Emeraude Cruise 2 days 1 night Ha Long Bay Tour

Taking a trip through Ha Long Bay on the Emeraude Cruise promises a blend of comfort, adventure, and stunning scenery. While I haven’t personally sailed these waters, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-rounded, value-packed experience. This tour is especially appealing if you love a mix of relaxing luxury, engaging activities, and cultural touches, all within a manageable 2-day window.

What we really appreciate about this cruise? The gourmet dining, the knowledgeable guides, and the beautiful, well-maintained ship. Plus, the chance to explore iconic spots like Ti Top Island and Sung Sot Cave keeps the itinerary lively. One thing to consider: the tour offers a lot packed into two days, so it’s best suited for travelers eager for a comprehensive experience without overextending.

This cruise works best for those who want a taste of Ha Long Bay’s beauty in comfort—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a hassle-free way to see the sights. It’s ideal for first-timers or seasoned travelers who appreciate good service, diverse activities, and value for money.

Key Points

• Comfortable, well-rated cruise with a 5-star overall rating based on 35 reviews
• Includes guided tours of highlights like Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island
• Delicious meals and gourmet snacks, with options for vegetarians and special diets
• Variety of activities: swimming, kayaking, cooking classes, and even sunset canapés
• Excellent crew and guides, especially praised for friendliness and attentiveness
• Ideal for travelers wanting a full, hassle-free experience combining relaxation and exploration

What Makes the Emeraude Cruise Stand Out?

This tour isn’t just about cruising through pretty scenery; it’s a thoughtfully designed package that balances comfort, activities, and culture. For many travelers, the value for money at $289.33 per group provides a lot of extras—meals, guided excursions, and onboard entertainment—making it a good option if you’re looking to maximize your experience in Ha Long Bay without hidden fees.

The reviews are glowing, often highlighting friendly staff like Didi and Giang, who go above and beyond. Guests frequently mention the clean, comfy rooms and the delicious meals, which include local specialties like spring rolls and French-style crêpes on the sun deck. This attention to detail makes the journey feel personalized and special.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Starting at Tuan Chau Island

Your adventure kicks off at Emeraude Café on Tuan Chau Island around noon, where check-in is smooth, and a welcome drink sets the tone. The fact that the check-in process is quick and includes a program introduction means less time waiting and more time enjoying the views.

Once aboard, you’re first treated to a buffet lunch—a hearty start that sets you up for the day’s activities. Guests consistently note that the food quality is good, and the laid-back dining atmosphere lets you chat with fellow travelers or just soak in the scenery.

Visiting Ti Top Island

A highlight for many is the stop at Ti Top Beach, where guests can indulge in a swim or climb the small mountain for panoramic views of Ha Long Bay. Reviewers repeatedly say the views from Ti Top are breathtaking, and the two hours allocated feel just right—enough to explore without feeling rushed.

Afternoon Activities and Sunset Moments

Back on the boat, the afternoon features French-style crêpes on the sun deck, giving everyone a chance to relax with a snack while taking in the views. The visit to Pearl Village offers a taste of local craftsmanship, with kayaking available as an optional surcharge—a popular activity for those wanting a bit more adventure.

The evening continues with happy hour on the sundeck, spring roll-making, and sunset canapés, all of which reviewers say contribute to a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Dinner is served in the restaurant, with many noting the quality of the food was consistently good, and there’s the seasonal option of squid fishing or watching movies, adding to the laid-back vibe.

Day 2: Sunrise, Cave Exploration, and Return

Waking up early for sunrise yoga is a favorite for health-conscious travelers, and reviewers appreciate the calming start to the day. Afterward, a guided tour of Sung Sot Cave—one of the most impressive highlights—takes about an hour and is often described as stunning and expansive.

The cruise then heads back toward Tuan Chau Island, passing iconic limestone formations like Hon Trong Mai and Dinh Huong, offering perfect photo opportunities. The trip wraps up with a brunch at the restaurant, finishing around 10:30 am, leaving plenty of time for travelers to explore Hanoi or continue their adventures.

Practical Details

The cruise is limited to 20 travelers, creating a cozy environment that feels intimate rather than crowded. You’ll enjoy pick-up service from Hanoi, although transportation back to Hanoi isn’t included in the price, so arranging your own or a transfer is recommended.

The standard room on the cruise is well-rated for cleanliness and comfort, with many reviewers mentioning the beds are quite comfy after a long day of sightseeing. The onboard guide is fluent in both English and Vietnamese, making excursions informative and engaging.

What Do the Reviews Tell Us?

Guests consistently praise Didi and other staff members for their friendly, attentive service, often mentioning how they helped with vegetarian meals and made everyone feel special. Multiple reviews mention the ship’s cleanliness and comfort, describing the rooms as “cute,” “spacious,” and “very clean.”

One guest highlighted the “amazing views” and “helpful staff,” while another stressed how “the food was delicious”, especially appreciating the variety and quality. Many travelers also call out the well-planned itinerary—not too rushed, with enough downtime to relax and soak up the scenery.

Authentic Experiences

Several reviewers mention how Didi and the crew took extra care of vegetarians and families, making sure everyone’s needs were met. The small group size meant personalized attention, and the activities like kayaking and cooking classes added a fun, hands-on element.

The Value and What to Expect

Compared to other tours, the $289.33 price tag covers meals, entrance fees, guiding, and activities, making it a solid deal considering the quality and variety of experiences. The all-inclusive nature means you don’t have to worry about additional costs for activities like kayaking (although optional extras are available), which many reviewers found worth it.

The timing is well-coordinated, with most activities happening during daylight hours, and the evenings designed for socializing and relaxation. The hotel pickup (offered but not included in the price) makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying in Hanoi.

Who Is This Tour For?

This cruise is best suited for first-timers to Ha Long Bay looking for a comfortable, guided experience that balances scenery, activities, and leisure. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a hassle-free way to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort.

It’s a great choice if you enjoy gourmet meals, light adventure, and cultural insights, especially with the friendly, attentive crew making sure everyone feels cared for. Those seeking a more rugged or budget-focused experience might prefer other options, but for travelers wanting a well-rounded, memorable trip with luxury touches, this cruise checks many boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation to and from Hanoi included?
No, the tour includes pickup at the meeting point but does not cover transportation back to Hanoi. You might find arranging your own transfer or shuttle advisable.

What kind of accommodation do I get on the cruise?
Guests stay in a standard room on the cruise ship, which is praised for being clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with a cozy, inviting decor.

Are meals vegetarian options available?
Yes, many reviews mention that vegetarian and special meal requests are well taken care of, and dishes like spring rolls and local specialties are regularly served.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The cruise is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, creating a cozy atmosphere that encourages interaction and personalized service.

What activities are included?
Included activities encompass visits to Ti Top Island, Pearl Village, Sung Sot Cave, and options like swimming, kayaking (extra charge), and a cooking class. Seasonal activities like squid fishing and movie nights are also available.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled less than 24 hours before, the payment is non-refundable. Weather-related cancellations are handled with rescheduling or full refunds.

The Emeraude Cruise 2D1N Ha Long Bay tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and comfortable amenities. The consistently high ratings reflect strong service, delicious food, and memorable activities. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a guided, all-in-one experience that feels intimate yet lively.

This tour provides great value for money, especially considering the inclusiveness of meals, entrance fees, and guided explorations. The crew’s attentiveness, particularly guides like Didi and Giang, elevates the overall experience, making guests feel taken care of from start to finish.

If your goal is to enjoy Ha Long Bay with a touch of luxury, safety, and authenticity, this cruise makes an excellent choice. It’s an adventure that’s as much about the moments of relaxation as the stunning views and engaging activities—suitable for any traveler who appreciates a thoughtfully curated journey.

Note: Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons or holidays, as tours like this tend to fill up quickly. Also, consider your comfort with the itinerary’s packed schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to choose your activities accordingly.