Grand Pioneers Cruise (Formerly Essence Grand)
- Ultra-luxury cruise newly launched in Halong Bay
- Varied room types with large area and high-end amenities
- Unique itinerary: Cua Van Floating Fishing Village, Surprise Cave
- The largest outdoor saltwater pool on the bay
- A great variety of facilities: poker club, kid’s club, wine & cigar lounge, karaoke room, spa & treatment, 3D golf Simulator, function rooms, etc.
Cruise information
Rooms & rates
We Price MatchOcean Suite
Ocean Suite Triple
Ocean Balcony Suite
Veranda Suite
Executive Suite
Essence Suite
Oceania Suite
Owner's Suite
About Grand Pioneers Cruise (Formerly Essence Grand)
Launched in November 2023, Grand Pioneers has quickly become one of the largest and most luxurious cruises in Halong Bay. Utilizing cutting-edge technology and a stunning interior, paired with attentive and professional service, this cruise offers an unparalleled getaway with unforgettable experiences.
Pros
+ Spacious and elegantly designed cabins
+ Abundant options for onboard activities featuring modern amenities
+ Outstanding service from staff members
+ Unique itinerary: Cua Van Fishing Village stands out as a highlight
Cons
- Some cabins do not include a private balcony
Bottom Line
Essence Grand Cruise - An exceptional 5-star floating hotel that elevates adventurers' experiences in Halong Bay!
Itinerary & Activities
The cruise provides both 2-day and 3-day itineraries packed with activities. Guests on the 2-day adventure will explore Surprise Cave, the largest and most stunning cave in the region, and visit Cua Van Village, the oldest floating fishing village in Halong Bay. For those opting for the 3-day itinerary, there is an opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay, including visits to Vung Vieng Fishing Village and Thien Canh Son Cave.
A variety of onboard activities are available, such as massage treatments, squid fishing, a poker club, karaoke singing, swimming in the outdoor pool, and golfing, among others.
Cruise Quality
Employing the most advanced technologies, Grand Pioneers Cruise guarantees the highest safety standards for all passengers. The steel vessel is constructed using high-quality materials, eco-friendly fuel, and sustainable paints, minimizing its environmental impact and preserving marine ecosystems.
Cabin Quality
Cabins are situated across the 1st to the 4th decks of the cruise. A variety of 8 cabin categories cater to solo travelers, couples, small groups, and families. Depending on the category, cabins feature either floor-to-ceiling windows or private balconies. However, all accommodations are designed for maximum comfort and convenience. The Owner Suite is the epitome of luxury, boasting an impressive area of 150m² and a private terrace measuring 200m².
Service & Facilities
Grand Pioneers stands out as an all-in-one service destination. Guests not only enjoy premium cabin accommodations but also indulge in a culinary journey featuring both Vietnamese delicacies and international cuisine. Notable facilities include the largest 4-season saltwater swimming pool in Halong Bay, Voyage Wine & Cigar Lounges with an impressive beverage selection, a state-of-the-art 3D Golf Simulator, and a comprehensive spa center with a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and treatment rooms. Additionally, a dedicated kids' club ensures that younger guests have engaging and safe playtime.
Food & Drink
Food enthusiasts will be delighted by a wonderful blend of Asian and European cuisine onboard. The Dining on the Bay restaurant, located on the 5th floor, offers an exquisite dining experience alongside breathtaking views. An extensive selection of premium beverages can be enjoyed at two bars – one indoor and another by the poolside.
Cruise website: GrandPioneersCruises.vn
Frequently asked questions
As of 2025, Grand Pioneers Cruise features a total of 60 cabins, providing guests with more accommodations and enhanced comfort options.
Yes, a kid’s menu remains available upon request, offering a variety of options tailored for younger diners.
No. Please check the exclusions below:
- Transportation: Hanoi – Halong – Hanoi
- Additional beverages not included in the cruise price
- La Spa (spa and massage services)
- Karaoke, cigar lounge, conference facilities, 3D golf simulator
- Gratuities and other personal expenses
- VAT and service charges
- Seasonal surcharges
Yes, the cruise features Ocean Triple Rooms equipped with ocean-view windows located on the 1st deck, providing stunning vistas for guests. These accommodations ensure a comfortable stay while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Certainly. All activities remain optional, allowing you to relax and enjoy various onboard amenities at your leisure.
Things to know
12:15 to 12:30.
9:30 to 10:30 depending on the schedule of each cruise.
Child Policy:
- Children under 5 years old: Free of charge (FOC) when sharing a cabin with 2 adults.
- Only 1 child under 5 years old per cabin is allowed for FOC.
- Children aged 5-11: 75% of the adult rate will be charged.
- Children aged 12 and above: Must pay the full adult fare.
Peak Season Surcharge:
Surcharge $50/adult for the following holidays:
- Christmas 2025 (December 24, 2025)
- New Year’s Eve 2025 (December 31, 2025)
- Lunar New Year (29, 30, 31 January & 1 February 2026)
- Liberation Day (30 April 2026)
- Labor Day (1 May 2026)
- National Day (31 August – 2 September 2026)
- Christmas Eve 2026 (24 December 2026)
- New Year’s Eve 2026 (31 December 2026)
Shuttle Bus (Round Trip): (If it is not included in the cruise package)
- Shuttle bus from Hanoi to Cruise Port: $40/person (adults and children).
- Pick-up points: Hanoi Old Quarter area.
- Luxury cabin equipped with air conditioning and en-suite bathroom
- All meals provided onboard as specified in the itinerary
- Speedboat transfers included
- Welcome beverage upon arrival
- Daily supply of fresh water in each cabin
- Complimentary canapés served during Happy Hour
- Facilities include tai chi classes, gym, four-season swimming pool, salt-water pool, table soccer, and a kids' club
- Activities available: cave exploration, squid fishing, kayaking
- Wifi access and HD LED TV with satellite channels onboard
- Professional guides fluent in English and Vietnamese
- Onboard insurance coverage provided
- VAT and service charges included in the package
- Transportation from Hanoi to Halong and back to Hanoi
- Beverages included
- Spa services (spa treatments and massage)
- Karaoke lounge, cigar and wine bar, conference facilities, 3D golf simulation
- Gratuities
- Personal travel and health insurance
- Additional personal expenses
- VAT and service charges applicable
- Peak season surcharge may apply
- Any other services not explicitly mentioned above
Maps and Itineraries
Our guest's experiences (9)
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The trip with Essence Grand was faultless. The vessel is new and modern. We love our cabin with a lovely balcony and super clean bathroom. The scenery of Halong Bay was unbeatable. You should notice that the excursions will be crowded but we were satisfied with the view. The food onboard was great and lots of it. The staff was caring and always made sure we felt comfortable. Can't recommend it enough.
A variety of activities and a nice balance with break time to experience onboard facilities. The accommodation was spacious and comfortable. Excellent meals with lots of options. Brunch was not as good as lunch and dinner but the food was overall good.
The trip was well organized from start to finish. The room was the same as the picture and the view from the balcony was fantastic. The staff was hospitable and helpful. A shout out to Mr. K and Christina for excellent service. Would recommend Essence Grand to our friends!
We had a nice time. Halong Bay is crowded but engaging. The trip to Surprise Cave was incredible. Kayaking on the bay (through the cave) was a must-try. The food was amazing and plentiful. The staff was superb. Thank you very much!
My family booked the cruise for 2 nights. Essence Cruise was top-notch. The interiors are new and super clean. All the modern facilities made our trip more enjoyable. The staff was young and attentive. The guide Mr. K went out of his way to accommodate our needs. The bay was captivating with beautiful spots. The activities on day 2 were one of the highlights. There were fewer boats and the beach was amazing. The cons is the quality of the boat on day 2. It was old and did not match the quality of Essence Grand vessel.
Such a trip of a lifetime. Essence Grand is the biggest and newest cruise in Halong Bay. The facilities are premium. Our Veranda Suite is spotless and comfortable. Highly recommended!