Hanoi : Halong Luxury Cruise Cruise Buffet Lunch, Party & Jacuzzi

Discovering the Luxury of Halong Apollo Premium Cruise: A Practical Review

Our review of the Halong Apollo Premium Cruise aims to give you a genuine look into this one-day adventure from Hanoi. Designed for those who crave a blend of comfort, authentic scenery, and a touch of indulgence, this tour promises an upscale experience that’s hard to beat.

What we love about this tour is its luxurious setting, especially the buffet lunch with fresh seafood, the jacuzzi for unwinding after exploring, and the convenience of pickup and drop-off from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. We also appreciate how well-paced the itinerary is, balancing travel, sightseeing, and relaxation.

However, one aspect to consider is the price point—$75 per person— which is quite reasonable given what’s included, but some travelers might find the schedule a bit packed, especially if they prefer a more leisurely pace.

This experience suits travelers who want a high-end, all-inclusive day trip with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see Halong Bay without sacrificing comfort or style.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: The cruise offers a comfort-focused day with amenities like a jacuzzi, buffet lunch, and kayaking.
• Efficient Itinerary: With pickup from Hanoi and a well-structured schedule, it maximizes your time on the bay.
• Authentic Cuisine: The buffet features 30 dishes, emphasizing fresh seafood and local flavors.
• Authentic Views: Expect stunning limestone islands and emerald waters that truly define Halong Bay’s charm.
• Group Size & Convenience: The tour is capped at 99 travelers, maintaining a lively but manageable atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At $75, it’s a solid choice for a luxury day trip that covers transport, meals, and activities.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off early at the Hanoi Opera House, a central and easily accessible location. The bus ride to Halong Bay takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, giving you time to relax or start soaking in the scenery. The transport is included in the price, along with a complimentary bottled water, which is a thoughtful touch after the early start.

Traveling via the highway, the journey offers glimpses of Vietnam’s countryside, and many travelers noted the comfort of the bus, which makes the long ride more pleasant. The group size is capped at 99, helping avoid the overly crowded feeling that sometimes comes with large tours.

The Boarding and Welcome

Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, you’ll be welcomed with a drink and directed onto the Apollo Premium Cruise. The boat itself is described as a luxury vessel, with spacious decks to enjoy the views and a sleek, modern aesthetic.

The welcome drink sets a friendly tone, and many reviewers appreciated the professional yet warm crew. This initial greeting helps you settle in and get ready for the day ahead.

The Cruise & Lunch: Comfort Meets Authenticity

The 2.5-hour cruise across Halong Bay offers breathtaking views of limestone formations, caves, and floating villages. The highlight here is the buffet lunch, featuring about 30 dishes with fresh seafood and local specialties. Several travelers mentioned the quality and freshness of the food, which is served in an elegant setting with ample space.

What stood out in reviews was the balance of variety and authenticity—you can expect familiar Vietnamese flavors alongside some international options.

Activities & Relaxation

Included in the tour is the opportunity for kayaking or bamboo boat rides, allowing those who want a closer look at the bay’s nooks and crannies. Reviewers noted that the kayaks are well-maintained and easy to use, even for beginners.

Post-lunch, many guests enjoyed the jacuzzi onboard, a rare luxury for a day trip. While some found it a relaxing way to unwind, others mentioned it as a highlight that added a special touch to the experience.

The Sunset Party features teas, fruits, and juices, providing a casual and enjoyable way to end the cruise, all while taking in the stunning vistas.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day of sightseeing and relaxation, the boat returns to Tuan Chau Marina. The guide then drops you back at your Hanoi hotel or the Old Quarter, making the whole day seamless and stress-free. The round-trip transportation, combined with the comfortable boat, makes this a convenient way to see Halong Bay without the hassle of planning.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The Luxury Touch

The inclusion of jacuzzi access and a high-quality buffet sets this tour apart from more basic day trips. Many reviewers appreciated the luxury feel throughout the day, from the spacious boat to the comfortable seating areas.

Authentic Views and Experiences

The scenery of Halong Bay—its towering limestone islands and emerald waters—is truly spectacular. Photographers and nature lovers alike will find plenty to marvel at, and many reviews highlighted how stunning the views are, even on a day with some clouds.

Authentic Cuisine and Activities

The 30-dish buffet is a major draw, offering a chance to sample Vietnamese seafood and local dishes in a comfortable setting. The kayaking options allow guests to explore the bay’s calmer waters at their own pace, adding an active element to the day.

Practical Considerations

The pickup and drop-off service from Hanoi is a significant convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with local transportation. The timing—starting at 8:00am and returning by late afternoon—fits well into a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a luxurious experience without sacrificing authenticity. It suits those who enjoy comfort, good food, and scenic beauty, and prefer a well-organized, all-inclusive day. It’s perfect for first-time visitors looking to see Halong Bay in style or anyone wanting a taste of the bay’s iconic landscapes with added leisure and comfort.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are on a tight budget, you might find the schedule a bit full. Those seeking a purely rustic or budget-friendly trip may want to explore other options, but for the value and experience offered, this cruise hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This luxury day cruise offers a comprehensive experience—stunning views, authentic seafood, and relaxing amenities like a Jacuzzi and kayaking. The carefully curated itinerary balances sightseeing and leisure, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to experience Halong Bay’s beauty in style.

The price of $75 provides good value, considering the included transport, meals, activities, and luxury touches. It’s particularly suited for those who want a comfortable, all-in-one experience with a touch of indulgence.

If you’re after a high-end day trip that showcases the best of Halong Bay without the hassle of planning, this tour is worth considering. Just be ready for a packed schedule and an early start—both common to most day trips aiming to maximize time on the water.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00am from Hanoi, making it perfect for a full day of exploration.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter area. Return is also included, making the trip seamless.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers round-trip bus transfer, a welcome drink, buffet lunch, entrance fees, and activities like kayaking or bamboo boat rides.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary needs if indicated when booking.

Is there free time to relax?
Yes, you can relax in the jacuzzi or enjoy the views from the deck, especially during the sunset party with teas and fruits.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise itself lasts about 2.5 hours, with additional time for travel, lunch, activities, and return.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect towering limestone islands, emerald waters, and picturesque caves—some describe the views as truly breathtaking.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While most travelers find it accessible, the pace and activity options make it more suitable for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some mobility.

Final Thoughts

For anyone seeking a luxurious, well-organized way to see Halong Bay, this cruise offers a lot of value. You’ll enjoy stunning natural scenery, gourmet seafood, and relaxing amenities all in one day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, memorable experience without overcomplicating their plans. Just remember, the schedule is packed, so come prepared for an energetic and indulgent adventure that captures the essence of Vietnam’s iconic bay.