Athena Luxury Cruise Halong Bay
CRUISE PRICE
$165.00 /pax
Cruise Rating
- Cruise Overview
- Cabins & Rates
- Cruises Itinerary
- Cruise Reviews
Athena Luxury Cruise: 21 Balcony Cabins, Spa and Sauna on the Classic Halong Bay Route
Athena Luxury Cruise is a 21-cabin, 5-star ship run by Athena Group since July 2017, sailing from Halong International Cruise Port to Sung Sot Cave, Ti Top Island and Luon Cave, with a balcony or terrace in every cabin, a spa, a sauna and a sundeck bar. It is one of the best-value top Halong Bay luxury cruises, booked with our Best Price Guarantee.
Athena Luxury Cruise at a Glance
| Operator | Athena Group (also runs Athena Royal and Signature Cruise) |
| Launched | July 2017 |
| Ship | Steel-hull 5-star cruise, 21 cabins |
| Cabins | 21 in 5 categories, 25–60 m², balcony or terrace |
| Route | Halong Bay – Sung Sot Cave – Ti Top Island – Luon Cave |
| Itineraries | 2 Days 1 Night; 3 Days 2 Nights |
| Departure port | Halong International Cruise Port, Bai Chay, Ha Long City |
| Check-in / out | Check in about 12:00; disembark about 10:45 |
| On board | Sundeck bar and coffee lounge, indoor wine bar, spa, sauna, outdoor movie screen |
| Food | Vietnamese–Western fusion set menus with local seafood |
| Transfer | Athena limousine from the Old Quarter, quoted separately |
| TripAdvisor | Rated 4.9/5 on TripAdvisor |
| Price | Seasonal, see the live calendar below; Best Price Guarantee |
| Best for | Couples and first-time visitors who want the classic sights on a small ship |
| Not ideal for | Travellers who want a swimming pool or quiet Lan Ha Bay |
What Makes Athena Luxury Cruise Different
Sung Sot and Ti Top on the same afternoon
Day 1 covers Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island; Luon Cave by kayak or bamboo boat follows on Day 2, so you see all three classic sights in one night.
Spa and sauna on a 21-cabin ship
A sauna is rare on Halong Bay ships, and the small size keeps the sundeck and restaurant calm.
A family connecting cabin of 60 m²
The Elegance Family Connecting cabin sleeps up to 4 adults and 2 children, with Family Triples for groups of three.
Who Athena Luxury Cruise Is Best For
Book it if you are
- On your first trip and want Sung Sot, Ti Top and Luon Cave
- A couple wanting a balcony on a small, quiet ship
- A family needing a connecting cabin
Choose another cruise if you want
- The sister ship in quieter Bai Tu Long Bay: Athena Royal Cruise
- A pool and jacuzzi on the same route: Alisa Premier Cruise
- A halal-certified kitchen: Catherine Cruise
Athena Luxury Cruise Itinerary
2 Days 1 Night
| Time | What happens |
|---|---|
| Day 1, 12:00 | Check in at Halong International Cruise Port |
| 12:45 | Lunch while cruising |
| 14:45 | Bo Nau area and Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave |
| 15:45 | Ti Top Island: viewpoint or beach |
| 18:00 | Happy Hour; cooking class at 18:30 |
| 19:00 | Dinner; squid fishing |
| Day 2, 06:30 | Tai Chi on the sundeck |
| 07:30 | Kayaking or bamboo boat at Luon Cave |
| 09:00 | Check-out; brunch at 09:30 |
| 10:45 | Disembark at the port |
3 Days 2 Nights
The 3-day trip adds Me Cung (Maze) Cave and the Tung Sau pearl farm and fishing area, with a second night on board.
Athena Luxury Cruise Cabins & Facilities
| Cabin | Size | Count | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Balcony | 25 m² | 10 | Double or twin, balcony |
| Elegance Balcony | 28 m² | 7 | Larger balcony cabin |
| Premium Terrace Suite | 30 m² | 2 | Extended private terrace |
| Family Triple | 35 m² | 2 | Up to 3 adults |
| Elegance Family Connecting | 60 m² | 1 | Up to 4 adults + 2 children |
- Sundeck bar, coffee lounge and movie screen
- Indoor bar and wine lounge
- Spa and sauna
- 45-seat restaurant with bay views
Dining on Athena Luxury Cruise
The 45-seat Athena Restaurant serves multi-course Vietnamese and Western fusion menus with fresh seafood, plus a hands-on cooking class.
- Vegetarian or other diets: tell us at least 3 days ahead
- Halal: not offered; see halal Halong Bay cruises
- Drinks are paid on board
Getting from Hanoi to Athena Luxury Cruise
Halong International Cruise Port in Bai Chay is about 2–2.5 hours from Hanoi by expressway. The Athena limousine (15 reclining seats, Wi-Fi, USB charging) can be added from the Old Quarter; self-drivers should arrive by 12:00.
Athena Luxury Cruise vs Similar Luxury Cruises
| Cruise | Route | Cabins | Signature | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athena Luxury Cruise | Halong Bay | 21 | Spa and sauna, small ship | Value |
| Athena Royal | Bai Tu Long Bay | 21 | Quieter bay, royal suites | Value |
| Alisa Premier | Halong Bay | 22 | Jacuzzi tubs, pool | Value |
| Catherine Cruise | Halong Bay | 39 | Halal-certified | Mid-range |
Our view: Athena Luxury Cruise is a calm, well-run small ship for the classic route. Choose Alisa Premier if a pool matters, or Athena Royal for a quieter bay.
Not to be confused with
Athena Royal Cruise is the sister ship in Bai Tu Long Bay. Athena Premium is a different, newer ship from another website (athenacruises.com).
Local Expert Notes from Our Hanoi Team
These tips come from more than a decade of arranging Halong Bay trips for international travellers; ship details are checked against Athena Group’s published 2026 information.
- Elegance Balcony cabins are only slightly dearer than Deluxe and noticeably roomier
- Tell us about diets at least 3 days ahead
- The Ti Top climb is about 400 steps; go up first, swim after
- There is no pool on board; use the Ti Top beach instead
Athena Luxury Cruise Price 2026
Rates change by season and cabin; see the live calendar on this page. Booking with Halong Tour Expert includes our Best Price Guarantee.
- Included: cabin, meals on the itinerary, kayaking or bamboo boat, entrance fees, cooking class, Tai Chi, guide
- Not included: limousine transfer, drinks, spa, tips
- Children: under 5 free; 5–10 years 75%; 11+ adult rate
- Cancellation: free over 30 days; 15–30 days 20%; 7–14 days 50%; under 7 days 100%
Message us on WhatsApp +84 886 261 368 for a quote. Answers to common questions are in the FAQs below.
Deluxe Balcony
Price: $330 USD
2 Adults pax 25 m2 Double bed / Twin beds
- LOCATION: 1st deck
- SIZE: 25 m2
- MAX: 2 adults + 1 child
- BED(S): Double bed / Twin beds
- VIEW: Private Balcony, Ocean View
- BATHROOM: Standing shower
- UNIQUE FEATURES: Extra (Twin) Bed available for 1 Child
- SMOKING: Non-smoking
- NUMBER OF ROOM: 10
Elegance Balcony
Price: $348 USD
2 Adults pax 28 m2 Double (1m8*2m)/ Twin (2 x 1m1*2m)
- LOCATION: 2nd deck
- SIZE: 28 m2
- MAX: 2 adults + 1 child
- BED(S): Double bed / Twin beds
- VIEW: Private Balcony, Ocean View
- BATHROOM: Standing Shower
- UNIQUE FEATURES: Extra (Twin) Bed available for 1 Child
- SMOKING: Non-smoking
- NUMBER OF ROOM: 6
Premium Terrace Suite
Price: $408 USD
2 pax 32 m2 Double Bed
- LOCATION: 2nd deck
- SIZE: 32 m2
- MAX: 2 adults + 1 child
- BED(S): Double
- VIEW: Private Sun Terrace with Panoramic Ocean View
- BATHROOM: Jacuzzi bathtub
- UNIQUE FEATURES: Extra (Twin) Bed available for 1 Child
- SMOKING: Non-smoking
- NUMBER OF ROOM: 2
Family Triple
Price: $536 USD
3 pax 35 m2 Double (1m8*2m) & Single (1m1*2m)
- LOCATION: 1st deck
- SIZE: 35 m2
- MAX: 3 adults + 1 child
- BED(S): 1 Double + 1 Single Bed
- VIEW: Private Balcony with Ocean View
- BATHROOM: Standing shower
- UNIQUE FEATURES: Extra (Twin) Bed available for 1 Child
- SMOKING: Non-smoking
- NUMBER OF ROOM: 2
Cruise Inquiry
- Athena Luxury Cruise 2 Days - 1 Night Itinerary
- Athena Luxury Cruise 3 Days - 2 Night Itinerary
Morning
8:00 – 8:30: Pick up at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter and depart for Halong Bay on a shuttle bus for those who book transfer service (need to pay an extra fee).
12:00: Arrival at the waiting lounge in Halong International Harbour. Complete the luggage check-in procedure, then get on a tender boat and transfer to the cruise.
Embark and enjoy a welcome drink while listening to the cruise briefing. Have a delicious lunch on the cruise while contemplating beautiful islets on the bay.
Afternoon
Stop at the fascinating Sung Sot Cave. This cave is one of the biggest, most well-known caves in Halong Bay, with many interesting stalactites and stalagmites in the 2 huge chambers.
Sailing to Titop Island, known for its tranquility and beautiful still-blue waters. Here, you can try many exciting activities: sunbathe, swim in the crystal water, or walk to the top of the mountain to capture the stunning view of Ha Long Bay.
Afterward, return to the cruise and enjoy the Buy 1 get 1 drink in Happy Hour at the cruise bar, or join the Vietnamese cooking class and learn to make delicious Spring rolls.
Enjoy the magnificent sunset while the boat cruises to the anchor area.
Evening
Visit the restaurant onboard to taste delicious Vietnamese cuisine on the set menu for dinner. Leisure time to take part in the nightlife activities: watch films, play mini-games, squid fishing, or make a reservation massage with the cruise manager.
Morning
Get ready for a new day with a Tai-chi class on the sundeck, then fulfill your energy in a light breakfast with tea, coffee, and pastries.
Afterward, you’ll explore the mysterious Luon Cave by kayaking. This cave is located at the foot of an imposing mountain, and to reach the other side of the island, tourists have to go on a boat passing under the mountain.
Optional: You can choose to visit this place on a bamboo boat with a surcharge.
Return to Athena Luxury Cruise, pack up, and process the check-out procedure at around 9:00. Recharge yourself with a delicious brunch while the cruise returns to the mainland.
10:45: Transfer by tender back to Halong International Habour and disembarkation. Farewell to the crew.
Afternoon
Reach the pier around noon. Wait for your driver (book the transfer with an extra fee) and travel back to your hotel in Hanoi around 15:00 – 15:30.
- PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE
CRUISE INCLUSIONS:
- Luxury en-suite cabin
- Welcome drink upon arrival.
- Tea, Coffee & Fruits in the room.
- Full board meals: welcome lunch buffet, set menu dinner, light breakfast and a brunch buffet.
- Free usage of the outdoor swimming pool in Sundeck (Athena Cruises)
- Halong Bay Tour Ticket.
- Various activities: morning Tai Chi class, cave visiting by rowing boat, squid fishing, swimming and kayaking.
- English and Vietnamese-speaking tour guide onboard.
- Onboard insurance and service charges.
CRUISE EXCLUSIONS:
- Airfares, land transfers from and to Ha Long Bay
- Spa & Massage treatment services.
- Beverages, Tips & Personal expenses
- Other services not clearly mentioned.
- V.A.T tax
- Surcharge for entrance fee (follow the government’s law)
- Check in: 12:15pm
- Check out: 11:00am
- Arrival in Hanoi: 3:00-3:30pm
- Free of charge for children under 4 years old is applicable for 1 (one) child sharing a cabin with 2 (two) adults (No extra Mattress)
- The Child Rate for children from 4 to below 11 years old is applicable for 1 (one) child sharing a cabin with 2 (two) adults: 75% Adult rate (No extra Mattress)
- Two children below 11 years stay in a private cabin are charged at 100% of the full cabin rate.
- Peak season surcharge : Surcharge of $45 per person applies if guests stay overnight on December 24th and/or December 31st, and $15/person on Lunar New Year 2026 (215-20/1/2026)
- Shuttle bus : $35/person/round trip. Pick up point: at hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or in front of Hanoi Opera House
Cancellation Policy and Refund:
-
- More than 30 days prior to check-in: free of charge
- From 30 to 11 days prior to check-in: 15% of total rates
- From 10 to 7 days prior to check in: 30% of total rates.
- Less than 7 days prior to check-in: 100% of total rates.
- No-Show: 100% of total rates.
Cancellation notice must be in written form and send to us via email. Refund will be processed between 5-7 business days.
Morning
8:00 – 8:30: Pick up at your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter and depart for Halong Bay on a shuttle bus for those who book transfer service (need to pay an extra fee).
12:00: Arrival at the waiting lounge in Halong International Harbour. Complete the luggage check-in procedure, then get on a tender boat and transfer to the cruise.
Embark and enjoy a welcome drink while listening to the cruise briefing. Have a delicious lunch on the cruise while contemplating beautiful islets on the bay.
Afternoon
Stop at the fascinating Sung Sot Cave. This cave is one of the biggest, most well-known caves in Halong Bay, with many interesting stalactites and stalagmites in the 2 huge chambers.
Sailing to Titop Island, known for its tranquility and beautiful still-blue waters. Here, you can try many exciting activities: sunbathe, swim in the crystal water, or walk to the top of the mountain to capture the stunning view of Ha Long Bay.
Afterward, return to the cruise and enjoy the Buy 1 get 1 drink in Happy Hour at the cruise bar, or join the Vietnamese cooking class and learn to make delicious Spring rolls.
Enjoy the magnificent sunset while the boat cruises to the anchor area.
Evening
Visit the restaurant onboard to taste delicious Vietnamese cuisine on the set menu for dinner. Leisure time to take part in the nightlife activities: watch films, play mini-games, squid fishing, or make a reservation massage with the cruise manager.
Morning
Start a new day by joining the Tai Chi exercise on the sundeck for about 30 minutes. Then, you can enjoy a light breakfast with a cup of tea/coffee. Later, travelers may get on the day boat to continue sightseeing and further discover the beautiful landscape of Halong Bay.
You will visit Me Cung Cave for about 1 hour to see the sparkling limestones. Entering this stunning attraction, tourists might feel as if they were getting lost in splendid stalactites, so people called it “Me Cung”, which means “maze” in English.
Afterward, you will start an incredible excursion to the Tung Sau Area, which specializes in pearl farming. Let’s learn about the intriguing process of raising pearls from the locals. Or else, you may go kayak and explore the hidden corners of the bay.
After exercising with a kayak, travelers return to the day boat and have lunch with an authentic Vietnamese menu.
Afternoon
It’s time to relax in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy a tea break, when you may discover the intriguing Vietnamese tea culture.
Then, the transfer boat moves to the Titop area, bringing you back to Athena Cruise Halong Bay. Relax at your leisure: have a spa session, or put your feet up on the sundeck, etc.
During dusk, you can enjoy the Happy Hour (buy-1-get-1 free drink) or participate in the Vietnamese cooking class and enjoy the romantic sunset of Halong Bay.
Evening
Enjoy a set menu dinner on board, then be free for the rest of the night. Try your luck with squid fishing activity, which is the most fun in the squid season (July to August).
You can also drink cocktails at the late-night bar, enjoy the tranquility on the sundeck, or simply relax in the cabin.
Morning
Get ready for a new day with a Tai-chi class on the sundeck, then fulfill your energy in a light breakfast with tea, coffee, and pastries.
Afterward, you’ll explore the mysterious Luon Cave by kayaking. This cave is located at the foot of an imposing mountain, and to reach the other side of the island, tourists have to go on a boat passing under the mountain.
Optional: You can choose to visit this place on a bamboo boat with a surcharge.
Return to Athena Luxury Cruise, pack up, and process the check-out procedure at around 9:00. Recharge yourself with a delicious brunch while the cruise returns to the mainland.
10:45: Transfer by tender back to Halong International Habour and disembarkation. Farewell to the crew.
Afternoon
Reach the pier around noon. Wait for your driver (book the transfer with an extra fee) and travel back to your hotel in Hanoi around 15:00 – 15:30.
- PROGRAMS & SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE
- Please kindly provide us your passport information at least 01 week before the cruise date.
- If you have any specific food request (vegetarian, allergic, non-seafood, etc.), feel free to let us know so we can serve your demands with the best.
CRUISE INCLUSIONS:
- Luxury en-suite cabin
- Welcome drink upon arrival.
- Tea, Coffee & Fruits in the room.
- Full board meals: welcome lunch buffet, set menu dinner, light breakfast and a brunch buffet.
- Free usage of the outdoor swimming pool in Sundeck (Athena Cruises)
- Halong Bay Tour Ticket.
- Various activities: morning Tai Chi class, cave visiting by rowing boat, squid fishing, swimming and kayaking.
- English and Vietnamese-speaking tour guide onboard.
- Onboard insurance and service charges.
CRUISE EXCLUSIONS:
- Airfares, land transfers from and to Ha Long Bay
- Spa & Massage treatment services.
- Beverages, Tips & Personal expenses
- Other services not clearly mentioned.
- V.A.T tax
- Surcharge for entrance fee (follow the government’s law)
- Check in: 12:15pm
- Check out: 11:00am
- Arrival in Hanoi: 3:00-3:30pm
- Free of charge for children under 4 years old is applicable for 1 (one) child sharing a cabin with 2 (two) adults (No extra Mattress)
- The Child Rate for children from 4 to below 11 years old is applicable for 1 (one) child sharing a cabin with 2 (two) adults: 75% Adult rate (No extra Mattress)
- Two children below 11 years stay in a private cabin are charged at 100% of the full cabin rate.
- Peak season surcharge : Surcharge of $45 per person applies if guests stay overnight on December 24th and/or December 31st, and $15/person on Lunar New Year 2026 (215-20/1/2026)
- Shuttle bus : $35/person/round trip. Pick up point: at hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter or in front of Hanoi Opera House
Cancellation Policy and Refund:
-
- More than 30 days prior to check-in: free of charge
- From 30 to 11 days prior to check-in: 15% of total rates
- From 10 to 7 days prior to check in: 30% of total rates.
- Less than 7 days prior to check-in: 100% of total rates.
- No-Show: 100% of total rates.
Cancellation notice must be in written form and send to us via email. Refund will be processed between 5-7 business days.
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Calendar & Prices
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FAQs
Athena Luxury Cruise is a 21-cabin, 5-star ship sailing Halong Bay since 2017. Compare other Halong Bay luxury cruises.
Sung Sot Cave and Ti Top Island on Day 1, Luon Cave on Day 2.
Yes, on Day 1 afternoon. Read our guide to Sung Sot Cave.
Me Cung Cave and the Tung Sau pearl farm area. Compare overnight cruises.
Every cabin has a balcony or terrace. Ask for availability on our contact page.
Yes, the 60 m² Elegance Family Connecting cabin and two Family Triples. More tips in our Halong Bay FAQs.
No, but it has a spa and sauna. For a pool, see Alisa Premier Cruise.
Halong International Cruise Port in Bai Chay; check in about 12:00. Plan the drive with our FAQs.
No; the Athena limousine can be added. Ask on our contact page.
Under 5 free, 5–10 years 75%, 11+ adult rate. Confirm on the Athena Luxury cruise in Halong Bay page when booking.
Free over 30 days, 20% at 15–30 days, 50% at 7–14 days, 100% under 7 days. Weather rules: see the best time to visit Halong Bay.
No. Athena Royal Cruise is the sister ship in Bai Tu Long Bay.
It depends on season and cabin; check the live calendar on the Athena Luxury cruise in Halong Bay page. Our Best Price Guarantee applies.
Yes. Send a cheaper verified offer for the same Athena Luxury Cruise cabin and date through our contact page and we match it.
Yes, with at least 3 days’ notice. Tell us on our contact page.
No. Muslim travellers should read our guide to halal Halong Bay cruises.
