The Au Co Cruise, Halong Bay | Timbuktu Travel
Halong Bay

The Au Co Cruise

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Voted No.1 in 2024 and No.2 in 2025 by Travel+Leisure

About The Au Co Cruise

A grand and experienced junk boat sailing the waters of Halong Bay and beyond.
With its hidden caves filled with legend and a constellation of limestone peaks that were believed to have been spat out by dragons long ago, Halong Bay is a magical place. Au Co's twin ships were designed to fit right in, their names inspired by the tale of Princess Au Co and her Dragon Lord of the Sea who are said to be the parents of the Vietnamese people. You'll learn all about Halong's mysteries during nightly folk dance performances on the deck and exploratory hikes to the innumerous caves along the way. A vision in white, the Au Co ventures further into the Gulf of Tonkin than most junk boats, retracing the course of bygone travellers.
From $480 per person/per night
None
32 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The four-storey vessel has plenty of things to occupy your time whilst on board. You'll likely spend many happy hours on the deck, beginning with Tai Chi at sunrise, followed by sunbathing and taking in the serene vistas. In the evening - and after an icy cocktail - settle down for an alfresco movie night under the stars. In the classic and cosy dining room, enjoy multi-course lunches and dinners; the seafood is really that good. Head to the spa for a relaxing massage or a soak in the outdoor Jacuzzi.

The rooms

Fresh and contemporary, there are 32 cabins on board, each decorated with vibrant colours ranging from deep emerald to orange. The largest are the Long Quan Suites that occupy a portion of the Upper Deck and enjoy sensational views from their spacious balconies. Some cabins have a more vintage feel, but each one comes with a private balcony, panoramic windows, and a pristine bathroom with a large tub. There are a selection of connecting rooms on the Main Deck.

Activities

Halong Bay isn't just a pretty picture and there is adventure to be found around every bend in the water. Take to the sea in a kayak and watch the surf bubble over a secluded beach, discover millenia-old caves, or take a dip off the famous Three Peach Beach. on The Au Co, you'll also venture to the lesser-known neighbours of Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long and Lan Ha, to hike quiet forest trails in search of a Cat Ba Langur, and visit a local village to learn squid fishing from an expert.

What you'll love

What you'll love

Gazing at the wonders of Halong Bay while getting the royal treatment on board.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

There is plenty to get involved with on board! Look out for their Vietnamese tea ceremonies, fruit carving, and Master Chef competitions.
Something to think about

Something to think about

The Au Co offers two and three-day trips but it's definitely worth booking the latter to enjoy a fuller experience.

Vietnam

Halong Bay

An incomparable scene of ethereal limestone islands and mist-swirled waters