Essence Grand Cruise
Essence Grand Cruise is a luxury steel hull cruise launched in 2019, sailing Halong Bay with 8 cabins. Enjoy kayaking and swimming, fresh seafood dining and the best local price.
Choose your trip length
Availability
Room Types & Prices
55 cabins on board · 3 Days 2 Nights
Book now to get this fantastic price
If you book later, the price may go up or the cruise may sell out.
Ocean Suite
Size: 30 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed or 2 Beds
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Ocean Suite Balcony (Partial View)
Size: 40 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed or 2 beds
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
- • Crib
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Signature Suite
Size: 41 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Pearl Suite
Size: 42 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: 1 round bed
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Veranda Suite
Size: 45 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed or 2 Beds
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
- • Crib
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Executive Suite
Size: 45 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed or 2 Beds
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
- • Crib
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Ocean Suite Triple
Size: 45 m² Max adults: 3
Bed options: 3 Beds
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
- • Crib
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Recommended for you
Includes taxes & fees
Best Value!
Price for 01 cabin · 3 adults, 1 child
Add & book together
Essence Suite
Size: 60 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed or 2 Beds
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
- • Crib
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Oceania Suite
Size: 95 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
President Suite
Size: 109 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: Double Bed
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
The Owner's Suite
Size: 150 m² Max adults: 2
Bed options: 2 Double Beds or 4 Beds
Extra beds available:
- • Rollaway bed
- • Crib
Easy cancellation
- All board-meals included
- No booking or service fees
- • Free Kayaking
- • Welcome cocktail
Includes taxes & fees
Price for 01 cabin · 2 adults
Add & book together
Duration
3 Days 2 Nights
Route
Halong Bay
Class
Luxury
Cabins
55 Cabins
Hull
Steel hull
Launched
2023
About Essence Grand Cruise
Essence Grand Cruise sails the scenic waters of Halong Bay, departing from Tuan Chau Marina. Launched in 2019, the steel hull vessel offers 8 well-appointed cabins and a relaxed, attentive service that has earned a 9.6/10 rating from 85 guest reviews.
Onboard experiences include kayaking, swimming, caves, cooking class, tai chi, with fresh local seafood served throughout the 3 days 2 nights program. Our local team personally inspects every cruise so you book with confidence at the best available rate.
Onboard Facilities
Activities & Experiences
4 things we love most about Essence Grand Cruise
Cruise Itinerary
Programs and schedules subject to change due to weather conditions.
Route Map
Essence Grand Cruise · 3 Days 2 Nights
- 1Halong Bay
- 2Sung Sot Cave
- 3Luon Cave
- Morning
Arrive at Tuan Chau Marina after a 2.5-hour drive (if using our transfer). Embark on Grand Pioneers Cruise at noon. Enjoy a welcome drink at Cloud Nine restaurant while the cruise manager gives a short briefing about safety and cruise.
- Afternoon
Lunch is served in the restaurant while the yacht cruises to Halong Bay. The first stop is Sung Sot Cave. You have around 1 hour to discover the largest cave in Halong Bay with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The journey continues to Ti Top Island, where you can relax and swim in the emerald waters, or hike to the summit for a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the bay (available during summer from May to September). If you choose to stay onboard, don't miss a bunch of services and facilities such as La Spa, swimming pool, bar, 3D golf simulator, cigar club, poker, library, etc. After the visit, you back to Grand Pioneers Cruise to savor the canape, join the Happy Hour with a long list of cocktails, wine, and other drinks, or attend a cooking class by talented chef.
- Evening
Dinner is served in the Dining on the Bay restaurant. After dinner, you can try squid fishing, playing poker, ordering a favorite cocktail from the varied menu, and watching the night scenery. Overnight onboard.
- Morning
Enjoy light breakfast and get ready to be transferred to the day boat for Bai Tu Long Bay exploration. At 8:15 - 8:30 am, embark on Explora by Grand Pioneers from Titop Island, crossing Human Head Islet (Hon Dau Nguoi), Yen Ngua Islet, Dragon Islet, and Duck Islet. The first stop is Thien Canh Son Cave area - a small, pristine cave on Hon Co Island. you can kayak to admire the majestic landscape. Then, you can kayak or relax on the beach before returning to Explora Cruise.
- Afternoon
Have lunch on the day boat while the cruise sails deepers into Bai Tu Long Bay. After the lunch break, explore Vung Vieng Fishing VIllage Vong Cave, and the local aquaculture farm by bamboo boat or kayak. After the excursion, return to Explora Cruise and continue admiring the tranquil beauty of the bay before transferring back to Grand Pioneers Cruise at around 16:00. Continue the journey with onboard experiences.
- Evening
Savor a sumptuous dinner at the restaurant. Relax in your own way.
- Morning
Start a new day with a meditation session on the top deck. Enjoy light breakfast in the restaurant or in your private cabin. The next stop is Luon Cave - a tranquil area for taking a sampan boat rowed by a local.
- 9:30
Check out time at reception, then enjoy the brunch buffet while the vessel cruises back to the harbor. Disembarkation at around 10:45 am.
Important Notes
- Programs & schedules are subject to change without prior notice depending on weather and tide conditions.
- Trip cancellation due to bad weather in Halong Bay: the decision is made by the Halong Bay Management Board on the day of departure.
- In the event of a weather cancellation we will arrange an alternative date on request, or refund in accordance with the cruise policy.
- Passengers should arrive at the harbour at least 30 minutes before the overnight cruise boarding time.
Cruise Inclusions & Options
Everything that is and isn't covered, plus our cruise & booking policies.
- Fully equipped luxury en-suite guest room with chilled water central air- con and marble bathroom
- All meals onboard (1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 light breakfast, 1 brunch buffet)
- Speedboat transfers
- Welcome drink
- Daily fresh water in room amenity
- Canapé during the Happy Hour
- Tai chi, gym, four seasons and salt water, swimming pool, table soccer, and kid’s club
- Activities: cave visiting, squid fishing, kayaking
- Wifi, satellite - HD LED TV onboard
- English and Vietnamese speaking guides
- Onboard insurance
- VAT
- Transportation: Hanoi – Halong – Hanoi
- Beverages
- Spa (spa and massage)
- Karaoke, cigar and wine lounge, use of conference facilities, 3D golf simulator
- Tips and other personal expenses
- Personal travel/health insurance
- Peak season surcharge
- All other services not clearly mentioned above
- Check in on board: 12:00 PM
- Check out: 11:30 AM
- Return Hanoi: 2:30 - 3:00 PM
- The FOC Rate for children under 4 years old is applicable for 1 (one) child sharing a cabin with 2 (two) adults (No extra Mattress). Only 1 (one) child under 4 years traveling with 2 (two) adults is allowed for FOC per group.
- 1 (one) child under 4 years old sharing a cabin with 1 (one) adult must pay full fare as an adult.
- The Child Rate for children from 4 to 11 years old is applicable for 1 (one) child sharing a cabin with 2 (two) adults (No extra Mattress): 50%
- The Child Rate for children from 4 to 11 years old is applicable for 1 (one) child sharing a cabin with 2 (two) adults (With extra Mattress): 75%
- Children aged 12 and above must pay full fare as an adult.
- Peak season surcharge: Surcharge VND 80USD/night applies for travel date on 30th April, 1st May, 30th August – 1st Sep 2026, 24th December and 31st December and Vietnamese Lunar Tet Holiday (16, 17, 18, 19/02/2026)
- For 3 day/2 night itinerary: On the second day, you will travel on a day boat and do not have access to the mother boat and your cabin until later in the afternoon.
- More than 30 days prior to check-in: free of charge
- From 30 to 11 days prior to check-in: 15% of total rates
- From 10 to 7 days prior to check in: 30% of total rates.
- Less than 7 days prior to check-in: 100% of total rates.
- No-Show: 100% of total rates.
- Cancellation notice must be in written form and sent to us via email
157 customer reviews for Essence Grand Cruise
Score breakdown
Traveler rating
- Outstanding52
- Excellent94
- Very good8
- Good3
Traveler type
- Mature couples3
- Young couples3
Comments are provided by customers who have previously taken this cruise.
Guest reviews
- 10.0Ava Lindberg🇸🇪 Sweden28-03-2025
Outstanding
Worth 100000/10. The best service quality we have known. Excellent food, diverse and attractive menu, we especially like quanninh seafood. Every space on the boat is spacious and clean.
Young couples - 10.0Ethan Williams🇨🇦 Canada25-03-2025
Outstanding
To begin with, we were picked up by a VIP limousine. The driver went inside the hotel lobby to pick us up and dropped us off in front of the waiting lounge after a journey of approximately 2.5 hour driving. We couldn't believe how beautiful the ship was, it must be a super yacht.
Young couples - 9.8Chiara De Luca🇮🇹 Italy21-03-2025
Excellent
We had a great choice on this ship. Everything was planned wonderfully. Delicious food, beautiful scenery, the experience was second to none. The cruise manager guy approached us and did so much to help. Felt like we were special guests. Really loved this trip.
Mature couples - 10.0Putri Ayu Lestari🌍 Indonesia19-04-2025
Outstanding
Well organized tour from start to finish. The pick up in Hanoi and welcome at the port were smooth. The staff always made sure we all informed of tour and felt comfortable. Diverse facilities and activities onboard. The bay view was superb. Highly recommended.
Mature couples - 10.0Nathaniel Bennett🇬🇧 United Kingdom18-03-2025
Outstanding
Grand Pioneers is a cut above all other options in Ha Long Bay. The waiting lounge is very modern, clean and staff are very professional. Cruise manager is very friendly, restaurant manager she tried to accommodate us. What a great experience, really recommend.
Mature couples - 9.9Fernando🇪🇸 Spain07-04-2025
Excellent
What a memorable trip. Grand Pioneers Cruise is new and modern. All facilities are great. The team is very courteous and accommodating. We love the food and room very much. Highly recommended.
Young couples
Frequently Asked Questions
Transfers are an optional add-on. We offer a shared shuttle bus and private limousine that you can add during booking.
Yes — free cancellation up to 7 days before departure for a full refund, in line with our cruise policy.
Children of all ages are welcome; family cabins and child pricing are available on request.
Questions & Answers (442)
Looking for more info? Send your question and our Hanoi team will answer it here as soon as possible.
- ?
Asked by Sophie L. · 1 month ago
Do you have a family suite available for 3 adults on a 3 days 2 nights trip in July, and how much does it cost?
1 answerAAnswered by Grace · 1 month ago
Thank you for your interest in Essence Grand Cruise. Yes — our Family Suite comfortably fits 3 guests. For your dates the best available rate is around $315 per person including all meals on board. We also offer a round-trip shuttle between Hanoi and the harbour for $30 per person. Best regards.
- ?
Asked by Akiko T. · 1 month ago
We are 6 people (4 in one room and 2 in another). Can you accommodate us, and which sightseeing stops are included on the Halong Bay route?
1 answerAAnswered by Daisy · 1 month ago
For a group of 6 we recommend three cabins, two of which can be arranged as connecting cabins for your convenience. The Halong Bay itinerary visits the key highlights of the route — we have emailed you the full day-by-day program with all sightseeing stops. Best regards.
- ?
Asked by Ben · 2 months ago
Can we book a round-trip shuttle service from our hotel in Hanoi, and is hotel pick-up included?
1 answerAAnswered by Phoebe · 2 months ago
Yes, we offer both a shared shuttle bus and a private limousine transfer with door-to-door hotel pick-up in the Hanoi Old Quarter. You can add this during booking or simply let us know your hotel and we will arrange it. Best regards.
- ?
Asked by Monique · 2 days, 20 hours ago
Hi! The best Summer Super Deal 2026 is only $490/Ocean Suite including round trip bus transfer from Hanoi for 2 persons. What about 3 adults? Can I enjoy any discount with Summer Super Deal? Thank you.
1 answerAAnswered by Joyce · 13 hours, 10 minutes ago
Dear Monique, We'd love to have you take advantage of our Summer Super Deal! For three adults, we can offer the Ocean Suite Triple for $735, which includes the round-trip transfer from Hanoi. This special promotion is available for all stays between May 1st and September 30, 2026. Warm regards, Joyce
- ?
Asked by Le Phung · 1 week, 6 days ago
Our family is (Husband, Wife and teen daughter were interested in the Essence Suite. We do not want to book two rooms but wanted to stay in the room together. Are you able to provide a rollaway bed so we can be together?
1 answerAAnswered by Annie · 1 week, 6 days ago
Dear Le Phung, We can certainly provide an extra bed to accommodate your family of three in the Essence Suite. Best regards, Annie (Ms.)
- ?
Asked by Daniel Lee · 2 weeks, 1 day ago
Ocean Suite Triple, size 45 sqm for 3 beds, 3 adults. How much?
1 answerAAnswered by Hallie · 2 weeks ago
Hi Daniel, The rate for the Ocean Suite Triple cabin (45 sqm for 3 adults) is 680 USD per cabin. Please let us know if you would like to proceed with a booking or if you have any other questions. Best regards, Hallie
- ?
Asked by Daniel Lee · 2 weeks, 1 day ago
1. Is the transfer from Hanoi Old Quarter to Halong Bay? Time to pick up. 2. Lunch and Dinner - What is the menu? My friend is allergy to seafood, what is the alternative?
1 answerAAnswered by Hallie · 2 weeks ago
Hi Daniel, Please see the details below:
- ?
Asked by Rebecca P · 2 months, 1 week ago
Do you do interconnecting rooms for families?
1 answerAAnswered by Phoebe · 2 months ago
Dear Rebecca, I wish to inform you that Grand Pioneers only has the Executive rooms connecting pair available on their boat. Also they have the Ocean Triple room in case if you are traveling in group of 3 people. Regards, Phoebe
- ?
Asked by Nicole · 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Can you drop off back to the hotel in Ha Noi?
1 answerAAnswered by Annie · 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Dear Nicole, Regarding your question about transportation, we offer a Limousine bus for drop-off back to your hotel in Hanoi. The rates for the bus service are US$18 per person for a one-way trip or US$35 per person for a round trip. Best regards, Annie (Ms.)
- ?
Asked by Jasmine Sim · 2 months, 3 weeks ago
If the price comes with transfer or if transfer is booked through you guys, would pick up at hotel (Old Quarter) and drop off at airport (Noi Bai) be possible?
1 answerAAnswered by Helen · 2 months, 3 weeks ago
Dear Jasmine Sim, Our shuttle bus can pick you up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. However, the bus cannot drop you off directly at the airport. We can arrange a private car to take you from the Hanoi city center to Noi Bai Airport after you return from the cruise. The cost for a private transfer for two people is $20 per way. You would arrive at the airport at approximately 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM. Please let us know if you would like to proceed with this arrangement. Best regards, Helen
- ?
Asked by Amrit Gurm · 3 months ago
So with 2D/1N cruise where is the pick up and drop off point as we do have a flight to Da Nang. Would 2:30 PM flight to Da Nang a good option or later flight would be safer?
1 answerAAnswered by Helen · 2 months, 4 weeks ago
Dear Amrit, The cruise will end around 10:45 AM. If you book a private car from Halong Bay to the airport in Hanoi, you will arrive around 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM. Therefore, a domestic flight after 4:00 PM would be a good option for you. Best regards, Helen
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