Grand Pioneers (Essence Grand) Cruise Halong Bay
$208/
per personAbout Grand Pioneer Cruise
From a love of Ha Long Bay and a desire to promote tourism to the World Heritage Site, Viet Thuan Group – a leading Vietnamese company in domestic waterway transportation industry, has created the largest, most modern and safest cruise in Ha Long Bay that embodies the philosophy of “Passion for Excellence” and meets international standards – Grand Pioneer Cruise.
Grand Pioneer Cruise is a fully designed and built new ship with the latest technology to ensure its stability and high safety standards for a fully enjoyable experience on the cruise. Additionally, our commitment to environmental friendliness, along with a clear focus on sustainable development throughout our operations and the promise of a dedicated staff team that follows our belief in ‘Service from the Heart,’ will surely bring you a unique and memorable experience on the cruise
Why Book With Us?
- Trusted Local Experts in Vietnam
- Easy Booking & Local Support
- English-Speaking Team Onboard
- Best Price Guarantee, True Local Value
- Well-Planned Itineraries
- Responsive Support
- Free Booking Changes (Before 7 Days)
- Only 50% Deposit to Secure Your Spot
Cabin and Suites
Ocean Suite
Location: 1st Floor , Room Size: 30m2 , Floor-to-ceiling window

Ocean Suite – TPL
Location: 1st floor, Room size: 43 m2, 03 SGL beds or 01 DBL + 01 SGL beds, Floor-to-ceiling window

Ocean Balcony Suite
Location: 2nd – 3rd – 4th floor, Room size: 40m2 , Private balcony 5m2

Veranda Suite
Location: 2nd Floor , Room Size: 40m2 , 5m2 private balcony

Executive Suite
Location: 3rd – 4th Floor , Room Size: 40m2 , 5m2 private balcony

The Essence Suite
Location: 4th Floor , Room Size: 60m2 , Terrace: 20m2 , Private garden

The Oceania Suite
Location: 3rd Floor, Room Size: 95m2. Bathtub, private lounge, Panoramic views

The Owner Suite
Location: 3rd Floor, Room Size: 150m2 + terrace 200m2, Outdoor jacuzzi, Bathtub, 2 bedrooms, Owner privileges package

The Signature Suite
Location: 3rd Floor, Room size: 95m2 , Bathtub, living room, Panoramic views

2D1N Halong Bay Itinerary
11:30 – 11:45 Tuan Chau International, Cruise PortYou will be presented at Tuan Chau International Port (Navigation: ), where Essence Grand Cruise staff will welcome and assist with check-in procedures.
12:30 Check-in , You will check in at the Reception, on the first floor.
13:00 – 14:30 Enjoy our welcome drink and be introduced about the itinerary and safety policies.
Lunch will be served in the Dining By The Bay restaurant.
15:30 – 16:30 Explore the Sung Sot Cave , The transfer boat and the team of Essence Grand Cruise staff will take you to the Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay, discovered by a group of French explorers in 1901.
*For the guest who do not get involved in experience activities. You can enjoy our services on the cruise including spa & massage, 4-season pool, cigar & lounge, kid clubs, ect.
17:30 – 18:30 Sunset & Happy Hour time, Enjoy the best moments of the day as the sun hits the water between the dramatic limestone peaks and emeraldgreen coves, choose and savor Canapé and your favorite drink offerings at the Sky bar.
19:00 Dinner at Restaurant, Tantalize your taste buds with a selection of Western and Vietnamese cuisine.
21:00 After dinner, chill out in your suite; pamper yourself at spa; experience squid fishing back of the boat on the first floor; or spend time with your fellow companions at our cigar and wine lounge, karaoke club, skybar or the pool bar.
Overnight on the Essence Grand Halong Bay Cruise.
*Some activities may incur an additional charge – see the exclusions.
05:30 – 06:00 Enjoy the magnificent sunrise across Heritage Bay, immerse yourself in the sound of waves and be ready for a chill and fresh day.
06:00 – 6:30 Start the day on our Essence Grand Halong Bay Cruise with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck or a work-out in the gym; or you may just want to sleep in.
A light breakfast will be served in the restaurant.
07:30 – 08:30 Our speed boat will transport you to Luon Cave – a best destination for visiting by rowing bamboo boat, located on
the north-eastern part of Bo Hon Island.
09:30 – 10:30 Check out at our Reception Desk on the first floor. Enjoy the brunch buffet on the cruise while continuing the journey back to the port.
10:45 Cruise back to the Essence Grand Cruise port.
11:00 Arrive back in Hanoi approximately. End of your 2 days 1 night trip.
3D2N Halong Bay Itinerary
11:30 – 11:45 Tuan Chau International Marina
You will be presented at Tuan Chau International Port (Navigation: ), where Essence Grand Cruise staff will welcome and assist with check-in procedures.
12:30 Check-in
You will check in at the reception, on the first floor.
13:00 – 14:30 Enjoy the welcome drinks and have lunch
Enjoy our welcome drink and be introduced about the itinerary and safety policies.
Lunch will be served in the Dining By The Bay restaurant.
15:30 – 16:30 Explore the Sung Sot Cave
The transfer boat and the Essence Grand Cruise staff team will take you to the Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay, discovered by a group of French explorers in 1901.
*For the guests who do not get involved in experience activities.
You can enjoy our services on the cruise including spa & massage, 4-season pool, cigar & lounge, kid clubs, etc.
17:30 – 18:30 Sunset and Happy Hour time
Enjoy the best moments of the day as the sun hits the water between the dramatic limestone peaks and emerald-green coves, choose and savour Canapé and your favourite drink offerings at the Sky bar.
19:00 Dinner at restaurant
Tantalise your taste buds with a selection of Western and Vietnamese cuisine.
21:00 After dinner
After dinner, chill out in your suite; pamper yourself at the spa; experience squid fishing back of the boat on the first floor; or spend time with your fellow companions at our cigar and wine lounge, karaoke club, sky bar or the pool bar.
Overnight on the Essence Grand Halong Bay Cruise.
*Some activities may incur an additional charge – see the exclusions.
05:30 – 06:00 Amazing sunrise time
Enjoy the magnificent sunrise across Heritage Bay, immerse yourself in the sound of waves and be ready for a chill and fresh day.
06:00 – 6:30 Meditation on Sundeck
Start your new day full of energy with meditation exercises that help balance and regenerate energy or fitness exercises at the gym on the cruise ship.
06:30 – 07:30 Light Breakfast
A light breakfast will be served in the restaurant.
08:30 Transfer to day boat
You will be picked up at the cruise and start your trip from Titop island by day boat.
10:30 – 11:30 Transfer to Lan Ha bay
Transfer to Lan Ha bay which is formed by the archipelago Cat Ba island. Stop at Dark and Bright caves area for kayaking.
11:30 Lunch time
Lunch will be served on boat
12:30 – 13:30 Chilling time at Ba Trai Dao beach
Enjoy the crystal blue water and beautiful white sand in Ba Trai Dao beaches.
13:30 Return to Halong bay
Return to Halong for continuing a exploration journey
14:45 – 15:25 Visit Pearl Farm Exhibition Center and Museum
Visit and experience the pearl farming process at Pearl Farm Exhibition Center and Museum.
15:30 – 15:45 Return to Essence Grand Cruise
Return to Essence Grand Cruise
17:30 – 18:30 Sunset & Happy Hour time
Enjoy the best moments of the day as the sun hits the water between the dramatic limestone peaks and emerald-green coves, choose and savor Canapé and your favourite drink offerings at the Sky bar.
19:00 Dinner at Restaurant
Tantalize your taste buds with a selection of Western and Vietnamese cuisine.
21:00 After dinner
After dinner, chill out in your suite; pamper yourself at spa; experience squid fishing back of the boat on the first floor; or spend time with your fellow companions at our cigar and wine lounge, karaoke club, skybar or the pool bar.
Overnight on the Essence Grand Halong Bay Cruise.
*Some activities may incur an additional charge – see the exclusions.
05:30 – 06:00 Amazing sunrise time
Enjoy the magnificent sunrise across Heritage Bay, immerse yourself in the sound of waves and be ready for a chill and fresh day.
06:00 – 6:30 Meditation on Sundeck
Start your new day full of energy with meditation exercises that help balance and regenerate energy or fitness exercises at the gym on the cruise ship.
06:30 – 07:30 Light Breakfast
A light breakfast will be served in the restaurant.
07:30 – 08:30 Visit the Luon cave by a bamboo boat
Our speed boat will transport you to Luon Cave – a best destination for visiting by rowing bamboo boat, located on the north-eastern part of Bo Hon Island.
09:30 – 10:30 Check out and Enjoy a brunch buffet
Check out at our Reception Desk on the first floor. Enjoy the brunch buffet on the cruise while continuing the journey back to the port.
10:45 Get back to the Essence Grand Lounge
Cruise back to the Essence Grand Cruise port.
11:00 Start your trip back to Hanoi
Arrive back in Hanoi approximately 14:30 – 14:45. End of your 3 days 2 nights trip.
Halong Bay Cruise Prices
- 🔹 2 Days 1 Night Cruise: from USD $208 per person
- 🔹 3 Days 2 Nights Cruise: from USD $380 per person
Prices listed are starting rates based on group travel and standard cabin categories.
Final pricing may vary depending on your travel dates, preferred cruise line, and cabin type.
✅ For the most accurate and up-to-date quote, please contact us — our team will provide a personalized offer tailored to your itinerary and preferences.
Transportation
Transportation between Hanoi and the cruise port is not included in the cruise price. We offer a range of convenient transfer options to suit your preferences and schedule:
➤ Shared Shuttle or Limousine Bus (Hanoi ⇄ Tuan Chau Port)
The bus will pick you up at approximately 8:00 - 8:30 from our meeting point or from your hotel within the Hanoi Old Quarter.
➤ Private Car Transfer
Available upon request for greater flexibility and comfort
Ideal for families or small groups
➤ Arriving On Your Own
If you are traveling independently, please arrive at the Tuan Chau Marina Lounge between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM for check-in and boarding.
💡 Tip: Let us know in advance if you would like to add transportation service — we’ll be happy to arrange everything for a smooth journey.
Thank you for your interest in our Ha Long Bay Cruise! Cruise itineraries and pricing may vary based on cabin type, cruise operator, and seasonal availability. Feel free to contact us — we’ll be happy to check availability and provide a personalized quote that matches your travel style.
Vielokal Consultant Team
Notes
- All prices are based on per adult, in Double/Twin sharing
- Surcharge will be applied for single traveler or single room request
Inclusion & Exclusion
- Accommodation in air-conditioned cabin.
- Welcome drinks with warm/cold tissue, and two bottles of mineral water in each cabin
- English-speaking tour guide on boat
- All meals aboard as mentioned in the itineraries, (01 lunch, 01 dinner, 01 breakfast, 01 brunch) for 2 days 1 night, (02 lunches, 02 dinners, 02 breakfasts, 01 brunch) for 3 days 2 nights
- Activities: kayaking, cooking class, Tai Chi exercise, swimming (if weather permits), squid fishing,
- Sightseeing entrance fees
- Transfer services (Hanoi – Ha Long – Hanoi)
- Gratuities
- Airfare, Visa arrangements
- Beauty spa and massage services
- Other beverages, and personal expenses
- All other services not clearly mentioned
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation by Customer
More than 21 days before check-in: FREE of charge
From 11 to 20 days before check-in: 30% of total rates
From 7 to 10 days before check-in: 50% of total rates
Less than 7 days before check-in & no Show: 100% of total rates
Cancellation due to bad weather
If the cancellation be announced by the Management Board of Halong Bay, depend on the timing of the cancellation, following policies will be applied:
Before departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay (none of the services has been used): 100% refund.
During the trip (some services have been used: transfer, lunch, day trip, hotel in Halong, etc.): used services will be charged, the rest will be refunded.
The trip be cut down from 2 nights to 1 night, tourists will be charged a 2 days/1 night trip, plus other used services, the rest will be refunded.
The final cost will be confirmed by your consultant via email. In all cases, please contact us directly for any urgent help. We are here to support you with all of our best!
Children Policy
01 Child below 5 years old is F.O.C sharing EVERYTHING with parents. In case have 02 children under 5 years old sharing the same bed with parents: surcharge 75% adult rate
Children from 5 to under 11 staying on separate bed: charge 75% adult price, sharing room with parents
2 Children under 11 share a private room: charge 01 room rate. 1 Child under 11 stay a private room: charge 80% room rate
Children from 11 years old consider adult
Frequently Asked & Question
Vietnam stretches over 1,600 kilometers from north to south, which means its climate varies by region. Generally, the best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and temperatures are comfortably mild across most parts of the country. This period offers ideal conditions for exploring cities, beaches, and cultural landmarks alike.
If you're heading to the central region — including destinations like Hoi An, Danang, and Hue — the months from March to August are also excellent. You’ll enjoy sunny weather, fewer tourists, and often better hotel rates during this time.
Looking for travel inspiration, tips, and local insights? [Explore our Vietnam Travel Guide here.]
Vietnam's weather varies significantly by region due to its long, narrow geography.
Southern Vietnam (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta) enjoys hot and dry weather from November to April, with temperatures ranging between 25–35°C (77–95°F). The rainy season peaks between June and August, bringing short but heavy showers.
Central Vietnam (e.g., Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue) is typically hot and dry from January to August, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F). October and November can bring heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons, especially along the coast.
Northern Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi, Sapa, Ninh Binh) experiences a cooler, drier climate from November to April, with temperatures averaging 17–22°C (63–72°F). The summer months from May to October are warm and humid, with heavy rainfall, particularly in July through September.
Each region has its own best time to visit depending on your preferred activities and destinations.
Looking for travel inspiration, tips, and local insights? [Explore our Vietnam Travel Guide here.]
Booking with Vielokal Travel is simple and flexible:
Browse our tours and find the one you love.
Fill out the inquiry form with the tour code and your details (travel dates, number of people, contact information, and any special requests).
If you're just inquiring, one of our travel consultants will reach out shortly to finalize the details and guide you through the payment process. If you're booking directly, you may be prompted to make a deposit payment.
Once your booking is confirmed (and deposit paid, if applicable), you’ll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and further details.
Throughout your journey, our travel consultant will provide support and check in to ensure everything runs smoothly.
👉 You can also contact us directly via WhatsApp or email us at contact@vielokaltravel.com for quick assistance or to make a booking.
You can pay the booking deposit by credit card or international bank transfer.
If you pay by bank transfer, please ask your travel consultant to send you Vielokal Travel's bank details. Bank fees determined by your bank, including fees collected by the receiving bank, are paid by you.
If you pay by credit card, Vielokal Travel will send you an electronic invoice through email. Payments can be made from your computer in minutes. Bank fees, up to 3% or 3.3% of the deposit amount (for Visa, Master cards, etc.) are paid by you.
Absolutely! We specialize in creating personalized travel experiences. If you like one of our existing tours but want to modify it (change duration, add destinations, upgrade hotels), just let us know in your inquiry. Alternatively, if you want a completely unique itinerary built from scratch based on your interests, budget, and travel style, please fill out our "Tailor-Made Tour" request form or contact us directly. Our expert consultants love crafting dream trips!
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Many nationalities are eligible for visa exemptions for short stays (usually 15-45 days). Others may need to apply for an e-visa online in advance or obtain a visa via a Vietnamese embassy/consulate. We strongly recommend checking the latest official visa requirements for your specific passport country well before your travel date. We can provide general guidance, but the responsibility for obtaining the correct visa lies with the traveller.
While we do not include travel insurance in our standard packages, we highly recommend that all travellers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departing for Vietnam. Good insurance protects you against unforeseen circumstances like trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. Proof of insurance may sometimes be requested.
Once your deposit is received and your booking is confirmed, you will receive:
A formal Booking Confirmation email.
A detailed day-by-day itinerary (if not already provided).
Service Vouchers (usually sent closer to the travel date) confirming your arrangements (hotels, tours, transfers).
Contact details for our support team in Vietnam should you need assistance during your trip.
Your dedicated travel consultant will remain available to answer any further questions you have before you travel.
Deep Local Expertise & Passion: We're not just booking agents; we are passionate locals and Vietnam travel experts based right here! We live and breathe Vietnam every day. This means we have intimate, up-to-date knowledge of destinations, hidden gems, cultural etiquette, and the best local spots that many others might miss. We offer authentic insights that only locals can provide.
Truly Personalized & Flexible Itineraries: We believe your trip should be yours. Forget rigid, one-size-fits-all packages. We listen carefully to your interests, travel style, pace, and budget to craft a unique, tailor-made itinerary just for you. Want to linger longer somewhere? Add a specific activity? We make it happen.
Focus on Authentic Experiences: We strive to connect you with the real heart and soul of Vietnam. This means incorporating meaningful interactions with local people, unique cultural experiences, delicious regional cuisine, and steering you towards genuine discoveries beyond the usual tourist crowds where possible.
Dedicated Support & Seamless Service: From your very first inquiry until you safely return home, you'll have a dedicated travel consultant. Crucially, being based in Vietnam means we offer reliable on-the-ground support 24/7 during your trip. If anything unexpected happens, we're right here to assist you immediately, ensuring a smooth and worry-free journey.
Excellent Value & Transparency: We leverage our local connections to offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Our quotes are detailed and transparent, clearly outlining what's included and excluded, so there are no hidden surprises. We focus on providing exceptional value for your investment.
Commitment to Quality & Responsibility: We carefully select our partners (hotels, guides, drivers) based on quality, reliability, and professionalism. We are also committed to responsible tourism practices that respect local culture and benefit the communities you visit.
Choosing Vielokal Travel means choosing peace of mind, authentic discovery, personalized care, and unbeatable local expertise for your unforgettable Vietnam adventure. Let us show you the difference!