Amanda Luxury Cruise – Best Overnight Cruise Halong & Lan Ha Bay

If you’ve been eyeing an authentic overnight experience on Vietnam’s famed waters, the Amanda Luxury Cruise promises a cozy, scenic escape. While reviews are mixed, the majority highlight the cruise’s beautiful views, friendly staff, and tasty food. But, as with many experiences, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the breathtaking vistas of Lan Ha and Halong Bay are hard to beat. Second, the luxury en-suite cabins offer a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. Third, the variety of activities, including kayaking, cooking classes, and sunset parties, promise a lively, engaging trip. That said, some reviewers have expressed disappointment over maintenance issues and inconsistent service.

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic overnight escape with a focus on comfort and value. If you’re after a high-end, pristine experience, some reviews suggest it might not fully meet those expectations. Still, for those who want a decent cruise with friendly guides and a chance to see Lan Ha Bay’s beauty, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable luxury: At $199 per person, this cruise offers a lot of value for a 2-day trip.
• Stunning scenery: The vistas of limestone karsts, islets, and quiet beaches are truly gorgeous.
• Comfortable cabins: The en-suite rooms with sea views make for a cozy overnight stay.
• Activities and meals: Expect kayaking, cooking classes, and hearty meals with local flavors.
• Mixed reviews on maintenance: Some guests felt the boat could use some sprucing up.
• Well-organized itinerary: The tour covers iconic sites including Dark and Bright Cave, Tra Bau floating village, and Ba Trai Dao Islets.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

Our review is based on an in-depth look at the itinerary, reviews, and what past travelers have shared. The Amanda Luxury Cruise offers a 2-day voyage through Halong and Lan Ha Bay, with the option of pick-up from Hanoi or meeting directly at Tuan Chau Marina.

The Journey Begins

Most guests are picked up early in the morning, either from their Hanoi hotel or a designated meeting point. The transfer is typically a 2.5-hour drive, often with a short break. This makes for a relaxed start, allowing travelers to settle in before arriving at the bay.

If you opt for the transfer from Hanoi, the convenience is worth the slight extra cost, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transport logistics. Alternatively, for those already in Halong, you can meet directly at Tuan Chau Marina around 11:30 am. Arriving on your own requires punctuality—late arrivals risk missing the boat or incurring extra fees.

Boarding and Welcome

Once aboard the Amanda Luxury Cruise, your first impression will be of the luxurious ambiance—though some reviews mention the boat is older and could benefit from some maintenance. Still, the cabins are spacious with sea-view balconies, and the staff are praised for their attentiveness. Guests often appreciate the welcome drinks and the cruise briefing, which helps set expectations.

The First Day: Scenic Explorations

The highlight of the first day is cruising through Lan Ha Bay, renowned for its quiet, less-visited islets and beaches. The itinerary typically includes:

• Tra Bau floating village: A chance to observe local fishing life or enjoy kayaking.
• Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches) Islets and Beach: Known for their dramatic limestone formations and tranquil beaches, perfect for relaxing or swimming if the weather allows.

One review enthusiastically praised the “breath-taking views” from the ship, emphasizing that every vista was photogenic. Another noted that the boat went to a fishing village, which added a local flavor to the experience.

Sunset and Night Activities

As the sun sets over Lan Ha Bay, you’ll join a sunset party or happy hour, often with a chance for a cooking class. Guests rave about the delicious local food served onboard, describing it as “fabulous” and well-prepared, with some reviewers praising the “excellent” quality of meals.

Evenings on the boat are lively. Many guests enjoy squid fishing, movie nights, or just relaxing on the deck with drinks. The boat also features outdoor jacuzzis and spa therapies, although some reviews suggest these amenities could be better maintained.

Day Two: More Stunning Sights and Returning

The second day begins early with a Tai Chi session on the deck, a peaceful way to start the morning. After breakfast, the cruise continues through Lan Ha Bay, with visits to notable sites such as the Dark and Bright Cave. Here, the natural beauty is especially striking, with options to kayak or bamboo boat around limestone formations—an activity highly praised for its serenity and photo opportunities.

One reviewer said, “This is the best time for travelers to enjoy bamboo boats or kayaking,” pointing out that the natural scenery here is the true highlight of the trip.

Lunch and Disembarkation

After exploring, the cruise slowly makes its way back to Tuan Chau Harbour, where a hearty brunch is served onboard. The journey back is often accompanied by a relaxed atmosphere, with some guests noting the boat’s smooth navigation over calm waters.

The tour concludes with a transfer back to Hanoi, either by pre-arranged bus or private vehicle. The return timing varies but generally lands in Hanoi in the early to mid-afternoon, giving travelers plenty of time to rest or explore.

The Experience: What’s Really Going On

Value for Money: At $199, this cruise provides a decent balance between comfort, scenery, and activities. Guests consistently mention that the meals are tasty and the cabins are spacious, making it a good choice for travelers who want to relax without splurging on ultra-luxury.

The Guides and Crew: Reviews highlight friendly, attentive staff and guides who speak good English. One guest said, “Ari speaks perfect English and is amazing,” emphasizing how helpful knowledgeable staff can be.

Maintenance and Quality Concerns: Several reviews point out that the boat is older and could use refurbishment. Some guests felt the amenities, like the jacuzzi or spa, were not as pristine as expected from a “luxury” label. A few reviewers expressed disappointment over poor management or last-minute cancellations—particularly when weather issues were involved.

Activities: Kayaking, swimming, and bamboo boat rides are popular and praised for their natural beauty. The cruise’s itinerary covers iconic spots, and the photo opportunities are abundant, especially at caves and limestone formations.

Weather and Cancellations: There are mentions of poor handling of cancellations due to weather, with some guests feeling unreasonably disappointed or even misled. It’s wise to check the weather forecast and confirm policies before booking.

Group Size and Atmosphere: The cruise caters to a maximum of 40 travelers, which strikes a balance between intimacy and a lively atmosphere. Many reviewers mention the friendly, helpful staff and the cozy communal spaces.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The cruise is often booked 17 days ahead, so plan early if you want to secure a spot.
• Consider the weather: Some activities, like swimming and kayaking, are weather dependent. If rain or storms are forecasted, be prepared for possible adjustments.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and swimwear are useful. Though meals are included, beverages and personal expenses are not.
• Join the activities: Kayaking and bamboo boat rides are highly recommended for their natural beauty.
• Manage expectations: While the cabins are spacious, some reviews suggest the boat’s overall condition could be better. It’s a good idea to temper expectations if you’re seeking pristine luxury.

The Sum Up

The Amanda Luxury Cruise offers a solid overnight experience in Lan Ha and Halong Bay, especially for those on a budget or looking for a relaxed, scenic trip. Its comfortable cabins, good food, and engaging activities make it a worthwhile choice, provided you’re comfortable with some older amenities and occasional management hiccups.

It’s a great pick for travelers who value friendly service, stunning views, and a relaxed vibe over absolute luxury. If you’re after high-end, pristine conditions or very personalized service, you might find other options more suitable. But for an authentic, enjoyable taste of Vietnam’s iconic waters, this cruise hits many right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip limousine or bus transfers from Hanoi if you choose the package from Hanoi, making it convenient and hassle-free.

Can I join the tour directly at Tuan Chau Marina?
Absolutely. If you’re already in Halong Bay, you can meet at Tuan Chau Marina around 11:30 am. Just be punctual to avoid missing the boat.

What meals are included?
The cruise provides four meals: a welcome drink and sunset party with cooking class on day 1, and breakfast and brunch on day 2. Beverages and personal expenses are not included.

What activities are available onboard?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, bamboo boat rides, squid fishing, and relaxing in the outdoor jacuzzi. There’s also an optional cooking class and opportunities to photograph the scenery.

What is the accommodation like?
Cabins are equipped with en-suite bathrooms and sea-view balconies. While spacious and cozy, some reviews suggest the boat itself is older and could benefit from modernization.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before the tour may only receive a partial refund or none at all.

In the end, the Amanda Luxury Cruise provides a taste of Vietnam’s spectacular waters with friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comfortable, scenic overnight with good value, as long as expectations are aligned with the boat’s age and condition.