A Luxurious Escape on Halong Bay with Orchid Cruises

Imagine spending two nights aboard a luxury yacht exploring some of Vietnam’s most celebrated waters. Priced at $799 per person, this 3-day, 2-night experience offers an all-inclusive package that promises comfort, authentic cuisine, and breathtaking views. With a sleek itinerary that includes stops at Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, this cruise is designed for travelers who want to indulge in the beauty of natural landscapes while enjoying hotel-level service on the water.

What we love most about this experience is the attention to detail in service and the delicious, fresh Vietnamese meals that accompany each day. The cruise’s intimate size—just 14 suites—ensures a personalized experience, making it both relaxing and exclusive. Also, the included Hanoi hotel pickup means you can start your trip stress-free without worrying about transportation logistics.

That said, one thing to consider is that this experience is non-refundable, so if your plans change unexpectedly, you could lose your booking fee. This cruise tends to attract travelers looking for a well-organized, luxury experience with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting that special treat in Vietnam’s most iconic scenery.

Who would love this?

If you’re someone who appreciates luxury accommodations, attentive service, and delicious food while exploring stunning natural landscapes, this cruise is ideal. Travelers who value authentic Vietnamese cuisine and want to avoid the crowds will find this small-group, all-inclusive experience especially appealing.

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Key Points

Luxury and Comfort: Small, 14-suite cruise with spacious accommodations and personalized service.
All-Inclusive Dining: Fresh, authentic Vietnamese meals included, with vegetarian options available.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides bring the UNESCO-listed landscapes to life.
Convenient Transfer: Hanoi hotel pickup makes travel seamless from start to finish.
Stunning Scenery: Cruise through iconic Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views.
Authentic Experiences: Side trips, cave visits, and on-board activities offer a well-rounded adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Orchid Cruises Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This 3-day cruise balances relaxation and adventure with carefully planned stops at some of the most beautiful parts of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. From the moment you step aboard, the focus is on comfort and immersive scenery.

Day 1 begins with a pickup at 67 P. Nguyn Hu Huân in Hanoi, which is included in your package. This is a smart move, freeing you from the hassle of arranging transport and allowing you to relax from your first moment. Once on board, you’ll sail into Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for towering limestone karsts and emerald waters. The cruise offers plenty of space on the sundeck to take in the panoramic views, perfect for picture-taking or simply soaking in the serenity.

Day 2 shifts gears with a visit to Lan Ha Bay, a less crowded but equally stunning area. This part of the voyage offers a different perspective—more secluded with quieter waters. The reviews highlight that the meals are a highlight, with guests praising the “delicious meals” and “amazing” attention from staff like Peter and Jack, who ensure every need is attended to.

Day 3 returns to Halong Bay for an eight-hour cruise, giving you ample time to marvel at the karst formations and perhaps visit caves or floating villages if your guide arranges it. This day is designed to maximize scenic views and relaxation, with all admission tickets included so you can focus on the experience.

What to Expect From Each Stop

Halong Bay: The quintessential Vietnam postcard—towering limestone pillars rising from the water, evocative of a fantasy landscape. Expect smooth sailing, photo ops, and a chance to learn about the area from your guide. Guests report seeing “really beautiful scenery” and enjoying “delicious meals,” which suggests that the cruise’s food options are as impressive as the views.

Lan Ha Bay: Less commercialized, quieter, and equally gorgeous. With admission included, it’s a prime spot for kayaking or simply relaxing on the sundeck. Reviewers mention the “amazing cruise,” and the staff as “really good,” making this leg of the trip both tranquil and well-managed.

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Food, Service, and Atmosphere

Every review emphasizes the exceptional food. Expect fresh, authentic Vietnamese fare with vegetarian options available if you request in advance. The meals are described as “just kept coming,” with one reviewer adding that the staff are “super attending” and “never left us without water.” The wait staff—notably Peter, Vy Vy, Elle, and James—are frequently praised for their warmth and attentiveness.

The service on board is a standout, creating a feeling of genuine luxury. Guests report “lovely service,” “friendly staff,” and “excellent food,” often mentioning staff members by name—testament to the personalized care.

Comfort and Accommodation

The 14 spacious suites are described as “luxurious” and “immaculate,” with many reviewers mentioning the beautiful views from their rooms. The onboard environment is designed for comfort, with elegant decor and plenty of room to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 26 travelers, the atmosphere is intimate—ideal for those seeking a quieter, more personal experience. This smaller size allows the crew to give attentive service, and guests often highlight the friendly staff and the welcoming environment.

Transport and Logistics

The included Hanoi hotel pickup is a real convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally in Hanoi. The meeting point at 67 P. Nguyn Hu Huân is near public transportation, making it easy to find your way. The tour starts at 7:30 am, so be prepared for an early start, but this also means you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy every moment of your cruise.

Price and Value

At $799 per person, this cruise might seem steep at first glance, but the reviews reveal that many consider it excellent value. The all-inclusive meals, luxurious accommodations, guided excursions, and transfers mean that you pay for convenience, comfort, and authentic experiences. Guests frequently mention the quality of the food and service as well worth the investment.

Who Will Love It?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who value quality and comfort without sacrificing authenticity. If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic way to experience Halong Bay — complete with excellent food, attentive staff, and stunning scenery — this is a top choice. It suits those who appreciate smaller groups, personalized service, and the chance to relax in style.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Your package covers transfer services, all meals (including vegetarian options if advised), an English-speaking guide, water, and admission tickets for the stops at Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

Is the cruise suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you advise when booking. The menus are designed to include fresh, authentic Vietnamese fare, and reviews praise the variety and quality.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 7:30 am from the meeting point at 67 P. Nguyn Hu Huân in Hanoi and ends back there, making it convenient for travelers staying in Hanoi.

How many people typically join the cruise?
The maximum group size is 26 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Absolutely. The suites are described as spacious, elegant, and offering beautiful views—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so be sure of your plans before confirming.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking to combine luxury, authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and stunning scenery in a compact, well-organized package, this Orchid Cruises trip offers excellent value. The personalized service and intimate size make it stand out among many tours, especially for those who want to avoid large, crowded cruises. The inclusion of everything from hotel pickup to gourmet meals means you can simply relax and enjoy the views.

This cruise is especially well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a comfortable, authentic experience in one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes. The numerous glowing reviews from satisfied travelers underscore that this is a reliable, high-quality option for exploring Halong Bay in style.

For those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, scenery, and good food without the hassle of planning every detail, Orchid Cruises is a strong choice. Just remember—if your plans are flexible, the non-refundable policy is something to keep in mind. But if you’re confident in your travel dates, this experience promises some of the most memorable moments you’ll have in Vietnam.