Why Emeraude Cruise Stands Out in Halong Bay
Data from Halong Bay Tours reveals why Emeraude consistently ranks among the top 3 cruises in the region:
Feature |
Details |
Vessel Size | 55 meters long with 4 decks |
Passenger Capacity | Maximum 90 guests (typically sails at 70% capacity) |
Crew Ratio | 1 crew member per 2 guests |
Sustainability | Advanced wastewater treatment system |
Awards | "Best Luxury Cruise" Vietnam Tourism Awards 2024 |
The Lonely Planet describes the Emeraude as "the perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort, offering an unrivaled perspective of Halong Bay's karst formations."
Emeraude Cruise Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Guide
2-Day/1-Night Classic Itinerary
Time |
Activity |
Highlights |
12:00 PM |
Embarkation |
Welcome drink, safety briefing, cabin allocation |
1:00 PM |
Lunch |
5-course Vietnamese-French fusion meal |
3:30 PM |
Kayaking at Dark & Bright Cave |
Paddle through stunning limestone tunnels |
6:00 PM |
Sunset Cocktails |
Happy hour on the sundeck |
7:30 PM |
Dinner |
Gourmet seafood buffet with live music |
6:30 AM |
Tai Chi |
Morning exercise on the sundeck |
7:00 AM |
Visit Titop Island |
Climb 400 steps for panoramic bay views |
3-Day/2-Night Premium Itinerary Additions
The extended itinerary includes these exclusive experiences:
- Private beach BBQ lunch on a secluded island
- Extended kayaking through less-visited lagoons
- Visit to a floating fishing village with cultural interaction
- Special Vietnamese cooking demonstration
- Night squid fishing activity
Emeraude Cruise Cabin Classes Compared
According to Cruise Critic, Emeraude offers "the most spacious standard cabins in Halong Bay," with all categories featuring:
- Private balconies with seating
- Premium bedding with 300-thread-count linens
- Marble-appointed bathrooms with rain showers
- Individual climate control
- 24-hour room service
Cabin Type |
Size (sq ft) |
Deck |
Special Features |
Superior |
215 |
Main Deck |
Picture windows (no balcony) |
Deluxe |
237 |
Upper Deck |
Private balcony, upgraded amenities |
Emeraude Suite |
323 |
Sun Deck |
Separate living area, butler service |
Pro Tip: Choosing Your Cabin
• Upper Deck cabins have better views but slightly more motion
• Cabins 201-206 are quietest (away from engine noise)
• Suites 301-302 have the largest balconies
• Main Deck cabins are best for those prone to seasickness
• Honeymooners should request cabin 205 (most private balcony)
Emeraude Cruise Dining: A Culinary Journey
The Emeraude dining experience has been praised by Michelin Guide as "an unexpected gourmet discovery in the middle of the bay," featuring:
Breakfast
• Fresh tropical fruits
• Pho bo (beef noodle soup)
• Western options (omelets, pastries)
• Freshly squeezed juices
• Vietnamese coffee
Lunch
• Seafood spring rolls
• Cha ca (turmeric fish)
• Banh xeo (crispy pancakes)
• French-inspired desserts
• Local beer/wine included
Dinner
• 5-course set menu
• Fresh caught squid
• Grilled lobster supplement ($25)
• Wine pairing options
• Live traditional music
Special Dietary Needs
The Emeraude kitchen accommodates:
• Vegetarian/Vegan (notify when booking)
• Gl-free (separate fryer for gluten-free items)
• Halal (requires 72-hour notice)
• Food allergies (detailed ingredient lists available)
• Children's menus (simpler versions of adult dishes)
Emeraude Cruise Activities & Excursions
Beyond the stunning scenery, Emeraude offers carefully curated activities that National Geographic calls "the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation":
Included Activities
• Sunrise Tai Chi classes
• Kayaking through caves
• Swimming in the bay
• Cooking demonstrations
• Squid fishing at night
• Titop Island hike
Premium Add-ons
• Private kayak guide ($35)
• Spa treatments ($45-$90)
• Photography tour ($75)
• Seaplane transfer ($220)
• Private dinner on deck ($150/couple)
Evening Entertainment
• Traditional music performance
• Movie under the stars
• Vietnamese tea tasting
• Cocktail mixing class
• Stargazing with telescope
Activity Level Guide
Gentle
Tai Chi
Tea tasting
Sundeck lounging
Cooking demo
Moderate
Kayaking
Cave visits
Island swimming
Fishing village tour
Active
Titop Island climb
Extended kayaking
Bamboo boat rowing
Morning jog on deck
Booking Your Emeraude Cruise: 2025 Guide
After analyzing Viator's cruise comparison data, we've identified these essential booking tips for the best Emeraude experience:
Booking Factor |
Recommendation |
2025 Notes |
Best Time to Book |
3-6 months in advance |
New 30% deposit policy for 2025 |
Peak Season |
Oct-Dec, Mar-Apr |
15% surcharge applies |
Shoulder Season |
Jan-Feb, May-Jun |
Best weather/value balance |
Low Season |
Jul-Sep |
25% discounts but risk of storms |
Cancellation Policy |
30+ days: full refund |
New weather guarantee for 2025 |
2025 Pricing Guide (Per Person)
2D1N Cruise
Superior: $295
Deluxe: $345
Suite: $495
3D2N Cruise
Superior: $495
Deluxe: $595
Suite: $895
Add-ons
Hanoi transfer: $35
Seaplane: $220
Private guide: $150/day
Prices include all meals, activities, and taxes. 10% service charge extra.
Emeraude vs Other Halong Bay Cruises
Based on Halong Bay Tours' 2024 comparison study, here's how Emeraude stacks up against competitors:
Feature |
Emeraude |
Bhaya |
Paradise Sails |
Orchid |
Year Built |
2003 (2023 refurb) |
2010 |
2008 |
2016 |
Cabin Size |
215-323 sq ft |
180-280 sq ft |
200-300 sq ft |
270-430 sq ft |
Balconies |
All cabins |
Suites only |
70% cabins |
All cabins |
Crew Ratio |
1:2 |
1:3 |
1:2.5 |
1:1.8 |
Sustainability |
Advanced |
Basic |
Moderate |
Advanced |
Price Range |
$$$ |
$$ |
$$$ |
$$$$ |
Who Should Choose Emeraude?
The Emeraude is ideal for:
• History buffs (authentic colonial recreation)
• Couples (romantic ambiance)
• First-time cruisers (excellent service ratio)
• Foodies (gourmet dining program)
• Value-seekers (premium experience at mid-range price)
Consider alternatives if:
• You need ultra-modern design (look at Orchid)
• You're on a tight budget (Bhaya Classic)
• You want largest cabins (Orchid's suites)