Old world charm resurfaced on the calm water of Halong Bay, Vietnam with the launch of a magnificent five star vessel Emeraude modeled in the tradition of the grand old single wheeled paddle steamer of the colonial era. One of the great natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay covers an area of 1,500 km² over which are scattered thousands of limestone islands and grottoes rising from the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

 The Route

• Your cruise through Halong Bay wends among otherworldly karst formations and opens up views of one stupendous seascape after another. Be sure to key on the following attractions, as well. Changeable conditions and tides can affect the route, visibility and anchorage, but the following spots should be visible from the sun deck.

Sung Sot Grotto 

• Early French tourists who wandered among the 10,000 square meters of this cavern dubbed this space "Grotte des Surprises", or Surprise Cave. Sung Sot more than lives up to its name on Bon Ho Island, situated right at the heart of the UNESCO-recognised World Heritage area.
• From the wharf, 50 steep stone steps lead up to the entrance, but the view is worth the effort.  The grotto features thousands of stalactites and stalagmites. Paths, lights and signposts guide you through two caves which continue to offer yet more twists, turns and, yes, surprises throughout.

Cua Van and Vung Vien Floating Villages

• Seven hundred people live at Cua Van in a calm bay surrounded by limestone karsts.  Most, not surprisingly, earn their living by fishing and spend almost their entire existence living on the water.
• The following day you will also pass Vung Vien Floating Village.  Sixteen hundred people live on Halong Bay itself in similar communities.

Hang Trong Anchorage

• The Emeraude anchors at Hang Trong. Hang Trong , or Drum Cave, refers to a nearby cave that earned its name as a result of the sound made as the wind blows through its stalagmites and stalactites.
• The waters here are quiet for swimming and there is lots to explore by kayak.
• Depending on conditions there are as many as five potential anchorage spots. Though Hang Trong is the most used, conditions may mean the vessel's captain opts for another site.

Titov Island

• Titov Island was named after an illustrious visitor, Gherman Stepanovich Titov, who visited the spot on November 22, 1962 alongside President Ho Chi Minh. The Soviet astronaut was the second person to orbit the earth. Titov himself returned some 35 years later on June 27, 1997.
• The island is noted for a beautiful crescent-shaped beach that's popular with swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. You may also hike 420 steps up to a pavilion at the summit for a panoramic view of Halong Bay.

Soi Sim Island

• On its return to Bai Chay, the Emeraude cruises past Soi Sim.  Unlike the limestone karsts, this soil-based island supports ancient trees and a stunning white sand beach.

Practicalities

Emeraude Shuttle

• Most travelers journey to Emeraude Pier with their tour group. But independent travelers can elect to take the Emeraude Shuttle.
• Two 16-seat Ford Transit mini buses make daily departures from Hanoi and Halong City. The eastbound bus to Halong leaves from the Emeraude's sales office at 59A Ly Thai To every morning at 8.30.  The westbound bus leaves Emeraude Pier for the return trip to Hanoi at 9.30am. The three-hour each-way trip costs $35 return.

Emeraude Cafe

• From shuttle to cruiser, we anticipate virtually direct boarding but, for those arriving independently, the Emeraude Cafe offers a comfortable place to spend time until embarkation.
• Shop for souvenirs or enjoy a drink or snack. The Café serves a wide selection of international food including freshly made sandwiches, panini and pizzas.  In addition, there are teas, coffees, fresh juices and a wide ranging wine list.
• The Emeraude Cafe also provides complimentary WIFI access.

Emeraude Pier & Embarkation

• After boarding via Emeraude Pier, park your luggage in your cabin and head to the sundeck for a refreshing welcome cocktail.
• A buffet lunch is served as the vessel casts off and heads out onto the magical waters and into the unrivalled scenery of Halong Bay.

Pastime

• While aboard the Emeraude, be as active or as indolent as you please.
• Go caving at Sung Sot Grotto. Take in the bay from its entrance before heading into the darkness and its natural wonders.
• Experience the jade-green waters. At the overnight anchorage, take a swim from the dock, dive from our decks or launch a kayak for a nearby islet.
• Drink a cold beverage. Prepare for sunset with a drink in one hand and a camera in the other. 
• Whet your appetite. Learn a few tricks of the trade from our Vietnamese chefs at a cooking demonstration.
• Behold the silver screen. After dark, gather topside for a viewing of "Indochine," projected on deck with surround sound and surround scenery. An unparalleled movie experience.
• Squid anyone? Try your hand at squid fishing with the Emeraude crew.
• Tai Chi, Halong style. To enjoy the ultimate serenity in the ultimate location, meet our tai chi instructor on the sun deck at dawn with complimentary tea and coffee.
• All Hands on Deck. Foot and shoulder massages in the sunshine or go below deck for body wraps and scrubs - without losing that Halong Bay View.

Please note the Cruise Itinerary and Program may be subject to change without prior notice.

 Note: A 3 days program with sea-kayaking on the second day is available. Please consult our sales staff for more informations. 

*** Connecting family rooms are available on request.

EMERAUDE CRUISE- 2DAYS/ 1 NIGHT

Explore the wonders of Halong Bay.  Choose from any of Emeraude Classic Cruise Full Board packages, designed to enhance your stay on board. From door to door service and inclusive offers, this is a classic way to enjoy your journey on the Emeraude!

 

 

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay (L/D)

12:00 - 12:15 Register/Check-in at Emeraude Café

12:15 - 12:20 Embarkation

12:20 - 12:25 Captain Raises Anchor

12:25 - 14:30 Cruising Halong Bay

12:45 - 14:00 Vietnamese & International Buffet Lunch

14:00 - 15:00 Free & Easy

15:00 – 16:00 Guided Shore Excursion to Sung Sot Grotto and Floating Village

16:00 – 16:30 Crepe Station on Sundeck and cruising to Pearl Farm

16:30 - 17:30 Kayaking* or swimming at Pearl Farm

18:00 - 18:30 Vietnamese Fresh Spring Roll Cooking Class (Sundeck)

18:30 - 19:30 Complimentary Canapes on Sundeck

19:30 - 21:00 Vietnamese & European dinner buffet served (Dress Code: Smart)

21:00 - 22:00 Bills Settlement (Optional)

20:00 - 22:00 Squid Fishing (Seasonal)

20:30 - 23:00 Silver Screen "Indochine"

Day 2: Halong Bay – Hanoi (B/L)

06:00 - 07:00 Complimentary cafe gourmand served on the Sundeck

06:30 - 07:00 Learn ancient art of Tai Chi on Sundeck

07:00 - 08:00 Leave Luggage/Bags Outside Cabins

07:30 - 09:30 Cruising Halong Bay

07:00 - 08:30 Energizing breakfast served

08:30 - 09:00 Check-Out

09:30 - 10:00 Disembarkation

10:00 - 10:15 Drop Off Point: Emeraude Café

Inclusion: 

•  01 nights accommodation: Basing in 01 Double/Twin Sea View Cabin with A/C & Private Bath with buffet BKF.
•  Sightseeing as specified including entrance fee, Sea-Kayaking Explore Halong Bay.
•  English-speaking experience guide.
•  All Meals as per program mentioned as: B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner
•  Welcome Drinks, Complimentary mineral water, Complimentary morning tea and coffee, Fishing equipment…

Exclusion: 

•  Meals and drinks except others as mentioned in the detail program.
•  Visa, international flights with airport taxes.
•  Personal insurance and personal expenses.

Note: The price is subject to change according to each period of time. Please contact our travel consultants expert for the best price 

 Additional Information 

WHAT TO BRING: 

• Sun Block, Wide brim hat, Camera + Film, Comfortable shoes, Rain gear, Warm clothes, Insect, Repellentand Original Passport... 

HOW TO START: 

• Vietnam Family Travel is a fully escorted tour and best-available all year round; the only thing you need to prepare in advance is the international air-ticket from/to your country.
If you don’t have enough time to complete visa before your departure, we will help you to obtain Vietnam Visa on arrival easily (getting visa at the airport, on your arrival)

 

Click "HERE" to see more Halong Bay Tours Deals in 2015!

The majestic beauty of the bay and its islands is only fully appreciated while meandering among the islands, fjords and islets. The original Emeraude was one of the flotillas owned by the Roque family who left Bordeaux in 1858 in search of fame and fortune. The fleet cruised along Indochina waterways and Halong Bay in the olden days. The original Emeraude sank in the Bay in 1937. Using advanced techniques, French architects painstakingly modeled the new vessel from old photos and drawings found at the Paris' Maritime Museum. Passengers can now relax, seek total comfort in the luxurious cabins or enjoy the beautiful sea breeze on the sun deck and enjoy the splendor and serenity of nature.

The Emeraude operates daily a two day, one night cruise. For lunch and dinner, passengers get to enjoy delicious freshly caught seafood and Vietnamese specialties. In the morning, an American style breakfast is served onboard the colonial vessel. For passengers who want more than just cruising around, the Emeraude also offer afternoon tea, traditional body massages and sunrise Tai Chi classes. The trip is completely flexible offering we variety of options for all.

Daily Departure!