How to Choose a Cruise: The 5 Best Cruise Lines in Halong Bay

In 2025, Halong Bay cruises continue to offer a unique experience compared to those in the Caribbean. Vendors operate on a smaller scale, but many lines come under a few key operators. We highlight the main cruise companies travelers should consider for an unforgettable journey.

1. Bhaya Cruise Group

Bhaya Cruises 

Operates: Bhaya Classic Cruise Halong Bay, Bhaya Premium Cruise, Bhaya Legend Cruise, and The Au Co Cruise.

Bhaya Cruises remains the largest operator in Halong Bay, boasting a significant fleet. Their high ratings on travel review platforms reflect their reputation. They operate four cruise lines, each offering diverse experiences for 1 or 2-night journeys.

Boutique options like Bhaya Classic & Premium feature traditional wooden junks, providing cost-effective yet luxurious experiences. The Premium line offers more privacy with fewer cabins onboard.

For an upscale option, The Au Co emphasizes cultural experiences alongside its luxury offerings, including onboard spas. Passengers can enjoy a seamless 3-day, 2-night cruise without changing boats.

Bhaya Legend offers private cruising experiences with flexible itineraries and 1-3 cabins on each vessel.

Activities include:

• Tai Chi at dawn.
• Culinary competitions.
• Kayaking through karsts.
• Swimming at Ba Trai Dao and Bright and Dark Cave.
• Spa services (available on select lines).
• Squid fishing sessions.

Perks include all-inclusive activities and cruises through Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay.

Prices start from: $320 USD.

Trip durations: 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights.

2. Indochina Junk Cruise Line

Indochina Junk 

Operates: Red Dragon Junk, Dragon Legend Cruise, Dragon’s Pearl Junk, L’ Amour Junk, and Prince Junk.

Indochina Junk, a reputable 5-star operator, hosts five lines that cruise Halong and Bai Tu Long Bay. Their vessels range from small and intimate to grand luxury options, ensuring a wonderful guest experience.

Dragon Legend offers 24-cabin luxury vessels with spa facilities, while Dragon’s Pearl Junk is suitable for larger groups with 11 deluxe cabins. The Red Dragon Junk, handcrafted with traditional designs, accommodates up to 11 guests for an intimate feel.

Prince Junk boats, mirroring local fishing vessels, have 2 to 4 cabins, ensuring a cozy ambiance perfect for families or couples. The private L’Amour Junk offers a romantic getaway.

Activities include:

• Kayaking.
• Beach barbecues.
• Fishing excursions.

Perks involve a free transfer service from Hanoi and visits to Vung Vieng fishing village for a cultural encounter.

Prices start from: $210 USD.

Trip durations include 1 day, 2 days 1 night, 3 days 2 nights, or 4 days 3 nights.

3. Pelican Group

Peony Cruise - A top seller in Halong Bay! 

Operates: Orchid Cruises, Azalea Cruises, Peony Cruises, Glory Legend Cruise, and Pelican.

Pelican offers an attractive 4-star option, blending luxury with affordability. Each cruise features a limited number of cabins and amenities like spas and gyms for an upscale experience. Ship sizes vary, mainly influencing cabin numbers and overall ambiance.

Main activities include:

• Tai Chi sessions.
• Exploration of caves.
• Kayaking through scenic areas.
• Onboard spa treatments.
• Evening squid fishing.
• Movie screenings on Orchid Cruise.

Perks include travel between Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay and reduced travel time from Hanoi.

Prices start from: $230 USD.

Trip durations: 2 days 1 night or 3 days 2 nights.

4. Athena Cruise Line

Athena Cruises 

Operates: Athena Cruise and Signature Cruise.

Athena Cruise offers a mid-sized luxury experience with 21 cabins, serving 5-star cuisine and providing 24/7 staff support for guest comfort. Signature Cruise features a traditional wooden boat with similar exceptional service and diverse culinary delights.

Activities include:

• Tai Chi.
• Thien Canh Son Cave tours.
• Kayaking.
• Visiting Vung Vieng Floating Village.
• Cooking classes.
• Spa services on Signature Cruise.

Perks: Easy transport arrangements from Hanoi, though at an additional charge.

Prices from: $300 USD.

Trip durations: 1 day cruise, 2 days 1 night, or 3 days 2 nights.

5. Aclass Cruise Line

Stellar of the Seas: One of the elite cruises in Halong Bay. 

Operates: Aclass Legend Cruise, Carina Cruise, Aclass Stellar Cruise, and Stellar of the Seas.

With over a decade in hospitality, Aclass Cruises proudly operates four lines providing stunning cruises through Halong, Lan Ha, and Bai Tu Long Bays. Aclass Stellar excels with 21 cabins and luxurious amenities, featuring a pool and mini-golf course, while Carina Cruise offers an intimate experience with just 9 cabins.

Activities include:

• Local bamboo boat tours.
• Kayaking and swimming.
• Trekking on Titop Island.
• Tai Chi classes.
• Nighttime squid fishing.
• Cooking demos.

Perks: Facilities on Stellar of the Seas include a pool, mini-golf, spa, and wine and cigar cellar with multilingual staff for guest support.

Prices from: $260 USD.

Trip durations: Day trips, 2 days 1 night, or 3 days 2 nights.