Hera Cruise Halong Bay Review & Tour Packages

Step aboard Hera Grand Cruise Halong Bay, a boutique wooden junk offering 5-star cabins, authentic Vietnamese dining, and cultural experiences like Tai Chi, kayaking, and the “Footsteps of Heritage” show. With private terraces, spa facilities, and tailor-made itineraries (2D1N & 3D2N), the cruise blends comfort, heritage, and romance. Book with Vietpower Travel, Vietnam’s trusted local expert, for seamless service and the best rates on luxury Halong Bay cruises.

1. Cruise Overview – What Makes Hera Grand Cruise Special?

Boutique 5-Star Wooden Junk Boat Design

Hera Grand is a boutique 5-star wooden junk: elegant white hull, warm wood interiors, and a friendly crew. With 11–13 cabins, the ship feels calm and personal—ideal if you prefer space and quiet over crowds. Compared with many large Halong Bay cruises, Hera’s smaller size means smoother service, shorter waiting times, and more attention to your preferences. Public areas are thoughtfully arranged: a wide sundeck for sunrise/sunset, indoor/outdoor dining spaces, and cozy lounges for tea or cocktails.

Story & Inspiration – Named After Greek Goddess Hera

“Hera” evokes grace and celebration. Onboard design and experiences follow that theme and the five elements—space, air, fire, water, earth. You’ll notice this in cabin names (Planet, Ocean, Earth, Heaven), evening cultural showcases, and menu storytelling. The result is a cruise that feels refined yet warm, with a narrative that ties décor, dining, and activities together.

Unique Handcrafted Details Onboard

Hera Grand genuinely highlights Vietnamese craftsmanship:

• Hand-embroidered artworks from Quat Dong Village appear in cabins and corridors, giving each space character and local flair.
• Bat Trang handmade glassware is used for dining and bar service, adding an artisanal touch to everyday moments.

2. Cabins & Accommodation on Hera Grand Cruise

Planet Suite – Cozy & Elegant on 1st Deck

• Size & layout: 28 m², large picture windows (no balcony).
• Style & comforts: Solid wood floors, tailored textiles, comfortable bedding (multi-layer mattress setup for deeper sleep).
• Best for: Couples or solo travelers who want value, quiet, and easy access to the reception, gym, and spa on Deck 1.
• Capacity & policy: 2 adults + 1 child under 5 (sharing existing bed). An extra bed is generally not available for this category.

Ocean Suite – Private Balcony with Stunning Views

• Size & layout: 38 m² on Deck 2, with a private balcony and bathtub.
• Perks on upper deck: Butler attention and the option to dine in your cabin, on the balcony, in the restaurant, or out on the sundeck.
• Best for: Couples or friends who love open-air space for morning coffee and sunset drinks.
• Capacity & policy: 2 adults + 1 child under 5; extra bed available (surcharge).

Earth Suite – Spacious, Sun Lounger & Private Terrace

• Size & layout: 50 m² on Deck 2, private terrace with sun loungers; great cross-breeze and wide-angle views.
• Culinary privilege: Guests enjoy a custom dinner menu with fresh lobster and bird’s nest soup, turning dinner into a highlight of the trip.
• Best for: Honeymooners and style-seekers who want space to relax in privacy.
• Capacity & policy: 2 adults + 1 child under 5; extra bed available (surcharge).

Heaven Suite – Ultimate Luxury & Large Bathtub

• Size & layout: 55 m² at the bow on Deck 2; expansive bathroom with separate shower and large bathtub.
• Culinary privilege: Includes the same exclusive lobster and bird’s nest soup menu as Earth Suite.
• Best for: Guests who want the top room category—quiet, sweeping views, and generous space.
• Capacity & policy: 2 adults + 1 child under 5; extra bed available (surcharge).

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3. Dining Experience & Bars

Lily Restaurant – Vietnamese & Western Fusion Dining

Lily Restaurant is the main dining venue on the Hera Grand Cruise. The interior features polished wood, soft lighting, and a warm, elegant atmosphere.

• Variety of dishes: Guests can enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine such as pho, spring rolls, and fresh seafood, alongside carefully prepared Western favorites.
• Service style: Breakfast is typically served buffet-style, while lunch and dinner are either set menus or à la carte.
• Flexibility: Special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, Indian cuisine, etc.) can be catered to when requested in advance.

Cuckoo Bar & Lotus Lounge – Tea Time & Cocktails

While Lily Restaurant hosts the main meals, Cuckoo Bar and Lotus Lounge provide a relaxing social space.

• Afternoon tea: Every afternoon, a 28-dish tea set is offered, including both sweet and savory treats, fresh fruit, and pastries.
• Drinks & music: Guests can sip cocktails, wines, coffee, or premium teas while enjoying the scenery and soft music.
• A highlight here is the daily Happy Hour with a “Buy 2 Get 1 Free” drinks promotion (17:30–18:30), a rare perk compared to many other Halong Bay cruises.

Iris Restaurant & Panthera Bar – Gala Dinner on the Sundeck

On the top deck, Iris Restaurant and Panthera Bar create an entirely different dining atmosphere:

• Open-air dining: When the weather is pleasant, a gala dinner is hosted outdoors under the starry sky.
• Fine cuisine: The menu showcases fresh seafood, premium wines, and Vietnamese delicacies.
• Entertainment: The evening is often accompanied by live cultural music or themed performances, making it a memorable highlight of the trip.

4. Wellness & Onboard Facilities

Spa & Herbal Foot Bath – Relaxation & Healing

Wellness is a strong focus on the Hera Grand Cruise.

• Professional spa treatments: Guests can choose from hot stone therapy, body massages, facials, and traditional treatments.
• Beyond the spa, Hera offers a dedicated private sauna room, a rare facility among Halong Bay cruises.
• Every cabin comes with a complimentary herbal foot bath bag, so guests can prepare warm water and soak their feet after dinner — a soothing way to improve circulation and relax tired muscles.

Gym with Bay Views – Stay Fit on the Cruise

The gym is located on the first deck and is equipped with treadmills, exercise bikes, and free weights. The unique feature is the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, allowing you to work out while watching the emerald waters and towering limestone formations. Open from early morning until late evening, it fits every travel schedule.

Spacious Sundeck – Sunbathing & Open-Air Dining

The sundeck is one of the most popular spots on the Hera Grand Cruise:

• Daytime: Guests can sunbathe on loungers, read a book, sip coffee, or simply enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
• Evening: The sundeck transforms into a lively venue for cocktail parties, cooking classes, or outdoor dinners. With sparkling lights and panoramic views, it becomes an unforgettable part of the journey.

5. Activities & Experiences on Hera Grand Cruise

Tai Chi at Sunrise – Balance & Energy

Each morning begins with a gentle Tai Chi session on the sundeck. As the sun rises over Halong Bay, guests practice slow movements that calm the mind and awaken the body. This traditional exercise is a refreshing way to connect with the surrounding nature and start the day with clarity and focus.

Kayaking & Bamboo Boating in Luon Cave

Luon Cave is a natural lagoon hidden among limestone cliffs. Here, travelers can choose between kayaking or bamboo boating with local rowers. Gliding across emerald waters, you’ll pass under rock arches and discover tranquil corners that larger boats cannot reach. This is one of the highlights of the journey and a great opportunity to enjoy Halong Bay’s scenery up close.

Exploring Titop Island & Sung Sot Cave

Titop Island is famous for its crescent-shaped beach and panoramic viewpoint. Guests can climb to the top for a sweeping view of the bay or relax with a swim in clear blue waters.
Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, one of the largest in the area, offers an awe-inspiring walk through chambers filled with unique stalactites and stalagmites. With clever lighting, the cave’s formations appear almost magical, leaving lasting impressions on every visitor.

Cultural Immersion – Heritage Activities

Hera Grand Cruise is proud to share Vietnam’s cultural traditions with its guests through interactive evening programs.

A highlight is the “Footsteps of Heritage” fashion show, where models present traditional costumes from different Vietnamese ethnic groups. Combined with live folk music and bamboo dance performances, the show brings a deep sense of connection to the country’s heritage.

Sunset Party & Cooking Class – Learn “Banh Troi Nuoc”

As the sun dips behind the limestone peaks, the crew hosts a sunset party on the sundeck. Guests enjoy cocktails, fresh fruits, and desserts while watching the sky turn golden. Afterward, the chef leads a fun cooking class where everyone learns to make Banh Troi Nuoc — sweet glutinous rice balls with a symbolic meaning in Vietnamese culture. You’ll prepare, cook, and then taste your own creations, making it a memorable part of the cruise.

Night Squid Fishing & Entertainment

When evening falls, the boat becomes lively with after-dinner activities. Guests can try night squid fishing under deck lights, a relaxing and engaging activity popular among travelers of all ages. For those who prefer, the bar and lounge remain open for music, drinks, and conversations with fellow passengers.

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6. Detailed Itinerary – 3 Days 2 Nights

Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay – Sung Sot Cave – Titop Island

Morning

• Pick-up in Hanoi (optional shuttle or limousine transfer).
• Arrival at Tuan Chau Marina, check-in at Hera Lounge, and welcome drinks.
• Boarding the cruise, cabin introduction, and a freshly prepared lunch served in Lily Restaurant while sailing into the bay.

Afternoon

• Guided excursion to Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most famous grotto in Halong Bay, where guests explore limestone formations illuminated by artistic lighting.
• Continue to Titop Island for swimming on its sandy beach or hiking up to the viewpoint for sweeping views across the bay.
• Return to the cruise, freshen up, and enjoy a 28-dish afternoon tea in Lotus Lounge, followed by Happy Hour drinks.

Evening

• Multi-course dinner in the restaurant or on the sundeck (weather permitting).
• Guests in Earth and Heaven Suites enjoy a special menu featuring lobster and bird’s nest soup.
• Evening entertainment includes the “Footsteps of Heritage” fashion show with traditional Vietnamese ethnic costumes, live folk music, and bamboo dancing.
• Optional activities: night squid fishing, relaxing with cocktails at Cuckoo Bar, or unwinding with a complimentary herbal foot bath in the cabin.

Day 2: Lan Ha Bay – Trinh Nu Cave – Ba Trai Dao – Tung Sau Pearl Farm

Morning

• Begin with Tai Chi on the sundeck, followed by a light breakfast.
• Transfer to a smaller day boat for deeper exploration into Lan Ha Bay.
• Visit Trinh Nu Cave, where guests can kayak around the grotto and discover the quiet charm of this hidden spot.

Afternoon

• Stop at Ba Trai Dao Beach, a pristine area with white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Continue to the Tung Sau Pearl Farm & Exhibition Center (Rate Attribute #10). Here, guests learn about pearl cultivation techniques, observe artisans at work, and explore a small museum showcasing pearls and jewelry.
• Return to Hera Grand, enjoy afternoon tea and Happy Hour while sailing back through scenic limestone passages.

Evening

• Gala dinner with themed presentations in the Iris Restaurant or on the sundeck.
• Evening options include live cultural performances, spa treatments, or relaxing in the private sauna.
• Guests may also enjoy the bar atmosphere or a quiet moment stargazing from the spacious sundeck.

Day 3: Luon Cave – Return to Hanoi

Morning

• Early Tai Chi session on the sundeck to start the day with energy.
• Breakfast served with tea, coffee, fresh fruit, and pastries.
• Excursion to Luon Cave by kayak or bamboo boat, where guests glide into a tranquil lagoon encircled by cliffs.

Late Morning

• Return to the cruise, pack luggage, and check out of cabins.
• Brunch buffet served in Lily Restaurant while Hera Grand sails back to Tuan Chau Marina.
• Disembark and continue transfer back to Hanoi for those with shuttle bookings.

7. Who Should Choose the Hera Grand Cruise Halong Bay?

Couples & Honeymooners – Romantic & Private Experience

Hera Grand Cruise is ideal for couples. The Earth and Heaven Suites have private terraces, sun loungers, and bathtubs with bay views. Honeymoon or anniversary setups with flowers, wine, and candlelight dinners can be arranged, creating a truly romantic stay.

Families – Spacious Connecting Cabins, Flexible Services

Families can book Junior Connecting Cabins, combining two rooms into one shared space. This option gives parents and children both privacy and comfort. Kid-friendly meals, extra bedding, and flexible dining times make the cruise family-friendly.

Small Groups – Private Dining, Heritage Shows, Team Bonding

For friends or colleagues, Hera Grand offers private dining on the sundeck or in the lounge. Group activities such as kayaking, squid fishing, and cooking classes build shared memories, while evening heritage shows provide cultural highlights for everyone to enjoy together.

8. Practical Information Before You Go

Departure Port – Tuan Chau Marina (Lot No.12)

The cruise departs from Tuan Chau International Marina in Halong City. Arrive at least 30 minutes before boarding for a smooth check-in.

Check-in & Check-out Times

• Check-in: Late morning before lunch.
• Check-out: Midday after brunch on the final day.
•  Schedules may adjust slightly depending on weather and bay conditions.

Travel Tips – Packing, Safety, Best Season to Visit

• Bring swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and light clothes for summer; jackets for cooler months.
• Wear comfortable shoes for hiking on Titop Island or exploring caves.
• Life jackets are always available for kayaking and boating.
• The best months for clear skies and pleasant temperatures are October to April, though the cruise operates year-round.

9. Conclusion

Hera Grand Cruise Halong Bay is the perfect blend of luxury, culture, and comfort—offering elegant cabins, fine Vietnamese dining, spa treatments, and unique activities like kayaking, cooking classes, and the “Footsteps of Heritage” fashion show. Whether you are a couple, family, or small group, Hera Grand ensures a memorable Halong Bay journey.

Contact Vietpower Travel to book your Hera Grand Cruise at the best rate:

• Headquarters
  • Address: Tuan Hanh Building, No. 82, Lane 116, Nhan Hoa Street, Nhan Chinh Ward, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi, Vietnam
  • Hotline: (+84) 936 336 389
  • Email: sales@vietpowertravel.com
• Hoa Binh City Office: No. 230 Dien Bien Phu, Phuong Lam, Hoa Binh City.
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• Ho Chi Minh City Office: 77 Trần Bình Trọng, Ward 1, Gò Vấp District, Ho Chi Minh City