I just got back from a truly epic trip to Ha Long Bay. Let me tell you, it’s even more stunning in person than in the photos. We’re talking towering limestone karsts rising from the emerald water, hidden caves whispering secrets, and resident fishermen in floating villages.
I enjoyed my trip to the fullest with the 5-star services offered by the exquisite Indochine cruise. We booked the well-appointed Indochine Suite for around US$207 per person. You might be wondering, “How is it so affordable?” The answer is that I booked the summer special discount package at www.bestpricetravel.com. However, this cost does not include the transfer fee.
Boat
Released in 2019, Indochina Cruise It is a modern ship that cruises around Halong Bay and Lan Ha. With a length of 76.6m, the cruise ship features 4 decks with various amenities that can accommodate up to 110 passengers on board. While it is not the largest cruise ship in the bay, it finds an ideal balance between providing enough space for amenities and activities.
What sets this cruise apart from the rest are its two restaurants, Tonkin and An Nam. “Tonkin” refers to a style popular in northern Vietnam that borrows aesthetic elements from the Gulf of Tonkin region. In contrast, An Nam restaurant offers a much more comprehensive selection of national dishes.
Indochine Cruise prioritises guest relaxation and the onboard spa reflects this perfectly. Designed as a tranquil sanctuary, it allows you to relax and rejuvenate after exploring the wonders of Ha Long Bay. For just approximately USD 25.5, you can expect a menu of wellness treatments, including massages and spa, offered by trained and experienced therapists. Please note that you will need to request a reservation from the cruise manager.
The outdoor pool is also a must-see spot on the ship. Instead of a wide pool deck, it features a “plunge pool” on the third deck. You can think of it as a refreshing end point after a day of exploring hidden coves and spectacular limestone formations. The pool allowed me to get rid of daily stress while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Halong Bay. However, I recommend installing lights around the pool to prevent unexpected falls at night.
As a lover of tranquility, the lounge did not disappoint me. Its atmosphere is sophisticated yet cozy, perfect for sipping a cocktail while relaxing on the comfortable sofa. If you want to enjoy the nighttime beauty of Halong, book your turn at the night bar. While you sip your drink, the bartenders can recommend local specialties or prepare a classic according to your preferences.
Cabins
The most impressive feature of the Indochine cruise is the cabins. The forty-three luxury cabins are divided into four categories: Junior Suite, Indochine Suite, Executive Suite and President Suite. Their size varies between 32 m2 and 80 m2 depending on the category.
My Indochine Suite (42m²) is well-appointed and aims to capture a fusion of European elegance and Southeast Asian influences. You can see the Indochinese culture through local textiles or artworks incorporated into the design. The highlight of this cabin is the private hot tub. I can enjoy the picturesque view of Halong Bay while soaking in the cool water. There is one thing that bothered me quite a bit: the unstable Wi-Fi connection.
Food
The food is one of the highlights, which many passengers, including myself, consider excellent. The Indochine cruise offers excellent and beautifully presented food. The chef was so careful that he put all the food in the warmers to keep it warm.
There is a wide variety of dishes on the buffet. The special thing is that there are fusion dishes that perfectly combine Vietnamese and Western cuisine. In my experience, the best dishes are the grilled black angus rib steak served with vegetables and the crab and asparagus soup. The downside is that there are no free drinks during meals, although this is the case on all Halong cruises.
Activities
Whether you’re looking for excitement or tranquility, Halong Bay has something for you. Buckle up, because I’m about to take you on some unforgettable activities.
Kayaking in the Dark & Bright Cave
This was my favorite activity! We were outfitted with life jackets and given a short safety briefing. When we arrived at Bright Cave, sunlight was streaming in from a natural opening high above, illuminating the emerald water. Limestone cliffs rose up around us, dotted with
With lush green foliage, as we glided between towering pillars and hidden coves, we immersed ourselves in the beauty of this natural wonder. Our guide pointed out the rock formations and even shared some local legends about caves.
Cooking class
I spent a very pleasant afternoon learning how to cook Vietnamese food. We learned how to make classic spring rolls, a top Vietnamese dish. Our patient chef showed us how to prepare each dish step by step. He guided us through the bustling stalls and explained the different ingredients and their uses in the kitchen.
After the preparation, we were able to combine the ingredients perfectly. At first, I was not quite sure what ingredients to put in the rice paper. However, thanks to the chef’s guidance and the help of other members, I finished my meal perfectly and devoured my creation on the top deck of the cruise ship.
On the second day, the cruise took us to Cat Ba Island to visit the most beautiful dry cave in Halong Bay. Trung Trang Cave itself is not huge, but it packs a punch. When I entered, the air became cold and the atmosphere became almost mystical. The ground was quite slippery and rough, so I had to walk slowly to avoid falling.
Inside, the cave unfolded like a scene from a prehistoric movie. Giant stalactites hung from the ceiling like giant fangs, and the uneven floor crunched beneath my feet. The only light came from my headlamp, which revealed fascinating rock formations. Looking at the information boards hinting at archaeological finds, I thought this cave had once been home to ancient Vietnamese people.
Cost
The price of the cruise includes all meals on board, all activities and accommodation. It does not include the transfer to Halong, USD 40 per passenger for the round trip, or drinks.
The 2-day, 1-night cruise costs from US$169 per person
3 Days 2 Nights Cruises from US$307 per person Without a doubt, I can say that Indochine was one of the best cruises I have ever booked. If you are looking for a cruise to visit Halong Bay, then the Indochine cruise is worth embarking on. I highly recommend a 3-day, 2-night cruise from US$307 per person. 2-day, 1-night cruise trip for any budget traveler or those on a time-limited trip.
