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Athena Luxury Cruise Halong Bay
Halong International Cruise Port, No 09 Halong Street, Bai Chay, Halong City
9.4Excellent - 99 reviews

Athena Luxury Cruise Halong Bay

Halong International Cruise Port, No 09 Halong Street, Bai Chay, Halong City
9.4Excellent - 99 reviews
Launched in 2016
21 Cabins
Athena Cruise
Cruise-Lines: Athena Luxury Cruise
  • Cafe & Lounge
  • Conference & Meeting
  • Spa & Massage
  • Steam/Sauna
  • Private Balcony
  • Wooden Games
Why choose Athena Luxury Cruise?
  • Top luxury cruise for families in Halong Bay with excellent service

  • Large cabins with private balconies in all rooms

  • Wide sundeck with alfresco bar and coffee lounge

Cabin & Rates

Bed type:
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Executive Suite

Executive Suite

2 pax
25.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Elegant Suite

Elegant Suite

2 pax
28.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Terrace Suite

Terrace Suite

2 pax
30.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Family Triple Suite

Family Triple Suite

3 pax
30.0 m2
Double & Single
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Booking Policy
Price Includes
  • Luxury en-suite cabin
  • Welcome drink upon arrival.
  • Tea, Coffee & Fruits in the room.
  • Full board meals: welcome lunch buffet, set menu dinner, light breakfast and a brunch buffet.
  • Free usage of the outdoor swimming pool in Sundeck (Athena Cruises)
  • Halong Bay Tour Ticket.
  • Various activities: morning Tai Chi class, cave visiting by rowing boat, squid fishing, swimming and kayaking.
  • English and Vietnamese-speaking tour guide onboard.
  • Onboard insurance and service charges.
Price Excludes
  • Airfares, land transfers from and to Ha Long Bay
  • Spa & Massage treatment services.
  • Beverages, Tips & Personal expenses
  • Other services not clearly mentioned.
  • V.A.T tax
  • Surcharge for entrance fee (follow the government’s law)
Cancellation Policy
  • 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

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
  • Children under 5 years old sharing the full price cabin with adults: Free of charge (Limited to 1 child/1 cabin), from 2nd children: charged 50% adult (without extra bed)
  • From 5 to under 11 years old: 01 Child stays in the double/twin cabin with 2 adults: charged 75% adult.
  • From 11 years old: Children from 11 years old will be charged as adults. Two children below 11 years stay in a private cabin are charged at 100% of the full cabin rate.
  • Charged 100% for the third person using an extra bed

Cruise Itineraries

img-map
2 days
3 days
Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Sung Sot Cave - Titop Island
Day 2: Halong Bay - Luon Cave - Hanoi
Last update 23:10 Friday 04 Oct 2024
  • PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

About Athena Luxury Cruise

Athena Luxury Cruise belongs to the Athena Group, one of the best long-standing cruise lines in Halong Bay. Launched in 2017, this ship has a neoclassical and luxurious design, bringing travelers a sense of relaxation and exquisiteness.

Athena Cruise can accommodate up to nearly 50 passengers with 21 high-class cabins. Every room has a private balcony and contemporary furniture, offering the most luxuriant overnight stay onboard.

Not only for first-rate quality, but Athena Luxury also longs for excellent service and tantalizing dining experiences. With engaging activities, Athena Cruise Halong Bay designs the best classic Halong Bay itineraries suitable for families with kids and small groups.

Facilities & Deck Plan

As one of the top cruise on Ha Long Bay, the Athena Luxury is well-designed with a white palette color and steel hull, featuring a neoclassical and modern appearance. Each of the 3 decks features its own utilization for the best cruising experience.

The 1st deck includes the reception area, a kitchen, 10 Executive Suites (25m2), and 02 Family Triple Suites with a larger size (30m2).

The 2nd deck offers a dining room & bar, 06 Elegant Suites, 01 Family Connecting Suite, and 02 Terrace Suites at the rear - the only cabins with a large private sun terrace.

The 2nd deck offers a dining room & bar, 06 Elegant Suites, 01 Family Connecting Suite, and 02 Terrace Suites at the rear - the only cabins with a large private sun terrace.

The sundeck is equipped with relaxing spa & sauna rooms, the coffee lounge and bar (also used as the library), a jacuzzi, and a sunbathing area with many sunbeds.

The sundeck is equipped with relaxing spa & sauna rooms, the coffee lounge and bar (also used as the library), a jacuzzi, and a sunbathing area with many sunbeds.

The cruise provides passengers with 1st-class services as well as convenient facilities with up-to-date equipment.

Coffee Lounge & Outdoor Bar

This cruise has an indoor coffee lounge that stays next to the open sky bar on the sundeck, bringing an airy place for relaxation while you enjoy fresh beverages. This place also serves as a library room for guests to read.

The lounge is linked to the outdoor bar, making it the perfect place for unwinding.

The lounge is linked to the outdoor bar, making it the perfect place for unwinding.

Sundeck

This incredible sundeck area is the perfect place to watch the wonders unfold around you. The brand-new jacuzzi is a nice touch for tourists to immerse in the beautiful natural scenery while relaxing in cool water.

The spacious size of the sundeck is also suitable for organizing events for up to 50 people, whether it is a wedding, anniversary, birthday, or team-building.

The airy sundeck is a nice choice for special events amidst the beautiful bay.

The airy sundeck is a nice choice for special events amidst the beautiful bay.

Spa & Sauna

The 3rd deck boasts several spa treatment rooms and a high-class dry sauna (upon request), which give guests a uniquely rejuvenating experience. Let’s have a nice massage session and relax your muscles on board after an active day.

Treat yourself to a refreshing massage session in the cozy spa

Treat yourself to a refreshing massage session in the cozy spa

Service & Activities

Joining Athena Cruise Halong Bay, the 2D1N tour takes you through Sung Sot Cave - Titop Island - Luon Cave, while the 3D2N brings you further to stunning attractions like Tung Sau Area & Me Cung Cave on an extra day.

For every traveler, it would be an unforgettable adventure with delightful off-board and onboard activities.

Sightseeing activities

Visit Sung Sot Cave

In the afternoon of the first day, you'll have an awesome experience exploring Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most famous cave in Halong Bay. As you stroll through its impressive chambers, you'll be captivated by the stunning views of countless stalactites and stalagmites shimmering under the lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Explore Surprising Cave to see the one-of-a-kind rock formations

Explore Surprising Cave to see the one-of-a-kind rock formations

Explore Titop Island

After the cave tour, enjoy a relaxing time on Titop Island and its stunning beach for around one hour. Here, you can enjoy a myriad of exhilarating activities such as sunbathing, swimming, or hiking to the mountaintop for breathtaking views of Halong Bay.

Visit Titop Island and have a nice swimming time, sunbathe, or hike to the mountaintop

Visit Titop Island and have a nice swimming time, sunbathe, or hike to the mountaintop

Kayak at Luon Cave

Paddling a kayak to explore the majestic Luon Cave on the last day promises to be an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning geology of the bay, featuring imposing islets, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant greenery. It's a perfect way to connect with the natural beauty surrounding you.

Enjoy a fun kayaking activity in Luon Cave and get closer to nature

Enjoy a fun kayaking activity in Luon Cave and get closer to nature

Venture to the Tung Sau Area

On the extra day of the 3D2N tour, guests have the opportunity to visit the Tung Sau Area, renowned for its exquisite pearl products. Here, you can observe and learn about the pearl harvesting unique to Halong. Alternatively, you can choose to go kayaking and explore the breathtaking surroundings at your own pace.

Kayak at your own pace and discover the hidden islets of the vast Tung Sau Area

Kayak at your own pace and discover the hidden islets of the vast Tung Sau Area

Onboard Activities

Spa & Massage

  • Price: From US $30/ service
  • Duration: 30 - 75 minutes/ session

With professional experts as a key factor for overall wellness, Athena Luxury Cruise offers massage therapies designed to reduce anxiety, enhance sleep quality, and boost energy levels. The service features a variety of facial, body, and foot treatments, ensuring you experience a profound sense of calm and relaxation.

Spa Menu

NOTE: The price can be adjusted, you can ask the cruise manager for an updated price when onboard.

Chill out on the sundeck

Here, you can sip on fresh cocktails, enjoy a good book, relax in the jacuzzi, or soak up the sun at your leisure, all without having to move around much. It’s the ideal setting for ultimate relaxation and tranquility.

Opulent outdoor sundeck bar, which serves a wide range of beverages

Opulent outdoor sundeck bar, which serves a wide range of beverages

Join Happy Hour & Cooking class

Around 18:30, guests join a Vietnamese cooking class, where they can learn to prepare some iconic traditional Vietnamese food. Afterward, you can savor your dish, paired with specially prepared sauces, for a delicious and authentic culinary experience.

Be sure to take part in the Happy Hour “Buy 1 Get 1 Free” when the sun sets, giving way to a breathtaking twilight. It’s the perfect time to relax and enjoy a refreshing beverage while soaking in the beautiful views.

Interesting Vietnamese cooking class where you learn how to make pho rolls

Interesting Vietnamese cooking class where you learn how to make pho rolls

Night squid fishing

Let’s wrap up the evening on board with night squid fishing, an interesting activity for families. You can try your luck at catching them with the provided rods while enjoying the serene beauty of the night and the gentle sounds of the water. The squid you caught will be served after that, prepared by our talented cruise chefs.

Food & Drink

Cuisine Style

The onboard restaurant is dedicated to serving every guest with the high-quality dishes from diverse regions, such as:

  • Western fusion food
  • Vietnamese traditional dishes
  • Fresh seafood with natural ingredients
  • Special diets: vegetarian or gluten-free, lactose-free, etc

The usual time for breakfast is 7:00, around 9:30 for brunch, 12:45 for lunch, and 19:00 for dinner. Except for the set menus for dinners, other meals are served as buffet.

Well-prepared and tastefully cooked seafood for dinner

Well-prepared and tastefully cooked seafood for dinner

Drinks

For beverages, each room will be fully prepared with complimentary water and fresh fruits. 

Beverages in the bar and lounge will be extra-paid based on the menu, including wine, juice, tea, coffee, cocktails, and alcohol-free mocktails.

  • Alcohol drinks: From US $7/ glass and US $32/ bottle
  • Non-alcohol drinks: From US $2/ item 

Drink Menu

NOTE: The drink menu is not fixed and the price is object to change.

Classy Restaurant & Bar

The restaurant features a semi-classical design, complete with an open kitchen and a projector. Its wooden chairs, upholstered in leather, provide comfort for up to 50 guests.

There are two bars on board, one inside the restaurant and one on the sundeck, which makes it easier for you to get yourself some cool drinks.

Savor your meals and enjoy the grand view of Halong Bay

Savor your meals and enjoy the grand view of Halong Bay

Top-notch Services

The staff is exceptional - energetic, friendly, and dedicated to making the cruise tour truly memorable. The manager speaks excellent English and engages with every traveler through captivating stories. Thanks to the entire crew, every guest left with wonderful memories of their overnight stay.

Transportation

You can book a limousine bus, shuttle bus, or private car (extra fee) to travel to Halong Port. These cars are fully equipped with air conditioning, soft leather seats, free drinks, and USB charges.

From Hanoi

For those who book the transfer service, the pick-up location is at 14 Ngo Quyen, Hanoi, or door-to-door at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter from 8:00 - 8:30.

From Halong International Port

For passengers who choose to move to the harbor by themselves. Please arrive at 09 Ha Long Road, Bai Chay, Halong City, Quang Ninh before 11.30 to check-in.

The waiting lounge of Athena Group in Halong International Harbour

The waiting lounge of Athena Group in Halong International Harbour

Reviews

BestPrice's Reviews: 9.3/10

After a 2-day and 1-night experience, this high-class cruise shows how it is one of the best luxury Halong Bay cruises. The service from the crew is top-notch and the staff is well-trained.

Facilities & Amenities: 9.4/10

The ship's interior is decorated with classic brown wood, giving it a warm and familiar ambiance. Most of the facilities are modern and maintained very well, except for some amenities in the bathroom.

Pros

  • One of the rare cruises with a sauna room on board.
  • Spacious sundeck with many sun loungers, set tables, sofas,...
  • Exquisite and cohesive design with luxurious wooden interiors combined with leather.
  • A bar on the 2nd deck, a coffee lounge, and an outdoor bar on the 3rd deck give the guests more choices.

Cons

  • Unoptimized cabin layout, there is a table right in front of the bed, making it harder to move inside.
  • Except for the Suite Terrace cabin, other rooms have small terraces.

Broad sundeck with outdoor bar

Broad sundeck with outdoor bar

Food & Beverage: 9.1/10

The food on this cruise is diverse, ranging from European to Asian. The ingredients are fresh and the seasoning is flavorful. However, the meals are standard and there are no highlight dishes.

Pros

  • The dining establishment offers a wide selection of exquisite Vietnamese delicacies.
  • Each morning, guests may choose to enjoy a breakfast buffet in their rooms. 
  • Fresh seafood and natural ingredients.

Cons

  • The food stops at a level of fullness with a good taste, not too outstanding.
  • The drink price is still high for its quality.

Itineraries & Activities: 9.0/10

Overall, the travel route of Athena Luxury is standard with various activities in 3 famous attractions of Halong Bay: Sung Sot Cave, Titop Island, and Luon Cave. You should choose the 3d2n itinerary to explore further and less-visited areas of the bay.

Pros

  • Well-planned schedule with 3 attractions for 2 days, which is loose and not too packed.
  • Fantastic trip to Sung Sot Cave, one of the most beautiful and widest caves in Halong Bay.
  • Conquer Titop Peak will give you a great and satisfied feeling.

Cons

  • You need to pay an extra fee if you want to travel on a bamboo boat to Luon Cave.

 

Join a Vietnamese cooking class and try hands-on experience

Services: 9.4/10

The crew on board is very professional and attentive. They are always ready to help every guest. However, some staff don’t speak English well enough.

Pros

  • Friendly and professionally-trained staff, attentive, helpful, and dedicated to their job.
  • Very quick and flexible with any requests and unexpected problems.
  • Themed parties, ceremonies,... always open for request.

Cons

  • Only the bar staff and cruise manager and some others speak good English.

Athena Cruise on TripAdvisor

  • Number of reviews: 2,187
  • Excellent: 2,083/2,187

This cruise has many reviews from its customers compared to others. The travelers loved Athena Cruise on TripAdvisor in every aspect, from the staff, activities, food, etc. Which is outstanding with the number of reviews the cruise has.

This cruise has many reviews from its customers compared to others.

Some guests complained that their belongings were not taken care of well enough, and some expect the staff to speak better English. All in all, with 98% positive reviews, this cruise keeps on improving and satisfies a large number of travelers.

FAQs

The cruise price includes:

  • Luxury en-suite cabin
  • Welcome drink upon arrival.
  • Tea, Coffee & Fruits in the room.
  • Full board meals: lunch buffets, set menu dinners, breakfasts, and brunch buffet.
  • Halong Bay Tour Ticket.
  • Various activities: Tai Chi class, cave visiting, squid fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
  • English and Vietnamese-speaking tour guides.
  • Onboard insurance and service charges.

Costs for an extra bed or single suppliment depend on the type of room. Please check your selected room for more details.

Athena cruise itinerary includes a visit to Titop Island on the 1st day, allowing travelers to have a refreshing swim in calm water.

Yes, it is. The Terrace Suite is provided with a jacuzzi bathtub with a sea-view window. Other cabins have standing showers.

The first lunch and the last brunch are buffet, while the dinner is served with set menu. If you choose charter service, you can order the meals upon request.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Based on 97 customer's reviews

9.4
Excellent
Traveler rating
  • 91
  • 5
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
Score breakdown
  • Cruise quality 9.4
  • Food/Drink 9.3
  • Cabin quality 9.3
  • Staff quality 9.6
  • Enter/act 9.3
9.6
Excellent - Eliana Morrow
Finland Finland
01/10/2024
Nice trip

The food on this cruise was great. We had 2 friends who had more special diets and the staff were so patient in clarifying what we can and cannot eat and offered suggestions. “Can we replace the beef with chicken?” “Can we offer fried chicken instead of squid?”. We were very touched by that! More

9.4
Excellent - Anish Dickerson
United States United States
11/09/2024

I booked the cruise with Janet, who was incredibly patient with my several queries. We chose three rooms for a total of eight people and had a private car take us from our hotel in Hanoi. (Note that Janet arranged everything for us very quickly, right after we contacted)

Tim, the cruise manager, and… More

9.5
Excellent - Mariyah Webb
New Zealand New Zealand
08/08/2024
Nice

Whether it is lunch or dinner, the food quality is good.
The most impressive thing was the spring roll-making experience because she was very patient in teaching us how to make spring rolls. Not only Hannah is a good manager, but the younger brothers and sisters on the ship are also very cute.

9.2
Excellent - Vanessa Pineda
Argentina Argentina
10/07/2024
We had a good time

We stayed on the Athena for one night. We boarded the ship at noon, and the service staff who greeted us at the door were smiling and made us feel nice. Our ship manager this time was Hannah. Her beautiful appearance and professional and careful explanation made me feel at ease.

Thank you to all the staff of the Athena for allowing us to have a wonderful experience in Halong Bay.

9.0
Excellent - RATNAYAKE
Japan Japan
11/06/2024

Minh Phuong was extremely fast handling any inquiry and her response was extremely fast. Also, she coordinated and organized a birthday surprise for my wife and made her extremely happy. Would ask again for her assistance again next year.

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Athena Luxury Cruise 2 Days 1 Night
INR  ₹229 ₹176 /pax
Athena Luxury Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights
INR  ₹458 ₹321 /pax
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