Review Author: Jodie McAuley

Review Date: 12 Mar 2023

Review Body: Absolutely amazing experience that I would recommend to anyone. The staff were very friendly and helpful - in particular Bruce, Phong and Huy. The boat is beautiful with a large top deck including jacuzzi, loungers and plenty of seating. The rooms were clean and I was very surprised by the lovely bathroom with a large shower and bath with a view! The room had a balcony and you can sit in the comfort of your room and enjoy the surroundings. The meals were brilliant with a large selection of food to suit everyone and they were very accommodating if you wanted something specific. Activities were great and run safely and smoothly. All the staff are so passionate about what they do and enjoy getting to know you as well as on hand to help with anything you need. Could not recommended this company more.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Yogesh Radke

Review Date: 14 Jan 2023

Review Body: Dora Cruise - One of the best hospitality experience. Pleasent and down-to-earth staff.. Mr Bruce Panda superb person and very kind to hear the requirements of guest. Room were spacious with bathtub and balcony. Sparkling clean room, Deck, Gym and open area. Deck has beautiful warm water jacuzzi and lush green carpet with two swing hanging chairs. Buffet (Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast and Brunch) had very good spread of veg and non veg. Cruise had complementary kayaking and boat trip to caves. We had our best time there. I appreciate the efforts of the young energetic team of Dora Cruise.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Tuuli Lind

Review Date: 16 Jan 2023

Review Body: Such a great experience - I'm so happy we ended up choosing Dora Cruise. From the beginning to the very end, staff was super professional and friendly. Elice was extremely kind and thoughtful, she made our cruise so much better. The rooms felt luxurious, especially the bathtub was amazing. Comfortable bed, I slept so well. Plenty of hot water and possibility to heat up the room with AC. Also thanks to Bruce, true show man of the boat!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Glenda Dias Vieira

Review Date: 26 Feb 2023

Review Body: Amazing experience! The crew was really kind and the place was amazing! One of the best moments in our trip

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Carol Petrie

Review Date: 19 Feb 2023

Review Body: Beautiful boat and lovely staff. Halong Bay is a special place.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Wanda

Review Date: 15 Feb 2023

Review Body: Great cruise, good food, everything as promised, loved it!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Alex Breakell

Review Date: 20 Jul 2020

Review Body: 1) driver late in picking us up 2) an entire family (c10 - 3 adults and 7 kids) get into the van with us. They are screaming/shouting and taking no consideration for our enjoyment of the trip, shouting from front to back, phones on loud speaker, kids running up and down. Not to mention the van only caters for 7 and so there is a serious health and safety violation. It actually feels like I am on a school trip, far from the advertised luxury trip on your website. The family is also coughing and constantly clearing their noses, reassuring in the current pandemic. This went on for the entire journey >3hours!!!! I had to put my headphones in (noise cancelling) and I could still hear them over the top of that. 3) after driving for 5 mins, the driver stops for petrol (surely this should have been done before he collected us (especially given he was already late). The driver took c20mins at the petrol station 4) we then stop again where one kid gets off the van to get onto another bus. What on earth is going on? 5) we have pulled into a service station for a 25 minute stop. I thought this was advertised as a 2 day and one night trip? We have spent the whole morning in a van, this is a 1 day and 1 night tour. But it’s ok, I guess the driver needs to eat, perhaps he missed breakfast and so we all have to suffer now (also his commission for anything people buy at the station). Not to mention he walked away and left the van open, it’s 37c outside, I am sure the Vietnamese are used to this heat, but as a British citizen, I’m certainly not, so for 25 minutes I am sat sweating. Van is also just open for anyone to come and take our belongings, so I just have to sit here and cook whilst the driver goes off for his jolly. Again, this is the type of experience I had as a 14yo on a school trip. This is clearly luxury right? 6) one of the kids was sick in a plastic bag and they just threw it outside the van (littering). I did say to the lady she shouldn’t litter and she was very rude, just saying ‘yes, it’s littering’. No wonder there is a huge problem of littering in Vietnam. It’s also lovely that the van stinks of vomit now. Luxury travel. The family also brought a lot of noodles and chicken back onboard, great to smell along with the vomit. 7) we arrive after a 3 hour journey to be told to wait for another 40 minutes to board a speedboat to take us to our boat. It’s now 1pm. Again, this is far from the 2 days we paid for. 8) the waiting area is full of families/kids. Our experience of the transfer just became a real nightmare that we are spending the next 24 hours with a load of screaming kids. 9) the toilets in the waiting area are discussing. Again, nothing luxurious here. 10) we had to move to our room to have lunch as everyone in the food hall was screaming and shouting and singing 11) the room was far from luxury. The sheets on the bed are dirty and it looks like something from the movie the shining. 12 ) music playing really loudly. Constant thumping from the base in our room. Not very classy and rather aggravating 13 ) only one life jacket in the room 14 ) shower drain blocked 15 ) water left through the decks and hallways, it was horrible to look at and also a health and safety risk 16 ) kids screaming in the corridor, I actually made a video of this 17 ) the top decking was closed and not kitted out to welcome people 18 ) the food was terrible. I wouldn’t even feed it to a dog

Review rating: 1

Review Author: Andy

Review Date: 03 Feb 2020

Review Body: Liked · DORA CRUISE WAS A WONDERFUL REVELATION AND EXPERIENCE. TRUTHFULLY SPEAKING, I WAS A BIT APPREHENSIVE OF HOW IT WOULD BE, COMPARED TO THE PRICE I WAS PAYING. BUT EVEN BEFORE I TOOK MY FLIGHT TO VIETNAM, LUCY FROM DORA CRUISE GOT IN TOUCH WITH ME OVER WHATSAPP. SHE NOT ONLY ENQUIRED ABOUT ANYTHING THAT I MIGHT NEED ON THE CRUISE BUT WENT OUT OF HER WAY TO HELP US ENJOY OUR STAY IN VIETNAM, SUGGESTING PLACES THAT WE COULD VISIT IN HANOI, ACTIVITIES THAT MY SON WOULD LOVE... IT WAS LIKE WE ALREADY KNEW SOMEONE IN VIETNAM FOR LONG AND WE ALREADY HAD A FRIEND IN THE COUNTRY WHO WAS HELPING US ENJOY OUR SMALL VACATION. LUCY ARRANGED FOR OUR TRANSPORT TO & FROM THE CRUISE AND IT WAS REALLY COMFORTABLE. EVEN ON THE CRUISE, THE SMALLEST OF THINGS WERE TAKEN CARE OF. EXTRA PILLOWS HAD BEEN PUT IN OUR ROOM BECAUSE I HAD MENTIONED TO LUCY SOMETIME THAT I NEED EXTRA PILLOWS TO SLEEP WELL. THE CHEF DILIGENTLY TOOK CARE OF THE FACT THAT MY SON DOES NOT LIKE FISH BUT EATS MEAT, WHEREAS MY WIFE LOVES FISH BUT DOES NOT EAT MEAT. IT WAS AMAZING.. THE ROOMS WERE BEAUTIFUL. AND STRANGE AS IT MAY SOUND, I LOVED THE BATHROOMS. THE SHOWER HAD JUST THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE AND THE PERFECT WATER PRESSURE. IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST REFRESHING BATHS I HAVE HAD IN A LONG TIME. :-) I FEEL THE TIME ON THE CRUISE PASSED A BIT TOO FAST.. WOULD HAVE LOVED TO BE ON THE CRUISE FOR SOME MORE TIME. WE MET SOME AMAZING PEOPLE AND MADE SOME NEW FRIENDS. THE STAFF ON THE CRUISE WERE AMAZING, ESPECIALLY OUR GUIDE MR. TOO. WE REALLY HAD A WONDERFUL TIME AND WE ARE HAPPY TO HAVE CHOSEN TO GO ON THIS CRUISE. THANK YOU DORA CRUISE AND THANK YOU LUCY!! Disliked · ACTUAL TIME WAS A BIT SHORT. WE REACHED THE SHIP AROUND 1.15 PM. HAD LUNCH, WENT KAYAKING, CAME FOR SUNSET PARTY, TOOK PART IN COOKING LESSONS, HAD DINNER, TRIED SQUID FISHING, WENT OFF TO SLEEP, GOT UP, WATCHED THE SUNRISE, HAD BREAKFAST, WENT ON THE BAMBOO BOAT, CAME BACK, PACKED, HAD LUNCH AND LEFT BY 11.30AM. THIS SEEMS TO BE THE SAME ITINERARY ON ALL THE CRUISES ON HA LONG BAY, BUT IT SEEMS A TAD BIT RUSHED FROM ONE ACTIVITY TO ANOTHER.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Michelle

Review Date: 28 Jan 2020

Review Body: Liked · The staffs were wonderful and helpful. In particular, I would like to express my appreciation to Hong, after knowing that my dog was in a critical situation and I urgently need to contact my family but there was no WiFi signal in the middle of the sea, he gave me his own cellphone for me to make international calls immediately without hesitation. It’s sad that my dog didn’t make it, but with Hong’s kind help I was able to contact my family to arrange vet appointment and thereafter, funeral. .... The communication was good. Lucy was very responsible and helpful, she contacted me before the cruise to ensure the pick up and drop off were smooth. She even contacted me after the cruise to make sure I enjoy my stay. The waiting time at the pier was a bit long. When we were on the transfer boat and when it became bumpy and the water splashed in, Teddy, he immediately walked to the front of the boat to protect passengers from getting wet by using his own body to cover us, it was soooooo touching. Honestly, I do not think he has to do it. I can tell it's from his heart and he is a very kind person. The cruise, the food and the room is already nice enough, but I would say what makes Dora Cruise beyond perfect is her staffs. Once again, thank u very much! I definitely would recommend Dora Cruise and I will choose her again should I go back to Halong Bay. Disliked · I wanted to say it would be better if the WiFi signal is stronger. But having made a second thought, it might not be something which could be controlled by Dora Cruise. So, NONE.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Lisa

Review Date: 23 Feb 2020

Review Body: Liked · Great cruise! Spacious room and bathroom (with bathtub!) We stayed in the executive suite and had a great time. The view was spectacular and the spacious balcony was a great private place to soak up the sun. The crew is very nice and friendly and the activities are great. We opted for 3days formula 2 nights and I recommend it as it gives more time to fully enjoy the room and allows you to visit cat ba island. Activities are very nice and all included in the price (kajaking, goth and bright cave boat tour, Cat ba Island bike tour for 3d2n formula). The booking price does not include transport to and from Hanoi, we booked it with the help of the staff: very convenient limousine bus transport. Beautiful experience, highly recommended.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: IluvHollyDays

Review Date: 28 Feb 2020

Review Body: We were booked on the Dora for 2 nights as a part of our tour of Vietnam and Cambodia - oh my goodness, what a wonderful experience! The VIP room was sensational, I actually shed a tear as I walked into the stunning cabin. The balcony was fabulous. The weather could have been better but honestly it didn't detract from an unforgettable experience. The food was really great and the staff brilliant. Teddy was such a good host and his enthusiasm led the way for everyone to join in the fun. A quick comment for the staff member who played the flute whilst we were eating our evening meal, it was haunting and beautiful. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this cruise to anyone wanting a luxurious, friendly, FABULOUS way of exploring Ha Long Bay.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Michelle M

Review Date: 11 Feb 2020

Review Body: What can I say! We did the two day/one night cruise and it was amazing. The cabin was beautiful with a separate bathroom with both separate huge shower and bath. We had the triple room with the balcony. The food was incredible. We tasted unique dishes that were superbly presented. The staff went out of their way to help us but for me the highlight of the tour was the local historical information that Tom - our Tour Guide was so knowledgeable about and the wonderful happy energy of Teddy, our Cruise Director, who bought us all lots of laughs. I would definitely recommend this cruise to anyone and if I get a chance to do it again, it will be on this ship.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: 151prashantp

Review Date: 29 Feb 2020

Review Body: We got upgraded to Doris....and it was made memorable right from the pickup by Dien Nguyen (friends call him Tom) at our Hotel in Hanoi. He was friendly and kept us engaged with useful bits of info during the trip to Hà Long Bay. The check in and reception on the boat was awesome. The cruise experience itself was luxurious....the suite, the lunch (and they made some wonderful vegetarian lunch for us) and the activities were all very carefully planned to maximise the user experience. Daniel and Sarah on the boat also hosted us wonderfully. Overall a great experience.... Iam definitely coming back again. Thanks Team Doris for making it worth our while!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Arvind

Review Date: 22 Feb 2020

Review Body: Liked · The staff is really courteous. They eventually became friends with the guests which is amazing. Also we had an amazing bunch of people, other travellers and it turned into a memorable 3days!!! Disliked · A very important point which needs attention is safety instructions for the guests. There wasn’t any safety briefing. Another very very important point which is for all cruise companies, waste management. There seems to be ignorance in how waste and fuel is getting discharged into the bay. If not taken care, Halong will soon loose its charm and of course eventually tourists. Strict actions to be taken immediately.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Tran

Review Date: 12 Jan 2020

Review Body: Liked · the breakfast as well as other meals were extremely amazing. I really love them. The facilities on the cruise are also very great. All of the staff were so friendly, sweet and helpful, the tourguide is, too. The destination is magnificent and beautiful. It is absolutely The World Natural Heritage. I couldnt have imagined having such a great time with Dora Cruise during this trip. I will come back in the future to enjoy these feelings and experience again. Highly recommended Dora Cruise to my friends and relatives.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jasmine

Review Date: 04 Jan 2020

Review Body: Liked · We had an excellent time in Dora Cruise. The boat is new, the rooms are nicely decorated. The bathroom is big with a shower and amazing views to Halong Bay. The food was great and the staff very friendly and helpful. By the end of the trip I didn't want to leave the cruise. After the tour, I want to go to Cat Ba island, the staffs support me to drop me at Gia Luan Port (belongs to Cat Ba) for free of charge. I will come back with my family on this July. Thank Dora Team so much. Disliked · Everything is perfect.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Amalia

Review Date: 16 Feb 2020

Review Body: Liked · The staff was amazing!! Teddy and Tom Cruise are the best, they make you feel very special, they had the courtesy of giving us a cake, coffee and postcards. Sleeping there is a dream, I recommend a thousand times more sleeping two nights, one is very little and you do not notice. It only has 20 rooms. I will repeat :) Disliked · Nothing, everything is excellent!! At first the guys at the Transfer don't speak much English and it may seem out of control, but it's not true. They are eager to meet everything :)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: neilf881

Review Date: 02 Mar 2020

Review Body: My girlfriend and I had a great stay on Dora cruise. The room was beautiful, a great view of Ha Long Bay and our bed was covered in rose petals. The bathroom was huge with a big free-standing bath overlooking the bay. Food and drinks were excellent, staff were very accommodating of my girlfriends severe peanut allergy. They made sure to let her know what foods to avoid each night. The excursions were fun and interesting, Dien and Tho (the guides) were knowledgeable and good fun.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: nbajp

Review Date: 29 Feb 2020

Review Body: Your experience of Vietnam is incomplete without this cruise..a must do ...and try to experience the one night 2 day cruise...it's a 5star experience with personalized service...loads of activities..most helpful guy in the cruise Tom Dien is always there to help you. Daniel is a magician..who can churn out sumptuous dishes and present variety of platters even for totally vegetarian people like us!( Truly we weren't expecting it ) The overall experience was Amazing!!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Audrey

Review Date: 21 Feb 2020

Review Body: Liked · The cruise was better than I expected. The facilities were amazing. The staff were more than hospitable and always were at your beck and call. The staff cleaned the jacuzzi every night after it was used which showed how clean everything is. The food was amazing. Especially on the first day. Disliked · The only downside was the day boat had ok food on one of the days. Apart from that everything on the actual ship was spectacular.

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Today you will cruise through the islets in Halong Bay, discover natural lagoons in Ba Trai Dao (Three Peaches Island)

Itinerary Description: 08:20 – 08:50: Begin your journey with a pick-up from your hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter (for guests using our luxury limousine or private car service). 12:15 – 12:30: Arrive at the waiting lounge for a check-in process. Shortly after, a tender boat transfers you to the elegant 5* Cruise. 13:00 – 13:30: Step aboard 5*Cruise at Finger Islet and be warmly welcomed with a refreshing signature drink. After a safety briefing, check into your luxurious cabin. Savor a gourmet lunch while gliding past breathtaking limestone formations such as Turtle Islet and Man Head Islet. 15:30: The cruise anchors at Ba Trai Dao Beach, one of Lan Ha Bay’s most pristine and secluded spots. Immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters while kayaking and swimming until 16:45 or simply relax and admire the untouched natural beauty. As the afternoon fades, the cruise continues to its tranquil overnight anchorage, offering spectacular sunset views. 17:45: Unwind at the Sunset Party, featuring fresh tropical fruits, artisanal cakes, complimentary tea, and enchanting views as the sun dips below the horizon. 18:00: Join our Cooking demonstration at the Sky Bar on the 5th floor, where we introduce refined Vietnamese dishes once served to imperial families. 19:15: Having Fine Dining dinner at the cruise’s elegant restaurant. 20:30 – 22:00 Evening leisure at your own pace: enjoy soft music, try squid fishing under the starlit sky, or simply relax in the serene ambiance of the bay. Overnight on-board Cruise.

Itinerary Day 2

Itinerary Summary: Today you will cycle around Viet Hai Village

Itinerary Description: 06:00 – 06:30: Greet the new day with a rejuvenating Tai Chi session at the Sky Bar on the 5th floor as the bay awakens in gentle morning light. 07:00 – 07:45: Enjoy the tranquil panorama of Lan Ha Bay while savoring freshly brewed tea or coffee, followed by a light breakfast. 07:45 – 07:55: Embark on a scenic cycling excursion to Viet Hai Village, a charming and peaceful enclave nestled within Cat Ba National Park. Travel by speedboat and continue by bicycle to discover authentic local life and lush landscapes. Alternatively, guests may remain on board to enjoy the cruise’s premium facilities. 09:45: Return to Cruise for relaxation and preparation for departure. 10:00 - 10:30: Check out 10:30: Delight in a leisurely brunch at the Signature Restaurant on the 4th floor, bidding farewell to the bay in style. Settle onboard arrangements at the Restaurant on the 4th floor. 11:45: Disembark and transfer back to Tuan Chau Harbor. 12:15: Arrival at Tuan Chau Harbor. 15:30 – 16:00: Return transfer to Hanoi (for guests who book transportation service).