Hanoi Cruise
 
 
5-Star · Built 2018 · Ultra-Boutique · Only 10 Suites

Emperor
Cruise

Vietnam's most intimate luxury cruise — 10 suites, 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, Royal Menu with Nguyen Dynasty recipes, and all-inclusive drinks.

10
Cabins
5★
Rating
3
Max Nights
2018
Built
Emperor Cruise
From $275 per person · All Inclusive
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Why Choose This Cruise

Emperor Cruise
Key Highlights

Emperor Cruises Legacy Halong is unlike any other cruise in Halong Bay: with only 10 suites and a strict maximum of 20 guests, it achieves an intimacy that larger ships simply cannot replicate. The defining features are the 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio, an all-inclusive package that extends to alcoholic beverages, and a 'Royal Menu' created from Nguyen Dynasty imperial recipes — dishes once served at the Vietnamese royal court in Hue, now brought to life at sea. Renovated in 2025, the suites range from 43 to 72 sq. m, the largest in Halong Bay. Personal butlers are assigned to each suite. Departure is from Lot 28, Tuan Chau International Marina.

Only 10 Suites — Most Exclusive in Halong Bay
With a maximum of 20 guests and 10 suites, Emperor offers a level of privacy and intimacy that is fundamentally impossible on ships with 22–35+ cabins.
Truly All-Inclusive — Drinks Included
Unlike most Halong Bay cruises that charge separately for alcohol, Emperor's all-inclusive package covers cocktails, spirits, wines, and beer throughout the entire voyage — a significant value differentiator.
Royal Menu — Nguyen Dynasty Recipes
Emperor's Can Chanh Palace Restaurant serves a 'Royal Menu' recreating dishes from Vietnam's Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945). The recipes are historically researched, and the presentation is regal — an experience unavailable on any other cruise.
1:1 Staff-to-Guest Ratio
Personal butlers are assigned to each suite. At 10 suites with up to 20 guests, the crew-to-guest ratio is the highest of any cruise in Halong Bay — service quality reflects this.
Largest Suites in Halong Bay
All suites range from 43–72 sq. m — the largest standard suite dimensions available on any Halong Bay cruise ship. Renovated in 2025, interiors feature handcrafted furniture from sustainable Vietnamese hardwood.
Seaplane, Helicopter & Private Yacht Transfers
Emperor can arrange helicopter, seaplane, and private yacht transfers to/from the cruise — options unavailable through any other Halong Bay cruise operator. Available at additional cost.

How Emperor Cruise Compares

Feature Emperor Cruise Dora Cruise Rita Cruise Capella Cruise
No. of Suites 10 (most exclusive) 22 31 30
All-Inclusive Drinks ✓ Full bar included ✗ Charged extra ✗ Charged extra ✗ Charged extra
Butler Service ✓ Per suite ✗ ✗ ✗
Suite Size Range 43–72 sq. m 27–48 sq. m 28–85 sq. m 32–92 sq. m
Royal / Dynasty Menu ✓ Unique ✗ ✗ ✗
Helicopter Transfer ✓ Bookable ✗ ✗ ✗
From Price (2D/1N) $375 $245 $262 $315
Itineraries

Choose Your
Duration

Select the cruise length that suits your schedule. Longer itineraries unlock more remote anchorages, additional activities, and exclusive areas of the bay inaccessible on shorter trips.

1
Night · 2 Days
Me Cung Cave, Tung Sau area, kayaking, spa access. All drinks included.
From
$375 /person
2
Nights · 3 Days
Extends to Lan Ha Bay, Luon Cave, Cua Van Fishing Village. Most popular.
From
$650 /person
3
Nights · 4 Days
The most comprehensive Emperor itinerary. Full circuit of both bays.
From
$920 /person
Our Recommendation

For Emperor's unique Royal Menu and butler experience, the 3-night itinerary extracts the best value — dining across three evenings showcases the full range of the Dynasty recipes, and the additional day adds Cua Van Fishing Village, one of Halong Bay's most photogenic stops.

The Vessel

Ship Details &
Onboard Facilities

Emperor Cruises Legacy Halong is a steel-hulled luxury vessel built in 2018 and renovated in 2025. The ship accommodates a maximum of 20 guests in 10 suites — the smallest luxury fleet size in Halong Bay. The intimate scale enables a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1. Departure: Lot 28, Tuan Chau International Marina.

Built / Renovated 2018 / 2025
Star Rating 5-Star
No. of Suites 10
Max Capacity 20 guests
Staff Ratio 1:1 (butler per suite)
Restaurant Can Chanh Palace Restaurant
All-Inclusive Yes — including alcohol
Special Access Helicopter · Seaplane · Private Yacht
Onboard Facilities
  • ✓ Can Chanh Palace Restaurant (Royal Menu)
  • ✓ Lounge bar (cocktails, spirits, wines included)
  • ✓ Expansive sundeck with bay views
  • ✓ 3 private spa & massage rooms
  • ✓ Sauna & wellness center
  • ✓ Kids' corner (dedicated play area)
  • ✓ BBQ terrace facilities
  • ✓ Private butler service per suite
  • ✓ Sun loungers & terrace seating
  • ✓ Helicopter/seaplane transfer (bookable)
Accommodation

Cabin
Categories

All cabins feature private balconies or terraces, ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, and direct bay views. Categories differ in floor area, deck position, and premium amenities.

Signature Suite
Signature Suite
43 sq. m
  • Private balcony with bay view
  • Ensuite bathtub positioned to view bay
  • King-size bed
  • Handcrafted Vietnamese hardwood furniture
  • Personal butler
  • Daily complimentary minibar
From $375 /person /night
State Suite
State Suite
50 sq. m
  • Larger private balcony
  • Freestanding soaking tub
  • King-size bed
  • Original artwork from Vietnamese artists
  • Personal butler, priority dining
  • Complimentary spa (30 min/stay)
From $480 /person /night
Royal Suite
Royal Suite
72 sq. m
  • Largest suite in Halong Bay
  • Wraparound panoramic balcony
  • Separate living & sleeping rooms
  • Dual ensuites
  • Personal butler always available
  • Private balcony dining option
  • Complimentary spa (60 min/stay)
From $650 /person /night
What's Included

Cruise
Inclusions

The following is included in all cabin rates. A small number of premium services are available at extra cost during the voyage.

Included

  • ✓ Round-trip Hanoi transfer (luxury vehicle)
  • ✓ All meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • ✓ All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (all-inclusive)
  • ✓ Royal Menu at Can Chanh Palace Restaurant
  • ✓ Personal butler service
  • ✓ Guided kayaking & cave excursions
  • ✓ Swimming & beach access
  • ✓ Sunrise Tai Chi on deck
  • ✓ Entrance & port fees
  • ✓ Unlimited spa access (sauna, treatment rooms)

Extra Cost

  • ✗ Spa massage treatments (beyond included sauna)
  • ✗ Helicopter/seaplane transfer upgrade
  • ✗ Private yacht side excursion
  • ✗ Laundry service
  • ✗ Travel insurance
  • ✗ Single occupancy supplement
Getting There

Departure Port &
Transport from Hanoi

Departure point: Lot 28, Tuan Chau International Marina, Ngoc Chau Street, Ha Long City (~165 km from Hanoi). Shuttle bus: $40/person round trip from Hanoi Old Quarter

Cruise Transfer

Recommended

Shared luxury minibus/limousine from Hanoi Old Quarter. Hotel pickup included. English-speaking guide. Departs ~07:30–08:00 AM.

Shared limousine (incl.)Included
Private car upgrade (2 pax)+$45
Airport pickup (Noi Bai)+$15/pp

Self-Travel Options

Budget Alternative

Independent travel adds logistical complexity. Not recommended for first-time visitors. Allow 3.5h total travel time from Hanoi city center.

Open-tour bus~$10–15
Itinerary

Cruise Route
Day by Day

The following outlines the standard itinerary. Routes may be adjusted by the captain for weather, tides, and sea conditions. Longer sailings extend the route into more remote bay areas.

Day 1 · 12:00
Embarkation & Royal Lunch
Board at Lot 28, Tuan Chau Marina. Butler escorts you to your suite. Welcome drink. Royal Menu lunch in Can Chanh Palace Restaurant while sailing.
Day 1 · 15:00
Me Cung Cave — Vietnam's Oldest
Guided visit to Maze Cave (Me Cung), the most ancient cave in Halong Bay — dating back 10,000 years with prehistoric artefacts.
Day 1 · 17:00
Sunset Wine Tasting on Sundeck
Sommelier-led wine tasting on the sundeck — included in the all-inclusive package. First overnight anchor in Halong Bay.
Day 2 · 06:30
Kayaking Through Luon Cave
Morning kayak through Luon Cave — a circular route through a living coral cave with a lagoon inside. An early start means no other boats.
Day 2 · 14:00
Tung Sau Pearl Farm & Cua Van Village
Guided visit to a working pearl farm and Cua Van Floating Fishing Village — a community of 40+ families living on the water.
Day 3 · 09:00
Lan Ha Bay & Return
(3D/2N) Morning sail into Lan Ha Bay. Final swim and kayaking session. Brunch. Disembark at noon, return to Hanoi by 17:00.
Where to Book

Compare Prices
Across Booking Platforms

Prices for Emperor Cruise vary across platforms due to promotions, cancellation policies, and seasonal rates. Check all platforms before booking. Prices shown are indicative for the shortest available itinerary, per person, double occupancy.

✦ Most Reviews
Booking.com
~$275
per person · shortest itinerary
Largest review base. Free cancellation on most rates. Genius discounts available. Secure card payment.
Check on Booking.com →
Agoda.com
~$275
per person · shortest itinerary
Competitive Southeast Asia rates. AgodaCash rewards on every booking. Good for last-minute deals.
Check on Agoda →
Klook
~$275
per person · shortest itinerary
Popular with Asian travelers. Mobile vouchers. Klook Credits cashback on bookings.
Check on Klook →
Price Disclaimer: All prices are indicative and subject to change. Seasonal rates, promotions, and availability affect final pricing. Always verify on the booking platform before purchase.
Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit
Halong Bay

Halong Bay's subtropical climate delivers four distinct experiences across the year. Understanding the seasonal rhythm helps you choose the right time for your cruise.

Nov – Feb
Cool & Misty
⭐⭐⭐⭐
15–20°C. Atmospheric mist. Excellent for photography. Fewer crowds.
Mar – Apr
Shoulder Peak
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
22–28°C. Clear skies. Ideal swimming. Best overall value.
May – Sep
Hot Season
⭐⭐⭐
28–35°C. Typhoon risk Jul–Sep. Busiest period. Book early.
Oct – Nov
Autumn Ideal
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
22–27°C. Lowest rainfall. Crystal-clear water. Quieter bays.
Inside Knowledge

Expert Tips for
Emperor Cruise

Accumulated insights from repeat guests and travel specialists with first-hand Emperor Cruise experience.

All-Inclusive Means All — Use It
The all-inclusive package on Emperor includes spirits, cocktails, and wine. Budget travelers on competing cruises pay $6–9 per cocktail. Over a 2-night stay, the Emperor all-inclusive represents a genuine financial advantage.
Ask About the Off-Menu Royal Dishes
The Can Chanh kitchen team prepares additional Nguyen Dynasty dishes not always listed on the fixed menu. Ask the butler on Day 1 what's available — the palace-style clay-pot dishes are exceptional.
10 Suites Means Early Sold Out
Emperor is the first to sell out during peak season (March–April, September–October). Book 3–4 months ahead. The ship runs a strict maximum of 10 cabins — latecomers are simply turned away.
Request the Royal Suite Balcony Dinner
The 72 sq. m Royal Suite's wraparound balcony can be set up for private dinner service by the butler. This is the most romantic dinner setting on any Halong Bay cruise — request it at least 24h in advance.
Common Questions

Frequently Asked
Questions

Is all alcohol really included in the rate? +
Yes. Emperor's all-inclusive package includes house wines, beers, cocktails, and spirits throughout the voyage. Premium labels (e.g., Champagne, single-malt whisky) may carry a small surcharge; the butler can clarify on arrival.
What is the Royal Menu? +
The Royal Menu is a set of historically researched recipes from the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945) — dishes once prepared for Vietnamese Emperor Bao Dai and the imperial court in Hue. They use traditional techniques, authentic spices, and are presented with regal table settings.
Can Emperor arrange a seaplane or helicopter transfer? +
Yes. Emperor Cruises can arrange seaplane transfers from Hanoi to the marina, helicopter overflights of the bay, and private yacht tenders for remote beach access. These are at additional cost and must be booked well in advance.
How many guests share the ship? +
A maximum of 20 guests in 10 suites. This is the smallest luxury cruise capacity in Halong Bay — comparable to a 10-room boutique hotel at sea. The result is a noticeably quieter, more personalized experience than any larger vessel.