Rita Cruise-Luxury 5 Star for Lan Ha bay with pool

Our review of the Rita Cruise offers a glimpse into what many travelers consider a top-tier way to explore Vietnam’s famous Ha Long Bay and the less crowded Lan Ha Bay. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a truly premium cruise.

What we love about this experience:

• The luxurious onboard amenities, including a rooftop pool and private balconies, promise a level of comfort that elevates the entire trip.
• Its carefully curated route through Lan Ha Bay allows you to enjoy breathtaking scenery away from busy tourist spots.
• The delicious food and engaging activities like cooking classes and kayaking make the journey both relaxing and fun.

One thing to consider is the price point of around $196 per person — excellent value if you’re after a high-end experience, but it’s a step up from budget cruises. This tour suits travelers who appreciate luxury, want fewer crowds, and enjoy a mix of scenic beauty with curated activities.

Key Points

• Luxury at Sea: Private balconies, a rooftop pool, and spacious cabins all contribute to a five-star experience.
• Authentic & Peaceful: Less touristy routes mean a more personal, tranquil encounter with Vietnam’s natural wonders.
• Culinary Excellence: Expect a variety of gourmet meals, including Vietnamese specialties, with options to join a cooking class.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Careful planning ensures a good balance between sightseeing, activities, and relaxation.
• Ideal for Families & Couples: Spacious rooms, family-friendly activities, and romantic sunsets make it versatile.
• Excellent Service & Value: Guests praise the friendly staff, top-quality amenities, and overall value for the price.

Why Choose Rita Cruise?

This cruise is designed for those who want to enjoy Vietnam’s iconic karst landscapes with a touch of luxury. The newly launched vessel offers a very high standard of comfort, including a pool on the rooftop — a rare feature that adds a splash of indulgence. The private balconies with stunning ocean views mean you’ll wake up to vistas every morning, and the soundproof karaoke lounge offers a fun, private space to unwind.

The inclusion of a limousine transfer from Hanoi adds convenience and comfort, making the journey seamless from start to finish. Well-organized logistics mean more time enjoying the scenery rather than fussing over transportation details.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your Hanoi hotel around 8:15 am, and a scenic 2.5-hour drive with a break along the way. Travelers can expect a comfortable ride, often in a limousine, which sets the tone for the luxury ahead. Arriving at Tuan Chau Harbor around noon, you’ll transfer via a quick speedboat to Rita Cruise.

Once onboard, guests are greeted with a welcome drink, a chance to meet the captain and crew, and settle into your private cabin with a balcony. The first meal is a Vietnamese seafood buffet or set menu, served while cruising past iconic formations like Con Vit Islet, Thumb Islet, and Gia Luan Harbour.

The afternoon includes a visit to Dark & Bright Cave, where you can kayak or sit on bamboo boats. The reviews highlight how smoothly these activities are organized, with one reviewer noting that kayaking “felt like a private adventure” due to the tranquil setting. The evening offers a “buy 2, get 1 free” drinks promotion, and guests can participate in a cooking class to learn how to make Vietnamese spring rolls — a delightful way to take in local culture.

Day 2: Scenic Beauty & Return

The morning kicks off with optional Tai Chi on the deck, followed by breakfast with views of the bay. One reviewer loved the view of the Frog Pond area, where the famous “King Kong” movie was filmed, making it a fun photo spot. Guests can swim in the sea or kayak for about 45 minutes — a favorite activity noted for its relaxing and scenic qualities.

After a leisurely morning, guests check out and enjoy room service breakfast before cruising back towards Tuan Chau. The final buffet lunch is served onboard, providing a relaxed way to soak in the scenery one last time. The trip concludes with tender boat transfer back to the pier and a transfer back to Hanoi, arriving around 3:00 pm.

Major Highlights & Unique Features

Rooftop Pool: A standout feature, this pool allows you to unwind while soaking in panoramic views. One reviewer described it as “the perfect way to relax while surrounded by nature,” which truly captures the luxury vibe.

Private Balconies & Spacious Cabins: Every room boasts a private balcony, giving you a front-row seat to Lan Ha Bay’s stunning limestone formations. Reviewers emphasize the size and cleanliness of the rooms, making for a restful stay.

Activities & Excursions: Kayaking, bamboo boat rides, and cave exploring provide a tactile experience of the bay’s natural beauty. The reviews reveal that kayaking feels exclusive, as the quiet waters allow for a peaceful glance at the towering rocks.

Gourmet Cuisine & Cooking Class: From seafood buffets to Vietnamese spring rolls, the meals are frequently praised. The cooking classes offer a chance to learn traditional dishes, adding an interactive element to the cruise.

Exceptional Service: Friendly, attentive staff and well-organized activities ensure a smooth journey. Many reviewers mention how the crew “went above and beyond,” making guests feel truly pampered.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

The Route: Less Crowded, More Intimate

Unlike the usual crowded routes in Ha Long Bay, Rita Cruise takes you through Lan Ha Bay, known for its serene waters and fewer travelers. Reviewers like “the itinerary was thoughtfully designed to steer clear of tourist crowds,” creating an atmosphere of peaceful discovery.

This is particularly appreciated by those who dislike large tour groups, craving a more personal experience. The quiet, emerald waters and limestone peaks look almost untouched, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

The Facilities & Comfort

The luxury vessel is a big selling point. Spacious cabins with private balconies mean you can enjoy your morning coffee with a view, and the rooftop pool offers a rare chance to swim while taking in the scenery. Guests have commented that the rooms are clean, spacious, and well-appointed, making it easy to relax in style.

Food & Activities: A True Feast & Adventure

Food quality is consistently praised, from seafood buffets to Vietnamese specialties, with some reviewers mentioning vegetarian options being available. The inclusion of a cooking class adds a fun and authentic touch, allowing guests to take a piece of Vietnam home with them.

Activities like kayaking and cave exploring are highlighted as peaceful yet adventurous, with many reviews emphasizing how smoothly these are organized, often feeling exclusive due to the quiet environment.

Service & Value

The crew is frequently described as “friendly, helpful, and attentive,” which makes a big difference in creating a memorable experience. Given the price point of around $196, many consider this a good value for a luxury cruise that includes meals, transfers, and activities.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Booking in advance is recommended — most travelers book about 10 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.

While the cruise offers pickup from Hanoi, be prepared for a 2.5-hour drive, so pack comfortably.

The group size caps at 70, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, but it’s still good to book early during peak seasons.

The price includes most meals, transfers, and activities, but drinks, tips, personal expenses, and optional services are extra.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized luxury with ample opportunities for relaxation and sightseeing, this cruise hits the mark. Its focus on fewer crowds, combined with premium amenities, caters well to couples, families, and even solo travelers seeking tranquility.

Final Verdict – Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a luxurious escape into Vietnam’s natural beauty, Rita Cruise is a stellar choice. The private balconies, rooftop pool, and gourmet meals elevate this from a typical cruise to a memorable, indulgent experience.

The carefully curated itinerary ensures you see the most breathtaking sights while avoiding the tourist hordes — a definite plus for those seeking peace and authenticity. The friendly, attentive staff and seamless organization create a stress-free journey, allowing you to focus on what’s important: relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

While it’s a bit pricier than some options, the value lies in the experience — comfortable accommodations, exclusive routes, and luxury amenities make this cruise stand out. It’s best suited for those who want a top-tier, well-rounded adventure with plenty of memorable moments.

In essence, if you’re looking to combine comfort, authentic scenery, and a touch of luxury, Rita Cruise offers a first-class way to explore Lan Ha Bay that’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, the cruise includes limousine round-trip transfers from Hanoi, making the journey smooth and convenient.

How long is the cruise?
It’s a two-day, one-night experience, with the itinerary carefully balancing sightseeing, activities, and relaxation.

What meals are provided?
Guests receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner, mainly featuring Vietnamese seafood and traditional dishes, with vegetarian options often available.

Can I join activities like kayaking and cave exploring?
Absolutely. These activities are included in the itinerary, and guests often find them peaceful and enjoyable, especially in the quieter Lan Ha Bay.

Is there Wi-Fi or internet access onboard?
This detail isn’t specified, but most luxury cruises focus on the experience rather than connectivity, so expect limited or no internet.

Who is this cruise best suited for?
It’s ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, peaceful escape with fewer crowds, combining scenic beauty, comfort, and authentic experiences — perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers.

To sum it up, Rita Cruise offers a luxurious, well-organized, and authentic way to experience Lan Ha Bay’s stunning scenery. With high-end amenities, friendly service, and exclusive routes, it’s a fantastic choice for those looking to indulge in Vietnam’s natural wonders without sacrificing comfort. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a peaceful retreat, this cruise delivers a memorable, first-class adventure.