Have you ever wondered what it is like to live the life of a seafarer for a couple of days? My recent two-day cruise on the Orchid Classic Cruise was a dream come true. From kayaking through secret lagoons to discovering hidden beaches, every moment was a thrilling adventure. If you are seeking relaxation and a soft adventure in Lan Ha Bay, this cruise is the perfect getaway.
Facilities
Superb cabin
Orchid Classic is a premium luxury cruise ship whose design is inspired by classic Indochinese architecture and features warm wooden interiors. As the cruise has only 14 cabins, they are very spacious, with a minimum acreage of 36m2. They are categorized into 5 types; the entry-level is Suite Balcony.
My Suite Balcony uses natural materials like wood and stone to enhance the connection to the surrounding environment. It was very well-equipped and even had an ocean-view bathtub overwatching the picturesque Halong Bay. However, the highlight of this room was the balcony, where I could enjoy my sip while immersing in the serenity of Halong privately.
The intimate cabin offers wooden furniture and an awe-inspiring bay view.
Well-maintained amenities
Not only the suites but also the amenities here were sumptuous. The first thing I have to mention is the outdoor jacuzzi pool. Located on the second floor, it has a sleek, modern design, with crystal-clear water that perfectly mirrors the sky. Above it is the sundeck deck with stylish lounge chairs and elegant deck spaces to relax and sunbathe comfortably. There is also a sky bar where you can converse with your loved ones while enjoying the night view on the cruise’s top.
Regarding the restaurant, it is a perfect blend of elegance and style. It was designed with rich wooden tones and refined details, creating a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere. If you want to have body relief, the luxurious spa will satisfy you. Experienced and skilled therapists will give you various treatments after you lie on a comfortable massage bed.
The cozy and tranquil ambiance of the luxurious spa is well-designed for your relief.
There are, however, some downsides to this cruise. As the Orchid cruise was launched in 2016, its amenities were fewer than other cruises. Therefore, there is a lack of entertainment areas for onboard activities. Besides, the wooden hallway showed its age and had a squeaky sound when I walked by. Finally, the bathroom was separated by a blind only, so it was not private enough.
Activities
The two-day schedule was ideal for seeing Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island in all their glory in a short time. Few cruises include Cat Ba Island in their two-day itinerary, but this one does. My first activity was to visit the Dark & Bright Cave. The entrance led me to a massive, dark cavern. Inside, stalactites and stalagmites created a mesmerizing atmosphere. As the sunlight appeared, it showed us a larger chamber called Bright Cave.
Paddle the calm water and soak up the tranquility on a kayak
Then, I have an exciting trip to Trung Trang Cave in Cat Ba Island on the next day. As I ventured deeper, I was greeted by impressive stalactites and stalagmites, their forms like glittering gems. Beyond its stunning beauty, Trung Trang Cave is also home to a diverse ecosystem, including reptiles, insects, birds, and bats.
While on the board, I joined the Vietnamese cooking class after the sunset party. I learned how to prepare an iconic dish called Banh Xeo – a combination of rice flour batter, aromatic herbs, and other things. Also, I fitted myself with some exercises from the Tai Chi class in the early morning. Everything was great, except there were not many things to do at night.
The food
Dining on the Orchid Classic was nothing short of a sensory adventure! As I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted with panoramic windows framing the breathtaking seascape. The restaurant’s interior was beautifully decorated with warm tones, natural materials, and tasteful accents that create a cozy and inviting ambiance.
Orchid Cruise is well-suited for a wide range of guests due to its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from vegan options to international dishes. The seafood, freshly caught and perfectly seasoned, was a highlight. I also loved the dish decoration as it displayed the Vietnamese traditional style. During my stay, there are two Happy Hours, one during sunset and one at night. For me, it would be better if there is more Asian dishes in the buffet. Besides, the ship needs to improve the quality of its drinks to suit their prices.
Fresh ingredients and pretty decorations enhance the fine dining experience.
The price
With 2 days on Orchid Cruise Lan Ha Bay, I just needed to pay US $183/pax depending on the suite type. This price does not include drink fees and transfer costs if you are traveling from Hanoi. I had this affordable price thanks to my friend’s advice to book at Bestprice Travel. With their special promotions, I gained a discount of up to 30%. What a bargain it is!
bestpricetravel.com offers visitors many special deals for the Orchid Classic.
My two-day journey aboard the Orchid Classic Cruise was an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking scenery to the warm hospitality and delicious cuisine, every aspect of the trip exceeded my expectations. Whether you are desiring tranquility or seeking unique adventures, Halong Bay cruise ships will completely satisfy you.