Elite of The Seas – Unique Luxury 3 Days Cruise in Halong & Lan Ha Bay

Experience the Best of Halong & Lan Ha Bay with Elite of The Seas

Imagine cruising through some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes—towering limestone karsts, tranquil azure waters, and vibrant floating villages— all from the comfort of a luxurious vessel. For three days and two nights, the Elite of The Seas offers a seamless blend of elegance, adventure, and local charm. Priced at $900 per person, this experience is ideal for travelers seeking top-notch service, spacious accommodations, and a curated itinerary that captures the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

What we love most about this cruise? First, the well-appointed, modern cabins with ocean views and private balconies make unwinding after a day of exploring a true pleasure. Second, the range of activities—from kayaking and cycling to beach lounging and cave exploring—ensures there’s something for all. The only potential snag? The itinerary is packed, so if you’re looking for pure relaxation with minimal excursions, it might feel a bit full-on. This trip suits those who crave a mix of luxury, adventure, and authentic scenery, especially if you value high-quality food and attentive service.

Key Points

• Luxury accommodations with spacious, modern rooms and personal balconies
• Well-organized itinerary with a variety of activities, from kayaking to village cycling
• Exceptional staff praised for their friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness
• Gourmet meals with an 8-course fine dining menu and cooking demonstrations
• Incredible scenery of limestone formations, caves, and pristine beaches
• Value for money considering the inclusion of transfers, excursions, and high-quality amenities

An Elegant Introduction to Halong & Lan Ha Bay

This cruise is designed to bring out the best of Vietnam’s iconic waters with a touch of modern luxury. Starting from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll be transported via limousine (if booked), or meet directly at Tuan Chau Marina, and then head to the bay for an experience that balances adventure with comfort. At a typical booking window of 12 days in advance, this cruise attracts travelers who prefer to plan ahead, eager to enjoy a fully inclusive, hassle-free experience.

The vessel itself is less than a year old, with a sleek, contemporary design and full ocean views. With 35 spacious rooms, the Elite of The Seas is tailored for those who value privacy and comfort after a busy day exploring. The multi-air conditioning, satellite TV, marble bathrooms, and ocean-view bathtubs elevate the experience beyond basic cruise fare.

Why You’ll Love This Cruise

Two key aspects stand out from traveler reviews. First, the personalized service—including a dedicated crew and guides like Harry, Amy, and Anthony—makes you feel like a guest in a friend’s elegant country home. Many reviewers mentioned staff members going above and beyond, ensuring every detail was handled with care. From massages to fishing sessions, the staff’s attentiveness creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Second, the scenery and excursions are genuinely spectacular. The cruise takes you through Lan Ha Bay, renowned for its dramatic limestone islands, quiet beaches, and picturesque caves. Visiting Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island by bike or electric car offers an authentic glimpse into local life amid lush jungles and rice paddies. The sunrise yoga and Tai Chi sessions are a delightful way to start each day, and the chance to kayak or bathe in natural lagoons keeps the journey lively.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1 – From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

The day kicks off early with a pick-up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter (if booked with transfer), followed by a 2.5-hour drive along the expressway. The journey is smooth, with a short stop that breaks up the ride. Once at Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll check in at No later than 11:30 AM to ensure your spot on the cruise.

Upon boarding at Lan Ha Bay around noon, the first sight of your vessel is impressive: a luxurious, modern ship with a sleek profile. After settling into your en-suite cabin with ocean views, a delicious lunch awaits, setting the tone for the trip.

In the afternoon, the activities kick in—kayaking at Ao Ech, taking drone photos from the sundeck, or relaxing by the pool. The sunset happy hour at the Sky Bar is a favorite, offering stunning views paired with expertly crafted drinks. The highlight? A gourmet 8-course dinner in the restaurant, praised for its quality and presentation.

Day 2 – Exploring Lan Ha Bay and Viet Hai Village

Waking up early, you can join Tai Chi or golf classes, or simply enjoy the sunrise over the bay. After breakfast, it’s time for more exploration. You might paddle into caves by boat or relax on quiet beaches, soaking in the scenery.

The standout activity this day is the visit to Viet Hai Village, accessible only in this 3-day itinerary. Cycling or riding electric cars through rainforests, rice fields, and mountain passes offers a genuine taste of local life. Travelers rave about how stunning the scenery is and how engaging the interaction with villagers can be.

Later, there’s time for bathing at Ba Trai Dao, a pristine beach with clear waters. The day ends again with a cooking demonstration, sunset views, and leisure activities—mini-golf, massages, or simply lounging.

Day 3 – Farewell with Cave Visits and Return

Your final morning begins with a golf and Tai Chi session, followed by a visit to the Dark and Bright Cave by traditional rowing boat, an authentic experience praised for its tranquility and natural beauty. After packing up, you’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast. Then, it’s time to return to the mainland by speedboat, ending your cruise at Tuan Chau Harbor.

For those with the transfer option, a ride back to Hanoi’s Old Quarter completes the journey. The entire experience is designed to balance activity with relaxation, offering a rich taste of what Halong Bay has to offer—without the rough edges.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

Many reviewers emphasize the quality of the staff, with mentions of Kevin, Harry, Tony, and others who ensure every guest feels cared for. Their attentiveness is more than just professional; it’s genuine. One guest described their crew as treating them like family, which speaks volumes about the personal touch.

The scenery is another highlight: “The landscape is amazing,” and “Lan Ha Bay’s scenery is stunningly beautiful,” are common sentiments. The luxury amenities mean you can enjoy these views from your private balcony or the deck lounges, all while savoring delicious local and Western cuisine.

Analyzing the Value

At $900, this cruise isn’t cheap, but the value for money is evident in the inclusions: transfers, all meals, excursions, kayak, cycling, and activities. The reviews consistently mention top-quality food, comfortable cabins, and exceptional service, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking an upscale experience.

It’s also worth noting that bookings are made 12 days in advance on average, indicating this is a sought-after experience. The flexible itinerary, with options from 2 to 5 days, makes it adaptable, but the 3-day version strikes a good balance between seeing the highlights and avoiding fatigue.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for couples, honeymooners, or small groups who want a luxurious, all-inclusive experience with plenty of activity options. If you appreciate good food, attentive service, and scenic beauty, you’ll find this trip hard to beat. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, slow-paced holiday, the packed schedule might be a bit much. It also suits travelers willing to spend a little more for a premium experience that combines adventure with comfort.

The Sum Up

The Elite of The Seas offers a well-rounded, high-end adventure that showcases the best of Halong and Lan Ha Bay. Expect beautifully designed ships, friendly staff, authentic activities, and mouthwatering cuisine. It’s a cruise that balances luxury with a sense of discovery, making it ideal for those who want to see the region in style without sacrificing comfort or authentic experiences.

For travelers who cherish attention to detail, spectacular scenery, and personalized service, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your Vietnam journey. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something memorable, this voyage promises an unforgettable immersion into one of Southeast Asia’s most stunning landscapes.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The standard option is 3 days and 2 nights, but the cruise can be customized for up to 5 days.

What is included in the price?
Cost includes transfers (if booked), meals, excursions, kayaking, biking, and access to the ship’s amenities like the pool, spa, mini-golf, and gym.

Is the transfer service reliable?
Yes, the cruise offers pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or meeting at Tuan Chau Marina, with reviews highlighting smooth, punctual transfers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days before the start for a full refund. Less notice may incur charges.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimwear, sun protection, a hat, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your passport and valuables—safes are available onboard.

Are the excursions suitable for all ages?
Most activities, like kayaking and cycling, are suited for active adults. Check with your guide about specific limitations for children or elderly travelers.

How is the food?
Very highly praised, with an 8-course dinner and daily meals that include local delicacies and Western favorites.

Is this cruise suitable for honeymooners?
Absolutely—many reviews mention romantic settings, rose petal dinners, and candlelit moments.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect stunning limestone formations, caves, quiet beaches, and scenic villages—truly picture-perfect.

Will I enjoy this if I prefer relaxation over activities?
While the schedule is busy, there’s plenty of downtime, especially with options like sunbathing, spa treatments, or simply enjoying the views from your cabin.