haiphongtours
14 May 2025
I am, Phuong, recently had a wonderful family trip aboard the Signature Royal Cruise on May 11, 2025. Below is my personal and objective review of the entire journey. The experience is detailed chronologically, and I’ve included a summary of the cruise itself at the end.
Warm Welcome at Halong Port
Upon arrival at Halong Port, our luggage was collected and transferred directly to the cruise. Meanwhile, we were taken to a spacious waiting lounge where drinks were conveniently available. After check-in, our tour guide, Mr. Ninh, led us onto the tender boat to board the cruise.
First Impressions Onboard
As we stepped onto the cruise, the staff greeted us warmly at the entrance — a lovely first impression. Cruise manager Mr. Ha personally welcomed each guest with professionalism and care. We were served a welcome drink and given general information in the restaurant, where we were also assigned our dining seats.
A nice touch from Signature Cruise: they placed a small national flag of each guest group at their table, creating a respectful and homely feeling. Your dining table will remain fixed for the entire journey, so make sure to remember it.
Settle Into Your Room and Lunch Experience
After orientation, we received our room keys and settled in before enjoying a beautifully crafted set lunch. Chef Tam and Restaurant Manager Mr. Tien ensured every dish was delicious and elegantly presented. As someone with a hospitality degree, I found the service highly professional and fitting for a traditional, classic-style cruise.
Kayaking and Beach Time at Cong Do
In summer (April 1 to October 30), the cruise stops at Cong Do where guests can kayak to small beaches and swim freely. In the off-season, guests visit Vung Vieng Fishing Village instead. Before the excursion, you should prepare sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses. Waterproof bags are available for free, and towels are provided on the tender.
There are four small beaches in the area. Guests can kayak or stay on the tender for a sightseeing ride with a beach stop. After swimming, we returned to the main boat.
Jacuzzi, Happy Hour, and Sunset Cooking Class
Back onboard, we showered and relaxed. Each room has a hot jacuzzi tub — don’t miss out on it!
Happy Hour followed, featuring a buy-1-get-1-free cocktail offer. I had my first cocktail, expertly mixed by Bar Manager Mr. Nham, while enjoying the calm of Bai Tu Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
We then joined a sunset cooking class on the sundeck where Mr. Ninh taught us how to make Vietnamese fresh spring rolls (phở cuốn). Guests got to taste their own creations while watching the sunset.
Evening Squid Fishing and Relaxation
After dinner, around 8:30 PM, floodlights were turned on at the back of the boat for squid fishing. We had great success and even enjoyed fresh squid noodles the next morning. Squid fishing results vary depending on season, weather, and luck — don’t be discouraged if you catch nothing!
Later, guests could relax on the sundeck, their room balcony, or enjoy onboard massage services.
Day 2: Sunrise, Tai Chi & Cave Visit
At 6:00 AM, guests could join a Tai Chi session and watch the sunrise — or sleep in, like I did! A light breakfast followed, with bread, sausages, eggs, fruit, and yogurt.
Next, we visited Thien Canh Son Cave after climbing about 100 stone steps and took a short walk along a beach (no swimming allowed) before heading back to the cruise.
Check-out and Farewell Brunch
By 9:15 AM, we checked out and left our luggage outside the room for staff to transfer ashore.
A final light brunch was served, and this was also the time to settle any bills and leave tips in the tip box. Tipping is optional but highly encouraged. A suggested amount is $10 USD per person or more depending on your generosity. The total is shared among all crew members who contributed to your journey.
Upon return to the port, guests reclaimed their luggage and could return to Hanoi, Hai Phong, or Ninh Binh by bus or private car.
Signature Cruise Overview
Signature is a traditional wooden cruise with a cozy, classic atmosphere. It has 12–16 rooms spread over three decks, ensuring a small group experience. Signature Royal has a massage room and a sundeck bar, while Signature Halong has only a restaurant bar.
Cabin Categories and Amenities
All rooms include hot jacuzzi tubs and standard amenities such as free bottled water, coffee/tea, kettle, towels, toiletries, hair dryer, toothbrush, air conditioning, and turn-down service.
Junior Suite (Deck 1): 28 sqm, double/twin bed, extra bed available, connecting rooms, no balcony.
Senior Suite Balcony (Deck 2): 30 sqm, fixed double bed, extra bed available, side balconies.
Royal Triple Balcony (Deck 3): 50 sqm, 1 double + 1 single bed, extra bed available, side balconies.
Exclusive Triple Suite (Deck 2): 50 sqm, 1 double + 1 single bed, extra bed available, private sun terrace at the bow.
Elite Family Suite (Deck 2): 82 sqm, 2 bedrooms (1 double, 1 twin), 2 bathrooms, 2 private sun terraces at the stern, interconnecting.
Dining Experience
Main meals are served as set menus. Light breakfast and buffet brunch. Vegetarian options are available. If you’re a foodie or need larger portions, contact Hai Phong Tours for special arrangements.
Internet Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas using a 4G/5G signal. Connection may be weak or lost while visiting remote sites. Rooms typically have no Wi-Fi — head to the common areas or balconies for access. Weather may affect signal quality.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a Bai Tu Long Bay cruise, Signature is an excellent choice. This traditional wooden boat offers a warm, intimate experience with a well-planned itinerary, friendly staff, and reasonable pricing — neither cheap nor overpriced — suitable for all travelers.