Cruise Halong Bay

Q: I plan to take my mother on a cruise in Halong Bay, Vietnam early next year. I did the cruise a few years back in a pretty basic boat, but would like a recommendation on booking a more luxurious cruiser with proper beds, bathrooms en suite and facilities she may enjoy. Can you help? - Ashley George

A: I can recommend three boats for those wishing to cruise Halong Bay in style. A popular choice is Halong Ginger, a custom-designed wooden junk with three decks that house an elegant restaurant, two bars, a small library, and a massage room. Ten luxurious sleeping cabins have comfortable beds, air conditioning and private bathrooms. The Jasmine Junk is one of the largest cruisers in the bay, sleeping 48 passengers. Fitted out in the 1930s Indochine style, this newly-built boat offers some of the most luxurious air conditioned bedrooms available. Two suites have their own jacuzzi and balcony for uninterrupted views of the bay. Valentine Junk offers a more intimate cruise, but no less luxurious. This new cruiser offers only five bedrooms, all beautifully decked out, and very personal service. You can book cruises from a number of agencies, including www.halongbaycruises.com, www.halongjunk.net and www.cruisehalongbay.com.