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Grand Pioneers (Essence Grand) Cruise Halong Bay
Tuan Chau Cruise Port, Halong City, Quang Ninh
9.6Excellent - 29 reviews

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Grand Pioneers (Essence Grand) Cruise Halong Bay

Tuan Chau Cruise Port, Halong City, Quang Ninh
9.6Excellent - 29 reviews
Launched in 2023
55 Cabins
BestPrice Travel
  • 3D Golf
  • Cigar/ Poker Club
  • Conference
  • Elevator
  • Fitness Center
  • Game Room
  • Kids Club
  • Mini Cinema
  • Pool
  • Spa & Massage
Why choose Grand Pioneers (Essence Grand) Cruise?
  • Brand-new super yacht with endless entertainment: swimming pool, sky bar, wine cellar, 3D golf course, poker, kid club, karaoke room, game & movie room

  • The grandest Halong overnight ship offering the largest cabin number and size

  • The most spacious Owner Suite with a 150m2 stateroom and a 200m2 terrace

Cabin & Rates

Bed type:
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Ocean Suite

Ocean Suite

2 pax
30.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Ocean Balcony Suite

Ocean Balcony Suite

2 pax
45.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Ocean Suite Triple

Ocean Suite Triple

3 pax
43.0 m2
Triple
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Veranda Suite

Veranda Suite

2 pax
45.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Executive Suite

Executive Suite

2 pax
45.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Essence Suite

Essence Suite

2 pax
80.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Oceania Suite

Oceania Suite

2 pax
95.0 m2
Round
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Owner's Suite

Owner's Suite

2 pax
150.0 m2
Double / Twin
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Pearl Suite

Pearl Suite

2 pax
42.0 m2
Round
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
The Signature Suite

The Signature Suite

2 pax
50.0 m2
Double
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
The President Suite

The President Suite

2 pax
109.0 m2
Double
  • Free cancellation
  • All board - meals included
Cabin detail
Booking Policy
Price Includes
  • Fully equipped luxury en-suite guestroom with chilled water central air-con and marble bathroom
  • All meals onboard (2 days/ 1night: 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast, 1 brunch; 3 days/2 nights: 2 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts, 1 brunch)
  • Tender - speedboat transfers
  • Welcome drink
  • Daily mineral water
  • Canapes service during Happy Hour
  • Entrance and sightseeing fees
  • Tai chi, gym, four seasons and salt water swimming pool, table soccer, kid’s club, family entertainment room and 3D golf simulator
  • Activities: Entrance tickets to visiting spots, squid fishing
  • Internet & TV
  • English and Vietnamese speaking guides
  • VAT tax included in room rates
Price Excludes
  • Transportation: Hanoi – Halong – Hanoi
  • Additional beverages not listed in the cruise price
  • Spa and massage services
  • Karaoke, cigar lounge, use of conference facilities
  • Activities: kayaking
  • Tips and other personal expenses
  • All other services not clearly mentioned above
  • Note: Surcharges will be applied during the Christmas and New Year’s Eve periods and over the Vietnamese Tet Lunar New Year
Cancellation Policy
  • More than 21 days before check-in: FREE of charge
  • From 11 to 20 days before check-in: 30% of total rates
  • From 7 to 10 days before check-in: 50% of total rates
  • Less than 7 days before check-in & no Show: 100% of total rates

If the cancellation be announced by the Management Board of Halong Bay, depend on the timing of the cancellation, following policies will be applied:

  • Before departure from Hanoi to Halong Bay (none of the services has been used): 100% refund.
  • During the trip (some services have been used: transfer, lunch, day trip, hotel in Halong, etc.): used services will be charged, the rest will be refunded.
  • The trip be cut down from 2 nights to 1 night, tourists will be charged a 2 days/1 night trip, plus other used services, the rest will be refunded.
  • The final cost will be confirmed by your consultant via email. In all cases, please contact us directly for any urgent help. We are here to support you with all of our best!
Children Policy
  • Under 5 years old: Children under 5 years old sharing a full price room with adults: Free of charge (limited to 1 child/1 room). From the 2nd child: surcharged at VND 1,800,000/ child (sharing bed with parent)
  • From 5 to 11 years old: charged 75% adult ( sharing bed ), 90% adult ( extra bed )
  • Above 11 years old : adult rate will be charge

Cruise Itineraries

Grand Pioneers (Essence Grand) Cruise Map
2 days
3 days (Even Dates)
Legacy Journey 3 days (Odd Date)
Day 1: Hanoi - Halong Bay - Sung Sot Cave
Day 2: Luon Cave - Halong Bay - Hanoi
Last update 15:02 Thursday 30 May 2024
  • PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE

About Grand Pioneers (Essence Grand) Cruise

Launched in 2023, Essence Grand Cruise is the largest luxury vessel in Halong Bay, which promises to provide an extraordinary opportunity for those who seeking an authentic 6-star overnight cruising experience. This cruise provides 07 huge decks, 12 special utilities, 55 cabins, and a high capacity of 320 guests. 

On 21st May 2024, Essence Grand Cruise officially changed its name to Grand Pioneers Cruise, using a new brand development approach, positioning themselves as the pioneers of the "Heritage Journey." Amidst the magnificent wonders of nature in Halong Bay & Bai Tu Long Bay, this high-class cruise will lead the voyage along the national coast and extend further around the world.

Facilities & Deck Plan

There are two luxury vessels named Grand Pioneers I and Grand Pioneers II to meet the ongoing demand of travelers for high-class service, each with different deck plans.

Grand Pioneers I (55 cabins)

Grand I has 7 decks with a variety of amenities that can accommodate up to 160 passengers onboard:

The bottom deck is a suitable area for 02 karaoke rooms, 02 billiards & 3D golf room.

1st floor (Wellness Deck) includes 06 cabins (Ocean & Ocean Triple Suite); and a range of facilities including reception, 02 elevators, a security room, a medical center, a Family Entertainment room, a Kids Club, a Spa, a Gym, and a Meeting Room.

2nd floor (Pool Deck) is where the 16 suites (Ocean Balcony and Veranda), the Pool, Pool Bar, Cigar & Wine Lounge, Entertainment Room, and Private Dining Room are located.

3rd floor (Essence Deck) features 18 suites (Ocean Balcony, Executive, 01 Oceania at the rear, and 01 Owner’s Suite at the front).

4th floor (Panorama Deck) is for 14 suites (02 Essence at the back, and the remaining Ocean Balcony & Executive).

Ocean Suites have floor-to-ceiling windows. Ocean Balcony Suites stay on both the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th decks with partial view balconies. Veranda and Executive Suites have full-view private balconies of 5m2.

Essence Suites have 20m2 private terraces while Oceania Suites don't have a terrace but a larger size (95m2) with panoramic windows. Owner Suite has the largest cabin size of 150m2 with a 200m2 terrace.

5th floor (Gourmet Deck) is designed for the Dining by the Bay Restaurant and Open Kitchen.

6th floor (Sky Deck), offers an open-air sundeck for Sky Bar, a wonderful spot to enjoy the gorgeous bay from high up.

Grand Pioneers I Deck Plan

The Deck Plan of Grand Pioneers I

Grand Pioneers II (53 cabins)

Same as Grand I, Grand II Cruise has the same number of 7 decks.

The bottom deck has 02 karaoke rooms and a Cinema room. The 1st (Serenity), 5th (Gastronomy) & 6th (Majestic) floors have the same layout as Grand I, except for a new gift shop on the 1st floor.

2nd floor (Crystal Oasis) is the pool area and 19 suites (Ocean Balcony, Veranda, 02 Pearl Suites, and the only President Suite).

3rd floor (Lavish) includes a Bay View Restaurant, Cigar & Wine Lounge at the back; a Private Dining Room & Jacuzzi deck at the front; in the middle are 14 suites (Ocean Balcony, Executive, and 02 Essence Suites).

4th floor provides a Wheelhouse & Terrace area, 14 suites (the remaining Ocean Balcony and Executive Suites and 02 Essence Suites at the deck's rear)

The Pearl Suites (42m2) only have bay view windows. Signature and Essence Suites both have private balconies with the size as follows: 9m2 and 20m2. The President Suite (109m2) is the largest cabin on board.

Grand Pioneers II Deck Plan

The Deck Plan of Grand Pioneers II

Service & Activities

Passengers embarking on the 2-day-1-night cruise will tackle a thoughtfully planned itinerary, allowing them to discover the marvels of Ha Long Bay. This includes visits to renowned sites like Sung Sot Cave and Luon Cave.

For those opting for the 3-day-2-night trip, the unique adventure will bring you to both Bai Tu Long Bay and Halong Bay and encompass stunning attractions such as Thien Canh Son Cave, Cap La, Vung Vieng Village, Da Xep Nature Park, Titop Island, and more.

Regardless of the chosen tour, an unforgettable experience awaits on this extraordinary 6-star overnight cruise.  

Explore Sung Sot Cave

The 1st day of the itinerary allows approximately one hour to explore Sung Sot Cave, an enchanting site where you can delve into captivating legends and myths. Immerse yourself in the diverse and abundant natural beauty that this cave presents, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.

Inside The Magnificent Sung Sot Cave

Inside The Magnificent Sung Sot Cave

Discover Luon Cave

On the last day of the 2d1n itinerary, an opportunity awaits to explore Luon Cave. Delve into the captivating legends and myths while immersing yourself in the abundant natural biodiversity on a rowing boat.

Spend time in Thien Canh Son Cave

On the 3-day itinerary, you will take time to visit this remarkable cave on the 1st day, which offers a unique and contrasting experience, where you can witness the awe-inspiring formations of stalactites and stalagmites. 

Visit Da Chong Nature Park

On the 2nd day of the 3-day schedule, guests will visit one of the most spectacular and pristine areas of the bay - Da Chong Nature Park. This attraction is a fascinating outdoor geological museum that has existed for more than 320 million years.

Explore Vung Vieng Floating Village

After the nature park, a visit to this floating village will bring you a valuable chance to take a look at the interesting lifestyle of the fisherman in the middle of the sea and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of the area.

Spa and massage

Spa

  • Price: From US $10.5/ service
  • Duration: 30 - 75 minutes/ session

Professional masseuses with age-old techniques are perfected by Vietnamese people. You will have a chance to experience a soothing massage and hot stone body treatment with 6-star standards, we also have a couple of services to make the passengers’ experience more perfect. 

Food & Drink

Grand Pioneers Cruise offers a delightful dining experience that will satisfy your taste buds. You can indulge in mouthwatering meals carefully crafted to offer a diverse range of flavors.

The usual meal serving hours are as follows: breakfast is served starting at 6:30, you can enjoy brunch at 9:30, lunch is available around 12:00, and dinner is typically served around 19:00.

Note: If you have any special dietary, please let us know since the crew team always customizes to meet your demands.

Relaxing Ambiance for Couples

Enjoy a high-class dining experience

Drink

As part of the package, guests will receive two complimentary bottles of mineral water per day. However, any additional beverages not included in the cruise price will be charged separately. The prices for these beverages can be found on the bar menu and will be billed accordingly.

  • Alcohol: From US $53/ bottle & US $10.5/ shot
  • Cocktail: From US $8.5/ glass
  • Non-alcohol: From US $3/ item

Delight in a wide array of refreshing flavors from our extensive alcohol selection, featuring spirits such as whisky, rum, gin, vodka, and more. 

For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, indulge in a glass of mocktails, fruit juice, smoothies, hot drinks, water, and a variety of soft drinks. We offer a diverse range of beverage choices to cater to every guest's preferences and ensure a satisfying experience.

Transportation

Departing from Hanoi

For your convenience, the bus will pick you up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter between 8:00 and 8:45. You will enjoy a comfortable journey to Tuan Chau Port in Halong City in a 9-16 seat limousine.

Departing on your own

If you are arranging your own transportation, arriving at the designated waiting station for Grand Pioneers before 11:30 is important for check-in on time.

Waiting Lounge in Tuan Chau Marina

The Waiting Lounge in Tuan Chau Marina

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Based on 27 customer's reviews

9.6
Excellent
Traveler rating
  • 25
  • 2
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
Score breakdown
  • Cruise quality 9.8
  • Food/Drink 9.2
  • Cabin quality 9.7
  • Staff quality 9.9
  • Enter/act 9.6
8.9
Very good - Syversen
Norway Norway
01/11/2024

Hello, the boat trip and the food and staff on the boat (Linh and Jay and the tour guy) were very good!! Please tell them they Get a 5-star from us.

The only thing we can put our finger on is the transportation bus from and back to Hanoi, it was old, and we had to sit on the back seat both ways. Also, we had to wait 1 hour for the trip back. Also, your service is great!???? thank you very much!

9.6
Excellent - Jaime R
United States United States
15/10/2024

Thank you so much!!! The pickup service is very nice and comfortable!! The cruise was absolutely amazing. Thank you for making this trip possible. You are great. My next visit to Asia. I will make sure I message you so you can help plan my trip. You are awesome. I give you a 5-star review thank you for everything.

9.2
Excellent - Mr.Julian
Germany Germany
02/10/2024

This was a really nice experience. The staff was super friendly, especially our waiter. The rooms and facilities were also super clean and nice. The food was ok I think. All in all a very nice experience.

9.7
Excellent - Pauline L
Australia Australia
10/09/2024

Thank you, Mia.
Very much appreciated. You have been so diligent in assisting us with everything.
I shall certainly leave an outstanding review of your excellent service.

Kind regards
Pauline.

The luxury ship
9.0
Excellent - Laura C
Canada Canada
27/08/2024

Thank Haley so much for everything! We really appreciate your help! Just give more vegan options. The crew team is wonderful! They were so loving to every guest.

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Questions & Answers (4)

Ask a Question
Q
19/10/2024

Arriving on a large cruise ship Nov 12 at 11am. Would we have enough time to get to your ship before you embark?

1 Reply
1
20/10/2024
@Devon:

Yes the check in time of boat is 12:00 and leaving about 12:15 so it is enough time for you.

1 Like Reply
Q
10/09/2024

Hello, I want to book the Grand Pioneers (Essence Grand) Cruise 3 Days 2 Nights n March 2025. The dates are not open yet for 2025? How can I organize my trip to tour Ha Long?

1 Reply
1
10/09/2024
@Terise Needham:

This boat will run 2 nights program in ODD day, so you can choose any odd date to book.

1 Like Reply
Q
23/07/2024

How do the inter-connecting rooms work when you have 2 older kids

1 Reply
1
23/07/2024
@Nicole Strang:

We have 2 Veranda Suite or 2 Executive Suite can connect each other.

1 Like Reply
Q
03/07/2024

Are transfers from hotel (Sofitel Legend Metropole included? What time would we be returned to hotel on the second evening?

1 Reply
1
03/07/2024
@Roland A Schach:

Our price havent included transfer yet, you need to add at booking step 45 USD/pax join bus.

1 Like Reply
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