Van Phuc Diplomatic Corps Tours and Activities

We were a little apprehensive about booking our bucket list Ha Long Bay cruise with Scarlet Pearl after reading mixed reviews in various platforms but we went ahead with it and went with no expectations. We were very pleasantly surprised. The pick from our hotel in Hanoi was on time and in a luxury van which was very comfortable. We did stop at a pearl store on the way but there was zero pressure to buy anything. Check in was smooth and so was the transportation to the boat itself. Upon arrival we received a very warm welcome. The boat looked very classy and the staff very friendly. We were celebrating our wedding announcement and they went out of the way to make us feel special. Wendy is an excellent cruise manager. Her entire crew is super friendly and helpful. Very attentive to the passengers’ needs at all times. Food on the cruise is excellent and so are the drinks. They are very reasonably priced considering this is a cruise ship. Excursions are all well planned and excellent. Chris, the assistant manager is very knowledgeable and is very involved. We also took a private sunset cruise with another couple and that is just fantastic. Tony accompanied us on this cruise and showed off his smart phone camera skills by taking amazing photos. I can go on and on but this should give you an idea. I don’t understand the negative reviews. There is nothing negative about this cruise. All positive. Special shout out to Wendy, Chris, Jessica, James and Tony. Amazing people.

The food onboard are not good, small portion. The room I stayed, leaked when raining outside. Staff onboard not very friendly except for the guide Mr Duong.

Nice hotel and very clean