Planning a trip to Vietnam? A cruise through the majestic waters of Halong Bay aboard the Stellar of the Seas promises a luxurious escape filled with breathtaking views and authentic experiences. This recent addition to the Halong Bay scene is praised for its modern amenities, attentive crew, and thoughtfully curated activities. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable getaway, this cruise offers a blend of comfort and adventure.
What we love most about this experience? First, the luxury onboard, including a pool and mini-golf, ensures fun and relaxation in style. Second, the variety of activities—from kayaking around caves to cooking lessons—keeps things interesting. Lastly, the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides make every moment worthwhile. That said, a possible consideration is the non-refundable policy, which might require commitment upfront. Overall, it suits travelers looking for a high-end, well-organized tour that balances sightseeing with leisure.
This experience is ideal for those who appreciate luxury, enjoy engaging activities, and want a seamless, all-inclusive journey through one of Vietnam’s most beautiful landscapes.
Key Points
- Luxury accommodations with modern, spacious cabins
- Unique activities including kayaking, Tai Chi, and cooking demonstrations
- All-inclusive experience covering transport, meals, and entrance fees
- Breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay
- Group size capped at 40, ensuring a personal touch
- Non-refundable policy – plan accordingly
An Overview of the Stellar of the Seas Experience
The Stellar of the Seas is a relatively new addition to Halong Bay’s fleet, having welcomed guests since October 2018. Owned by Aclass Cruise Group, this 6-star cruise stands out for its modern style, top-notch facilities, and attention to detail. As a first impression, the boat’s sleek appearance and well-equipped decks immediately signal a high-quality experience.
With 22 luxurious cabins, the vessel offers a range of comfortable options for guests—whether you prefer a more private suite or a standard room. The ship boasts amenities like an outdoor pool, a mini golf course, a bar, and a restaurant, making the onboard atmosphere both lively and relaxing. The sundeck is the perfect spot for sunset parties and BBQ dinners, setting a tone of indulgence.
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The Value of a 2-Day, 1-Night Cruise
Spending two days and one night on the bay allows travelers to comfortably explore the highlights without feeling rushed. The itinerary balances sightseeing, activities, and leisure, giving you a well-rounded experience. For those with limited time but a desire to truly enjoy Halong Bay, this cruise packs in enough to satisfy your curiosity and craving for comfort.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Day 1: Starting in Hanoi, Sailing into Halong Bay
Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where you’ll be whisked away in a luxurious limousine. The roughly 2.5-hour drive crosses the scenic Vietnamese countryside, giving you a glimpse of local life before arriving at Tuan Chau marina. Here, you’ll meet the crew, enjoy a welcome drink, and settle into your cabin.
Once aboard, your cruise kicks off with a delicious lunch served in the elegant dining room—indoor or outdoor options allow you to soak up the incredible views. The cruise then glides into Lan Ha Bay, where you’ll spend time swimming at Ba Trai Dao Natural Beach. This secluded spot offers a peaceful escape with clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip.
In the late afternoon, the sunset party provides a relaxed atmosphere to unwind as the sky turns shades of orange. Dinner on deck is a BBQ feast, allowing guests to indulge in grilled seafood or meats while taking in the panoramic scenery. Evening onboard activities can include music, games, or simply enjoying the starry sky.
Day 2: Exploring Bai Tu Long Bay and Departure
The next morning begins with an early Tai Chi session on the sundeck—an activity highly praised for its calming effect and energizing benefits. After breakfast, the cruise continues into Bai Tu Long Bay, famous for even more dramatic limestone formations and quieter waters.
A highlight is exploring Dark & Bright Cave (Hang Sang & Toi), accessible by kayak or bamboo boat—reviewers mention that you can choose between an active exploration or a more relaxed ride, depending on your mood. The scenery here is jaw-dropping, with towering limestone islets and emerald waters.
Before disembarking, you’ll participate in a cooking class led by the onboard chef, learning to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. It’s an engaging way to take a piece of Vietnam home with you. After checking out of your cabin around 10:00 am, the cruise winds down, and you’ll head back to Hanoi, carrying memories of stunning vistas and new skills.
Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Hanoi
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- Lan Ha Bay – Kayaking 1 Day on Cruise
- Hanoi: Islands & Caves Ha Long Cruise With Lunch & Kayaking
- From Hanoi: 1 -Day Halong Bay Cruise With Big & Small Groups
What Makes the Stellar of the Seas Stand Out?
Modern Luxury and Comfort
Guests consistently comment on the ship’s high standards of comfort. The cabins are modern, spacious, and well-furnished, with many reviews praising the staff for their attentiveness. The inclusion of amenities like an outdoor pool and mini golf course adds a fun, relaxed vibe, setting it apart from more basic options.
Activities that Engage and Entertain
Unlike standard sightseeing tours, this cruise emphasizes interactive experiences. Kayaking around caves, joining Tai Chi sessions, or participating in cooking demonstrations enrich your trip. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and crew, which makes the onboard activities more meaningful.
Breathtaking Scenery and Authentic Experiences
The cruise navigates through some of the most scenic spots in Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. The stunning limestone formations and natural beaches create picture-perfect moments. One reviewer recalls the beautiful views from the sundeck at sunset, which is truly a highlight.
Well-Organized and Inclusive
With transportation, meals, entrance fees, and activities included in the price, the cruise offers excellent value. The small group size (max 40 travelers) enhances the feeling of intimacy and personalized service. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi adds to the overall ease.
Practical Considerations
Pricing and Value
At $383.34 per person, this cruise positions itself as a high-end experience. Considering the inclusions—luxury accommodation, meals, activities, and transfers—many find it offers good value, especially given the level of comfort and the scope of activities. However, the non-refundable policy means you should be confident in your travel plans before booking.
The Booking Experience
One review indicates some discrepancies with booking confirmations—specifically, issues with online reservations and cabin assignments. This suggests it’s wise to confirm your reservation directly with the provider or through a reputable platform.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise suits travelers who prioritize comfort, convenience, and engaging experiences. It’s perfect for honeymooners, couples, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. Adventure seekers and first-time visitors will appreciate the mix of relaxation and active exploration, while seasoned travelers will enjoy the quality and authenticity.
Final Thoughts
The Stellar of the Seas offers a luxurious, well-organized way to experience Halong Bay’s stunning landscapes. Its combination of modern amenities, engaging activities, and exceptional scenery makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a high-end adventure. While the non-refundable booking policy requires some planning, the overall experience promises comfort, beauty, and memorable moments.
If you’re after a cruise that balances style with substance—without sacrificing the natural wonders of Vietnam—this might just be the trip for you. It’s best suited for travelers who value quality, enjoy a variety of activities, and want to relax in style amid some of Southeast Asia’s most iconic scenery.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter are included in the package.
What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts for approximately 2 days and 1 night, allowing a relaxed exploration of Halong Bay.
Are meals provided?
Yes, all meals, including lunch, dinner, and breakfast, are included as part of the package.
Can I participate in activities like kayaking and Tai Chi?
Absolutely. Kayaking around caves and Tai Chi sessions are included and highly praised by guests.
Is the cruise suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the provided activities and facilities suggest families could enjoy it, but always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included and are available for purchase onboard.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 43 days in advance, indicating it’s popular and benefits from early planning.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 40 travelers, which helps maintain a more intimate atmosphere.
What should I be aware of regarding the booking process?
Some reviews mention booking discrepancies, so confirm your reservation directly with Asia Travel Legend or the booking platform.
To sum it up, the Stellar of the Seas Cruise provides a luxurious and immersive way to enjoy Halong Bay’s natural wonders. Its blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and engaging activities makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable Vietnamese adventure.
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