were satisfactory
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