Chung Sơn Holidays from AU$1,788

Wow, from the moment we stepped aboard to when we disembarked, Chien and the crew couldn’t be more friendly or helpful, set in the magnificent backdrop of Halong bay, it was a truly unforgettable experience. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Athena cruises

Room was fantast. Ship was fantastic, food great. Above all the attentiveness of the staff stood out especially pur butler Tommy and guide Summer, both went above and beyond to make our trip so enjoyable.

I was really looking forward to this experience and was quite underwhelmed. There were tons of rubbish floating in the bay, and I know it's not the organisers fault but, it hindered our experience. There is no way you can go and swim in the water as one of the activities planner suggest. Also all of the other activities are planned at exactly the same time, not sure why, as other boats making it crowded super turisty and not very pleasant. The rooms themselves were spacious and clean and all the stuff lovely. No complaints there. It's also great to wake up with a view of the rocks shooting down from the ocean (just don't look down). Food, I'm 50/50 about. The dinner was good, not great, lunch and breakfast underwhelming again. Desert I suggest fruit only. My friend ordered a coffee that we had to pay a fortune for and it looked and tasted like dish water. Vietnam has so much delicious food on offer and what was served was pretty pedestrian. Everything on board was ridiculously expensive. Massage, drinks, snacks. I would suggest bringing that with you. Overall I guess it's one of those must do in Vietnam but for the price we paid for one night stay I can't say it was worth it.

The room was stunning and the staff was amazing.