Halong Bay Deluxe Sapphire Cruise with Oceanview Balcony

Quick introduction

If you’re dreaming of floating through one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes, the Halong Bay Deluxe Sapphire Cruise offers a solid blend of comfort, adventure, and scenery. While we haven’t personally set sail (yet), reviews and detailed itineraries reveal this 2-day, 1-night journey is designed for those wanting a taste of luxury paired with authentic experiences.

Three things we love about this cruise: First, the luxury oceanview cabins with private balconies promise a cozy yet indulgent base for your explorations. Second, the kayaking, cave visits, and sunset parties sound like lively ways to connect with nature and fellow travelers. Lastly, the delicious seafood meals and attentive crew make the overall experience feel well-rounded and thoughtful.

A possible consideration? The non-refundable policy might be a bummer if your plans change unexpectedly. However, for travelers seeking a well-organized, memorable cruise through Vietnam’s stunning waters, this tour hits many high notes.

This experience suits adventurous travelers, couples, or groups of friends eager to enjoy scenic beauty with a touch of luxury — especially those keen on authentic, engaging activities combined with comfortable accommodations.

Good To Know

• Luxury Oceanview Cabins with private balconies enhance the scenic experience.
• Authentic activities: kayaking, cave exploration, and squid fishing add adventure.
• Tasty onboard meals including seafood, breakfast, and dinner.
• Well-organized itinerary with stops at Tuan Chau Island, Lan Ha Bay, and Halong Bay.
• Expert guides and safety briefings ensure smooth sailing.
• Non-refundable booking policy requires commitment but reflects a high-quality experience.

An overview of the experience

The Sapphire Cruise offers a 2-day journey through some of Vietnam’s most breathtaking waters, with a focus on comfort, scenery, and engaging activities. Priced at $225 per person, this cruise balances affordability with the allure of a 4-star experience, providing plenty of value for those wanting a memorable escape without breaking the bank.

The tour is operated by Charm Tourist, a provider known for well-organized trips that combine scenic beauty with genuine hospitality. The cruise departs from Tuan Chau Marina at 11:30 am, with a detailed itinerary that maximizes your time exploring Lan Ha Bay, Halong Bay, and the surrounding islands.

The itinerary breakdown

Day 1: First impressions and island adventures

Tuan Chau Island marks the starting point, where a tender boat whisks guests from the marina to the Sapphire Cruise. The transfer is smooth, with friendly staff ensuring everyone boards comfortably. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink, a safety briefing, and your cozy, fully furnished luxury en-suite cabin. These cabins feature A/C, hot water, and private balconies—perfect for enjoying the scenery in privacy.

At 12:00 pm, your adventure begins with a cruise through Halong Bay, where the landscape of towering limestone islands and emerald waters creates a picture-perfect backdrop. After settling in, a delicious seafood lunch is served at 1:15 pm, showcasing fresh local ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. Reviewers note that the meals are “great,” with one mentioning that the “cabin was clean and cozy,” adding to the overall comfort.

In the afternoon, the cruise enters Lan Ha Bay, a slightly calmer, less crowded area than Halong Bay, offering tranquility and nature at its best. Here, you’ll have the chance to kayak or swim in crystal-clear waters and explore caves—activities that are well-loved by guests. The Sunset Party on the sundeck at 5:30 pm is a highlight, where you can toast the day’s end amid stunning views.

Day 2: Morning tranquility and return

The day begins early with a peaceful Tai Chi session at 6:00 am, often highlighted as a highlight by travelers who appreciate the serenity of the sunrise over Lan Ha Bay. Following this, a light breakfast of pastries and fresh fruits keeps energy levels high for the morning activities.

The cruise then passes through Halong Bay once again, offering more opportunities to soak in the scenery during the return trip. The itinerary allows for relaxation and reflection on the water, with some guests mentioning the “stunning views” as the best part.

By 11:30 am, the boat returns to Tuan Chau Marina, concluding the journey. Those not taking the transfer service finish the tour back at the marina, making the logistics straightforward.

What makes this cruise special?

Comfortable, well-appointed cabins

The oceanview balconies are a standout feature, providing a private space to enjoy the panoramic views of limestone formations and shimmering waters. Reviewers praise the cabins’ cleanliness and cozy atmosphere, emphasizing how they add to the overall experience.

Engaging activities

Guests love the opportunity to kayak, try night squid fishing, or join a cooking class onboard. These activities aren’t just tossed in—they’re thoughtfully included, giving you hands-on fun and authentic engagement with local culture. One reviewer mentioned that the excursions, including cave visits and kayaking, were “very interesting,” adding depth to the trip.

Delicious, locally-sourced food

The seafood meals are consistently praised. With lunch and dinner included, you’ll enjoy fresh fish, prawns, and other local delicacies, often described as “great” by past guests. The onboard guide and staff are attentive, enhancing dining with friendly service and tips.

Expert guidance and safety

From the safety briefing at the start to the knowledgeable guides, the crew’s professionalism shines through. Several reviewers mention their guides, like “Alice,” as making the trip more enjoyable with attentive service and helpful insights.

Scenic beauty and tranquility

The highlight for many is simply the breathtaking landscape of limestone islands, emerald waters, and peaceful bays. The sunset party and early Tai Chi sessions are particularly noted as peaceful moments to connect with nature.

The value of the experience

While $225 might seem a modest investment, the inclusive nature of the tour—meals, activities, guide, and comfortable cabin—adds up to a strong value proposition. Compared to other luxury cruises, this itinerary offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for those who want quality without excess.

Guests frequently mention how smooth and well-organized the trip is, with everything running on schedule and no hidden costs, aside from Beverages and personal expenses. The group size (up to 50) keeps the experience intimate enough to foster camaraderie but large enough to enjoy lively shared moments.

Who is this cruise best suited for?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore Vietnam’s iconic waters with engaging activities like kayaking and cave visits. Couples and friends will appreciate the combination of comfort and shared experiences, especially the private balconies and scenic moments.

Travelers seeking value will find the inclusive meals, well-furnished cabins, and guided excursions compelling. Those with moderate physical fitness will enjoy the physical elements, like kayaking and Tai Chi, but the cruise also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation.

Final thoughts

The Halong Bay Deluxe Sapphire Cruise combines the spectacular scenery of Vietnam’s most famous bay with a high level of comfort and thoughtful activities. Its well-organized itinerary and friendly guides ensure an experience that feels both authentic and indulgent.

The inclusion of kayaking, cave exploration, and delicious meals elevates this cruise beyond a simple boat ride, making it a well-rounded adventure for those eager to engage with the landscape. The oceanview cabins with private balconies are perfect for soaking in the views, and the attentive service guarantees a memorable trip.

If you’re looking for a balanced, scenic, and engaging way to experience Halong and Lan Ha Bay, this cruise offers excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories in Vietnam’s stunning waters.

FAQ

What is the starting point for this cruise?
The tour begins at Tuan Chau Marina in Halong City, with departure at 11:30 am. You’ll meet there for check-in and transfer to the Sapphire Cruise.

How do I get back after the cruise ends?
The cruise concludes back at Tuan Chau Marina around 11:30 am. Guests not using the provided transfer service will finish the tour at the same marina.

Are there meals included?
Yes, the package includes lunch, dinner on Day 1, and breakfast on Day 2. The meals are seafood-focused and highly praised for their quality.

What activities are included?
Guests can enjoy kayaking or rowing bamboo boat rides, participate in a cooking class, and try night squid fishing. Cave exploration and sunset parties are also part of the itinerary.

Is the cabin comfortable?
Absolutely. The cabins are full furnished with en-suite bathrooms, A/C, hot water, and private balconies, providing a cozy and scenic retreat.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring comfortable clothing for daytime activities, swimwear for swimming, and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. Remember your personal essentials and any dietary needs—special diets can be accommodated.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively yet manageable group atmosphere.

Can I customize the tour?
The standard itinerary does not specify customization options. However, dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options can be arranged if requested in advance.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and non-changeable once booked, so confirm your plans before booking.

The Halong Bay Deluxe Sapphire Cruise stands out as a well-rounded and value-packed way to experience Vietnam’s most famous waters. With scenic views, engaging activities, and comfortable accommodations, it’s a trip that leaves many travelers with stories to tell and memories to cherish.