Saquila Cruise Majestic Journey to Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay

If you’re looking to explore the stunning waters of northern Vietnam, the Squila Cruise promises a memorable day on the water. With options to visit either Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay, this cruise combines comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural touches, all in a roughly 6-7 hour window.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its luxury design and modern comforts make for a relaxing experience. Second, the delicious Vietnamese cuisine served on board elevates the adventure. And third, the access to unique sights like caves, floating villages, and the infinity pool offers a well-rounded experience. The only thing to consider? The tour is quite popular, so booking well in advance (about 103 days) is recommended. This journey is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of stunning scenery and comfort without the fuss of overly long excursions.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of limestone karsts, caves, and floating villages
• Luxury touches like an infinity pool and buffet lunch
• Flexible route options between Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay
• All-inclusive sightseeing with entrance fees covered
• Early start at 8:00 AM, perfect for a full-day experience
• Ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and comfort

An In-Depth Look at the Saquila Cruise Experience

Starting Your Day at Ha Long International Passenger Port

The adventure begins early, at 8:00 AM, at the Ha Long International Passenger Port. This spot is straightforward to find and well-organized, setting the tone for the day. The check-in process is smooth, and the staff greets guests with warmth. Expect the cruise boat, a sleek vessel called the Saquila Yacht, to welcome you with a cool refreshment — an appreciated touch after the morning’s hustle.

The Journey to the Sights: Routes and Variations

You’ll choose between two routes: Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay. Both routes share some similarities but offer different experiences. The Halong Bay option is perfect for those wanting iconic views of massive limestone formations and popular caves, while Bai Tu Long Bay offers a quieter, less crowded atmosphere with equally impressive natural beauty.

Halong Bay Route (3 hours)

If you opt for the Halong Bay route, you’ll spend roughly three hours cruising and sightseeing. The boat navigates past towering limestone formations and popular spots like caves and floating villages. The reviews note that “the views are stunning,” and the trip offers a good balance of sightseeing without feeling rushed. It’s an excellent choice if you’re after classic views that are often featured in travel photos.

Bai Tu Long Bay Route (3 hours)

Choosing Bai Tu Long Bay means a slightly different experience. The cruise begins by “scenic cruising through Halong Bay,” then shifts to the quieter Bai Tu Long waters. Reviewers mention that they “loved the peace and fewer crowds,” making this route appealing for those wanting a more tranquil vibe. The scenery remains breathtaking, with towering rock formations and clear waters.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Sightseeing and caves are the main attractions on both routes. You’ll cruise past limestone pillars, explore caves, and, if included, visit floating villages—offering a glimpse into local life on the water. The reviews highlight that the “scenery is truly beautiful,” and the floating villages add an authentic touch that’s often missed on more commercial tours.

Onboard activities include access to the infinity pool, a feature that many travelers find a delightful surprise. The pool offers a chance to unwind while soaking in the views — although, depending on weather, it might be a brisk dip. The Bamboo Rowing Boat service is another charming addition, giving you a chance to gently paddle around the calmer waters.

Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine

A key part of the tour is the buffet lunch, served onboard. The menu is full of local flavors, and many reviews mention “delicious food” with a good variety of Vietnamese dishes. You’ll also enjoy some local Vietnamese tea — perfect for pairing with the views.

Additional Features and Extras

• Access to the infinity pool is included, a rare luxury on a day cruise.
• Bamboo rowing boats provide a peaceful, closer look at the scenery.
• Sightseeing is covered with entrance fees included, so no hidden costs here.
• The tour is English-speaking guided, making it easy to learn about the sights, though some reviews suggest the guides are friendly but not overly detailed.

What’s Not Included

Some extras aren’t included, like kayaking, drinks, tips, personal expenses, and room on the boat if you want an overnight stay, which isn’t part of this day tour. Private car transfers from Hanoi are also available upon request, but cost extra.

Authenticity and Comfort

This cruise aims for a good balance: luxury touches like a modern yacht and infinity pool combined with authentic local experiences like floating villages and traditional Vietnamese tea. Reviewers find the group size (max 199 travelers) manageable, avoiding the feeling of being part of a huge crowd.

Real Traveler Insights from Reviews

One reviewer shared that “the views are stunning, and the buffet lunch was surprisingly good,” highlighting the value of good food on a scenic day. Others appreciated the quiet alternative to busier tours, with one noting that Bai Tu Long Bay “felt more peaceful and less commercial.” The inclusion of entrance fees and sightseeing makes it a hassle-free experience, particularly for those who dislike hidden costs.

Some guests mentioned that timing was well-organized, with the early start giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, though a few pointed out that the shorter cruise segments mean you’ll want to choose your route wisely based on whether you want the bustling or tranquil side**.

Pricing and Value

At $93 per person, the price reflects a mid-range experience—luxury touches like the infinity pool and an authentic Vietnamese buffet add to its appeal. The fact that most travelers book 103 days in advance shows how popular this experience is, and it indicates good availability if booked early.

Considering the included activities, entrance fees, and quality of the vessel, this tour offers genuine value. It’s a balanced choice for those wanting a luxury cruise experience without the hefty price tag of multi-day luxury yacht charters.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who want an appreciation of Vietnam’s stunning seascapes with a touch of comfort. It’s perfect for those who appreciate beautiful scenery, authentic cultural touches, and good food, without the hassle of overly long or strenuous tours. The early start is ideal for maximizing your day, making it suitable for travelers with a packed itinerary.

If you’re looking for a quieter experience or want to avoid crowds, Bai Tu Long Bay options will be more appealing. Meanwhile, families, couples, and solo travelers will all find this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day out on Vietnam’s iconic waters.

The Sum Up

The Squila Cruise offers a compelling option for experiencing the grandeur of Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay in style. The modern vessel, combined with scenic stops and authentic local touches, makes for a memorable day. The inclusion of a buffet lunch, infinity pool, and unique excursions like bamboo rowing boats really elevate the experience, providing a great mix of relaxation and adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want comfort without sacrificing scenery, and who value well-organized, all-inclusive days. Whether you’re after iconic limestone formations or a quieter, less-traveled route, Squila Cruise covers all the key points for an enjoyable, picture-perfect journey.

FAQs

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 103 days in advance, as it’s quite popular and fills up quickly.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a buffet lunch, English-speaking guide, access to the infinity pool, bamboo rowing boat service, entrance fees, and sightseeing as per the program.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, you can choose between the Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay routes, depending on whether you prefer popular sights or quieter waters.

Are drinks and personal expenses extra?
Yes, drinks, tips, personal expenses, and room on the boat are not included. You can buy drinks onboard or bring your own.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most likely, yes. The tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it family-friendly, but always check if children’s age restrictions apply for certain activities.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The tour can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs — just specify when booking.

This review aims to help you decide whether the Squila Cruise matches your travel style. With its combination of scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic touches, it offers a well-rounded day exploring Vietnam’s iconic waters.