26 Apr 2023
This is the first time we visit Halong Bay. We enjoyed the great hospitality from the Erina Cruise crew.
We booked the Suite Balcony class for a 3D2N trip. The room was quite spacious and comfy. The washroom has both a shower and bathtub that you can enjoy the view outside while taking a bath, but make sure there are no other cruise ship nearby as otherwise you will be putting on a show.
The ship had a bar and a small pool on the deck level where guests can sit and relax. The cruise have all the main meals covered and the food was fine. Drinks are not included though.
The views in the Halong Bay area were nice with the surrounding mountains with different shapes. But the pollution in the sea was not cool which the authority should pay attention to if they want to rely on tourism.
For those who book their own transportation from Hanoi, remember to check with the agency or driver whether they can drop you off right at Erina's dock. The harbour was actually quite large and consists of more than 30 docks operated by different cruises. For the agency we booked, they were only abl to drop us off at the Tuan Chau International Marina Terminal or at Pier #27, which is a few minutes ride away from Erina's location at Pier #36. It is not difficult to get a taxi or Grab though.
Lastly, we would like to thank Jason, Andrew, Kimanh for taking care of us.