Cruise overview

Hon Gai Wharf, Ha Long, Vietnam View on map
8.7/10
Editor Rating

“ If you’re looking for an upscale cruising experience, Halong Athena Cruise might be for you. This is a brand new five-star cruise that offers quality accommodation and great services. The cruise sails you to enjoy breathless landscapes of Bai Tu Long Bay, a laid-back alternative to the touristy Halong Bay. Besides a well-thought-out itinerary, you’ll get to delight in some of the best cuisines on the cruise.”

Editor Reviews

Pros

- The Itinerary includes places that are spectacular and less crowded.
- Daily activities are enjoyable and well-organized.
- The cruise serves excellent buffet breakfast and brunch.

Cons

- The cooking demonstration should include more different techniques.
- Morning Tai Chi is great but a little difficult for beginners.
- There should have some indoor activities for children.
- The balcony is hardly used as it has strong diesel fumes.

Bottom Line

Athena is a luxurious cruise ship offering guests a relaxing experience to quieter parts of Halong Bay.

About

Type: Metal
Launched: 2017
No Of Cabins: 21
Pick Up Time: 7:00 Am
Drop Off Time: 16:00 Pm
Operating Area: Bai Tu Long Bay
Available Tours: 2d1n, 3d2n

8.8/10

Itinerary

Prepare yourself for interesting journeys to the most intriguing destinations of Bai Tu Long Bay. Here you will climb up 200 steps to explore Thien Canh Son Cave, use kayak service or traditional bamboo boat trip to get around Vung Vieng floating fishing village, do tai chi on the sundeck, and get a taste of local cuisine by joining the cooking demonstration.

  • Cooking class
  • Tour or class about local culture
  • Happy hour
  • Beach
  • Evening entertainment
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking
  • Bamboo boat trip

8.8/10

Cruise quality

Since its establishment, Halong Athena cruise appears to be state-of-the-art, newer, and more stable than other cruises. Do not understate this medium-sized cruise ship as it offers roomy, panoramic ocean-view suites with a private balcony or a terrace. The property also comes accompanied with butler service, high-end amenities, and a superlative environment.

8.9/10

Service & facilities

The 5-star cruise is fitted with a number of new facilities, especially the sauna facility. Sauna session opens daily from 15:30 – 16:30 PM free of charge. Other cruise notable features are beauty spa service, kayak service, bamboo rowing boat upon request (50.000 VND/pax), welcome cocktail, and free water, tea, and fresh fruit in the cabin.

  • Shuttle service
  • Shared lounge/TV area
  • Airport shuttle (additional charge)
  • Shuttle service (additional charge)
  • Designated smoking area
  • Air conditioning
  • Car hire
  • Soundproof rooms
  • Safety deposit box
  • Bridal suite
  • Family rooms
  • Non-smoking rooms
8.8/10

Cabin quality

Athena cruise has 21 suites positioned in an ultra-luxury and intimate setting. You can expect a comfortable stateroom with large TV, wooden furniture, high-quality wooden bed, private bathroom, complimentary tea & coffee, and drinking water. These accommodations are well-suited for honeymooners, families, and business travelers.

Room TypeMaximumSize
Elegant Double or Twin Suite with Balcony2 adults, 1 Children28 sqm
Athena Terrace Suite2 adults, 1 Children32 sqm
Connecting Grand Suite4 adults, 1 Children48 sqm
Triple Suite with Ocean View3 adults, 1 Children32 sqm
9.0/10

Food & drink

The dining restaurant comprises a bevy of fine Vietnamese dishes and buffet breakfast is available in the room every morning. Moreover, the cruise brings guests an extensive beverage list for guests of all ages.

7.9/10

Value for money

The cheapest cabin is the executive suite with a balcony which is priced at US$681/night and the most expensive one is the family connecting suite costs US$1719/night.

Access for people with disabilities?

There are no facilities for disabled people.

Family-friendly?

- Only 1 child under 5 years old is free of charge per cabin if sharing an existing bed with parent/s.

- Children from 11 years old and above are considered as adults.

Last updated: October 29, 2019

Check availability

Rooms from
$147per person
Cruise Duration
  • All durations
  • Full day
  • 2 Days / 1 Night
  • 3 Days / 2 Nights
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Rates provided by Booking.com

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Frequently asked questions

1.Is the cruise accessible for pregnancy?

There are no specific restrictions for pregnant women. However, if you’re pregnant, you should have a serious check-up with the doctor before getting onboard. Also, women with over 32-week pregnancy should not join the trip.

2.What if I have special orders for food?

Special dietary requirements can be accepted with prior notice 2 days before departure.

3.Where will we go on the 2D1N trip?

The 2-day trip takes you to Vung Vieng fishing village by kayak or bamboo boat on the 1st day and discover Thien Canh Son cave on the second day.

4.Does the cruise require a deposit for accommodation reservation?

Yes, it does. You will need to charge a deposit of 30% of the total cost. You can pay by credit card, bank transfer, Western Union Global Transfer or Paypal.

5.Does Athena cruise offer kayak and bamboo boat service for free?

Kayak is free of charge but bamboo boat service costs 50.000 VND/pax and available upon request.

6.I would like to know about the cruise maximum occupancy?

The family connecting suite is the largest cabin (58m2) and it can accommodate a maximum of 4 adults and 4 children.