Is Pelican Cruise Worth It? Honest Traveler Review

Exploring Halong Bay becomes unforgettable with Pelican Cruise, a trusted name offering deluxe cabins, authentic dining, and cultural programs. Since 2012, the fleet has combined comfort, eco-friendly practices, and curated itineraries such as kayaking at Luon Cave and hiking Titop Island. With clear child policies, vegetarian menus, and wheelchair access, Pelican ensures value for families, couples, and groups alike. Backed by Vietpower Travel, a licensed Vietnam DMC, your journey is safe, reliable, and designed to highlight the best of cruise Halong Bay Vietnam.

1. Pelican Cruise Overview

Take advantage of exclusive perks including up to 15% off, complimentary kayaking, and private event arrangements onboard. Vietpower ensures authentic service and highly competitive prices, standing among the top luxury cruise choices in Halong Bay — especially within Most Entertaining Cruise Ships 2025 collection.

History & Operator Background

Pelican Cruise first set sail in 2012 under the management of Halong Image Cruise Company, one of the pioneers in bringing modern yet authentic cruising to Halong Bay. Beyond the comfort of a luxury vessel, the experience emphasizes Vietnam’s maritime heritage through cultural activities and storytelling onboard. Travelers often find that these historical and cultural touches enrich their journey, transforming it into more than just a sightseeing tour.

Cabin & Rates – Pelican Cruise

When booking a Pelican Cruise, travelers can select from a variety of cabin types tailored to different budgets and expectations. Each room is designed with natural wood interiors, private bathrooms, and large windows to enjoy the breathtaking views of Halong Bay.

Deluxe Ocean View

• Size: 17 m²
• Bed Options: Double or Twin
• View: Ocean-facing windows
• Best For: Couples or small families who want a cozy, affordable cabin with all the essentials.

Suite Ocean View

• Size: 17 m²
• Bed Options: Double or Twin
• Location: Upper deck for better views
• Best For: Guests looking for an upgraded perspective of Halong Bay without moving into a premium category.

Royal Suite with Balcony

• Size: 30 m²
• Bed Options: Double bed
• Features: Private balcony, more spacious bathroom, elegant interior
• Best For: Honeymooners, couples, or travelers who value added privacy and space with uninterrupted sea views.

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2. Pelican Cruise Itinerary

2 Days 1 Night (2D1N)

Day 1 – Hanoi → Halong Bay

• Morning: Shuttle from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Marina (optional). Warm welcome with drinks and safety briefing before boarding.
• Afternoon: Enjoy buffet lunch while cruising past limestone islets. Kayak through the serene waters of Luon Cave and explore the hidden lagoon. Later, swim or hike to the summit of Titop Island for breathtaking views.
• Evening: Savor a Vietnamese BBQ dinner on board. Night activities include squid fishing under the stars, live jazz vibes on deck, or simply relaxing with cocktails while the ship anchors in a quiet bay.

Day 2 – Halong Bay → Hanoi

• Morning: Tai Chi session at sunrise on the sundeck. Light breakfast with coffee and pastries. Explore Surprise Cave (Hang Sửng Sốt) with its fascinating stalactites. Return for brunch on board as the cruise heads back to port. Disembark before midday and transfer back to Hanoi.

3 Days 2 Nights (3D2N)

Day 1 – Hanoi → Halong Bay

• Morning: Pick-up in Hanoi Old Quarter (optional). Check in at Pelican Lounge, welcome aboard.
• Afternoon: Lunch served while sailing past iconic islets. Kayaking at Luon Cave, followed by Ta Itop Island swim and hike.
• Evening: Sunset cocktails on deck, cooking class demonstration, and BBQ dinner. Night entertainment includes squid fishing, a jazz-inspired evening ambiance, or stargazing.

Day 2 – Halong Bay Exploration

• Morning: Tai Chi on sundeck at sunrise, followed by breakfast. Visit Surprise Cave to admire its rock formations.
• Afternoon: Stop at a floating fishing village to discover the lifestyle of locals on the bay. Free time for kayaking, swimming, or relaxing on the sundeck. Guests may also join marine life observation activities to spot aquatic creatures unique to Halong’s ecosystem.
• Evening: Dinner served onboard. Afterward, enjoy music, casual games, or unwind at the bar.

Day 3 – Halong Bay → Hanoi

• Morning: Tai Chi, light breakfast. Short excursion or leisure on the sundeck. Brunch is served while cruising back to Tuan Chau Marina. Disembark around 11:30 AM and transfer back to Hanoi.

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3. Onboard Experiences 

Culinary Journey

Dining on the Pelican Cruise is an experience in itself.

• Vietnamese BBQ Dinner: In the evening, guests enjoy a freshly prepared Vietnamese BBQ on the sundeck. Grilled seafood, meats, and vegetables are served hot, paired with refreshing drinks.
• Spring Roll Cooking Class: In the afternoon, the chef hosts a hands-on cooking class where you learn how to make traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. Guests can roll, fry, and taste their own creations, making it both fun and memorable.
• Cocktails & Sunset: As the sun sets over Halong Bay, the bar serves cocktails and mocktails. Watching the golden sky while sipping your favorite drink is often one of the most photographed moments of the trip.

Wellness & Leisure

Pelican Cruise also focuses on relaxation and well-being.

• Tai Chi at Sunrise: Start the morning with a Tai Chi class on the sundeck. The gentle movements combined with the fresh sea air create a peaceful start to your day.
• Spa Treatments: After kayaking or climbing Titop Island, you can unwind with a massage or skincare treatment at the onboard spa. It’s the perfect way to restore your energy.
• Eco-Friendly Biofuel Vessel: The cruise uses biofuel technology, reducing its environmental footprint. This eco-conscious practice allows you to enjoy your journey while knowing you’re helping preserve Halong Bay.

Social & Family-Friendly Activities

Evenings on the Pelican Cruise are filled with entertainment and bonding opportunities.

• Family Cabins & Group Dining: Spacious family cabins and shared meals make it easy for parents and children to enjoy quality time together.
• Karaoke Evenings: The karaoke lounge is a lively spot where guests sing their favorite songs and create a joyful atmosphere.
• Live Jazz Night: One of the highlights is the live jazz night on deck. Under the starlit sky, the soft music creates a romantic and unforgettable setting, especially for couples.

4. Is Pelican Cruise Worth It?

Pelican Cruise delivers strong value with modern cabins, varied dining, and a well-structured itinerary. Guests enjoy kayaking, Tai Chi, and cultural activities alongside meals that include vegetarian menus. These extras give travelers more than standard inclusions, making the price fair for what is offered on a cruise in Halong Bay Vietnam.

Who Should Choose Pelican?

• Couples: Ideal for honeymoons, with private balconies and live jazz nights.
• Families: Child-friendly policy, family cabins, and wheelchair access ensure comfort for all ages.
• Groups & Planners: Organized services and flexible layouts suit group tours and corporate travel.

5. Conclusion

Choosing Pelican Cruise means enjoying a balanced blend of comfort, cultural experiences, and sustainable travel on Halong Bay. From spacious cabins and authentic Vietnamese cuisine to unique touches like live jazz nights and eco-friendly biofuel vessels, Pelican delivers memorable journeys for couples, families, and groups. Backed by Vietpower Travel, your trusted Vietnam tour operator, every booking comes with expertise, safety, and personalized service.

Contact Vietpower Travel

• 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