Amanda Premier Cruise – Ha Long Bay – All Inclusive 2D1N

A Close-Up Look at the Amanda Premier Cruise in Halong Bay

Imagine floating on calm waters, surrounded by thousands of limestone islands, with luxurious comfort and engaging activities all packed into just two days. That’s what the Amanda Premier Cruise offers in Halong Bay, Vietnam. This 5-star steel-hull cruise features 26 spacious cabins with private balconies, providing some of the best views you’ll find anywhere — perfect for soaking up the spectacular scenery. At just $133.40 per person, this trip is a surprisingly good value considering the level of comfort, included meals, and activities.

Two things stand out for us: first, the modern design with expansive glass windows that flood the space with natural light, creating a peaceful atmosphere; second, the wide range of activities and cultural performances, from traditional ethnic fashion shows and bamboo dancing to kayaking and cave exploring. That said, a potential consideration is the timing and group size — most travelers praise the intimacy of the smaller cruise experience, but during peak seasons, expect a surcharge or booking well in advance.

This tour suits travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and active exploration. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see iconic sights or a seasoned traveler craving a luxurious yet adventure-filled getaway, the Amanda Premier Cruise offers a balanced mix of relaxation and engaging discovery. Its high review ratings reflect consistent satisfaction among past guests, many of whom highlight the knowledgeable guides and delicious cuisine as key highlights.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Spacious en-suite cabins with private balconies ensure a relaxing stay.
• Stunning Views: The modern design and glass windows maximize natural light and vistas.
• Authentic Experiences: Activities like cave exploring, kayaking, and bamboo dancing bring local culture to life.
• Excellent Service: Most reviews laud the friendly, attentive crew and guides.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, activities, transfers, and sightseeing are included, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Small Group Feel: The cruise’s limited guest capacity fosters a cozy, personalized atmosphere.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Tuan Chau Marina to the Heart of Halong Bay

Your adventure begins at Tuan Chau Marina around noon, where a friendly crew welcomes you with a refreshing drink and cold towel — a thoughtful touch to shake off travel fatigue. From there, the cruise departs, and you immediately feel the sense of luxury with a spacious cabin awaiting you. The boat’s sleek steel hull is complemented by large glass windows, offering panoramic views of the grand limestone karsts and islands that define Halong Bay.

The cruise heads toward Luon Cave and Titop Island, two of the bay’s most iconic spots. As you glide past thousands of limestone formations, you’ll understand why this landscape is so beloved. Many guests mention that the scenery is just spectacular, with one reviewer stating, “The scenery was just spectacular!” The boat’s modern design makes it easy to enjoy these vistas from the comfort of your cabin or the outdoor deck.

In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to kayak in Luon Cave — a highlight for active travelers. The calm waters and sheltered cave make for gentle paddling, and many find this activity a peaceful way to connect with nature. Later, a tender will take you to Titop Island where you can climb for panoramic views or relax on the beach.

As evening approaches, the cruise hosts a Sunset Party combined with a cooking class, giving you a taste of Vietnamese cuisine and culture. There’s also a happy hour with a buy 2 drinks, get 1 free offer — perfect for unwinding as the boat cruises toward its anchoring point for the night. The gala dinner onboard is often praised for its quality, with many reviews mentioning the high-standard, plentiful food.

Day 2: Cave Exploration and Farewell

The second day begins early with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck, an activity that many find a calming start to the day. After breakfast, your guide will take you to Sung Sot Cave, one of the largest and most beautiful caves in the area. Here, you’ll marvel at the massive stalactites and stalagmites, and the extensive chambers. The reviews echo this sentiment — “The views were amazing,” and “The cave was spectacular!”

Post-cave exploration, you’re invited to relax aboard with options to sunbathe, take pictures, or shop for souvenirs. The crew even prepares a herbal foot bath, adding a soothing touch to your morning. Around 9:30, it’s time to check out; luggage is organized and transferred, and you’re served an early lunch buffet before heading back to Tuan Chau Marina.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cruise’s all-inclusive package covers just about everything you need: meals, activities like kayaking and squid fishing, entrance fees, transfers, and a guided experience. This means you won’t need to worry about extra costs for most standard activities, a plus for budget-conscious travelers who want transparency.

However, it’s worth noting that alcoholic drinks and other extras cost extra, and there are surcharges during peak seasons like Chinese New Year or Christmas — so planning ahead is wise. For those who prefer single cabins or private arrangements, special bookings are required or incur additional fees.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

• Luxury cabins with private balconies allow you to enjoy the scenery from your room — one guest mentioned their “comfortable and spacious” room with “amazing views.”
• The crew and guides, especially the cruise manager Andy, are consistently praised. Guests mention that Andy “made the experience very special,” and his team is described as friendly, attentive, and professional.
• The culinary experience receives high praise, with reviews citing delicious, filling meals and even a cooking class that adds fun and cultural insight.
• The small group size (often only 10 guests) fosters a cozy, personalized atmosphere, allowing for more meaningful interactions and less crowding during activities.

Possible Drawbacks

While most travelers rave about their experience, a few note that peak season surcharges can be significant, especially around holidays. Also, the timing of activities—early mornings and tight schedules—might not suit everyone seeking a more leisurely pace. That said, the overall experience is highly flexible and well-organized, which many appreciate.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a luxurious, well-rounded experience that balances comfort with adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate gourmet meals, beautiful scenery, and cultural shows, all delivered in a cozy setting. The inclusion of kayaking, cave exploring, and cultural performances makes it suitable for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

People who value small groups and personalized service will find this cruise particularly appealing. It’s also well-suited to those who are willing to pay a little extra for added comfort and convenience — especially if you’re traveling during busy periods and want to ensure a spot.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone dreaming of floating through one of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes in comfort, the Amanda Premier Cruise offers a compelling package. It combines luxury, cultural richness, and active exploration into a compact, manageable itinerary. With a highly rated crew, delicious food, and breathtaking views, it delivers on its promise of an unforgettable Halong Bay experience.

If you’re seeking a relaxed yet engaging trip that highlights the natural beauty and local culture of Vietnam, this cruise hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy small-group intimacy, excellent service, and high-quality accommodations.

That said, budget travelers or those with a more relaxed schedule might want to consider alternatives, but for a luxury mini-adventure with plenty of activities and authentic touches, the Amanda Premier Cruise is hard to beat.

FAQ

What is included in the price of the cruise?
The price covers meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), activities like kayaking, exploring caves, squid fishing, entrance and sightseeing fees, transfers from Hanoi, and full-equipped cabins with private bathrooms.

Are there any hidden costs?
Most essentials are included, but drinks other than those offered during happy hour, tips, personal expenses, and surcharges during holidays are extra. Alcoholic beverages are pay-as-you-go, and credit card payments incur a small bank tax.

How many people typically join the cruise?
The cruise tends to host a maximum of 50 travelers, but many reviews mention smaller groups, sometimes just 10 guests, which creates a more intimate atmosphere.

Is this cruise suitable for families or couples?
Absolutely. The comfort, activities, and cultural experiences make it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The small group setting particularly benefits those who prefer a quieter, more personal experience.

What are the main activities?
You can expect kayaking, sightseeing at Sung Sot Cave, hiking on Titop Island, bamboo dancing, cave exploring, and night squid fishing. All are included, and many guests say they loved the variety.

How flexible is the schedule?
The schedule is fairly fixed but well-organized, with early mornings for Tai Chi and cave visits. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, these early activities might be a bit brisk, but they pack a lot into two days.

In summary, the Amanda Premier Cruise offers a well-rounded, luxurious taste of Halong Bay. It’s a smart pick for travelers craving a combination of comfort, stunning scenery, and engaging activities, all delivered with friendly service and authentic cultural touches.