V25 Stellar of the Seas Cruise Reviews Halong Bay: The Ultimate 2025-2026 Luxury Experience
Searching for the most exceptional cruise experience in Halong Bay for 2025-2026? Dive into our comprehensive review of Stellar of the Seas Cruise, featuring authentic guest experiences, detailed cabin information, exclusive itineraries, and everything you need to know before booking your dream vacation on Vietnam’s premier 5-star floating luxury resort.
What Makes Stellar of the Seas the Most Coveted Cruise in Halong Bay for 2025-2026?
The Stellar of the Seas isn’t just another cruise option in Halong Bay—it represents the pinnacle of luxury floating experiences in Northern Vietnam. Launched in 2018 and completely reimagined with extensive renovations in late 2024, this extraordinary vessel has consistently maintained its position as the highest-rated cruise experience in the region.
What truly sets this cruise apart is its perfect balance between authentic Vietnamese hospitality and international luxury standards. Unlike other cruises that might focus solely on traditional elements or modern amenities, Stellar of the Seas masterfully blends both worlds to create an experience that feels both culturally immersive and indulgently contemporary.
The cruise operates through the breathtaking landscapes of both Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, offering guests the unique opportunity to explore these UNESCO World Heritage sites from the comfort of what many reviewers describe as a “floating 5-star hotel.”
Stellar Statistics at a Glance for 2025-2026
- Overall Guest Satisfaction Rate: 98.7% (based on 827 verified reviews)
- TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5 (578 reviews)
- Booking.com Score: 9.8/10 (249 reviews)
- Return Guest Rate: 24% (highest in Halong Bay luxury segment)
- Awards: “Best Luxury Cruise Experience in Vietnam 2025” by Travel + Leisure Asia
The Complete 2025-2026 Vessel Overview: Facilities That Exceed Expectations
The Stellar of the Seas has undergone significant upgrades for the 2025 season, expanding its offerings while maintaining its boutique atmosphere. The vessel features 22 meticulously designed cabins across four distinct categories, each offering private balconies with panoramic views of the bay.
Impressive Onboard Facilities
- Infinity Pool: A 72 square meter temperature-controlled pool on the sundeck with uninterrupted bay views
- Ciel Spa: 4 treatment rooms offering traditional Vietnamese and modern wellness therapies
- Nova Restaurant: Fine dining venue serving fusion Vietnamese-international cuisine with capacity for 48 guests
- Celestial Lounge: Premium bar featuring an extensive wine cellar with over 120 international labels
- Fitness Center: State-of-the-art equipment with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the bay
- 4D Mini Golf: 9-hole course with interactive elements, the only one of its kind in Halong Bay
- Kids’ Club: Supervised activity center for children aged 4-12
- Panorama Sundeck: 300 square meters of open-air space for sunrise yoga, sunset cocktails, and stargazing
The 2025-2026 iteration of Stellar of the Seas has introduced several notable additions that previous guests won’t recognize, including a dedicated cigar lounge, a professional photography studio offering complimentary portrait sessions, and an expanded water sports platform.
7 Categories of Stellar Accommodations: Room by Room Analysis
Each cabin category on the Stellar of the Seas has been thoughtfully designed to maximize both comfort and views. Based on guest reviews, here’s what you can expect from each room type:
1. Junior Suite (28 sqm)
Despite being the entry-level accommodation, Junior Suites have received outstanding reviews for their spaciousness and amenities. Each features:
- King-sized bed with premium Egyptian cotton linens
- Private 5 sqm balcony with seating area
- Marble bathroom with rainfall shower and separate soaking tub
- Smart TV with international channels and streaming capabilities
- Complimentary minibar replenished daily
Guest Highlight: “Our Junior Suite felt anything but ‘junior’—the room was larger than many hotel rooms we’ve stayed in across Southeast Asia, and the bathroom was absolutely luxurious.” – Sarah T., Australia (January 2025)
2. Executive Suite (32 sqm)
A step up from the Junior Suite, these accommodations add:
- Expanded 7 sqm balcony with sun loungers
- Enhanced bathroom with L’Occitane amenities
- Nespresso machine with daily capsule replenishment
- Priority dining reservations
- Complimentary pressing service
3. Family Connecting Suite (56 sqm combined)
Perfect for families, these connecting suites offer:
- Two adjoining Junior Suites with an internal connecting door
- Special amenities for children (age-appropriate toys, child-sized robes)
- Family-oriented excursion options
- Babysitting services available upon request
- Extra spacious balcony area (12 sqm combined)
4. President Suite (60 sqm)
The crown jewel of accommodations onboard, featuring:
- 180-degree panoramic views from a wraparound balcony (15 sqm)
- Private butler service throughout the journey
- Oversized jacuzzi bathtub with bay views
- Separate living room with dining area
- Exclusive experiences including private dining options
- Complimentary spa treatments
Guest Highlight: “The President Suite was worth every penny. Waking up to that panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay while still in bed was something I’ll never forget. Our butler anticipated our needs before we even realized them.” – Michael and Jennifer K., USA (March 2025)
The Stellar Culinary Journey: Dining Experiences That Delight the Senses
Food consistently ranks as one of the highest-rated aspects of the Stellar of the Seas experience, with the culinary team receiving praise for both creativity and attention to detail. The 2025 season introduces several new dining concepts based on guest feedback.
Nova Restaurant: Where East Meets West
The main dining venue serves multi-course meals featuring:
- Breakfast: Both international buffet options and Vietnamese specialties cooked to order
- Lunch: Light Mediterranean-inspired dishes focusing on seafood and fresh produce
- Dinner: Formal 5-course tasting menus that change daily, highlighting regional Vietnamese flavors with French techniques
Signature Dish: Halong Bay rock lobster with local herbs, lime butter sauce, and edible flowers grown in the cruise’s own herb garden.
Sundeck Dining Experiences
- Sunrise Breakfast: Early morning light bites and Vietnamese coffee while watching the limestone karsts emerge from the morning mist
- Seafood BBQ: Special evening event featuring freshly caught seafood grilled to perfection under the stars
- Afternoon Tea: Traditional Vietnamese tea ceremony with local sweet treats served daily
Dietary Accommodations
The culinary team receives exceptional reviews for their flexibility with dietary requirements. With advance notice, they can accommodate:
- Vegan and vegetarian diets with creative plant-based alternatives
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergen-specific meal plans
- Kosher and Halal meal preparation
- Child-friendly menu options that don’t compromise on quality
Guest Highlight: “As someone with celiac disease, I’m always anxious about dining while traveling. The chef personally came to discuss my needs on the first day and created spectacular gluten-free versions of traditional Vietnamese dishes I never thought I’d be able to try.” – Emma L., Canada (February 2025)
Exploring Paradise: The 2025-2026 Stellar Itineraries and Excursions
One of the most appreciated aspects of the Stellar of the Seas experience is its thoughtfully crafted itineraries that balance relaxation with adventure. The cruise offers two main itinerary options for 2025:
2-Day/1-Night Halong Discovery
Perfect for travelers with limited time, this condensed journey still manages to showcase the highlights of Halong Bay:
Day1:
- 12:00 PM: Embarkation at Tuan Chau Marina with welcome drinks and orientation
- 1:00 PM: Gourmet lunch while cruising toward Lan Ha Bay
- 3:00 PM: Kayaking or bamboo boat exploration of Bright and Dark Cave
- 5:00 PM: Sundeck cocktail hour with cooking demonstration
- 7:00 PM: Fine dining dinner experience
- 9:00 PM: Evening entertainment or squid fishing (seasonal)
Day 2:
- 6:00 AM: Sunrise Tai Chi session (optional)
- 7:00 AM: Light breakfast
- 8:00 AM: Visit to Titop Island with hiking opportunity
- 10:30 AM: Brunch service
- 12:00 PM: Disembarkation at Tuan Chau Marina
3 Day/2-Night Immersive Experience
This extended itinerary is consistently rated as the superior option, allowing guests to explore further into Lan Ha Bay and Cat Ba Island:
Day 1: Similar to the 2-day itinerary
Day2:
- Morning: Transfer to day boat for exploration of deeper Lan Ha Bay areas
- Midday: Visit to secluded Viet Hai fishing village with guided bicycle tour
- Afternoon: Swimming and kayaking at private Ba Trai Dao beach
- Evening: Return to main vessel for seafood BBQ dinner under the stars
Day 3: Similar to Day 2 of the shorter itinerary
Guest Highlight: “The 3-day itinerary gave us time to actually relax and enjoy the cruise itself, not just rush from one sight to another. The day spent exploring Lan Ha Bay’s hidden corners was the highlight of our entire Vietnam trip.” – Thom and Lisa R., UK (April 2025)
Exclusive 2025-2026 Excursions
The Stellar of the Seas has introduced several new excursion options for 2025:
- Sunrise Photography Expedition: Early morning small-group photography tour with professional guidance
- Private Cave Dining: Exclusive dinner setup inside a secluded cave (additional fee, reservation required)
- Floating Village Cultural Immersion: Extended visit with local families including traditional meal preparation
- Seaplane Aerial Tour: 15-minute flightseeing experience over the bay (additional fee)
The Stellar Service Experience: Staff and Crew Excellence
With a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1.2, the Stellar of the Seas maintains one of the highest service standards in Halong Bay. The crew consists of 40 highly trained professionals, many of whom have been with the vessel since its launch.
Multilingual Service Team
The cruise staff collectively speaks 8 languages, including:
- English
- Mandarin
- French
- German
- Spanish
- Russian
- Korean
- Japanese
This language diversity has been particularly praised in reviews from international travelers.
Personalized Attention
Multiple reviews highlight the crew’s extraordinary attention to detail:
- Remembering guest preferences from day one
- Anticipating needs before they’re expressed
- Customizing experiences based on guest interests
- Creating special moments for celebrations (birthdays, anniversaries)
Guest Highlight: “When I mentioned in passing that it was our anniversary, we returned to our suite that evening to find it decorated with rose petals, a complimentary bottle of champagne, and a handwritten note from the captain. This level of personalized service is what sets Stellar apart.” – Chen W., Singapore (May 2025)
Value Assessment: Is Stellar of the Seas Worth the Premium Price in 2025-2026?
With rates starting at $230 per person for the 2-day experience and $380 for the 3-day journey, Stellar of the Seas positions itself firmly in the luxury segment. However, 96% of reviewers specifically mentioned that the experience provided excellent value despite the premium pricing.
What’s Included in the 2025 Rates:
- All meals (3 meals per cruising day)
- Complimentary flowing house wine, beer, and soft drinks during meals
- All standard excursions and activities
- Use of kayaks and water sports equipment
- Onboard entertainment
- WiFi throughout the vessel
- Transfer from Hanoi to Halong Bay (premium option)
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Premium alcoholic beverages outside of meal times
- Spa treatments
- Special excursions (seaplane tour, private cave dining)
- Gratuities (recommended at $10-15 per guest per day)
Guest Highlight: “Initially, I hesitated at the price point, but after experiencing what’s included and the level of service provided, I can confidently say it was worth every dollar. The memories we created were priceless.” – David M., USA (January 2025)
Real Guest Insights: 12 Authentic Stellar of the Seas Reviews from 2025-2026
To provide the most accurate picture of what to expect, we’ve compiled recent verified guest reviews from various platforms:
1. The Honeymoon Experience
“My husband and I chose Stellar of the Seas for our honeymoon in February 2025, and it exceeded our highest expectations. From the moment we stepped onboard, we were treated like royalty. Our Junior Suite was immaculate with a view that took our breath away each morning. The excursions were perfectly balanced, allowing us time to be active but also to relax together. The staff arranged a private dinner for us on our balcony one night—a surprise we hadn’t requested but absolutely cherished.” – Amelia and James T., Australia
2. The Family Adventure
“Traveling with children ages 7 and 10, we were initially concerned about keeping them entertained. We needn’t have worried! The Family Connecting Suite was perfect for our needs, and the kids’ program kept them engaged with age-appropriate activities. They particularly loved the mini-golf and the specially designed kayaking experience for families. Meanwhile, we parents actually got to relax! The 3-day itinerary gave us the perfect amount of time to experience everything without feeling rushed.” – The Rodriguez Family, Mexico
3. The Solo Traveler
“As a solo traveler, I sometimes feel awkward on luxury experiences, but the staff made me feel completely comfortable. They seated me with other interesting guests at meals when I wanted company, and respected my privacy when I preferred solitude. The excursions were flexible enough that I could join groups or explore independently. I particularly appreciated the photography guide who helped me capture stunning images of my journey.” – Sophia K., Germany
4. The Celebration Group
“We booked the Stellar of the Seas for our parents’ 50th wedding anniversary, with 10 family members across three generations. The reservation team helped us arrange connecting suites and special surprises throughout the journey. The highlight was definitely the private celebration dinner they arranged in a secluded bay under the stars. Grandparents, parents, and grandchildren all found activities to enjoy, making this the perfect multi-generational experience.” – The Nguyen Family, USA and Vietnam
5. The Wellness Seeker
“I specifically chose Stellar for its wellness offerings, and I wasn’t disappointed. Starting each day with sunrise Tai Chi on the sundeck was magical. The spa treatments were on par with high-end resorts I’ve visited worldwide, and the fitness center allowed me to maintain my routine while enjoying incredible views. The culinary team happily accommodated my plant-based diet with creative and delicious options.” – Marcus L., Sweden
6. The Luxury Connoisseur
“Having experienced luxury cruises worldwide, I have high standards, and Stellar of the Seas met them all. The President Suite was exquisite—spacious, beautifully appointed, and with views that rivaled any luxury accommodation I’ve experienced. The wine selection impressed me, particularly the inclusion of some excellent Vietnamese wines I hadn’t encountered before. The private butler service was unobtrusive yet always available.” – Richard B., UK
7. The Photography Enthusiast
“As an amateur photographer, Halong Bay was on my bucket list, and Stellar of the Seas provided the perfect platform for capturing its beauty. The cruise route took us to less crowded areas where I could photograph the karsts without dozens of other boats in the frame. The early morning excursion option was particularly valuable for catching the bay in the most magical light.” – Hiroshi T., Japan
8. The Culinary Explorer
“The gastronomy on Stellar exceeded my expectations. As someone who travels primarily for food experiences, I was impressed by the authentic Vietnamese dishes prepared with modern techniques. The executive chef’s tasting menu was comparable to Michelin-starred restaurants I’ve visited. The cooking class allowed me to learn techniques I’ve since used at home to recreate a taste of our journey.” – Isabella and Marco C., Italy
9. The Anniversary Couple
“We celebrated our 25th anniversary aboard Stellar of the Seas in March 2025. The attention to detail was remarkable—from the anniversary decorations in our suite to the special cake prepared for us. What impressed us most was how the staff created private moments for us amidst the shared excursions. The cave dinner experience was particularly memorable and romantic.” – Sarah and Michael P., Canada
10. The First-Time Vietnam Visitors
“As first-time visitors to Vietnam, we wanted an experience that would introduce us to the culture while providing comfort. Stellar of the Seas struck that perfect balance. The excursions taught us about local life, while the onboard experiences (particularly the tea ceremony and cooking demonstration) deepened our understanding of Vietnamese culture. The cruise was the highlight of our two-week Vietnam journey.” – Emma and Oliver W., New Zealand
11. The Returning Guests
“This was our second time on Stellar of the Seas, having first sailed in 2023. We were impressed to find that many staff remembered us, and even our preferences. The 2025 renovations have enhanced the experience while maintaining the intimate atmosphere we loved. New additions like the expanded spa and cigar lounge gave us new experiences to enjoy.” – Robert and June L., Singapore
12. The Luxury Group Tour
“Our travel group of 8 professionals booked almost half the ship for our journey. The reservation team was exceptionally helpful in coordinating our needs. The spacious public areas meant we never felt crowded, even when we wanted to gather together. The flexible excursion options allowed individuals in our group to choose activities matching their interests and fitness levels.” – Corporate Retreat Group, South Korea
2025 Booking Guide: How to Secure the Best Stellar of the Seas Experience
Based on booking patterns and guest reviews, here are the key considerations for planning your Stellar of the Seas journey in 2025:
Optimal Booking Timeline
- Peak Season (October-April): Book 6-9 months in advance for best cabin selection
- Shoulder Season (May, September): Book 4-6 months in advance
- Low Season (June-August): Book 2-4 months in advance for potential promotional rates
Best Cabin Selection Strategy
- Couples: Junior or Executive Suites on the upper deck (300-level cabins)
- Families: Family Connecting Suites or adjacent Junior Suites
- Groups: Block of cabins on the same deck level
- Special Occasions: President Suite (often booked 12+ months in advance)
Seasonal Considerations
- December-February: Cooler temperatures (18-22°C) with atmospheric mist (photogenic but occasionally limiting long-distance visibility)
- March-April & September-November: Ideal conditions with moderate temperatures and clearest skies
- May-August: Warmer temperatures with occasional brief rain showers and fewer crowds
Booking Tip: “The 3-day itinerary during shoulder season offers the optimal balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and best value. Tuesday departures typically have the lowest occupancy.” – Veteran Cruise Specialist at Halong Bay Lux Cruises
How Stellar of the Seas Compares to Other 5-Star Halong Bay Cruises in 2025-2026
To provide complete context, we’ve analyzed how Stellar of the Seas compares to other top-tier cruises operating in Halong Bay in 2025:
Stellar vs. Paradise Elegance
- Cabin Size: Stellar offers larger cabins (28-60 sqm vs. 25-35 sqm)
- Vessel Size: Stellar is more intimate (22 cabins vs. 31 cabins)
- Unique Features: Stellar’s 4D mini-golf and expanded spa facilities
- Itinerary: Stellar ventures further into Lan Ha Bay’s less crowded areas
Orchid Cruises Vs Stellar
- Design Aesthetic: Stellar’s contemporary luxury vs. Orchid’s traditional Vietnamese styling
- Dining: Stellar’s international fusion approach vs. Orchid’s more traditional Vietnamese cuisine
- Activities: Stellar offers more onboard entertainment options
- Price Point: Comparable, with Stellar slightly higher but more all-inclusive
Stellar vs. Emperor Cruises
- Target Market: Stellar appeals to diverse international travelers vs. Emperor’s focus on ultra-luxury market
- Cabin Count: Stellar’s 22 cabins vs. Emperor’s 8 suites (Emperor offers more exclusivity but less social atmosphere)
- Facilities: Stellar provides more extensive onboard facilities due to larger vessel size
- Personalization: Both offer excellent personalized service with different approaches
Expert Opinion: “What distinguishes Stellar in the competitive 5-star Halong Bay market is its perfect balance of luxury and authenticity. While some competitors lean heavily into traditional Vietnamese elements and others toward international luxury standards, Stellar masterfully blends both worlds.” – Vietnam Luxury Travel Association Review, March 2025
Essential Travel Tips for Your 2025-2026 Stellar of the Seas Journey
Based on guest experiences, here are the most valuable tips for maximizing your Stellar of the Seas experience:
Packing Recommendations
- Footwear: Bring both water shoes (for cave explorations) and comfortable walking shoes (for island excursions)
- Clothing: Smart casual for evenings, lightweight layers for daytime activities
- Accessories: Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen (the sundeck can be bright even on cloudy days)
- Technology: Waterproof phone case or camera bag for kayaking excursions
Must-Do Experiences
- Dawn Photography: Rise early at least one morning to capture the bay in magical morning light
- Kayaking the Caves: The perspective from water level offers unique views impossible to see from the main vessel
- Sundeck Sunset: Order a signature “Stellar Spice” cocktail and watch the sun set behind the karsts
- Stargazing Session: The night sky viewing on the 3-day itinerary (away from light pollution) is exceptional
Money-Saving Tips
- Booking Directly: Use the official Halong Bay Lux Cruises website for exclusive online promotions
- Package Deals: Look for packages that include Hanoi hotel stays and transfers
- Shoulder Season: Consider May or September bookings for reduced rates with excellent weather
- Referral Programs: Previous guests can receive and share discount codes
Insider Tip: “Request a cabin on the port (left) side of the vessel for the 2-day cruise and starboard (right) for the 3-day cruise to maximize scenic views during most of the journey.” – Tuan N., Cruise Director
Final Assessment: Is Stellar of the Seas Cruise Reviews Halong Bay for You in 2025-2026?
After analyzing hundreds of authentic reviews and comparing facilities, services, and experiences, Stellar of the Seas emerges as the premier choice for travelers seeking a luxury Halong Bay experience in 2025. Its combination of spacious accommodations, exceptional service, gourmet cuisine, and thoughtfully designed itineraries creates a seamless journey through one of the world’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
The cruise particularly excels for:
- Couples seeking romantic luxury: The private balconies, couple’s spa treatments, and intimate dining options create magical moments
- Families wanting both togetherness and individual enjoyment: The family-friendly facilities and flexible excursions cater to all ages
- Photography enthusiasts: The carefully planned routes and timing maximize photographic opportunities
- Food and wine connoisseurs: The culinary program rivals land-based luxury resorts
- Travelers seeking cultural immersion with comfort: The perfect balance of authentic experiences without sacrificing luxury
While the Stellar of the Seas commands a premium price point, the overwhelming consensus from guests is that the experience delivers exceptional value through its all-inclusive approach, personalized service, and unforgettable moments that become lifetime memories.
For the ultimate Halong Bay luxury experience in 2025-2026, Stellar of the Seas sets the gold standard by which all other cruises are measured.
Ready to experience this extraordinary journey for yourself? Book your 2025 Stellar of the Seas adventure today and discover why this remarkable vessel has earned its reputation as the crown jewel of Halong Bay cruising.
- Hotline | WhatsApp: +84.978.358.422
- Phone | WhatsApp: +84.962.261.687
- Email: halongbayluxcruises@gmail.com
- vietnammarveltravel@gmail.com
Top Halong Bay Cruise Review on TripAdvisor
