In 1910 a paddle steamer called the Emeraude was offering unforgettable cruises in Halong Bay for visitors to what was then French Indochina. The Emeraude was part of a flotilla owned by the Roque family who had left Bordeaux in 1858 in search of adventure and fortune. Over a period of more than 50 years they found both. Today the Emeraude offers a regular cruise services on board a luxurious replica steamer with 38 cabins meticulously designed to evoke the nostalgic charm of colonial Indochina. See Emeraude Cruise.
Day 1: Hanoi – Halong Bay (L, D)
7h:45 - 8h:25: Pickup at the hotel in Hanoi. Depart to Halong bay.
12h00 – 13h00: Arrive at Halong Bay’s tourist quay. Welcome by Emeraude staff and board shuttle boat for short transfer to the Emeraude. Welcome cocktail and check in on board.
13h00 – 17h30: The Emeraude cruises through Halong Bay passing by some of the most scenic locations including Yen Ngua, Con Coc Mountains and a floating village.
Vietnamese buffet lunch is served between 13h00 and 14h30 in the Emeraude restaurant.
There is an optional guided visit to Sungsot Grotto (Grotto of Surprises) if weather and tide permitting. Option of afternoon tea with pastries on the sundeck or in the restaurant and an aperitif before dinner.
17h30: Stop near Hang Luon for overnight on board.
19h00 – 21h00: Vietnamese buffet dinner is served in the Emeraude dinning room. Accommodation and overnight on board the Emeraude at Hang Luon Lake, Halong Bay.
Day 2: Halong - Hanoi (B, L)
06h00: Tai Chi Class.
07h00: The Emeraude sets sail once again through the breathtaking scenery of Halong Bay heading for Halong Public Port.
07h00 – 09h00: European buffet breakfast is served in the Emeraude restaurant.
08h30 – 09h45: Check out of cabin.
09h45 – 10h00: Transfer by shuttle boat back to Halong Public Port.
Tour ends in Hanoi.
