Be transported back to the old times, charm and luxury of Indochina's Emeraude Classic Cruises, with all the comforts and personal service you could possibly wish for. Sail the mysterious Halong Bay in a deluxe 55 meters vessel that has been designed
in the tradition of Le Tonkin.
Halong Bay
One of the great natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay covers an area of 1,500 km over which are scattered thousands of limestone islands and grottoes rising from the clear, emerald waters of the Gulf of Bac Bo. The majestic beauty of the bay and its islands is only fully appreciated while meandering among the islands, fjords and inlets. After a night on board the Emeraude, passengers awaken to see daylight filtering through the early morning mist and the towering rock formations, leaving them with a dream-like memory of their visit to Halong Bay.
Timeless Elegance
Each bespoke cabin exudes warmth and character with high standards of workmanship, distinguished style and impeccable service. With its polished wooden floors and brass fixtures and fittings the Emeraude’s rooms offer timeless elegance.
The History
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. After several ups and downs including successful trading and timber businesses, near bankruptcy and being taken hostage by pirates, the Roque brothers built Emeraude, Perle, Saphir, Rubis and Onyx to ferry passengers and freight along the waterways of Indochina and cruise on magnificent Halong Bay. Today the Emeraude offers a regular cruise service on board a luxurious replica steamer with 38 cabins meticulously designed to evoke the nostalgic charm of colonial Indochina.
Services
The Emeraude’s restaurant offers delicious, freshly caught local seafood and other specialities. While enjoying breathtaking views of the bay, passengers can enjoy the simple and honest flavours of traditional fare.
From the sun deck, passengers can enjoy a soothing foot massage while sipping a refreshing cocktail and gazing at the rock formations reflected in the crystal clear water of the bay. The Emeraude’s huge paddle wheel opens to reveal a swimming deck offering passengers the opportunity to swim in the calm waters of the bay surrounded by the majestic scenery. At dawn, that most magical time as the sun rises, the soft and graceful movements of a t’ai chi class on the deck complement the atmospheric silence of the bay.
Cruise Itinerary
DAY 1
Check in between 11h30 to 12h00
Enjoy a refreshing cocktail upon boarding
Buffet lunch in restaurant
Cruise among hundreds of islets to discover unspoilt pockets of Halong Bay
Visit Sung Sot Cave (Cave of Surprise)
Kayak or swim at Hang Trong anchorage
Onboard cooking demonstration
International buffet dinner in restaurant Watch a movie on the sundeck
Day 2
Practice Tai Chi on the sundeck at 06h00
Energising western breakfast at 07h00
Check out at 09h30