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Emperor Cruises – Halong Bay

★★★★★
9.6/10 guest score · independent review analysis pending
No.28, Tuan Chau International Marina, Halong Bay
from US$182/pax
Departure

No.28, Tuan Chau International Marina, Halong Bay

Best for

Couples · Families · Groups

CRUISE OVERVIEW

Emperor Cruises at a glance

Emperor Cruises is a 2017-launched luxury cruise cruise operating on the Halong Bay route from No.28, Tuan Chau International Marina, Halong Bay. The current product listing confirms 10 cabins and steel construction.

WHAT STANDS OUT
  • Authentic and luxury cruising experience to less-explored areas in Halong Bay
  • A classic small junk boat with 10 high-class and spacious cabins
  • and aristocratic décor inspired by the Vietnamese royal style
  • Onboard options extend beyond the cabins with spa and lounge.
ECOSAPA PLANNING NOTES
  • 2017 launch and 10 cabins
  • 2D1N route: Me Cung Cave · Tuan Chau Port · Thien Canh Son Cave · Luon Cave
  • 3D2N adds: Viet Hai Village · Ba Trai Dao Beach · Tra Bau · Cong Dam
  • Onboard: Private Balcony · Private Terrace · Jacuzzi · Spa · Fitness Center
ECOSAPA CRUISE ADVISOR

Is Emperor Cruises right for you?

Use the notes below to compare the route, cabin setup and onboard facilities with the way you actually want to travel.

BEST FOR

Choose this cruise if…

  • Travelers who want to compare cabin sizes in the 35–70 m² range rather than choosing on price alone
  • Guests who value onboard features such as Private Balcony, Private Terrace, Jacuzzi, and Spa
  • Travelers considering 3D2N for extra stops such as Viet Hai Village, Ba Trai Dao Beach, Tra Bau, and Cong Dam
CONSIDER FIRST

It may not fit if…

  • Hanoi transfers may be optional or charged separately; confirm the transport option before checkout
  • The extended itinerary uses a separate day boat for part of the second day
2D1N or 3D2N?

2D1N: 2 Days / 1 Night covers Me Cung Cave, Tuan Chau Port, Thien Canh Son Cave, Luon Cave, and Vung Vieng Village.

3D2N: 3 Days / 2 Nights covers Me Cung Cave, Tuan Chau Port, Thien Canh Son Cave, Viet Hai Village, and Ba Trai Dao Beach.

Cabin advice

Compare the 4 source-listed cabin categories by room size, deck, bed setup and maximum occupancy. Published room sizes currently span 35–70 m². Start with the lowest suitable category, then upgrade only for a feature you will actually use.

Cabin & Rates

Choose a sailing date first, then compare the exact cabin totals returned for that sailing.

BEST FORCouples · view-focused travelers

Hanoi - Saigon Suites

2 guests 35 m² Double / Twin2nd deck

A stronger fit if a higher-deck position and private bay views matter more than simply choosing the lowest cabin category.

Why it works
  • Private Balcony
  • Bathtub
  • Walk-in Shower
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BEST FORCouples and view-focused travelers

Signature Suites

2 guests 43 m² Double / Twinmain deck

A balanced cabin choice for travelers comparing comfort, space and deck position.

Why it works
  • Private Balcony
  • Walk-in Shower
  • 43 m² of cabin space
Enter your departure date
BEST FORFamilies & small groups

State Suites

2 guests 50 m² Double2nd deck

A practical fit when keeping everyone together matters more than booking separate cabins.

Why it works
  • Private Balcony
  • Private Terrace
  • Walk-in Shower
Enter your departure date
BEST FORCouples · special occasions

Royal Suites

2 guests 70 m² Double2nd deck

Choose this when the cabin itself — extra space, privacy and bathroom comfort — is an important part of the cruise experience.

Why it works
  • All rooms with private balcony (except for Hanoi and Saigon), full ocean view, Jacuzzi bathtub
  • Private Terrace
  • Walk-in Shower
Enter your departure date

Booking Policy

Price Includes
  • Welcome drinks
  • Complimentary mineral water, tea & coffee during the trip - onboard
  • All rooms with private balcony (except for Hanoi and Saigon), full ocean view, Jacuzzi bathtub
  • All meals onboard:
  • 2D1N Cruise: 01 lunch, 01 dinner, 01 breakfast, 01 brunch.
  • 3D2N Cruise: 02 lunches, 02 dinners, 02 breakfasts, 01 brunch
  • Flowers, Fruits, snack
  • Floating art gallery
  • Cooking class
  • Use of sauna & gym
  • Activities such as squid fishing, bamboo boat, kayaking cave discovery
  • Fun club for kids & library
  • Vovinam session
  • All sightseeing tickets
  • Service charges and government tax
Price Excludes+
  • Transfer round trip Hanoi - Halong - Hanoi (book in next step)
  • Visa and passport arrangement services
  • Air fares to and from Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) or Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong)
  • Accommodation pre- and post-cruise
  • Personal expenses
  • All other services not mentioned above
Cancellation Policy+
  • More than 21 days before check-in: FREE of charge
  • From 11 to 20 days before check-in: 30% of total rates
  • From 7 to 10 days before check-in: 50% of total rates
  • Less than 7 days before check-in & no Show: 100% of total rates
  • Before departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay (none of the services has been used): 100% refund.
  • During the trip (some services have been used: transfer, lunch, day trip, hotel in Halong, etc.): used services will be charged, the rest will be refunded.
  • The trip be cut down from 2 nights to 1 night, tourists will be charged a 2 days/1 night trip, plus other used services, the rest will be refunded.
  • The final cost will be confirmed by your consultant via email. In all cases, please contact us directly for any urgent help. We are here to support you with all of our best!
Children Policy+
  • FOC for 01 child under 5 years old sharing EVERYTHING with parents. Surcharge for the second child under 5 years old is 40% of adult rate ( Extra bed is included )
  • The surcharge for 01 children from 5-11 years of age is 70% of an adult per night ( Extra bed is included ). Surcharge will be off 700,000 VND if child share bed with parents
  • Child 12 years of age above or an adult: 90% adult rate with extra bed

Cruise Itineraries

Choose the trip length, see what matters before departure, then open each day for the full program.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

What stands out on this cruise

  • Halong Bay
  • 2D1N / 3D2N
  • Useful onboard features: Private Balcony, Bathtub, Jacuzzi
  • Route coverage: Halong Bay
  • Compare 4 cabin categories before requesting availability
BEFORE YOU SAIL

What to prepare

  • Confirm passport details for cruise registration
  • Share child ages and cabin occupancy
  • Confirm Hanoi ↔ Halong transfer needs
  • Recheck final cabin and sailing schedule before payment
Itinerary at a glance

The 2 Days / 1 Night program presented in the operator’s original sequence. Exact timing and activities remain subject to weather and operating conditions.

MAP VIEW

Emperor Cruises · 2 Days / 1 Night route map

Day 1: Me Cung Cave → Thien Canh Son Cave. Day 2: Luon Cave → Vung Vieng Village.

Route: Me Cung Cave · Thien Canh Son Cave · Luon Cave · Vung Vieng Village 2 Days / 1 Night
Optional Hanoi transfer is mentioned in this itinerary and is shown as a land transfer, not a sailing route.
Start Day stop
Real map tiles · attraction points are approximate map locations for trip planning, not marine navigation
Day 1

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Me Cung Cave - Tung Sau

Morning

8:00 - 8:30: Get on the limousine van in Hanoi Old Quarter (book separately from the cruise with an extra fee), then transfer to Halong Bay - a World Heritage with natural beauty.

11:30 - 12:00: Arrive at No. 28 Tuan Chau Port. The cruise team in the lounge will welcome you. Get on board, listen to a cruise briefing, and then check into your cabin.

Enjoy the Vietnamese set lunch at the Panorama Lounge on the 3rd deck while admiring the beauty of Halong Bay through the huge glass window.

Afternoon

After the meal, passengers are free to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the bay as the cruise ship draws closer to the first point of the journey.

Discover the amazing Me Cung Cave (Cave of Maze). This is like a museum located halfway up the mountain. Many precious archaeological vestiges allow visitors to witness with their own eyes.

Then, the tender takes the guests to the Tung Sau Area, free time for guests to paddle on colorful kayaks to explore the stunning landscape of this area.

Experience kayaking in the middle of the sea

From October 1st, 2026: Explore Bai Tu Long Bay

Travelers explore the hidden charm of Thien Canh Son Cave, perched atop a limestone mountain and home to remarkable geological formations. Continue the experience with kayaking, discovering tranquil lagoons, pristine nature, and the otherworldly beauty of the bay. Guests may also sunbathe or simply unwind in the peaceful surroundings.

After the afternoon excursion, we'll return to the Emperor Cruise to join an afternoon tea with music and canapés on the sundeck. Let the wind through your hair and feel the natural atmosphere.

After admiring the glorious sunset, you can try a cooking demonstration to make traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Evening

Savor your delightful dinner onboard at Royal Palace Restaurant while enjoying Halong Bay's charm by night. Afterward, try your luck with squid fishing, have some drinks, or relax in your cabin.

Emperor Cruises sailing through Halong Bay
Day 1 · Hanoi - Halong Bay - Me Cung Cave - Tung Sau
Day 2

Halong Bay - Luon Cave - Hanoi

Morning

Wake up your senses early by joining the Vovinam session on the sundeck. Besides improving your health, this exercise is a unique way to admire the glamorous sunrise in Halong Bay.

Get your light breakfast with tea, coffee, pastries, cookies, and fresh juices after that.

Luon Cave is an extraordinary location with an archway that has a natural shape of about 60m, reflecting in the cool blue seawater. This is free time for you to get on a rowed boat to explore the stunning landscape of Halong Bay.

From October 1st, 2026: Explore Bai Tu Long Bay

We transfer by tender or dayboat to the serene Vung Vieng Fishing Village. Glide through the water on a bamboo rowing boat steered by local fishermen. Discover the cultural traditions, floating homes, and authentic lifestyle of this centuries-old village.

After exploring the fantastic cave, you will return to the cruise to relax and check out between 8:30 and 9:15. Then, taste brunch à la carte in Can Chanh Restaurant while the lovely boat sails leisurely to the port.

Spend the last time admiring the beautiful Halong Bay before saying goodbye to the Emperor and the cruise’s crew.

Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina around 11:00 - 11:15, disembark, and wait for your transfer service.

Afternoon

If you use our transfer (excluded from the cruise price, book in the next step), a bus will drive you back to Hanoi - the final stop around 14:30.

PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

Please kindly provide us your passport information at least 01 week before the cruise date.

If you have any specific food request (vegetarian, allergic, non-seafood, etc.), feel free to let us know so we can serve your demands with the best.

Emperor Cruises sundeck and outdoor seating overlooking Halong Bay
Day 2 · Halong Bay - Luon Cave - Hanoi

Good to know

  • PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE
  • Please kindly provide us your passport information at least 01 week before the cruise date.
  • If you have any specific food request (vegetarian, allergic, non-seafood, etc.), feel free to let us know so we can serve your demands with the best.

About Emperor Cruises

Emperor Cruises is a 2017-launched luxury cruise cruise operating on the Halong Bay route from No.28, Tuan Chau International Marina, Halong Bay. The current product listing confirms 10 cabins and steel construction.

For the onboard decision, compare 4 cabin categories with published sizes of 35–70 m² and onboard features including Private Balcony, Private Terrace, Jacuzzi, Spa, Fitness Center, and Bar. This is more useful than choosing by star label alone because the cabin layout and facilities vary materially between ships.

For itinerary planning, 2 Days / 1 Night visits Me Cung Cave, Tuan Chau Port, Thien Canh Son Cave, Luon Cave, and Vung Vieng Village; while 3 Days / 2 Nights visits Me Cung Cave, Tuan Chau Port, Thien Canh Son Cave, Viet Hai Village, Ba Trai Dao Beach, and Tra Bau. Compare the actual stops and time on the bay before deciding between durations.

Facilities & Deck Plan

Emperor Cruise is one of the most luxurious small boats in Halong Bay, with 10 first-class cabins for the most quiet and individual experience.

On the main deck, there is Can Chanh Restaurant and a lobby at the rear. The remaining boasts 02 Signature Suites (Do Son & Lak Lake) and 02 State Suites (Hue & Vung Tau) with an average cabin size of 43m2 - 50m2.

The upper deck includes 02 Hanoi - Saigon Suites, 02 State Suites (Da Lat & Nha Trang), and 02 Royal Suites (King & Queen) - the top-notch cabin class. Located at the bow, each Royal Suite features a 70-square-meter space covering a living room, a bedroom, an ocean-view ensuite bathroom, a bar counter, and a large private terrace, making it a wonderful choice for those seeking royal accommodation.

Apart from cabins and suites, there is also a spa & sauna, a gym, and a Mekong Lounge offering a library, a bar counter, a piano, and an art gallery for guests to chill out on the second deck.

The third deck offers an indoor panorama lounge that can serve as a restaurant and a sundeck area for relaxation and sightseeing.

With a low capacity of only 20 people, Emperor Cruise Halong Bay allows its guests to experience a more private, relaxing journey on the small boat.

Mekong Lounge

The Melong Lounge is designed in Indochina style in the center of the 2nd deck, including the Bao Dai Library, Mekong Bar, a kids' corner, a piano, and art. This is the good way to relax at night, where you can play music, read books, or enjoy drinks.

Mekong Lounge reminds you of Vietnam's rice basket with rich nature, culture, and history.

Bao Dai Library

Inspired by the personal library of King Bao Dai, this place is a cozy corner on the 2nd floor near Ana Wellness and Spa. Designed in a neoclassical style with comfortable sofas, the library contains many precious documents about the Nguyen Dynasty, the Ancient Citadel, and the life of King Bao Dai himself.

Not only for bibliophiles, the library also serves as the cultural heart of this artistic cruise.

Pham Luc Art Gallery

Emperor Cruise Halong Bay is not only a cruise carrying historical stories, but also a journey of art. This ship owns a valuable collection of paintings by artist Pham Luc, who is considered the Picasso of Vietnam, with a large number, including works from 1956 to the present.

If you want to admire, you can request the cruise crew to organize a tour, taking you to visit the entire Lux Gallery with Pham Luc's masterpieces, and at the same time introducing you in detail to this talented artist and the inspiration behind each painting.

Each of his artworks is full of love, hope, and significance, conveying stories uniquely.

The Heritage Spa

Inspired by Halong Bay and the royal spa heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty, this place offers a peaceful and luxurious spa and massage experience for passengers. The treatment combines modern therapies with local botanical products, helping guests balance energy and revive all their senses. Besides, this spa also has a sauna, which guests can enjoy with a cup of ginger or jasmine tea before or after their treatment.

The Heritage Spa provides sensory retreats in this one-of-a-kind setting.

The Moments Lounge & Sails

Moments Lounge and Sail is located on the sundeck of the Emperor Cruise, possessing a large and airy outdoor space. From here, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and spend time admiring the splendor of Halong Bay, especially beautiful and scenic at sunset and sunrise.

This relaxation area leaves you with a restful atmosphere to ease your soul.

Emperor Cruises sundeck and outdoor seating overlooking Halong Bay
Facilities & Deck Plan · Emperor Cruises
Service & Activities

Compared to other cruises, Emperor has quite an interesting itinerary of must-visit spots in Halong and Lan Ha Bay, including Me Cung Cave, Luon Cave, Ba Trai Dao Beach, and Viet Hai Village. In addition, the cruise also provides a unique and energetic activity onboard, which is practicing Vovinam, a traditional Vietnamese martial art in the morning.

Sightseeing activities

Visit Me Cung Cave

Me Cung means “maze” which is shown clearly in the structure of the cave with many narrow slots, dividing the cave into many compartments. Visitors in Me Cung Cave can only recognize the exit by the dim light at the end of the cave. Exploring this place, you will not only be moved by the magnificent beauty of stalactites with many strange shapes, but also by the ancient cultural and historical values that it brings through the sedimentary layers, fossil, and semi-fossil sites.

Engage in historical and archaeological values from 10,000 years ago at Me Cung Cave

Kayak in the Tung Sau Area

On the first day of the trip, tourists will have the opportunity to try kayaking in Halong Bay with about 45 minutes of free time to explore the beauty of the Tung Sau Area. This place was chosen for this must-try activity as it is surrounded by undulating rocky islands, providing good wind protection, making the water here calm and safe.

Explore the landscape of Halong Bay on colorful kayaks

Cycling in Viet Hai Village

Passengers will be able to participate in this experience on the second day if they book a 3-day-2-night trip with Emperor Cruise. Cycling is the best way to explore Viet Hai Village. You will be able to cycle on the tree-lined road through Cat Ba National Park, visit the remaining ancient houses of Viet Hai fishing village, and immerse in the slow, peaceful pace of life here.

Please note that if you don't want to cycle, electric cars are also an alternative option.

Explore the village nestled in the national park where you can see the genuine local life

Explore Luon Cave

Luon Cave is chosen as an interesting ending on the last day of sailing with Emperor Cruise. The cave has a unique geological structure that makes the ceiling far from the water surface but its floor is submerged under the sea. To explore this special attraction, visitors will be able to choose between kayaking themselves or sitting on small wooden boats rowed by locals.

Gaze at a variety of beautiful plants such as ferns and cycads on a bamboo boat trip

Onboard Activities

Practice Vovinam

For anyone who is a morning person, Vovinam is the best sunrise practice activity. Unlike the slow and gentle Tai Chi offered on most cruise tours, this traditional Vietnamese martial art is arranged as a powerful exercise, helping visitors have an extremely dynamic start for a new day.

Enjoy Vovinam exercise in the bright morning on the sundeck

Spa & Massage

Price: US from US $34

Duration: 30 - 60 mins/session

Emperor Cruise’s spa & massage service is currently one of the best in Halong. The spa & massage services here are diverse, including 7 types of treatments, from basic foot, head, neck, and shoulder massage to the advanced option with a combination of Balinese, Swedish, Japanese shiatsu, and Thai stretching.

Gym Corner

In addition to practicing Vovinam on the sundeck in the early morning, guests can also find other modern and more familiar training activities at the gym corner. This gym is a bit small, but it still meets the basic requirements with a treadmill and an elliptical machine. All exercise equipment is placed facing the floor-to-ceiling glass doors, allowing passengers to train and admire the beautiful scenery of Halong Bay at the same time.

Fitness facilities are specifically intended to refresh and energize guests onboard.

Emperor Cruises spa and wellness facilities on board
Service & Activities · Emperor Cruises
Food & Drink

The Emperor overnight cruise offers flavorful meals with the finest local ingredients. The dishes are served diversely with local seafood, fusion, Western, and Vietnamese cuisine. Lunch & Dinner is the highlight of the culinary experience with set menus served in fine dining style, including a full course meal from light appetizers to sophisticated main dishes, and ending with sweet desserts.

With every meal onboard, guests are treated to a fine selection by renowned chefs.

Moreover, guests can dine at many places: in their suite, on the sundeck, or in the lounge if requested, which is unique for this luxury cruise.

Dining Time

The usual time for breakfast is 6:45, lunch is at 13:15, and dinner is at 19:30.

The 2-day-1-night itinerary includes 04 meals: 01 set menu lunch, 01 set menu dinner, 01 light buffet breakfast, and 01 brunch

The 3-day-2-night itinerary includes 07 meals: 02 set menu lunches, 02 set menu dinners, 02 light buffet breakfasts, and 01 brunch

Note:If there are fewer than 10 guests on board, brunch will be served À La Carte style.

Drinks

Visitors traveling with Emperor Cruise on their journey to explore Halong Bay can enjoy complimentary water in their rooms. Other beverages at the bar (come with a surcharge) have a wide range of choices such as wine, spirits, beer, cocktails, mocktails, juice, coffee, and tea.

Gaze at the mesmerizing sunset while sipping a cocktail with a flavorsome taste.

Can Chanh Restaurant

This restaurant at the heart of the 1st deck is decorated with artwork and wood equipment to bring a royal atmosphere in the traditional Vietnamese style. Tourists may enjoy Vietnamese culture, history, and food at the luxury dining area where regal beauty and legacy blend to create the pinnacle of elegance.

The restaurant offers amazing views and stylish furnishings inspired by the 1930 design.

Panorama Lounge & Restaurant

Located on the top deck to give guests fresh air, this lounge & bar offers both indoor and outdoor dining space with a 360-degree Halong Bay view. It can be arranged to serve breakfast and dinner upon request, as well as the sunset party, afternoon tea, cooking class, and wine tasting.

The lounge provides scenic views of the ever-changing, scenery in Halong.

Emperor Cruises restaurant and onboard dining area
Food & Drink · Emperor Cruises
Transportation

You will be transported by a limousine D-car, shuttle bus, or private car if you book with BestPrice Travel (need an additional fee). The car will guarantee you a smooth and pleasant ride.

From Hanoi

The pickup time is from 8:00 to 8:30 within the Old Quarter; the bus will transfer you to Halong Bay from Hanoi via highway.

From Tuan Chau Marina

If you move to Halong Bay by yourself, please reach the Heritage Lounge at Lot 28 Tuan Chau Marina before 11.30 to check in on time.

Waiting lounge of Lux Group at Tuan Chau cruise port
Emperor Cruises sailing through Halong Bay
Transportation · Emperor Cruises
TRAVELER FEEDBACK

Independent traveler reviews are being verified

EcoSapa does not republish copied review text just to make this section look full. Verified public reviewer profiles will appear here as the independent review layer is completed.

Questions & Answers

1. Is 2D1N or 3D2N better on Emperor Cruises?

Choose 2D1N when time is limited and you want the core overnight experience around Me Cung Cave, Thien Canh Son Cave, Luon Cave, and Vung Vieng Village. Choose 3D2N when you want a slower trip with a full extra exploration day, adding Viet Hai Village, Ba Trai Dao Beach, Tra Bau, and Cong Dam.

2. Does the 3D2N Emperor Cruises itinerary use a day boat?

Yes. The published 3D2N program includes a separate day-boat excursion for part of the middle day. Check the exact stops for your sailing because the day-boat route can differ from the main ship’s overnight route.

3. Which bay and route does Emperor Cruises follow?

Emperor Cruises is currently listed on the Halong Bay route. Published itinerary stops include Me Cung Cave, Thien Canh Son Cave, Luon Cave, Vung Vieng Village, Viet Hai Village, and Ba Trai Dao Beach.

4. Where does Emperor Cruises depart from?

Emperor Cruises currently lists its cruise check-in / departure location as No.28, Tuan Chau International Marina, Halong Bay. Reconfirm the meeting point and arrival time before travel because port arrangements can change.

5. Is the Hanoi to Halong transfer included with Emperor Cruises?

Not by default. The current Emperor Cruises data treats the Hanoi–Halong transfer as an optional or separately charged service, so confirm the vehicle type, pickup point and return plan together with the cabin.

6. How should I choose a cabin on Emperor Cruises?

The current cruise data lists 4 cabin categories with published room sizes of 35–70 m². Compare room size, bed setup, deck, occupancy and balcony/bathroom features before paying for an upgrade.

7. Is Emperor Cruises suitable for families with children?

Family suitability depends on the exact cabin occupancy and bedding setup. The cruise also has a source-synced child policy, so send each child’s age before booking to confirm the correct cabin and fare.

8. Can Emperor Cruises handle vegetarian or special dietary requests?

The current Emperor Cruises information indicates that special food or dietary requests can be communicated in advance. Send vegetarian, allergy, non-seafood or other requirements before the cruise and reconfirm them in the final booking note.

Still have a question?

Send your travel date, group size or cabin question and EcoSapa can check it before you book.

fromUS$182/pax