Nostalgia Cruise Review: Is This Boutique Halong Trip Worth It?

Nostalgia Cruise brings travelers into a refined world of Hue royal architecture, small-group luxury, and the peaceful beauty of Lan Ha Bay. With guidance from Vietpower Travel, guests can enjoy a balanced experience that blends culture, comfort, and scenic exploration. From private balcony suites to activities like tea ceremonies, kayaking, and cycling, each element is crafted to deliver meaningful moments. Nostalgia Cruise is ideal for couples, families, and travelers seeking a calm yet enriching journey.

1. What Makes This Cruise Different From Other Luxury Cruises?

Nostalgia Cruise stands out in Halong Bay because it focuses on culture, privacy, and a quieter travel style—something many large luxury cruises cannot offer. These four elements clearly show why the experience feels unique and more memorable.

Unique Hue Royal Architecture & Nostalgic Design

Nostalgia Cruise is inspired by the royal architecture of Hue, showcased through Nguyen-Dynasty patterns, handcrafted wooden décor, and elegant Indochine interiors.

Instead of modern hotel-style design, the cruise brings a warm, cultural atmosphere that feels meaningful and visually rich. Many guests describe it as stepping into a small floating palace.

True Small-Group Luxury (Only 10 Cabins)

With just 10 cabins, this boat is a genuine Halong Bay Cruise Small Group option.

Compared with larger vessels carrying 25–40 cabins, Nostalgia offers a quieter environment, fewer people during activities, and more attentive service. Staff can remember your preferences, and shared spaces like the sundeck feel calm throughout the trip.

Less-Touristy Ha Long Route to Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba

Instead of following the busy central Halong Bay route, Nostalgia Cruise travels through peaceful areas of Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island. This includes beautiful spots such as:

• Ao Ech (kayaking)
• Ba Trai Dao (swimming)
• Viet Hai Village (cycling)
• Ba Men Temple
• Trung Trang Cave

These areas have calmer waters, fewer boats, and more natural scenery.

In-Room Spa & Cultural Experiences

Nostalgia combines wellness and culture in a simple but meaningful way. Guests can enjoy:

• In-room spa treatment with herbal or hot-stone therapies
• A traditional Vietnamese tea ceremony after dinner
• Gentle Tai Chi on the sundeck at sunrise

These activities add emotional depth to the journey and help balance relaxation with light cultural learning.

Sailing with Vietpower Travel on a Halong Bay cruise small group means experiencing Vietnam’s natural wonder in a more personal way. These boutique and luxury junks combine comfort, privacy, and authentic service while exploring hidden corners of Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay.

2. What Facilities Do the Cabins Include?

Nostalgia Cruise offers a comfortable and stylish cabin system that fits different travel styles, from couples and honeymooners to families who need extra space. Each cabin blends Indochine charm with modern comfort, creating a relaxing stay throughout your Halong Bay Cruise Small Group journey.

Princess Suite

The Princess Suite offers a charming and welcoming atmosphere ideal for both couples and small families. The room opens to a spacious layout with warm wooden tones, soft textiles, and a private balcony overlooking the karsts of Halong Bay.

Key Features

• 28 sqm of comfortable living space
• Private balcony with direct sea views
• Full set of modern amenities (air-conditioning, minibar, ensuite bathroom, bathtub option depending on layout)
• Indochine-inspired décor with geometric patterns
• Connecting door between two Princess Suites, ideal for families with children
• Soft lighting and traditional silhouettes that highlight Vietnamese craftsmanship

Queen Suite

The Queen Suite elevates the experience with more space and richer cultural detailing. Each corner reflects the vibrant aesthetic of the Nguyen Dynasty—silk-textured walls, subtle golden tones, and artful décor inspired by royal patterns.

Key Features

• 30 sqm with an airy, refined layout
• Located on the second deck for quieter surroundings and elevated views
• Private balcony with panoramic sea scenes
• Art-deco and Oriental-style décor showing influences from ancient Vietnamese feudal aesthetics
• Luxurious bathroom with high-end fittings
• Perfect balance of heritage charm and modern comfort

King Suite

The King Suite represents the highest standard on Nostalgia Cruise. Designed with premium ironwood interiors, this suite feels like a floating chamber reserved for royal guests. The panoramic windows bring in abundant natural light and allow travelers to admire the bay from bed, the sofa, or the balcony.

Key Features

• 35 sqm — the most spacious cabins on board
• Located on the top deck for the best possible sea view
• Ironwood furniture crafted with traditional artistry
• Large balcony ideal for morning coffee, reading, or sunset watching
• Elegant bathroom with premium amenities
• Royal-inspired ambiance reflecting Vietnam’s historical heritage
• Thoughtfully arranged seating area for added comfort

Let’s continue exploring more about Vietnam and its breathtaking cruise experiences. Visit our Vietnam cruise category to discover detailed guides, itineraries, and tips for exploring Vietnam from the water.

3. What Luxury Amenities Does Nostalgia Cruise Offer?

 Nostalgia Cruise brings together comfort, culture, and relaxation, offering facilities that elevate the entire journey—ideal for travelers looking for a refined Halong Bay Cruise Small Group experience.

Outdoor Jacuzzi Pool with Bay View

One highlight of the cruise is its 10-person outdoor jacuzzi, positioned at the bow for a wide view of Lan Ha Bay. This is one of the largest jacuzzis found among small-group cruises, giving guests plenty of space to unwind after activities. The pool is especially enjoyable during sunset, when the sky turns gold above the limestone peaks.

Sundeck Bar & Lounge Areas

The sundeck features a relaxing bar where guests can enjoy cocktails, spirits, and local wine tasting. Soft lighting and comfortable seating make it an inviting place to read, socialize, or admire the scenery drifting by. It also becomes a great viewing spot during dawn and dusk.

Royal-Style Restaurant & Dining Spaces

The onboard restaurant reflects Vietnamese royal aesthetics, with warm wooden interiors and soft lantern-style lighting. Guests may choose indoor seating or an outdoor corner for fresh air and open views. Every meal is served in a calm atmosphere that matches the cultural theme of the cruise.

In-Room Spa & Wellness Treatments

Nostalgia offers private spa services in the comfort of your cabin. Treatments include herbal medicine therapy, hot stone sessions, and facial care. Having these options directly in the room allows travelers to enjoy peaceful relaxation without moving between different areas of the ship.

24/7 Medical Assistance & Safety Standards

The cruise maintains round-the-clock medical support with basic first-aid supplies and trained staff. Safety guidelines are clearly explained at check-in, helping guests feel comfortable throughout the journey.

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4. Is Nostalgia Cruise Suitable for Families or Couples?

Nostalgia Cruise is built for different types of travelers, offering privacy, comfort, and flexible cabin options—ideal for a Halong Bay Cruise Small Group experience.

For Families with Children

Families can choose the Family Suites with spacious connecting rooms. The large jacuzzi is enjoyable for kids, and the calm Lan Ha Bay route makes the trip smooth.

For Couples & Honeymooners

Couples enjoy the King Suite for its panoramic view, warm wooden interior, and private balcony. A candlelight dinner adds a romantic touch to the evening.

For Small Groups

Small groups can charter the entire 10-cabin boat, perfect for celebrations or multi-generation family trips.

5. Itinerary Breakdown: 2D1N vs 3D2N

Nostalgia Cruise offers two carefully structured itineraries. The shorter option suits guests with tight schedules, while the longer journey provides added cultural depth. Both itineraries fit well with the calm and intimate style of a Halong Bay Cruise Small Group experience.

2 Days 1 Night 

Day 1 – Morning

Hanoi → Halong → Boarding

• 08:00–08:30: A limousine (if booked) picks you up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter. You travel along the expressway for around 2.5 hours.
• 11:00–11:30: You arrive at Tuan Chau Marina, check in at the lounge, and wait for the speedboat transfer.
• 11:45–12:00: You board Nostalgia Cruise, receive a welcome drink, and listen to a short safety and itinerary briefing.
• 12:45–13:00: A set-menu lunch is served while the boat sails through Halong Bay and enters the quieter waters of Lan Ha Bay.

Day 1 – Afternoon

Kayaking and Swimming in the Bay

• The cruise heads to Ao Ech or Ba Trai Dao area.
• You join a kayaking session in Ao Ech, paddling through calm green water and enjoying views of limestone cliffs and small bays.
• At Ba Trai Dao, you can swim at a sandy beach with clear water, relax on the shore, or simply stay on the boat to rest and enjoy the view.

Sunset Time on the Cruise

• The boat anchors in the tranquil Tra Bau area.
• You can join:
  • A cooking class on the sundeck where the chef shows you how to make simple Vietnamese dishes (often spring rolls or pancakes).
  • Happy Hour at the bar with a buy-one-get-one drink offer.
  • Optional spa treatment in your cabin (extra charge).
• Many guests use this time to take photos of the sunset over the bay.

Day 1 – Evening

Dinner, Tea Ceremony, and Night Fun

• You enjoy a candlelight dinner in the main restaurant, with a Vietnamese and fusion set menu.
• After dinner, the crew hosts a Vietnamese tea ceremony, where you taste fine tea and learn a bit about the tradition.

Late Evening Activities

• You can try night squid fishing with the crew right from the back of the boat.
• If you prefer something quiet, you can watch a movie in the restaurant, play cards or chess, or have a drink at the bar.
• The sundeck is open for guests who want to feel the breeze and look at the lights on the water.
• Overnight on board in your cabin.

Day 2 – Morning

Tai Chi, Cave Visit, and Farewell

• Join a Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the limestone peaks.
• After that, you have a light breakfast with tea, coffee, and simple dishes.
• A small bus takes you from the pier on Cat Ba Island to Trung Trang Cave, where you walk along a path surrounded by stalactites and rock formations.

Brunch and Disembarkation

• You return to Nostalgia Cruise, pack your luggage, and complete check-out.
• A brunch is served while the boat slowly cruises back towards Tuan Chau Marina.
• Around 11:00–11:30, you disembark at the pier.
• If you booked the transfer, the limousine brings you back to Hanoi, arriving mid-afternoon.

3 Days 2 Nights

The 3D2N itinerary includes everything from the 2D1N trip, plus a full extra day exploring less-visited areas such as Viet Hai Village and Ba Men Temple.

Day 1 – Morning

• Follows the same schedule as the 2D1N program:
  • Pickup in Hanoi (if arranged)
  • Check-in at Tuan Chau Marina
  • Transfer to Nostalgia Cruise
  • Welcome drink, briefing, and lunch while cruising through Halong Bay into Lan Ha Bay.

Day 1 – Afternoon

• Kayaking and swimming around Ba Trai Dao or Ao Ech, depending on weather and schedule.
• Sunset at Tra Bau with:
  • Cooking class
  • Happy Hour
  • Optional spa
• Relaxing on the sundeck until dinner time.

Day 1 – Evening

• Set-menu dinner in the restaurant.
• Tea ceremony after dinner.
• Night activities: squid fishing, movies, games, drinks, or quiet time on deck.
• Overnight on board.

Day 2 – Morning

Viet Hai Village Experience

• Tai Chi at sunrise, followed by breakfast.
• You transfer to a day boat, which takes you deeper into Lan Ha Bay.
• You arrive at Viet Hai Village, a small community inside Cat Ba National Park.
• From the pier, you cycle along a road lined with rice fields, bamboo, and forested hills.
• You stop at an old local house, see traditional architecture, and hear stories about the local lifestyle.

Day 2 – Afternoon

Ba Men Temple and Quiet Bay Time

• You have lunch on the day boat.
• The trip continues to Ba Men Temple, a small spiritual site on a tiny island.
• Nearby, there is a secluded beach where you can:
  • Kayak in calm water
  • Swim and relax
  • Take photos in a very peaceful setting

Return to Nostalgia & Sunset

• In the late afternoon, you come back to Nostalgia Cruise.
• You can join another Happy Hour session and a cooking class at sunset.
• Many guests enjoy relaxing on the sundeck with a drink as the sky changes color.

Day 2 – Evening

• Dinner served on board with a different set menu from Night 1.
• Free time to:
  • Have a drink at the bar
  • Join squid fishing again
  • Watch a movie or rest early
• Overnight in your cabin.

Day 3 – Morning

Final Morning and Cave Visit

• Another Tai Chi session at sunrise, followed by a light breakfast.
• You travel by bus to visit Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island, walking through its 300m long limestone tunnel.

Brunch and Goodbye

• Return to the cruise, pack your bags, and complete check-out.
• Enjoy a farewell brunch as the boat returns to Tuan Chau Marina.
• Disembark around 11:00–11:30, then transfer back to Hanoi if you booked transportation.

Let’s explore more posts on this topic to discover even more about Vietnam’s cruise experiences:

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6. Conclusion

Nostalgia Cruise delivers a refined mix of culture, scenery, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for travelers who value a peaceful and premium journey through Lan Ha Bay. Whether you choose the 2D1N or 3D2N itinerary, the experience blends royal-inspired design, warm service, and well-crafted activities that suit couples, families, and small groups. If you're planning your next getaway and want personalized support, Vietpower Travel is ready to assist with expert advice and reliable booking service. For more curated options and luxury experiences, explore our full collection of Vietnam Cruises.

Contact Vietpower Travel:

• Ha Noi Office: Tuan Hanh Building, No. 82, Alley 116, Nhan Hoa Street, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Tel: +84 936 336 389 - Email: sales@vietpowertravel.com
• International Tour Operator License: 01-711/TCDL-GPLHQT