| Trip Valid: | Until December 30th, 2011 |
| Duration: | 2Days/1Night |
| Highlights: | Luxury accommodation in wooden cabin with A/C, hot shower, mini bar Entrance fees, Taxes and Service charge Exclusive Cruise through Halong Bay |
| Trip Code: | HLBT018 |
| Guarantee: | Daily Departure! |
| Group Size: | Minimum 02 Pax |
| Price: | US$ 150.00 Pax |
| Extras: | Tour excludes: International / domestic airfare International / domestic airport tax private transfers Vietnam Visa Travel insurance Personal Expenses such as drinks from the Bar, Tips and Gratuities Pre-post accommodation in Hanoi |
Old world charm resurfaced on the calm water of Halong Bay, Vietnam with the launch of a magnificent five star vessel Emeraude modeled in the tradition of the grand old single wheeled paddle steamer of the colonial era. One of the great natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay covers an area of 1,500 km² over which are scattered thousands of limestone islands and grottoes rising from the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.
Your cruise through Halong Bay wends among otherworldly karst formations and opens up views of one stupendous seascape after another. Be sure to key on the following attractions, as well. Changeable conditions and tides can affect the route, visibility and anchorage, but the following spots should be visible from the sun deck.
Early French tourists who wandered among the 10,000 square meters of this cavern dubbed this space "Grotte des Surprises", or Surprise Cave. Sung Sot more than lives up to its name on Bon Ho Island, situated right at the heart of the UNESCO-recognised World Heritage area.
From the wharf, 50 steep stone steps lead up to the entrance, but the view is worth the effort. The grotto features thousands of stalactites and stalagmites. Paths, lights and signposts guide you through two caves which continue to offer yet more twists, turns and, yes, surprises throughout.
Seven hundred people live at Cua Van in a calm bay surrounded by limestone karsts. Most, not surprisingly, earn their living by fishing and spend almost their entire existence living on the water.
The following day you will also pass Vung Vien Floating Village. Sixteen hundred people live on Halong Bay itself in similar communities.
The Emeraude anchors at Hang Trong. Hang Trong , or Drum Cave, refers to a nearby cave that earned its name as a result of the sound made as the wind blows through its stalagmites and stalactites.
The waters here are quiet for swimming and there is lots to explore by kayak.
Depending on conditions there are as many as five potential anchorage spots. Though Hang Trong is the most used, conditions may mean the vessel's captain opts for another site.
Titov Island was named after an illustrious visitor, Gherman Stepanovich Titov, who visited the spot on November 22, 1962 alongside President Ho Chi Minh. The Soviet astronaut was the second person to orbit the earth. Titov himself returned some 35 years later on June 27, 1997.
The island is noted for a beautiful crescent-shaped beach that's popular with swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. You may also hike 420 steps up to a pavilion at the summit for a panoramic view of Halong Bay.
On its return to Bai Chay, the Emeraude cruises past Soi Sim. Unlike the limestone karsts, this soil-based island supports ancient trees and a stunning white sand beach.
Most travelers journey to Emeraude Pier with their tour group. But independent travelers can elect to take the Emeraude Shuttle.
Two 16-seat Ford Transit mini buses make daily departures from Hanoi and Halong City. The eastbound bus to Halong leaves from the Emeraude's sales office at 59A Ly Thai To every morning at 8.30. The westbound bus leaves Emeraude Pier for the return trip to Hanoi at 9.30am. The three-hour each-way trip costs $35 return.
From shuttle to cruiser, we anticipate virtually direct boarding but, for those arriving independently, the Emeraude Cafe offers a comfortable place to spend time until embarkation.
Shop for souvenirs or enjoy a drink or snack. The Café serves a wide selection of international food including freshly made sandwiches, panini and pizzas. In addition, there are teas, coffees, fresh juices and a wide ranging wine list.
The Emeraude Cafe also provides complimentary WIFI access.
After boarding via Emeraude Pier, park your luggage in your cabin and head to the sundeck for a refreshing welcome cocktail.
A buffet lunch is served as the vessel casts off and heads out onto the magical waters and into the unrivalled scenery of Halong Bay.
While aboard the Emeraude, be as active or as indolent as you please.
Go caving at Sung Sot Grotto. Take in the bay from its entrance before heading into the darkness and its natural wonders.
Experience the jade-green waters. At the overnight anchorage, take a swim from the dock, dive from our decks or launch a kayak for a nearby islet.
Drink a cold beverage. Prepare for sunset with a drink in one hand and a camera in the other.
Whet your appetite. Learn a few tricks of the trade from our Vietnamese chefs at a cooking demonstration.
Behold the silver screen. After dark, gather topside for a viewing of "Indochine," projected on deck with surround sound and surround scenery. An unparalleled movie experience.
Squid anyone? Try your hand at squid fishing with the Emeraude crew.
Tai Chi, Halong style. To enjoy the ultimate serenity in the ultimate location, meet our tai chi instructor on the sun deck at dawn with complimentary tea and coffee.
All Hands on Deck. Foot and shoulder massages in the sunshine or go below deck for body wraps and scrubs - without losing that Halong Bay View.
Please note the Cruise Itinerary and Program may be subject to change without prior notice.
Daily Departure! | Price Per Person (in U.S Dollar) | Book Now | |
02 People Sharing (Twin or Double) | Single Supplement | ||
Rates are Valid Until December30th, 2011 | |||
Superior | 150.00 | + 85.00 |  |
Deluxe | 160.00 | + 95.00 | |
Suite | 230.00 | + 165.00 | |
Children from 5–9 Years Old | 75% | ||
Children Under 5 Years Old | Free Of Charge | ||
Charter Cruise? | Please Ask Our Sales Staff for Prices & Details |  | |
Note:
+ Rate is valid from May 1st to December 30, 2011 by MinMax Travel Co.,Ltd. Rate is quoted per person in U.S Dollars. Rate is net and inclusive of service charges and 10% VAT.
+ High season from 1st Oct to 31st Dec 2011: US$50/cabin (with Superior and Deluxe) and US$100/cabin (with Suite) is added.
+ Surcharge: 25% is added New Year, Christmas Days and New Year Eve
TOUR PRICE INCLUDED:
* 01 nights accommodation: Basing in 01 Double/Twin Sea View Cabin with A/C & Private Bath with buffet BKF.
* Sightseeing as specified including entrance fee, Sea-Kayaking Explore Halong Bay.
* English-speaking experience guide.
* All Meals as per program mentioned as: B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner
* Welcome Drinks, Complimentary mineral water, Complimentary morning tea and coffee, Fishing equipment…
TOUR PRICE EXCLUDED:
* Transportations: Hanoi ~ Halong Bay ~ Hanoi (US$30/person)
* Meals and drinks except others as mentioned in the detail program.
* Visa, international flights with airport taxes.
* Personal insurance and personal expenses.
Note: The price is subject to change according to each period of time. Please contact our travel consultants expert for the best price
WHAT TO BRING:
* Sun Gears, Camera + Film, Sandal, Rain gear, flash Light, Insect Repellent...
HOW TO START:
* MinMax Travel Co., Ltd is a fully escorted tour and best-available all year round; the only thing you need to prepare in advance is the international air-ticket from/to your country.
* If you don't have enough time to complete visa before your departure, we will help you to obtain visa on arrival easily (getting visa at the airport, on your arrival)
The majestic beauty of the bay and its islands is only fully appreciated while meandering among the islands, fjords and islets. The original Emeraude was one of the flotillas owned by the Roque family who left Bordeaux in 1858 in search of fame and fortune. The fleet cruised along Indochina waterways and Halong Bay in the olden days. The original Emeraude sank in the Bay in 1937. Using advanced techniques, French architects painstakingly modeled the new vessel from old photos and drawings found at the Paris' Maritime Museum. Passengers can now relax, seek total comfort in the luxurious cabins or enjoy the beautiful sea breeze on the sun deck and enjoy the splendor and serenity of nature.
The Emeraude operates daily a two day, one night cruise. For lunch and dinner, passengers get to enjoy delicious freshly caught seafood and Vietnamese specialties. In the morning, an American style breakfast is served onboard the colonial vessel. For passengers who want more than just cruising around, the Emeraude also offer afternoon tea, traditional body massages and sunrise Tai Chi classes. The trip is completely flexible offering we variety of options for all.
MinMax Travel - Vietnam Tourism Advisor is offering a very special negotiated rates for all our hotel's accommodations & tours, tour packages and cruises, cheaper than booking directly. All our hotel's accommodations & tour prices are final with all taxes, service charges... We do not mark up these rates. So you can confident booking with us as cheaper as you get.
Our services are true value for money. We offer a money back guarantee if our services does not match your expectations!
MinMax Travel International Tour Operator License : 01-240/2010/TCDL-GPLHQT.
Highly recommended, could not fault it
Good quality minibus and safe driving for transfer to and from Hanoi. The boat was absolutely lovely. Seemed brand new and we definitely felt like we were on the best boat in the bay. Great rooms and bathrooms, really comfortable and nicely furnished. Lovely choice of places to sit and watch the views go by. Great top deck with sun loungers and chairs and then nice chairs and tables along the sides one level down, which was a lovely place to enjoy a drink or breakfast. Food was delicious and there was so much of it. We got confused thinking we had to pick one starter and main but actually we got all 8/9 dishes! Very friendly helpful staff and nice little extras such as cooking (making spring rolls) class, squid fishing and the trip through the pearl village. We opted to go with the local ladies in the sampans to keep our hands free for photography but kayaking was an option. This wasn't the cheapest option, you could go much cheaper but we definitely felt we got good value for money as we just couldn't fault the boat, the staff and Paradise Cruises in general
Carter Nick
The Best time in Halong Bay
We had the best time and met some wonderful people. Our tour guide was great and a lovely friendly man who spoke excellent English and taught us many things about local history and other events. Halong Bay is absolutely beautiful. Our cabin was great and very comfortable with good air conditioning. The food was fantastic, plenty to eat and the drinks were reasonably priced. We had no issues with security and felt completely safe, and even left our valuables in our cabin with peace of mind, even though a safe was available. Our only regret was that we didn't do the two-night cruise
Ian D, Australia, September 2009
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