Indochina Sails Halong Bay 2026–2027
Indochina Sails is one of the most established cruise brands in Halong Bay, with over three decades of operation since 1993 and more than one million guests welcomed. The fleet comprises traditional wooden junks designed with elegant Indochine architecture, offering an intimate and artful experience. With 30+ years of safe navigation and a seasoned crew boasting over two decades of experience, Indochina Sails remains a certified choice for discerning travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility.
Overview and heritage
Indochina Sails is the embodiment of timeless beauty and refined luxury, offering travelers a gateway into a world where nature’s grandeur meets cultural sophistication. As a pioneer in the premium cruise segment in Halong Bay, the company proudly boasts over 30 years of experience. Each vessel is a harmonious blend of elegant Indochine architecture and meticulous Vietnamese craftsmanship, creating an intimate and artful ambiance.
The fleet consists of four different junks with varying capacities: one with 14 cabins, two with 15 cabins, and the largest with 23 cabins. The largest vessel, often referred to as the flagship, features 23 elegantly appointed cabins, can accommodate 46 guests, and maintains a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio. It was last renovated in 2023, ensuring modern comfort while preserving traditional charm. Built entirely of aged wood (including fragrant “Huong timber” beneficial for health), the boats incorporate local granite and handcrafted details.
In 2026, Indochina Sails also operates two newer luxury vessels under the Indochine brand: Indochine Premium (37 cabins, winner of “Luxury Art Cruises” at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards) and Indochine Grand (32 cabins, launched 2025 with an infinity pool and mini golf course).
Cabins and suites (2026)
All cabins feature traditional wooden interiors, en-suite bathrooms, and ocean views. The fleet offers four cabin categories across two decks. All cabins are fully air-conditioned and equipped with en suite bathrooms featuring massage showers. Suites include walk-in closets, LCD TVs, personal safes, plush bedding, robes, slippers, Wi-Fi, and a mini-bar.
| Cabin class | Deck | Size (m²) | Number | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Superior | 1st | 14 | 13 on largest junk | Entry-level, double/twin, en-suite shower |
| Deluxe | 2nd | 16 | 4 | Larger windows, panoramic view |
| Suite | 2nd | 20 | 4 | Spacious seating area, walk-in closet, bathtub option |
| President Suite | 2nd | 24 | 2 | Largest cabin, premium amenities, jacuzzi bathtub, separate living area |
Note: Cabin counts vary slightly between the four junks; the table shows typical configuration for the 23-cabin flagship.
Onboard amenities
Each Indochina Sails junk offers a range of facilities:
- Restaurant serving Vietnamese and international cuisine, with set menu or romantic dinner options on cave or beach
- Sundeck with loungers and shaded areas, perfect for sunset viewing
- Spa and massage service (available for booking)
- Jacuzzi or hot tub on select vessels
- 24-hour front desk and room service
- Free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas
- Bar, coffee shop, and BBQ facilities
- Laundry service, luggage storage, concierge
- Babysitting service available
- Mini golf course on some vessels (Indochine Grand)
- Night squid fishing equipment
- Tai Chi classes at sunrise
- Cooking demonstrations and fruit carving classes
- Board games and library
Guest reviews (2025-2026)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.9/5 – Guests consistently praise the friendly crew, delicious food, and authentic wooden atmosphere. Below are recent reviews:
“Tuan, the cruise director (Happy Buddha), was organized and attentive to every detail. He made sure we were having a good time, told us the schedule individually, and answered questions with kindness. The ship was vintage style with dark wood furnishings and antique artifacts – a lot of class and style. Food was very good, service impeccable.” – Betty H, December 2025
“Wonderful experience with Indochina Sails! We traveled with our three-year-old and felt so well taken care of. Happy Little Buddha was incredibly kind, even offering special extras for our baby. Food was amazing, especially the fine dining. We would definitely come back!” – Osman C, December 2025
“Great cruise over 3 days, 2 nights. This boat remains one of the most authentic, and the quality of service is impeccable. The chef delighted us with a little French touch on some dishes. Special mention to Ms. Mee, a sweet, smiling, caring, and very professional waitress.” – Perrine D, November 2025
2-day / 1-night itinerary (2026)
Day 1: 11:30 check-in at Indochina Sails Lounge, Tuan Chau International Marina. Welcome drink and safety briefing. 13:15 buffet lunch while cruising past Incense Burner and Fighting Cock Islets. 16:00 visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), the largest cave in Halong Bay, for 45-minute guided tour. 17:30 sunset relaxation, swimming or kayaking at Luon Cave (optional, kayaking available for surcharge). 18:30 cooking class or fruit carving demonstration. 19:30 fine dining dinner. 20:30 evening entertainment: board games, squid fishing, or spa. Overnight on board.
Day 2: 06:00 light breakfast, 06:30 Tai Chi on sundeck. 07:45 visit Titov Island for swimming or hiking 435 steps to panoramic viewpoint (Lonely Planet’s Top 100 Beaches). 09:00 return to boat, check-out, brunch served while cruising back. 11:00 disembark at Tuan Chau Port.
Note: Kayaking can be added for 10 USD per person.
3-day / 2-night deep discovery
Day 1: same as 2-day itinerary.
Day 2: 06:30 Tai Chi, breakfast. 08:15 transfer to local day boat for deeper exploration of Halong and Lan Ha Bays. Visit Ho Dong Tien Cave (Fairy Lake Cave), kayaking and swimming at Trinh Nu Cave. 12:00 lunch on day boat. 14:00 visit a pearl farm. 15:25 return to Indochina Sails. 19:30 second dinner on board. Evening activities: squid fishing, board games, or spa.
Day 3: 06:30 Tai Chi, light breakfast. 07:45 visit Titov Island. 09:00 check-out, brunch, 11:00 disembark.
Sister ships (2026 fleet expansion)
Indochine Premium
A truly unique 5-star cruise, honored as the “Best Luxury Cruise Line in Vietnam” by Luxury Lifestyle Awards and winner of “Luxury Art Cruises” at the 2025 World Luxury Travel Awards. Features 37 spacious cabins, each with private balcony or terrace. Highlights include a rare double sundeck (1,450m²), fine-dining restaurant, piano lounge, vibrant bar, outdoor Jacuzzi, and peaceful spa area. Operated by Indochina Sails with over 30 years of cruising expertise. Ideal for couples and luxury groups.
Indochine Grand
Launched in 2025, this masterpiece features 32 artfully crafted cabins with handcrafted décor, natural wooden interiors, and lacquer finishes. World-class amenities include a fine-dining restaurant, rooftop panoramic bar, infinity pool with bay views, and a mini golf course at the bow. Outfitted with multi-layered rescue systems and operated by a seasoned crew with over two decades of maritime expertise.
Official rates 2026 (per cabin, USD)
Rates are per person based on double occupancy. Shuttle bus Hanoi–Halong round-trip: 50 USD per person.
2-day / 1-night
| Cabin class | Price per person |
|---|---|
| Superior | $124 – $165 |
| Deluxe | $233 – $245 |
| Suite | $245 – $260 |
| President Suite | $286 |
3-day / 2-night
| Cabin class | Price per person |
|---|---|
| Superior | $249 – $324 |
| Deluxe | $550 (approx) |
Prices vary by season and availability. Contact operator for exact rates and promotions.
Inclusions and exclusions
- Welcome drink
- Accommodation in luxury cabin with A/C
- All meals as per itinerary
- Entrance and sightseeing fees
- English-speaking guide on board
- Kayaking or sampan boat ride (in 3-day program)
- Tai Chi and cooking class
- Night squid fishing
- Use of swimming pool/jacuzzi
- Insurance, taxes, service charges
- Shuttle bus Hanoi–Halong (optional extra)
- Airfares and hotels
- Visa arrangements
- Beverages, drinks
- Spa and massage services
- Tips and personal expenses
- Kayaking on 2-day program (10 USD extra)
Booking and cancellation policy
Deposit: 30-50 percent required to secure booking, balance due 15 days prior.
Cancellation by customer: Free more than 33 days; 10 percent 33-15 days; 20 percent 14-8 days; 50 percent 7-4 days; 100 percent less than 96 hours or no-show.
Cancellation by Halong Bay Management Board (weather): Full refund if cancelled before departure; used services charged if during trip.
Important notes for 2026
- • Check-in at Tuan Chau Port between 11:30 and 12:00. Late arrivals after 12:05 may incur surcharge for tender pick-up.
- • Passport required for registration; provide full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, visa expiry date at least 3 days before departure.
- • Special dietary needs must be advised one week in advance.
- • Child policy: under 5 free (one child sharing with two adults); 5-10 years 75 percent of adult price; 11+ full adult.
- • Itineraries subject to change due to weather or operating conditions.
- • Signature yellow sails are unfurled when wind rises, creating a poetic moment.