Elite of the Seas Cruise

Elite Cruise Halong Bay comprises 06 decks in total: 04 main decks, 01 sundeck, and 01 basement.

The basement contains a kitchen, wine storage & cigar room, and the staff's team compartment area.

The first deck includes areas for relaxing rooms like fitness, massage & spa. It also has 13 Junior Suites (28 m²) and 01 Junior Premium Suites (43 m²).

The second deck is where 02 Senior Premium Suites (35 m²), an infinity swimming pool, a mini-golf course, a dining room with an open kitchen, and indoor and outdoor bars are located.

The third deck features 01 President, 02 Executive Suites, and 10 Senior Suites with a space of 88 m², 45 m², and 26 m², respectively. Among them, the President is the most opulent cabin, with a large sun terrace at the bow.

The fourth deck includes the remaining 02 Executive Premium Suites (58 m²), 03 Senior Premium Suites (35 m²), 01 Junior Suite (28 m²), and the Captain’s Cabin.

The fifth deck is also the sundeck, which offers airy space for a 360-degree view and an open lounge—the perfect spot for observing the gorgeous bay.

Elite of the Seas cruise deck plan

As you continue scrolling, you will uncover the top-notch amenities that await you on board the Elite of the Seas, recognized as one of the most luxurious cruises in Lan Ha.

Wine & Cigars Cellar

Discover the cellar situated in the basement, serving as a haven for wine and cigar connoisseurs. This intimate space is perfect for wine and cigar tasting, as well as private dining, offering a refined and first-class experience.

The cellar is beautifully decorated with wooden furniture and elegant design.

Spa, Sauna & Massage

Let’s enjoy a rejuvenating experience in the spa & sauna room on the 1st deck. The blend of local spa rituals and indigenous products. You may experience a completely soothing experience with a variety of facials and specialty treatments here.

Two separate rooms for the sauna and spa guarantee relaxing moments.

Fitness Room

Situated on the 1st deck, the gym room provides a range of exercise equipment, including treadmills, stationary bikes, and dumbbells. Here, guests can rejuvenate their energy levels while relishing the picturesque views of the bay's natural beauty.

An aboardgym is available for guests to exercise while on vacation

Panoramic Pool

This open-air pool is located on the 2nd deck and follows the infinity pool style covered by teak flooring. Let’s dip in the freshwater to unwind, capture special moments, and enjoy the fascinating views of the bay.

Take a refreshing time in the panoramic pool on Elite of the Seas

Mini Golf Course

Situated at the front of the 2nd deck, the mini golf course allows guests to practice their skills or enjoy a fun game with partners, making for a delightful recreational activity. With its prime location, players can also savor the gentle sea breeze and panoramic bay views.

Miniature golf course to practice or play some holes with your partner

On the 2-day-1-night cruise, guests will embark on a trip to discover the Ao Ech Area and Dark & Bright Cave. The 3-day-2-night trip extends the journey to include a visit to Viet Hai Village and Ba Trai Dao.

Whichever tour you opt for, you are assured of enjoying a remarkable journey filled with captivating activities.

Kayak in the Ao Ech Area

Welcome to the 1st day onboard by exploring Ao Ech and spending around 1 hour in the afternoon kayaking. Surrounded by imposing limestone islands amid the vast sea will be an everlasting memory for every traveler.

Paddle the calm water and get in touch with nature on a kayak

Explore Dark & Bright Caves

On the final day of the itinerary, you will explore the unique Dark & Bright Cave on a local rowing boat, adding a captivating and immersive experience. This natural wonder will leave you in awe as you navigate through its mysterious passages.

Passing through the cave, one finds a sea valley surrounded by magnificent mountains.

Cycle in Viet Hai Village

For the 3-day itinerary, you will have the opportunity to visit Viet Hai Village, a local fishing village on Cat Ba Island. Get on a bike or an electric cart, and you will travel through the lush forests and explore the villagers’ interesting life.

Explore the wonderful nature of Cat Ba Island on a scenic biking route

Chill out on Ba Trai Dao

After the trip to Viet Hai, revel in swimming and relaxation at the natural beach of the Ba Trai Dao Islet. It offers a serene escape with its emerald waters, inviting travelers to unwind and bask in the unspoiled beauty of this hidden gem.

Soak up the salt air on pristine Ba Trai Dao, a true gem of Lan Ha Bay

Golfing

The mini-golf course is one of the finest and most relaxing areas; guests can use the golf club onboard to practice or play some holes with their partners while marveling at the stunning scenery.

Enjoy an engaging golf session with your travel companions on board

Spa, sauna & massage

Elite of the Seas’s spa, sauna, and massage services offer an impressive journey of reawakening. The combination of local spa rituals with indigenous ingredients. Guests will enjoy a truly relaxing moment in multiple choices of facials and signature body massages.

Time to enjoy a tranquil massage at the spa on board

Specifically, you can opt for a wide range of therapies as follows:

• Lush Life (from US $53) uses herbal oil and stone oil massage for energy balancing.
• Sea Melody (from US $81) is designed for couples massage in 60 - 75 minutes.
• Pure Harmony (from US $47) offers different therapies for body massage with lengths of 60 - 90 minutes.
• Tranquil Tines (from US $27) includes various healing processes for the face, head, neck, shoulder, back, and foot.

Please ask the cruise directly during your trip for up-to-date prices.

Cooking Demonstration

Learn how to make one of Vietnam's traditional dishes - Spring roll is one of the activities you may try on board. Our chef will carefully introduce what the ingredients needed are, and then you can learn how to make them and try the dish.

Tai Chi Lesson

Let’s come on the sundeck in the early morning and start your new day in fresh air to fully charge your energy for the day to prepare for the next adventure of your Halong Bay Cruise. A Tai Chi master will guide you with a basic lesson that has been simplified so that everyone can easily follow. 

Start a new day with a rejuvenating Tai Chi session

This is a highly personalized service, customized for you and your loved ones to ensure high privacy and flexibility while still being able to take part in the cruise's activities. The service applies to 2 people and above. 

NOTE: The Private Yacht service is NOT INCLUDED in the Elite Cruise Halong Bay price. Please contact our sales consultant for more details.

You can opt for our Diamond Plus Packages for exclusive perks, including flexible time and schedule, as well as private meals on board and a 360-degree view of Lan Ha Bay from the well-ventilated saloon.

Soak up the sunset and get a taste of tropical juice served by the cruise staff

Cuisine Style

Enjoy high-class dining onboard, where the tastes will blow you away. The menu offers Western food and famous traditional Vietnamese food served as BBQ, buffet, and a la carte.

Guests could enjoy a light breakfast, lunch, and a set-menu dinner while cruising through the wonderful landscapes of the world heritage site. The restaurant also includes an open kitchen to enhance the dining experience.

Elite of the Seas focuses on Western-styled fusion for a first-class experience.

Dining time

The usual serving time begins at 6:45 for breakfast, 9:45 for brunch, 12:00 - 13:00 for lunch, and around 19:00 for dinner.

Drinks

For the beverage, two bottles of mineral water per day will be provided complimentary in your cabin. Other beverages will be charged separately according to the drink menu on board.

With a diverse menu featuring international wines (from US $67/item), crafted cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages (from US $8/item), and gourmet coffee.

Fancy beverage set customized by the cruise bartender

Luxurious Interior and Services

This exquisite restaurant on the 2nd deck is created in an endlessly elegant style and has luxury facilities as well as an open kitchen for guests to watch the chef cook. It has a trendy ambiance with indoor and outdoor seating for up to 99 people.

Spacious indoor restaurant with enchanting architecture and comfy seating

The fine dining restaurant features elegant and comfortable furniture, meticulously arranged to enhance your dining experience. With large sea-view windows, luxury amenities, an open kitchen, and indoor and outdoor seating in an authentic concept, the restaurant definitely shows its everlasting, elegant style.

The bar is set up with both outdoor and indoor seating options. The outdoor area is near the swimming pool, while the indoor section, situated within the restaurant, provides a cozy atmosphere to savor romantic and relaxing moments.

The bar is set up both outdoors and indoors for the finest convenience.

Friendly Staff

Our staff is warm and welcoming, dedicated to providing you with exceptional service and ensuring a pleasant and memorable experience throughout your stay. If you have any special requirements, they will be happy to assist you.

Departing from Hanoi

If you are departing from Hanoi, a complimentary round-trip limousine transfer is included in the cruise package (Opting out of the transfer does not reduce the price). Between 8:00 and 8:30, the limousine will pick you up at your hotel and then travel to Tuan Chau Port in Halong.

Departing from Tuan Chau Port

On the other hand, if you have arranged your transportation, it is crucial to arrive at the designated waiting station, Lot 24, Tuan Chau International Port, around 11:30. This ensures that you are checking on time.

You can book a luxury transfer with our travel consultant or in the next booking step.

BestPrice Review: 9.6

• Inspection date: 24th & 25th July, 2025
• BestPrice Travel Inspector: Mr. Huan Nguyen & Mr. Aaron Tran

Sailing with Elite of the Seas felt like the perfect mix of comfort, great food, and warm service. From the spacious cabin and infinity pool to the delicious meals and well-planned activities, everything was thoughtfully arranged.

What impressed me most was the crew’s dedication, which made the whole trip truly unforgettable. While the cruise comes at a higher price, it includes almost all services—even limousine transfers—and offers standout highlights such as high-speed Wi-Fi (rare among Halong cruises), modern facilities, complimentary drone photography, and excellent dining.

The only downsides were that the daily itinerary felt a bit similar to other cruises and the bathroom had limited storage space.

Facilities & Amenities—9.2/10

Despite the launch a few years ago, the yacht still feels brand new, with a beautifully modern design highlighted in the dining hall and lounge. Every detail has been carefully considered, creating a refined and stylish atmosphere. Guests can enjoy an array of outstanding amenities, from elevators, a spa, and a sauna to minigolf, a gym, and even a wine cellar, catering to a variety of preferences.

Our Junior Suite was spotless, featuring cozy beds and exceptional room service. Each private balcony was generously sized, offering the perfect blend of contemporary comfort and breathtaking natural views.

Pros

• Strong Wi-Fi connection available in every corner onboard, a big plus while cruising in the middle of the bay
• Grand infinity pool located on the second deck, offering panoramic views
• Intelligent amenities such as sensor trash cans and smart toilets for extra convenience
• All cabins feature bathtubs and private balconies/terraces, with larger average sizes than most other cruises.
• Junior Premium Suite and President Suite are equipped with in-room body massage chairs.

The chic styling makes Elite of the Seas stand out among first-class cruises in Halong.

Cons

• The elevator only operates between the first and third decks; access to the fourth deck and sundeck requires taking the stairs.
• Average cabin sizes (30-40m²) are smaller compared to other 5-star cruises.
• Bathroom design is not optimal: the vanity shelf is small, and there are no hooks for hanging clothes.

The bathroom is modern and minimalist, though slightly lacking in convenience.

Food & Drinks—9.7/10

The culinary experience is another highlight of Elite of the Seas. The menu features a wide selection, from Western dishes to traditional Vietnamese specialties, served in both buffet and à la carte styles. The food is of excellent quality, with authentic flavors that avoid the generic taste often found on cruises. Most dishes are well-prepared using fresh ingredients, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

Pros

• Set menus for lunch (Western) and dinner (Western & Vietnamese) with refined flavors, generous portions, and elegant presentation.
• Authentic Vietnamese dishes with true homemade taste; the Ca Kho To (braised fish in clay pot) is a must-try.
• Fresh pastries every morning, soft and fluffy; the panna cotta stands out as a highlight.
• Open kitchen concept adds an engaging touch, letting guests watch the chefs in action.
• Live piano music during set-menu meals creates a refined dining atmosphere.
• Afternoon tea comes with a wide variety of delicious canapés in generous portions.
• Complimentary in-room dining with large servings, fresh fruits, and perfectly crisp French fries.

Traditional "homestyle" meal in a Vietnamese family setting with flavorful taste

Cons

• The wine list is limited and could use more variety; cocktails and other drinks are charged at a high extra cost.
• Portions are quite large—finishing two main courses often leaves little room for dessert.
• Salad options are limited, mostly featuring only basic varieties.

Portions are quite large, sometimes making it difficult to finish and fully enjoy the flavors.

Itinerary & Activities—9.5/10

The cruise program is well-organized and relaxing, with highlights such as kayaking or swimming at Ao Ech and exploring Dark & Bright Cave by kayak or rowing boat. Longer itineraries (3D2N and 4D3N) offer deeper discovery of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba, including a visit to Viet Hai Village for cycling and cultural insights.

Evening entertainment is varied, featuring live music, fireworks, squid fishing, and even private yacht services, making the journey both enjoyable and memorable.

Pros 

• Diverse cruise itineraries ranging from 2-day to 4-day tours, offering a complete experience of Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay.
• Complimentary drone photography session on the sundeck around 17:30 (weather permitting), with photos delivered the next morning.
• Live music every evening at the second-deck pool area until 22:00; guests can request songs or even join in to sing.
• Firework show every Saturday night, and it's available for private charter groups.

The mesmerizing cycling trail amidst the biodiversity of Cat Ba Island.

Cons

• Limited activities on the 2D1N itinerary, mainly water-based options such as kayaking and bamboo boat rides.
• The cooking class making rice dumpling cake is interesting and unique, but the session is quite short and ends quickly.

Elite of the Seas offers a unique cooking class where guests can make rice dumpling cake.

Services—10/10

The attention to detail and kindness of the staff made a remarkable difference throughout the journey. From bartenders and butlers to cleaners and managers, every team member demonstrated unparalleled dedication and warmth, ensuring a truly memorable experience. The manager, in particular, was exceptionally attentive and always ready to assist with any request, reflecting the outstanding service standard onboard.

Pros

• Professional, dedicated, and attentive crew, ensuring guests are well cared for during and after excursions.
• Round-trip limousine transfer is included in the cruise price.
• Best room services on Halong Bay cruises: free Netflix, complimentary fruits and snacks, 24/7 in-room dining, and laundry service for 4 items per room per night.
• Unlimited drinks at lunch and dinner: water, soft drinks, juice, cocktails, mocktails, beer, tea, and coffee.
• Thoughtful details: bed decorated before check-in, handwritten thank-you note, farewell gifts (two packs of tea and a hat at the final brunch)
• Private yacht service is available (additional charge) for a more exclusive exploration of the bay.

Personalized handwritten thank-you note with a small thoughtful gift

TripAdvisor Review: 5/5

• Number of reviews: 2,181
• Excellent: 2,165/2,181 reviews

According to the latest Elite of the Seas Cruise’s TripAdvisor, this cruise was rated with Excellent scores. This impressive number indicates a very high level of customer satisfaction with the cruise's service quality.

For its luxury experience and outstanding service, many guests appreciate the attentive care provided throughout their cruise. The personal butler service is frequently mentioned, with guests highlighting how thoughtfully they were taken care of from the moment they boarded.

Food and dining are another recurring highlight, with reviews praising the quality of the food, attentive waiters, and enjoyable meals throughout the journey. Guests also describe their time exploring Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay as a wonderful cruise experience, whether on a one-night stay or a longer three-day journey. Many reviews include special thanks to the crew for their warm hospitality and personalized service, with guests describing the cruise as a memorable luxury experience and highly recommending it to others.

The staff always gives the most attentive care to all passengers.