Orchid Cruises 3days/2nights For 5 Star All Included

Planning a trip to Vietnam and considering a cruise on Halong Bay? You’re in for a treat with the Orchid Cruises 3-day, 2-night package. This experience has earned a perfect 5.0 rating based on over 500 reviews, with a 99% recommendation rate. Priced at $799 per person, this tour promises a blend of luxury, authentic cuisine, and immersive scenery, all wrapped into a well-curated itinerary.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing is the focus on high-quality service and comfort. From spacious suites to personalized guides, Orchid Cruises aims to deliver a 5-star experience. However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a budget trip — it’s designed for travelers who value comfort, good food, and a well-organized schedule. If you’re someone who loves to relax without sacrificing quality, this cruise could be just your style.

One thing to consider is that the booking window averages about 34 days in advance, so securing your spot early is advisable. Also, note that the tour is non-refundable, which means once booked, your dates are locked in. With that in mind, this experience best suits travelers looking for a premium, hassle-free way to explore Halong Bay’s iconic landscapes.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: Only 14 spacious suites on board ensure an intimate and exclusive atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive Service: Meals, side trips, and activities are covered, offering excellent value for the price.
• Authentic Cuisine: Expect fresh Vietnamese dishes, with vegetarian options available.
• Expert Guides: English-speaking guides bring the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes to life.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup from Hanoi simplifies logistics.
• Customer Satisfaction: Consistently high ratings, with reviews highlighting great food, friendly staff, and stunning scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown: How Your Days Are Spent

This cruise neatly balances sightseeing, relaxation, and on-board activities. It begins with a pickup from Hanoi at around 7:30 am — a timely start that gets you on the water quickly, avoiding any long waits. From there, the journey takes you through two iconic destinations: Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay.

Day 1: Halong Bay

Expect to arrive at the boat and settle into your spacious suite. The cruise has only 14 suites, which means fewer crowds and more personalized service. Once aboard, your first stop is Halong Bay, famous for its towering limestone karsts and emerald waters. Guests report the scenery as “really beautiful,” with many reviewers commenting on the breathtaking views from the deck.

The cruise staff is attentive from the start. One reviewer mentioned their waiter, Peter, as “super attending” and never leaving them without water, which reflects the level of personalized service you can anticipate. During this first day, you’ll enjoy fresh, authentic Vietnamese meals prepared by the onboard chef, with multiple reviews praising the quality and flavor of the dishes.

Day 2: Lan Ha Bay

The highlight of Day 2 is a visit to Lan Ha Bay, a quieter, less crowded area adjacent to Halong Bay, known for its stunningly clear waters and limestone formations. Passengers consistently mention this as a favorite part of the trip, with some calling it “epic” and “a great way to experience the landscape.”

You’ll enjoy a full day of cruising, with onboard meals that reviewers say are “full of flavor,” and a good mix of relaxation and gentle exploration. Many reviews highlight the friendly staff — including Jack and Colada — as making the experience extra special.

Day 3: Return to Halong Bay & Transfer

The final day involves an 8-hour cruise back around Halong Bay, with more opportunities to take in the scenery from the deck or relax in your suite. The cruise concludes back at the starting point, making it a seamless experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers remarkable value when considering the all-inclusiveness of meals, transfers, and guided excursions. The package includes:

• Transfer services from Hanoi to the port and back
• All meals on board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with vegetarian options available upon request
• An English-speaking guide to bring the landscape and history to life
• Complementary water to stay hydrated as you explore

However, some expenses are on you, such as beverages outside the included water, tips, and personal purchases. The reviews consistently mention the excellent quality of meals, with many noting the variety, especially if seafood isn’t your thing. One reviewer said, “The food options were great, and for those who don’t like seafood, there are other options,” which is encouraging for non-seafood eaters.

The Dining Experience: More Than Just Food

Guests frequently praise the delicious, well-prepared meals. Several mention that the meals felt like “5-star” experiences, with wait staff like Elle and Peter going above and beyond. One reviewer specifically highlighted the attention to detail, saying the food was “full of flavor” with many dishes photo-worthy. The onboard chefs seem to excel at offering both Vietnamese cuisine and international dishes, catering to diverse tastes.

Guides and Service: The Human Touch

Multiple reviews emphasize the knowledgeable and friendly guides. They bring the scenery alive, sharing stories and insights that enrich the sightseeing. Guests mention staff like Alex, James, and Merlin as “great,” attentive, and always eager to help. Reviewers also appreciate the personalized service; Elle, in particular, received praise for her warmth and attentiveness, making the cruise feel like a luxury stay.

Accommodation: Comfort and Style

The suites are described as spacious, immaculate, and comfortable, with stunning views. Many reviews highlight how the rooms evoke a feeling of understated elegance, blending contemporary comfort with panoramic vistas. This is especially appreciated after days of exploring or relaxing on deck.

Scenery and Activities

You’ll love the views of towering limestone formations, the tranquil waters, and the sheer scale of the landscape. Reviewers comment on how the scenery in Lan Ha Bay is “breathtaking,” and many mention that the cruise offers a “good range of on and off-boat activities.” While the exact excursions aren’t detailed, the variety of experiences, from cave visits to relaxing on the deck, adds to the overall appeal.

If you’re after a luxury experience with all the comforts included, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s suited for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups, or even solo travelers who value personalized service. The fixed itinerary and non-refundable policy make it best for travelers who are sure about their dates.

Travelers who love authentic food, stunning views, and engaging guides will find this cruise offers solid value. However, if you prefer a more active, adventure-driven trip with a focus on physical activities, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a relaxed, high-end experience immersed in nature’s beauty, Orchid Cruises hits the mark.

• Pricing: At $799 per person, this is a premium experience, but reviews consistently highlight the value for money considering the inclusions — meals, transfers, guide, and luxury accommodation.
• Duration: The 3-day, 2-night schedule is ideal for those wanting a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: Limited to 26 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate vibe.
• Booking: Most travelers book about a month in advance, emphasizing the need to plan early to secure your spot.
• Meet-up Location: Starts at 67 P. Nguyn Hu Huân, Hanoi, with hotel pickup included, removing logistical stress.

This cruise offers a seamless blend of luxury, scenic splendor, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine, with attentive staff and well-thought-out excursions. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a relaxing yet premium journey through one of Vietnam’s most iconic landscapes. The focus on high-quality service, coupled with the delightful food and stunning vistas, makes it a standout choice for those who value comfort and authenticity.

While the price is on the higher end, reviews show that many guests find the experience worth every penny. It’s perfect for those celebrating something special, or simply anyone eager for a worry-free, indulgent escape into nature. Just remember to book early and prepare for a few days of pure, scenic indulgence on the water.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from Hanoi, which simplifies your logistics and allows you to start the day comfortably.

What dietary options are available? Vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking, and reviews mention the meals are flavorful with a variety of dishes to suit different tastes.

How many people will be on the cruise? The cruise hosts a maximum of 26 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

What should I pack? While not explicitly listed, packing light layers, sun protection, and personal essentials is advised. Bring a camera for the stunning scenery and perhaps a book for relaxing on deck.

Is the tour refundable? No, this experience is non-refundable once booked, so make sure your plans are firm before committing.

Are the excursions included? The package covers guided sightseeing, meals, and transfers, but extra personal expenses like beverages outside the provided water and tips are not included.

This Orchid Cruises 3-day, 2-night adventure offers a luxurious, well-organized way to experience Halong Bay’s beauty. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking an indulgent escape, it promises a memorable journey filled with stunning vistas, delicious food, and attentive hospitality.