AMBASSADOR CRUISE The Largest Ship in Halong Bay Heritage 2D1N

If you’re dreaming of seeing Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonder in comfort and style, the Ambassador Cruise offers a compelling way to do it. This 2-day journey promises a mix of scenic cruising, cultural activities, and luxurious amenities—all on Halong Bay’s largest ship.

From the moment you step aboard, you’ll appreciate the deluxe cabins with sea views, the variety of included activities like tai chi and bamboo boat rides, and the opportunity to unwind in the open-air Jacuzzi. Our favorite parts? The stunning vistas from the deck, the delicious fusion cuisine, and the chance to relax without feeling rushed.

That said, a quick heads-up: some reviews mention a slightly rushed schedule during stops and the chance for more nighttime entertainment. If you’re after a truly relaxed, leisurely pace or vibrant evening shows, this might not be your perfect fit. But if you enjoy comfort, panoramic views, and a well-organized itinerary, this cruise hits a lot of sweet spots.

Ideal for travelers who want a blend of comfort, activity, and incredible scenery without sacrificing convenience or onboard luxury.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Deluxe Cabins: Spacious with sea views and en-suite bathrooms.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes meals, activities, and transfers, offering good value.
• Engaging Activities: Tai chi, bamboo boat rides, cooking demonstrations, and sightseeing.
• Scenic Highlights: Views of Halong Bay’s famous limestone karsts from the open deck.
• Group Dynamics: Large group setting, perfect for making new friends.
• Flexible Options: Transfer from Hanoi or Halong Bay, with optional extras like kayaking.

An In-Depth Look at the Ambassador Cruise Experience

Getting There and Setting Sail

The tour offers round-trip transfers from Hanoi, which simplifies logistics. The pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is smooth, typically between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. This means you can start your adventure with ease, without worrying about arranging transport yourself. For those already in Halong Bay, you can go directly to the cruise port—no transfer needed.

The journey to the boat takes about 2.5 hours. While this is a standard length for such trips, it’s worth noting that early starts can be tiring, especially after a long travel day. Once aboard, the crew provides a brief welcome meeting, giving you an overview of what to expect.

The Ship: Size and Comfort

The Ambassador is notable for its size—it’s the biggest ship cruising Halong Bay. This means more spacious common areas and larger cabins, which are deluxe with sea-view balconies and private bathrooms. The water in the cabins is replenished daily, and the open-air Jacuzzi offers a perfect spot to soak while taking in the scenery.

Guests can expect a clean, well-maintained vessel with modern amenities. The large group capacity (up to 130 travelers) creates a lively, social atmosphere. Despite the crowd, the staff manages to keep the experience personal and friendly.

The Itinerary: A Well-Organized Mix of Sightseeing and Activities

Day 1: From Hanoi to Halong Bay

Your day kicks off with a visit to Hanoi’s Old Quarter for those who opt for the Hanoi pick-up. It’s a cultural highlight, offering a taste of Vietnam’s bustling city life before heading to the bay. The transfer is comfortable, with the guide sharing interesting tidbits along the way.

Once at the port, you board the Ambassador Cruise around 11:30 AM. After a brief welcome briefing, guests are treated to a buffet lunch while cruising through Halong Bay’s iconic limestone formations. The views are stunning—think towering cliffs and peaceful waters—and set a perfect tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Early Morning Tai Chi and Exploration

The next morning begins at 6:30 AM with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. This peaceful ritual, set against the sunrise, appeals to those seeking a calm start. It’s a gentle way to connect with the surroundings and energize for the day.

Following Tai Chi, a light breakfast is served. The day includes visiting Sung Sot Cave and other scenic spots, with a focus on both sightseeing and participation in activities like bamboo boat rowing. Reviewers mention the shorter stops, feeling somewhat rushed, which suggests the schedule is packed but not overly so.

Dining on Board: Tasting the Flavors

The meals are a highlight. The fusion menu features Vietnamese and seafood dishes, giving a taste of local flavors with a contemporary twist. Reviewers have praised the delicious food and the thoughtful presentation.

Water bottles are provided daily, and guests can purchase additional drinks onboard, which tend to be priced higher than inland due to logistical costs. Guests with dietary restrictions are advised to inform the crew beforehand.

Activities and Relaxation

Beyond sightseeing, you’ll have opportunities for bamboo boat rides, which many find charming and authentic. The open-air Jacuzzi is often cited as a favorite feature, especially after a full day of activities. It’s a relaxing way to unwind while watching the sunset.

Plus, the cruise offers cooking demonstrations—a fun chance to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes. Some reviews suggest that while the activities are enjoyable, the overall schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to linger at sites.

Evening and Night Time

Evening entertainment is not a major focus on this cruise. Most guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, with some wishing for more nighttime activities or shows. Still, the friendly staff and communal dining foster a warm, social environment.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return

The following morning, the cruise continues with more exploration and a final breakfast before heading back to the port. The cruise typically ends at the International Cruise Port, with optional transfers back to Hanoi.

Guests have shared that the cruise’s timings are generally well-organized, but some mention the feeling of being rushed at certain stops. The overall experience, however, balances sightseeing with comfort.

What Sets the Ambassador Cruise Apart?

Value for Money

At $255 per person, this cruise offers a lot. The all-inclusive package covers meals, activities, and round-trip transfers, minimizing extra costs. The spacious cabins, variety of activities, and scenic cruising make it a worthwhile investment, especially compared to smaller or less comfortable options.

Comfort and Convenience

The large ship size translates into more space, more amenities, and a lively atmosphere. The deluxe cabins with balconies mean you can enjoy the views from your room—something many travelers find particularly memorable.

Scenic Beauty and Authentic Experiences

The real draw is the chance to see Halong Bay’s famous limestone formations from different angles—on deck, during excursions, or from your cabin. The bamboo boat rides and cave visits add to the authentic feel, as does the opportunity to try Tai Chi with fellow travelers.

Social Atmosphere

With a group size of up to 130, you’re likely to meet some interesting fellow travelers. Whether you’re sharing a meal or relaxing in the Jacuzzi, this cruise fosters a convivial environment.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

If you love scenic views, comfort, and active experiences—but don’t want to sacrifice convenience—this cruise is a good fit. It’s suitable for first-timers to Vietnam, those traveling alone looking to meet people, or anyone wanting a well-organized, enjoyable escape with plenty of photo opportunities.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or more nighttime entertainment, you might find this cruise a touch too structured. It’s also ideal for travelers who value deluxe accommodations and all-inclusive pricing.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip limousine transfers from Hanoi, or guests can arrive independently if booking from Halong Bay.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup from Hanoi is typically between 8:30 and 9:00 AM, with the cruise boarding around 11:30 AM. The trip concludes on Day 2 at the International Cruise Port, around 2:30 PM, with optional transfers back to Hanoi.

Are meals included?
Yes, the package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a light breakfast on the second morning, all featuring Vietnamese and seafood dishes.

Can I participate in activities if I don’t want to?
Absolutely. While activities like Tai Chi, bamboo boat rides, and cooking demos are included, guests are free to relax and enjoy the scenery without participating.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
The Wi-Fi signal can be inconsistent due to the bay’s geography, so don’t expect seamless connectivity all the time.

What’s the group size?
The cruise hosts up to 130 travelers, creating a lively atmosphere but still manageable for social interactions.

Are there optional extras?
Yes, kayaking is available for $10 per person, and additional beverages and spa treatments are offered at extra cost.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days in advance are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the Ambassador Cruise means opting for comfort, scenic beauty, and a well-organized itinerary in one of Vietnam’s most stunning natural locations. The large ship provides spacious cabins and social opportunities, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy meeting others and sharing experiences.

While the schedule can feel a little hurried at times, the combination of delicious food, relaxing amenities, and breathtaking views deliver a memorable Halong Bay experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a hassle-free way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, this cruise offers excellent value.

For those wanting a balance of activity and comfort, with plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery and meet fellow travelers, the Ambassador Cruise deserves serious consideration.

Note: Always check the latest details and reviews before booking, as schedules and amenities may change.