Starting in January 2026, Heritage Line will begin a new chapter of cruising Vietnam’s most beloved cruise destination—Halong Bay, in the Gulf of Tonkin in Northern Vietnam. With the intention to offer the most authentic, most unique, and most off-the-beaten-track cruise experience, Heritage Line will launch a 2-night journey through the lesser-known area of Bai Tu Long. This entirely new itinerary will replace the current Halong Bay program, which will continue to operate until the end of 2025. Sailing through Bai Tu Long aboard the smallest luxury cruise ship ‘Violet’ (just six suites), will set a new benchmark for exploring the bay in style.
A New Pearl in a Nut-Shell – Heritage Line new cruise in Bai Tu Long Bay
Beyond the horizon of Halong, located just northeast of Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long shares the same iconic scenery of limestone karst formations and evergreen islands and islets while attracting far fewer travellers. One might call it “Halong Bay 0.0” – a return to the roots of Halong Bay, to the old days when only a few wooden, junk-styled ships with iconic sails plied these waters. Bai Tu Long is a refreshingly authentic destination that feels truly untouched. It emanates the original charm of the bay. It is serene. It is quiet. It feels undisturbed. It is a place that reveals more its magic the longer one stays. Heritage Line captures all of this to craft a three-day, two-night journey through Bai Tu Long and the lesser-sailed edges of the classic Halong Bay.
Like Pearls on a string: Our new 3-Day Bai Tu Long Bay Journey
The new itinerary is a three-day, two-night journey operated onboard Heritage Line ‘Violet,’ the company’s most private vessel. This 2-night sailing reflects a firm commitment to the depth of the experience. Visiting and truly experiencing Bai Tu Long on a 1-night cruise—as is still common in the bay—is not recommended or even realistically possible. Bai Tu Long’s easterly location calls for a long and rewarding first day of sailing into the unknown. Only one excursion is planned on the first day, designed to connect guests with the natural elements of this remote region. Otherwise, guests are encouraged to simply take their time and absorb the serene beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day two will feature some of the more iconic sights and sounds the bay has to offer. An impressive cave, for example, awaits quiet discovery—explored almost entirely in solitude by our small group. There are also floating fishing stations that reveal the resilient rhythms of local life in this part of Vietnam. The second day holds a few surprises as well—moments at dusk that guests will want to take home and remember. On the final day, there’s time to enjoy unhurried moments at one’s own pace, framed by Heritage Line’s signature hospitality. Beyond the shore excursions, guests can also enjoy a curated selection of onboard activities that align with and enhance the story of Bai Tu Long.
Heritage Line ‘Violet’ – A veritable Host
Our ‘Violet’ – fondly referred to as “the youngest” by her crew now leads the way into Bai Tu Long. There could be no better vessel to sail this exceptional aquatic terrain. With only six refined suites, each with a private balcony, ‘Violet’ accommodates just 12 guests, offering a truly boutique experience designed for utmost privacy and special occasions. Guests can enjoy fine dining, spa treatments, and personalized service, all perfectly suited to the ship’s intimate atmosphere. We are proud of our ‘Violet’and she, too, is proud to be the first small luxury vessel to soon ply the waters of Bai Tu Long, becoming a haven for couples, honeymooners, and private groups. Explore Heritage Line ‘Violet’.
First Facts – Important to know
Heritage Line’s first departure to Bai Tu Long is on the 02 January 2026. We already have published our cruise schedule for 2026 departures – click here
PRESS & MEDIA: For media and journalists please see our press release here.
