Halong Bay 2 Days/1 Night with Stellar of the Seas Cruise 5 Star

Travelers looking for a blend of luxury and adventure often flock to Vietnam’s iconic Halong Bay. The Stellar of the Seas Cruise, a recent addition to the region’s fleet of high-end vessels, promises an indulgent yet authentic experience. While we haven’t personally sailed with it, all signs point to this cruise being a solid option for those craving comfort, scenic beauty, and engaging activities.

What immediately catches the eye about this tour is its luxurious setting—think modern cabins and impressive onboard amenities like an outdoor pool and mini-golf. The well-curated itinerary combines relaxing moments with exciting excursions, from kayaking to biking. Plus, the group size of up to 38 travelers means it’s intimate enough to feel personal but lively enough for shared experiences.

One aspect to consider is that drinks are extra, which can add up if you’re not mindful. Still, for the overall quality of the experience and the detailed activities included, many might find it offers great bang for your buck. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, enjoy guided activities, and want a hassle-free, all-inclusive trip.

Key Points:

• Luxury and Comfort: Modern, spacious cabins and excellent onboard amenities.
• Active & Relaxing: Options like kayaking, biking, swimming, and Tai Chi.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Food, entrance fees, and transport included, with drinks as an extra.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size enhances interaction and flexibility.
• Authentic Scenery: Stunning views of caves, floating villages, and natural beaches.
• Convenient: Pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter simplifies logistics.

The Luxury of Stellar of the Seas: A Closer Look

The Stellar of the Seas Cruise is a relatively new vessel, opened in October 2018, and owned by the Aclass Cruise Group. Its claim to fame is its 5-star standard, blending luxury with the accessible adventure of Halong Bay. The cruise boasts 22 contemporary cabins, each designed to provide comfort after a day of exploring or lounging on the deck.

The ship’s features aren’t just about plush rooms; they include an outdoor pool, a mini golf course for a relaxed round, a bar, and a restaurant serving delicious local and international options. The BBQ dinner on the sun deck stands out as a highlight, offering a family-style meal with panoramic views of the sunset—a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

The onboard activities are carefully curated to ensure guests get a taste of both relaxation and adventure. You can join cooking classes to learn Vietnamese culinary secrets, participate in Tai Chi sessions early in the morning, or enjoy a sunset party that turns the entire experience into a festive occasion. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the excursions—like kayaking or visiting caves—especially memorable, often sharing insider tips and local insights.

Detailed Itinerary: What to Expect

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

The tour kicks off early in the Hanoi Old Quarter, with pickup from your hotel. The 30-minute transfer is straightforward, with admission tickets included, ensuring you don’t have to worry about extra costs. Expect to arrive at Tuan Chau marina around 8:45-9:10 am, where the boat awaits.

Once aboard, the journey to Halong Bay is scenic, with the ship smoothly navigating the limestone karsts and floating islands. Lunch is served on board, giving you a taste of Vietnamese cuisine amid stunning views. The highlight of the afternoon is swimming at Ba Trai Dao, a beautiful natural beach located within Lan Ha Bay. Many guests find this the perfect break from the boat’s luxury—an authentic chance to cool off in the clear waters.

The evening features a sunset party—a lively, relaxed gathering where everyone can enjoy drinks, music, and spectacular views. The BBQ dinner on the deck is a highlight for many, offering a hearty meal with fresh seafood and local flavors. Afterward, onboard activities might include stargazing, karaoke, or simply relaxing under the stars.

Day 2: Sunrise, Tai Chi, and More Exploration

The second day begins with an early Tai Chi session on the sun deck. According to reviews, this activity helps focus the mind and energize the body—especially after a night on the water. The local breakfast is served around 7 am, providing a hearty start to your day.

After breakfast, the day is packed with options: kayaking around caves and floating villages, biking on Cat Ba Island, or swimming in the pristine waters. These activities are designed to give you an immersive experience of the bay’s natural beauty. Many guests comment on how guides make a difference, often sharing interesting facts about the caves and local life.

The tour concludes in the late afternoon, with the boat returning to the harbor and your transfer back to Hanoi. The drop-off is seamless, rounding off a well-organized experience.

What’s Included and What to Watch Out For

This tour offers great value when considering the price of $370 per person. It includes all transportation, meals, guides, and entrance fees, which means you can focus on enjoying rather than worrying about extras. The group size of up to 38 travelers strikes a balance between social interaction and intimacy.

The main additional cost is for drinks, which are not included in the package. If you’re a fan of cocktails or bottled water, budget accordingly. The mobile ticket system and pickup from the Hanoi Old Quarter make logistics straightforward, ideal for travelers unfamiliar with the area.

The non-refundable policy might seem strict, but it’s typical for tours of this nature. Planning ahead is advised, especially if you want to secure a spot on the popular dates.

Authentic Experiences and Activities

Beyond the luxury, what makes this cruise stand out is the variety of authentic activities. Many reviewers mention the kayaking excursions as a highlight, providing close-up views of caves and floating villages. Biking on Cat Ba Island offers a chance to see local life away from tourist hotspots—many note guides are knowledgeable, making the journey informative and enjoyable.

The cooking classes give a taste of Vietnam’s culinary culture, with guests often learning new recipes to recreate at home. The sunset party isn’t just about the view but also the chance to socialize and relax in a stunning setting. These moments are carefully designed to blend comfort with cultural engagement.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

Considering the level of comfort, the range of activities, and the comprehensive nature of the package, most travelers will find that $370 offers good value. The inclusion of meals, transfers, and entrance fees means fewer hidden costs, and the modern, spacious cabins enhance overall comfort.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more budget-friendly, self-guided experience, this might seem on the pricier side. But for those who seek a hassle-free, all-in-one package that combines luxury with adventure, this cruise hits the right notes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value comfort and convenience. If you enjoy guided activities, want to avoid logistical headaches, and appreciate a touch of luxury, you’ll likely enjoy the Stellar of the Seas. It’s also ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration.

Those with an interest in authentic local experiences—like cooking classes or kayaking—will find plenty to love. However, if you prefer a very flexible or budget-oriented trip, you might want to explore simpler options.

Final Thoughts

The Stellar of the Seas 5-Star Cruise offers an impressive combination of luxury, adventure, and authentic scenery, making it a compelling choice for a Halong Bay getaway. From modern cabins to engaging activities like kayaking and biking, it caters to travelers seeking both comfort and memorable experiences.

The guided tours and well-organized itinerary ensure you gain a full picture of the bay’s natural wonders without the stress of planning. While drinks are extra and cancellation policies strict, the overall package provides excellent value for those wanting to indulge in Vietnam’s iconic landscape with ease.

For those who prioritize comfort, guided experiences, and a mix of relaxation and active exploration, this cruise is a fantastic pick. It’s a memorable way to see one of Vietnam’s most stunning landscapes while enjoying some of the best amenities available in the region.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, making logistics simple.

How many people typically participate? The cruise group can have up to 38 travelers, balancing intimacy with social opportunities.

Are meals included? Yes, all meals are included, except for drinks, which are available at extra cost.

What activities are available on board? You can enjoy Tai Chi, kayaking, swimming, biking, and relaxing on the sun deck. There are also onboard activities like BBQ dinners and sunset parties.

Do I need to bring my own equipment for activities? Typically, kayaking and biking are organized by the guides, so most equipment is provided.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible, but those with mobility issues should check specific activity details.

In all, this cruise combines the best of luxury and adventure, making it a top choice for travelers eager to explore Halong Bay comfortably and authentically.