Heritage Cruise Binh Chuan Halong Bay

The boutique Heritage Cruise Halong Bay has a total of 4 decks. The 1st & 2nd floors are mostly guest cabins, the 3rd & 4th deck is the public area and sundeck:

The 1st deck, also known as the main deck, boasts Le Tonkin Restaurant and the reception area, next are 06 Delta Suites and 02 Captain Suites. At the bow is the Wine Cellar and a terrace.

The 2nd deck, or the upper deck, has 2 guest areas with 10 Ocean Suites and 02 Regal Suites. These rooms are on the higher deck so they have a better bay view. There is a library and boutique shop in the middle.

Especially, the Regal Suite and Captain Suite are next to the bow so guests are a priority to book private dining here.

The 3rd deck - the panorama deck is the complex of entertainment & relaxation areas. The indoor includes L’Indochine Restaurant, a gym room, a spa, a unique Art Gallery, and a piano Lounge. The outdoor has a bar and pool for guests to chill out.

The sundeck has an area with many sunloungers for guests to relax or sunbathe, a perfect spot for a wonderful panoramic view.

Heritage Binh Chuan provides many first-class facilities and social spaces to satisfy customers' needs. You can choose various areas to chill out on board.

Artful Lobby Lounge & Skylight

On the main deck, you may observe the bronze statue of the King of the Ship, Bach Thai Buoi, on a lacquerware pedestal in the middle of the atrium. And look up, you may see the skylight, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that pours natural light into the ship.

The gorgeous skylight is a pretty Instagramable spot on Heritage Binh Chuan.

Bach Thai Buoi Library

Located on the 2nd deck of the cruise ship, this library offers a comfortable space for every guest to read and relax with a cup of coffee or tea. It has a rich collection of books on art, culture, architecture, and literature of French Indochina.

Moreover, you can deep dive into the culture of Vietnam with some exclusive books such as Memories of the Red River, The Secret History of the Former Emperor Bao Dai, and a photo book about the Gulf of Tonkin.

Bach Thai Buoi Library, one of the most exquisite floating library in Lan Ha Bay

Van Don Shop

Stay right next to the library is the boutique shop where you will find a gallery of selected handcrafted products, silks, and signature souvenirs (for exhibition only) designed especially for Heritage Cruise Halong Bay.

Take a look at the delicate and valuable handmade products in Van Don Shop

La Piscine Swimming Pool & Bar

Located on the 3rd floor, this is a large 4-season pool with an area of 32m2, and 1.2m deep where you can cool off. The pool size is one of the largest in the bay. Next to it are many sun chairs, and a Pool Bar, creating a perfect for you to enjoy drinks and wind down.

Enjoy the 360-degree view of the swimming pool

L’Art de l’Annam

This gallery is on the 3rd floor and is a special space on board dedicated to art. Here, you can observe original paintings, sculptures, antiques, and artisanal items. It does not require a fee to visit and the arts are regularly changed.

This cruise also has its own exhibition with a gallery displaying the early works of artist Pham Luc, known as the Picasso of Vietnam, along with works of other famous Vietnamese artists.

L Art De L'Annam Gallery offers a precious space for artwork display.

White Lotus Spa

Next to L'Art de l'Annam, this spa has two private rooms specifically designed for therapies, including herbal treatments, body treatments, and a variety of massages. Spa sessions may be scheduled whenever you feel most comfortable, and skilled therapists will deliver a wide range of holistic, restorative, and energetic treatments.

The peaceful ambiance of the spa room helps you boost your energy.

On Heritage Cruise Halong Bay, the 2D1N journey cruises to Lan Ha Bay - Tra Bau - Dark & Bright Cave. The 3D2N tour will take you to Viet Hai Village & Ba Trai Dao on the extra day. 

The 4D3N journey is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to experience local life, nature, and culture while also discovering the destination's authenticity. The schedule will allow you to visit less-explored areas on Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay.

Sightseeing activities

Kayak in Tra Bau

You can experience this activity in the first afternoon, lasting approximately an hour. The staff will assist you in getting on the kayak, and it will then be up to you to enjoy the natural beauty of this location. Exploring Lan Ha Bay's beauty from a closer perspective by sailing your kayak and enjoying the fresh air is a nice way to calm your mind.

NOTE: Depending on the weather conditions, the itinerary may be changed without prior notice.

Let’s immerse ourselves in the attractiveness of the Tra Bau, one of the best kayaking spots.

Explore Dark & Bright Cave 

The highlight of the cruise's last day is that you will have around one hour to explore the spectacular cave and limestone mountains on a rowing bamboo boat. Let's enjoy the adventure by simply sitting back and admiring the spectacular rock formations and charming nature in front of our eyes as the boat travels through the area.

Inside the Dark Cave, with little natural light, creates a mysterious and ambiguous feeling.

Discover Viet Hai Village

In the 3-day itinerary, you will have the whole morning on the 2nd day to cycle or travel by electric cart to observe vast fields, traditional old houses, and the local life in the serene Viet Hai Village. This serves as an amazing opportunity for travelers to get close to nature and interact with the natives.

Cycle through the captivating greenery to Viet Hai Village

Swim/ Kayak in Ba Trai Dao 

This is another interesting activity throughout the three-day tour. Let's relax in the cool emerald sea and wash away your worries on the beautiful Ba Trai Dao beach. Alternatively, you may go kayaking to explore this secluded area's hidden caves and islands.

The turquoise and clean water of Ba Trai Dao Beach, perfect for a relaxing swim

Visit Trung Trang/ Quan Y Cave

For those who book the 4-day tour, be ready to explore the enchanting beauty of Trung Trang Cave/ Quan Y Cave. On the morning of the 3rd day, a driver will take you through the lush rainforest and scenic karst landscapes before stopping at these spectacular caves. You will be in awe of nature and how it creates numerous stalactites and stalagmites of all shapes and sizes.

Impressive stalactites in Trung Trang Cave which dated more than thousands of years

Onboard Activities

Practice Vovinam

Find the inner balance for your body with the Vietnamese martial art on the sundeck at 6:00. This is one of the few cruises that teach Vovinam on board, which differs from the normal Tai Chi Class.

Join the Vovinam session to practice your strength and self-defense skills

Keep fit

On the third deck, next to the restaurant, there is a gym for sporty passengers who wish to work out. It is equipped with modern amenities including a treadmill, dumbbells, and an exercise bike. Given its pretty small size, it can accommodate two to three people.

The fitness room on the upper deck is a wonderful spot to exercise

Recreation Activities

Heritage Cruise Halong Bay provides a variety of entertaining areas for either relaxation or cultural insights, such as:

• Song Hong Lounge: A spacious room with plush sofas, tables, piano, guitar,... where travelers can play music, have drinks, or chit-chat.
• La Piscine Pool & Bar: A Perfect spot to swim, enjoy cocktails, and witness the bay.
• Bach Thai Buoi Library: The intellectual heart of the ship, especially for book lovers and history enthusiasts.
• L ’Art de l ’Annam: The art gallery where you can observe intriguing artworks by famous artists in Vietnam.

The comfy interiors of Song Hong Lounge create an intimate space for guests to relax.

Spa

• Price: US $32 - 95 per session
• Duration: 60 - 90 minutes per session

The spa services include herbal therapy facials and body treatments to an extensive range of methods all over the world like skin rolling, Thai stretching, Balinese massage, etc.

NOTE: The price is for reference only and is subject to change.

Moreover, while staying on the cruise, you can use many services and activities to entertain, such as practicing in the gym, swimming, squid fishing, cooking classes, etc.

Cuisine Style

On this cruise, you will enjoy sumptuous meals on board with various European, Asian, and seafood dishes different for each meal.

Royal Dinner  

The culinary adventure will encourage you to learn more about Vietnam’s culture and traditions. Therefore, Heritage Cruise Halong Bay creates a traditional royal-themed dinner, where you will be served as Vietnamese royalty. 

Let’s listen to a captivating 16-string zither performance from professional artists while enjoying delectable delicacies served by staff dressed in Ao Dai.

Enjoy a royal-like dining experience dating back to the Nguyen Dynasty

Other than that, the cruise caters to every request from guests, such as vegetarian meals, and in-room & private meals.

Dining Time

Usually, breakfast is served at 6:45, 9:30 for brunch, 13:30 for lunch, and 19:30 for dinner.

The meals will be served as follows:

• 2D1N: 01 lunch, 01 fine dining dinner, 01 breakfast, and 01 brunch.
• 3D2N: 02 lunches, 02 dinners, 02 breakfasts, and 01 brunch.
• 4D3N: 03 lunches, 03 dinners, 03 breakfasts, and 01 brunch.

Drinks

For beverages, each cabin will have free 02 bottles of mineral water. Other drinks will be charged according to the drink menu on board.

• Alcohol: from US $46/bottle, from US $5/shot.
• Cocktails: from US $7/shot.
• Non-alcohol: from $4/shot.

NOTE: The drink price is for reference only and is subject to change.

Le Tonkin Restaurant

Le Tonkin is located on the 1st deck with décor reminiscent of authentic North Vietnam, hence the name “Tonkin”. With the classy design, it creates a perfect setting for a royal-themed dinner for up to 50 guests.

A meal at Le Tonkin Restaurant will give you an unforgettable dining experience.

L’Indochine Restaurant

This 19th-century-Indochine-inspired restaurant mostly serves buffets during breakfast and lunch with the same capacity as Le Tonkin. With the huge floor-to-ceiling windows and stays on the 3rd floor, this restaurant is an ideal spot for viewing the bay during the meal.

Pretty L'Indochine Restaurant serves a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine

The Pool Bar

Located between Song Hong Lounge and La Piscine Pool, this bar is a convenient spot for guests to enjoy a cocktail or a chilled glass of wine while admiring panoramic views of the bay. The fully stocked pool bar is open late into the night and features a fine selection of beverages as well as healthy snacks.

Let’s chill out with a vibrant cocktail at the pool bar after dinner.

Bach Dang Wine Cellar

Located at the bow of the main deck, the wine cellar offers a wide selection of fine wines. You can visit this place with the cruise’s Sommelier or Captain to choose select the best wines to match your dinner meal.

Guests may have an opportunity to enjoy first-class wine at Bach Dang Cellar.

Passengers can have a private meal in the wine cellar (not included), which can accommodate 2 to 10 people. Let's allow the tranquil ambiance, gentle lighting, and wonderful settings to create an intimate atmosphere for your special event.

24h In-room Dining Service

For those who value privacy and comfort, this trip has complimentary 24-hour room service, which means that food & beverages may be delivered to your room upon request, from snacks to entire meals. Custom orders can be made for special events if requested in advance.

Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan provides limousine D-cars or private cars for round trips between Hanoi and Halong to ensure the utmost comfort (additional charge).

Transport from Hanoi

The cruise offers door-to-door pick-up from Hanoi Old Quarter around 8:00 - 8:30, then departing for Tuan Chau International Marina. It will take about 2.5 hours on the highway.

Transport from Tuan Chau Port

For those who transfer to Halong Bay alone, please be at the Heritage waiting lounge - Lot 28B Tuan Chau Marina before 11:00 to embark on time.

Waiting lounge of Lux Group at Lot 28 Tuan Chau Marina

BestPrice Reviews: 9.5/10

• Inspection date: September 9th & 10th, 2023
• BestPrice Travel Inspector: Mr. Huan Nguyen

Overall, Heritage Cruise Halong Bay shows its outstanding aspect: a boutique vessel with a deluxe design and a unique Vietnamese vibe. If you enjoy the authentic experiences of Lan Ha Bay & Cat Ba Island but are no less luxurious, this cruise will be perfect for you.

Facilities & Amenities - 9.6/10

The onboard amenities are still very modern. The ship is clean and has a very prominent traditional style with an emphasis on wood and decorations. My overnight stay on board is not dull at all as there are various areas to chill out.

Pros

• Have a large 4-season pool with an area of 32m2.
• There is an Artful Lobby Lounge and skylight, which is exclusive on this cruise.
• Many spots to entertain, especially the art gallery, boutique shop, and Song Hong Lounge.
• 02 spacious restaurants with classic decorations and big windows overlooking the bay.

Cons

• The gym area is a bit small, it only fits 2 people.
• The library is near the staircase so it can be noisy at times.

Cozy atmosphere to play a piano song and sip a drink at Song Hong Lounge

Cabin & Suites - 9.4/10

The cabin is furnished with 1st-rate amenities and interiors. My Delta Twin Suite is spacious with a classic Vietnamese style that emphasizes the use of wood. The huge sea view window in front of the bed brings much-needed natural light to the room. 

Pros 

• All cabins are big (the smallest one is 33 m2) with private balconies and ocean-view bathtubs.
• Beautiful design with impressive oriental style and convenient facilities.
• The room has a nice fragrance creating a pleasant overnight stay.

Cons

• The soundproofing is insufficient, the outside noise can be heard faintly. 

Captain Suite offers the highest-class experience for affluent travelers.

Food & Drink - 9.5/10

The food stays at a good rating, but not excellent in my opinion. However, the unique way of serving is what sets the dining experience apart from other cruises. The staff will wear Ao Dai to serve you and an artist will play a zither performance during the meal.

Pros

• A special royal dinner that can be seen only on this cruise.
• The food is varied from European to Asian dishes and not repetitive.
• Seafood is very fresh, well-cooked, and well-seasoned.

Cons

• The buffet is suitable for the masses but doesn't have a unique point.
• For a cruise focused on Vietnamese heritage, it may add more Vietnamese food.

Sumptuous food blended between Western cuisine and Vietnamese specialties

Itinerary & Activities - 9.3/10

In general, Heritage Binh Chuan's journey is exciting and brings visitors to the famous spots of Lan Ha Bay. Overall I found the rowing boat to to Dark & Bright Cave the most memorable as the geology of this place is very unique. 

Pros 

• One of the cruises has 4 days and 3 nights to explore the other hidden areas of Cat Ba Island. 
• The itineraries are not too rushed, suitable for tourists who prefer relaxing and families with kids.
• The only cruise has Vovinam class instead of morning Tai Chi.

Cons 

• The area for the cooking class was small so not many people could participate.

Wonderful boat tour to secluded part at Dark & Bright Cave

Services - 10/10

The staff is also excellent and flexible in all situations. They are always willing to help and accommodate my requests.

Pros 

• The crew is incredibly hospitable, always smiling and welcoming.
• The cruise manager is indeed professional, able to multi-task with many guests' requests without skipping a beat, and in many languages.
• After each meal, the staff will ask your opinion if you are satisfied.

The staff always caters to every customer’s need, especially in the area of gastronomic cuisine.

TripAdvisor Reviews

• Number of reviews: 512
• Excellent: 486/ 512 reviews

Heritage Cruises Binh Chuan on TripAdvisor has received positive feedback about the uniqueness and beauty of the cruise design, public space, and airy cabins. The hospitable staff and the way they present the meals also receive praise.

In contrast, there are still some complaints about the rush schedule for the 2-day tour, and the drinks are not good enough for the high price.

With 98% positive reviews, this cruise is still one of the best choices for a journey to Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island.