Not actually a hotel, but luxury accommodation nonetheless.
I'm thinking of booking a trip on this boat and was wondering if anyone here had any recent experiences. Especially:
- is it worth paying up for one of the more expensive rooms and especially one of the two suits? (if so, which one?)
- how long (about) is the trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
- how long (about) is the trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
180km... 3.5hrs driving time.
For what it is worth, my local agent in SGN uses this company for upscale clients. They have a brand new boat. www.cruisehalong.com
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Yes, this is a wonderful trip. The only thing disappointing is that it is only overnight, but I was told that some people do book two back-to-back trips. Of course you see the same things booking two trips, but then you have more time to use all that's offered - massage, kayaks, cave visit, etc.
If the suites are available when you board you can buy up for $50. I think that was a suite and not per person, but I'd have to look back in my notes. I found the suite much nicer than the regular cabin ...you get your own private balcony that you can chain off, roses, champagne and a fair amount more room.
The other vessels in the bay tend to be more geared toward backpackers and also tend to tie up in the same spots for the night. The Emeraude anchors off by itself.
we did the cruise in August 2004. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Vietnam!!!
We had booked the suite (at the time there was one only - Paul Roque) and it was really worth it... is in the front with a wonderful view and reasonable space.
We were also very lucky: we were the only two guest on the boat for that cruise!!! quite an experience.
The staff and service were really good as well as food.
even if it is for one night onaly you really get the mood of the bay which is really wonderful and all times during day and night. do not miss to take a swim!
It's quite a bit more expensive but the pictures show floor-to-ceililng windows which to me would be really important. The pictures of Emeraude (at least the Paul Roque suite in the brochure) show small windows so no views from the bed...
It's quite a bit more expensive but the pictures show floor-to-ceililng windows which to me would be really important. The pictures of Emeraude (at least the Paul Roque suite in the brochure) show small windows so no views from the bed...
I have done cheaper versions of these cruises a few times; the best way to appreciate the beauty of Halong Bay is not from the cabin but on the open deck which gives you 360%(and vertical) view while the junk is cruising. These cruises also tend to be very activity-oriented, so you are either having meals in the dining hall or visiting caves/kayaking. You may choose not to participate in the activities (and laze in your cabin instead), but honestly the scenery is not that interesting when the junk is stationary.
I believe the Jasmine is the only junk on Halong Bay with cabins that comes with private balconies. I didnt manage to convince myself to splurge on this junk but would be most interested to read your review (especially on the food since the cheaper ones were surprisingly good)
Well, I've decided on a suite on the new (a few months only) Jasmine, which was recommend over the Emeraude cruises. I'll report back in a few weeks.
I was on the Jasmine last month...very nice boat. Looked like the nicest one in the bay. The suites and deluxe rooms all have private balconies...the 2 suites are a quite a bit larger and have a bathtub along with separate shower, the other rooms have just showers. Lots of public space...food was fairly good...staff was very friendly. Enjoyed my trip. One caveat...the boat ran out of hot water in the morning...and this was with only 25% occupancy.
IMHO...The Jasmine is a much better choice than The Emeraude. Have Fun!
