Relaxing Experience with Exceptional Staff, Though Room Upgrades are Needed
Our family of three enjoyed a mostly relaxing cruise that offered beautiful scenic views. Having previously cruised with another company in 2019, we noticed how much the local maritime landscape has changed. There is a significantly higher volume of boats on the water now, which occasionally impacts the pristine views. However, we recognize that this is a systemic issue of regional over-tourism rather than a reflection of this company's operations.
The primary area in need of improvement is the accommodations. The staterooms are somewhat outdated and would benefit greatly from a complete renovation to bring them up to modern standards.
On a positive note, the hospitality we experienced was five stars. The crew members are excellent, with special recognition deserved for Merlin, who was exceptionally attentive, welcoming, and proactive throughout our meal services. Additionally, the culinary team provided a very good dinner menu, and we thoroughly enjoyed participating in the interactive cooking demonstration.
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GuillermoME
July 29, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Just great!
We experienced some difficulties due to the typhoon, but the staff at orchid went above and beyond to help us, allowing us to enjoy part of our reservation.
The experience was truly unforgettable. The boat, the crew, the food, and the breathtaking surroundings are all highly recommended.
Our guide, Bang, and Miss Jess did everything possible to make our trip a memorable one.
Thank you, Mr. Bang and Miss Jess, for your outstanding hospitality and dedication!
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J992014
May 3, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
The Orchid Classic one night cruise is an excellent way to experience Halong Bay.
I was a little sceptical about the Halong Bay Cruise on the Orchid Classic which was included in our itinerary as I had head that the Bay was full of boats and very touristy. However, our cruise more than exceeded our expectations. We were welcomed in the waiting lounge and efficiently transferred onto a speed boat to take us to the main boat. We were welcomed like royalty onto the main Orchid Classic boat by the crew and immediately went to the restaurant for a delicious buffet lunch. We then went to our room - OMG!!! It was beautiful - fabulous views into the bay, with a private balcony and the bathroom.......there was a free standing tub looking out over the bay! It was so impressive. As we sailed yes, there were a lot of other boats heading out which wasn't ideal, but we soon veered away from the main throng. The bay is so beautiful we took numerous photos and then we anchored up for kyaking and/or a dip. My husband went off on a kyak whilst I relaxed in the tub, admiring the view! We had a cooking demo (not brilliant to be honest!) and cocktails before a delicious dinner. It was an advantage for us that the boat was not full, so we had plenty of space in the dining room and around the boat. Some then went to fish for squid, but we opted for an early night. I had the best night's sleep and unfortunately didn't make it to the sun rise tai chi session. We had breakfast before heading out to an island to visit some caves - interesting but not a highlight for me. Back on the boat, brunch was served as we sailed back to port. I really felt our crew could not have done more for us on this cruise, the food and service were excellent. I would thoroughly recommend the Orchid Classic one night cruise as an excellent way to see the stunning Halong Bay.
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Jay E
May 3, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
5 star service
Had a fantastic time very relaxing beautiful views excellent staff especially Chris he was very attentive and welcoming i am having a great time and would recommend no question and will return.
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Ro G
January 29, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Orchid cruises is a must do!
Orchid Cruises is a must-do! Our short trip through Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay was nothing short of amazing. The boat is stunning, with huge cabins and private balconies perfect for soaking in the incredible views. Everything was flawlessly planned, from cave kayaking to morning Tai Chi.
A huge shoutout to Hardy at the bar for his top-tier service and great energy! The food was fantastic, the crew was stellar, and the whole experience felt both luxurious and personal. It was a definite highlight of our Vietnam vacation, and we can’t recommend it enough
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Richard J
January 12, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
An unforgettable and highly enjoyable 2 day cruise in Halong Bay
An overnight cruise was definitely the right choice. This option gave ample time for not only enjoying the beautiful and peaceful atmosphere of Halong Bay, but also allowed us to get to know our fellow passengers, and to take part in interesting and engaging activities (cooking demonstration, visit to Cat Bah and its caves, and taking part in a Tai Chi lesson on the top deck at sunrise). A day cruise would not have allowed us to do all this. Because our boat was quite small (14 cabins), our cabin was very large and comfortable. All the staff were so welcoming and attentive, with special shoutouts to Tien (our main guide and entertainments manager) and our wonderful waiter Jack who was always focused on making our two-day experience so enjoyable and unforgettable. Thank you once again to all the crew - we can highly recommend this 2-day 1-night cruise with Orchid Cruises.
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323cssei
December 29, 2025 · via Tripadvisor
Perfect way to see ha long bay
Orchid Cruises in Ha Long Bay was an outstanding experience, especially on one of their very small five-cabin boats. The intimate size made the trip feel exclusive and relaxed, with personalized service that was exceptional from start to finish. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely eager to make sure every detail was perfect.
The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, with limestone karsts and calm waters at every turn. The shore excursions were a great balance of activity and exploration, and the biking portion was a highlight, allowing us to experience the area at a slower, more immersive pace. Back on board, the pool and hot tub were wonderful places to unwind while soaking in the views.
The cooking class on the boat was another standout, fun, interactive, and a great way to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine. Everything about the experience felt thoughtfully designed and well executed. If you’re looking for a Ha Long Bay cruise that feels personal, comfortable, and high quality, Orchid Cruises’ small boats are an excellent choice.
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Rhi3
December 10, 2025 · via Tripadvisor
Amazing Experience!
We went on this tour in Nov, one night 1.5 days. It was fantastic. The boat is large and really nicely decced out the staff very attentive and the cruise itself lovely. The cabins are roomy and really nice and you have privacy from the next one. The scenery is amazing. We were lucky enough to have great weather. The food on the boat was really good - restaurant quality. And they made sure you any allergies etc were dealt with. What I would say is this - the activities are kayaking (and you are left alone in the bay) but this is only for 1 hour including getting to and staying on the beach - and an early cave trip the next day (5 -6 am). There is also early Tai Chi and a cookery class. What I liked less is it is a bit of a machine, your second day is when they prepare the boat for the next set of people so you need to check out and have a light brunch. BUT the crew are very much cleaning so you are surrounded by cleaners and bags of rubbish - slightly takes the edge of the glamour! ALSO the big thing is that the drinks menu has a lot of expensive wine on it - the cheapest is about £25. Yes £25 and they push the wine a lot - this is legit the prices are there - so just be mindful. It is am amazing experience so I would do it. The water for me wasn't swimable in and i heard there was a lot of jelly fish.
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Vicki R
December 9, 2025 · via Tripadvisor
Orchid Cruise on Halong Bay
Our trip on the Orchid Classic was really enjoyable. From the start to finish we were looked after amazingly well by all the staff especially by Chris who provided an excellent service.
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Niliti
December 1, 2025 · via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience!
The cruise was great: the boat stuff were all very friendly and helpful, especially the cruise manager, Bang, and a waiter nicknamed Smily. The food was great, very diversified and very esthetic. The cabin was romantic and the activities were very very nice: kayaking, expedition to a fabulous cave, and even a cooking class on deck!