Top 10 Lan Ha Bay Cruises: Review & Compare Best Picks

Planning a Vietnam getaway? A Lan Ha Bay cruise is the ultimate way to explore emerald waters, hidden lagoons, and pristine beaches while enjoying five-star hospitality. From Orchid Cruise’s Indochine elegance to Stellar and Elite’s modern luxury, each offers unique itineraries, dining, and experiences. In this post, Vietpower Travel, a trusted tour operator in Vietnam, reviews and compares the best Lan Ha Bay cruises in 2025 to help you choose the perfect journey.

1. Top 10 Lan Ha Bay Cruises in 2025

Orchid Cruise – Classic Elegance Meets Modern Luxury

Orchid Cruise is one of the pioneers of overnight journeys in Lan Ha Bay, setting the benchmark for 5-star luxury cruising. Today, its fleet consists of three vessels: Orchid Trendy, Orchid Classic, and Orchid Premium.

• Design & Style: Orchid Trendy is tailored for younger or budget-conscious travelers who still want luxury. Orchid Classic embraces Indochine-style architecture, with all-wood interiors and timeless charm. Orchid Premium offers a boutique experience with just 5 spacious cabins, each with a private jacuzzi overlooking the bay.
• Cabins: Ranging from 36–72m², all rooms include private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows. Interiors feature hardwood, marble bathrooms, imported bedding, and elegant furnishings.
• Dining & Experiences: Guests enjoy a fine fusion of Asian and Western cuisine, paired with fresh local seafood. Activities include kayaking through Dark & Bright Cave, swimming at Three Peaches Beach, and cycling through Viet Hai Village.
• Best for: Couples and honeymooners seeking intimacy and comfort.

Stellar of The Seas – Romantic Getaway with Wine Cellar

Stellar of The Seas is a boutique-style cruise with just 22 luxury cabins, each featuring a private balcony, seating area, and panoramic ocean views.

• Unique Highlight: Stellar is among the very few cruises with a wine cellar onboard. Guests can enjoy premium vintages in an intimate setting—perfect for anniversaries or romantic celebrations.
• Facilities: Infinity swimming pool on the sundeck, open-air lounge bar, sunrise Tai Chi classes, and rejuvenating spa treatments.
• Dining: Gourmet menus combining Vietnamese seafood delicacies and international dishes, offered through multi-course meals and buffets.
• Itinerary: Sail through Con Vit Islet, Thumb Islet, and Gia Luan Harbor, with plenty of opportunities for kayaking and swimming.
• Best for: Honeymooners and romantic travelers who want a private, elegant, and memorable journey.

Elite of The Seas – Family-Friendly Luxury Voyage

As the sister ship of Stellar, Elite of The Seas is a modern, expansive cruise liner designed with families and larger groups in mind.

• Design & Comfort: Contemporary interiors with bright, spacious cabins. Some rooms are interconnected, making them ideal for parents with children or multi-generational families.
• Facilities & Services: Swimming pool, spa, gym, luxury bar, and even a mini-golf course on the sundeck—rare among Lan Ha Bay cruises.
• Activities: Beyond kayaking and swimming, highlights include cycling through Viet Hai Village, interactive Vietnamese cooking classes, and fun activities tailored for kids.
• Dining: A curated menu with options for both adults and children, ensuring everyone finds something they love.
• Best for: Families and multi-generational groups looking to combine relaxation with cultural and active experiences.

Scarlet Pearl Cruise – The Only Catamaran Experience

Nicknamed the “Nordic Pearl,” Scarlet Pearl Cruise is recognized for its Norwegian-inspired design and all-white elegance. It offers 23 modern cabins, each with a private balcony and large glass windows.

• Exclusive Highlight: Scarlet Pearl is the only cruise that features a luxury Catamaran Sailboat. This allows guests to explore hidden coves and untouched areas of Lan Ha Bay in style—an exclusive perk unmatched by other cruises.
• Facilities: Tahiti Restaurant (serving Vietnamese and European cuisine), a panoramic bar with 50+ cocktails and wines, spa and fitness center, and an outdoor Jacuzzi.
• Itinerary: Visits include kayaking in Dark & Bright Cave, exploring Viet Hai fishing village, and swimming in the emerald waters of Ao Ech or Three Peaches Beach.
• Best for: VIP travelers, business executives, and celebrities seeking privacy, exclusivity, and world-class service.

Mon Chéri Cruise – Halal-Friendly & Family Suites

Mon Chéri Cruise is one of the most inclusive cruises in Lan Ha Bay, widely recognized as the first and only Halal-certified cruise in the region. This makes it a perfect option for Muslim travelers, while still offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.

• Cabins & Design: Guests can choose from 18–24 luxury cabins across two ships. Each room includes a private balcony, hardwood interiors, and modern amenities. Families love the two-bedroom family suites, complete with a private seating area and balcony for shared moments.
• Dining: A separate Halal kitchen ensures authenticity and compliance with Islamic dietary laws. The restaurant also offers Vietnamese specialties and international favorites, making it versatile for all guests.
• Activities: Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, swimming in secluded lagoons, exploring Viet Hai Village, and family-friendly cooking classes.
• Who it’s for: Muslim travelers, families, and groups seeking comfort, inclusive dining, and a family-oriented experience.

La Regina Legend Cruise – Indochine Charm with Butler Service

La Regina Legend is crafted to evoke the romantic Indochine era, blending Vietnamese traditions with European grace. Every guest is treated with butler service, elevating the sense of exclusivity.

• Cabins & Facilities: Suites with Indochine-style décor, antique furniture, and private balconies. Bathrooms feature freestanding bathtubs for indulgent relaxation.
• Onboard Experience: A professional spa, rooftop Jacuzzi, library lounge, and Vietnamese tea ceremonies immerse guests in culture.
• Excursions: The itinerary includes a visit to Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, where limestone formations and folklore captivate visitors.
• Who it’s for: Cultural travelers and couples who want to combine luxury with authentic Vietnamese traditions.

Heritage Cruise – Floating Boutique Hotel

Often described as an art museum on water, Heritage Cruise is designed like a floating boutique hotel that celebrates Vietnamese art and history.

• Cabins & Style: Spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and décor inspired by Vietnamese painter Bùi Xuân Phái.
• Dining: Guests enjoy fine dining with fusion menus, featuring fresh seafood, premium wines, and art-inspired plating.
• Luxury Transfers: Starting the trip in style, travelers are chauffeured by limousine vans from Hanoi directly to the pier.
• Experience: Besides kayaking and swimming, Heritage offers cultural talks, a gallery of Vietnamese art, and live traditional music.
• Who it’s for: Couples, honeymooners, and art lovers seeking both cultural depth and refined luxury.

Genesis Regal Cruise – Neo-Classical Elegance

Genesis Regal Cruise is a neo-classical masterpiece, combining French aesthetics with Vietnamese royal heritage. The result is an elegant, romantic setting for travelers who value style and sophistication.

• Cabins & Design: Luxurious rooms with neoclassical décor, plush bedding, and large balconies for panoramic sea views.
• Activities: Guests can kayak through Dark & Bright Cave, explore the rustic charm of Viet Hai Village, and swim in crystal-clear lagoons.
• Dining: International buffets, set menus, and à la carte options with a focus on fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine.
• Who it’s for: Couples and honeymooners wanting a graceful blend of culture, relaxation, and romantic ambience.

Peony Cruise – Wellness & Boutique Experience

Named after the peony flower, a symbol of prosperity in Asia, Peony Cruise focuses on wellness, relaxation, and boutique-style service.

• Cabins: 20+ cabins, each with bathtubs, panoramic balconies, and full ocean views. Interiors are sleek yet warm, giving a boutique feel.
• Wellness: Onboard spa and massage services, yoga spaces, and Jacuzzi pools encourage guests to unwind.
• Itinerary Highlights: Stops include Cai Trap Canal, Dark & Bright Cave, and Frog Pond, combining natural wonders with adventure.
• Dining: Halal, vegetarian, and gluten-free dining available alongside traditional Vietnamese and international dishes.
• Who it’s for: Seasoned travelers who want tranquility, spa indulgence, and a less-crowded boutique journey.

Paradise Grand – Modern Family Luxury

Paradise Grand is among the largest luxury ships in Lan Ha Bay, designed with families and group tours in mind.

• Cabins & Space: Modern ocean-view cabins, large connecting suites, and state-of-the-art facilities. Perfect for groups of 50+ guests.
• Dining: Multiple dining venues with buffet spreads, à la carte options, and specialty dinners. Both Vietnamese and international cuisine are offered, along with kid-friendly menus.
• Excursions: Cycling in Viet Hai Village, kayaking in hidden lagoons, and swimming in turquoise bays are key highlights.
• Entertainment: Evening live music, cooking classes, and family-friendly shows keep all generations engaged.
• Who it’s for: Families, corporate trips, and groups who want spacious luxury combined with versatile activities.

2. Comparison Table – Best Lan Ha Bay Cruises at a Glance

Continue exploring similar posts to learn more about Vietnam’s diverse cruise experiences. Our Vietnam cruise category offers ideas and insights to help you plan your dream journey on the water.

Rosa Cruise Vietnam Review: Cabins, Food & Tours

3. Insider Travel Tips for Your Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Best Time to Go

Choosing the right season can greatly improve your experience:

• October – April: This is the ideal travel season. The weather is cooler (18–24°C), skies are clear, and the sea is calm. It’s also the best time for photography, hiking, and overnight cruises.
• May – September: Expect hotter temperatures (25–32°C) and occasional summer showers. While there may be some rain, this is the perfect season for swimming, kayaking, and water sports because the water is warm. Prices are often lower during this period, making it budget-friendly.

Tip: If you love calm weather and fewer risks of cancellations, go in spring (March–April) or autumn (October–November).

What to Pack for a Lan Ha Bay Cruise

Packing wisely ensures comfort throughout your trip:

• Essentials:
  • Swimwear – for kayaking, swimming, or lounging in the Jacuzzi.
  • Sunglasses & Sunscreen – protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
  • Light jacket – evenings on deck can be breezy even in summer.
  • Insect repellent – useful during cave or village excursions.
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals – needed for cave tours (like Dark & Bright Cave) and cycling trips in Viet Hai Village.
• Extras:
  • Camera or smartphone with charger – sunsets in Lan Ha Bay are breathtaking.
  • Waterproof bag – keeps electronics safe while kayaking.
  • Personal medication – although cruises have basic first aid, it’s best to bring what you need.

Tip: Pack light. Most cruises offer toiletries, towels, and slippers, so you don’t need to bring everything from home.

Booking Tips

To avoid stress and ensure the best deals:

1. Book Early:
   • During peak seasons (Tet Holiday, Christmas, New Year, and summer months), cabins can sell out weeks in advance. Booking early guarantees better rates and room choices.
2. Check Inclusions:
   • Confirm whether kayaking, squid fishing, or cooking classes are included in the package.
   • If you have dietary needs, ask whether the cruise serves Halal, vegetarian, or gluten-free meals. (Example: Mon Chéri Cruise offers Halal-certified dining).
3. Transfers from Hanoi:
   • Most cruises depart from Got Pier (Hai Phong) or Tuan Chau (Halong). Many operators provide shuttle buses or limousine vans from Hanoi, but sometimes it’s an extra fee. Always double-check.
4. Family-Friendly Options:
   • If traveling with children, look for cruises with connecting rooms or family suites.
   • Some ships (like the Elite of the Seas) even offer kids’ menus and activities.

4. Conclusion

A Lan Ha Bay cruise promises more than sightseeing, it’s a blend of culture, comfort, and natural wonders. Whether you seek Halal-friendly dining with Mon Chéri, cultural elegance on La Regina, or family adventures on Paradise Grand, each cruise offers unmatched experiences. With expert guidance from Vietpower Travel, your dream voyage across Lan Ha Bay is just one booking away. Book a Cruise today and let Vietnam’s hidden gem redefine your luxury travel