Curated Journeys

Quick answer to common queries

Frequently Asked Questions

• Booking & Payment

  How do I book a cruise with Green Ruby?

  You can book directly on our website, through our reservations team by email or Zalo/WhatsApp, or via our authorized travel partners. Once you choose your itinerary and cabin, we confirm availability and send a booking summary with payment instructions.

• Booking & Payment

  Is a deposit required, and when is the balance due?

  Yes. We ask for a 30% deposit to confirm your booking, with the balance due 30 days before departure. For bookings made within 30 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

• Booking & Payment

  What payment methods do you accept?

  We accept credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), bank transfer, and major e-wallets. On board, major credit cards and cash (VND/USD) are accepted for additional services.

• Booking & Payment

  What is your cancellation and refund policy?

  Cancellations more than 30 days before departure: full refund. 15–29 days: 50% charge. 7–14 days: 75% charge. Under 7 days or no-show: no refund. We recommend travel insurance to cover unexpected changes.

• Booking & Payment

  Can I reschedule or transfer my booking?

  Yes. Date changes are treated as a cancellation of the original booking and a new reservation. Each booking may be amended a maximum of two times, subject to availability and applicable cancellation policies.

• Booking & Payment

  Do you offer early-bird, group, or charter discounts?

  Yes. We run early-booking offers and special rates for groups and full-vessel charters. Contact us or see our Offers page for current promotions.

• Booking & Payment

  Can I book a private, exclusive-use charter?

  Yes. The entire vessel can be reserved for private charters - ideal for families, celebrations, corporate retreats, or guests who want a fully private experience on the quieter waters of Lan Ha Bay.

• Booking & Payment

  How far in advance should I book for peak season?

  For peak periods (October-April, holidays, and weekends), we recommend booking 2-3 months ahead. Suites and premium cabins sell out first.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  What's the difference between Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay - and which should I choose?

  Ha Long Bay is the famous, busier UNESCO bay with iconic karst scenery and many vessels. Lan Ha Bay, just south near Cat Ba Island, offers the same dramatic limestone landscapes but far fewer crowds, quieter anchorages, and more beaches. If you want privacy and calm, choose a Lan Ha route; if you want the classic, well-known views, choose Ha Long.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  What itineraries does Green Ruby offer?

  We offer four itineraries across two bays - two on Ha Long Bay and two on Lan Ha Bay - each available as a 2-day/1-night or 3-day/2-night cruise.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  Should I choose 2D1N or 3D2N?

  Choose 2D1N for a relaxed first taste of the bay. Choose 3D2N to reach quieter, farther waters, enjoy more activities (kayaking, Cat Ba, fishing villages), and truly unwind - the extra night makes the journey from Hanoi more worthwhile.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  Why does Green Ruby sail the quieter Lan Ha Bay routes?

  We deliberately chart less-crowded passages through Lan Ha Bay and around Cat Ba, so guests enjoy the same spectacular scenery without the flotilla of boats. Fewer hulls in the water means calmer anchorages, cleaner views, and a more private experience.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  What does a typical day on board look like?

  Days blend gentle activity and rest: sunrise tai chi, kayaking or swimming in hidden lagoons, visits to caves or floating villages, leisurely meals, sunset on the sundeck, and quiet nights at anchor. Your full itinerary is shared at booking.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  Do you visit Cat Ba Island, floating fishing villages, and hidden lagoons?

  Yes - depending on your itinerary, stops can include Cat Ba Island, traditional floating fishing villages, hidden lagoons, caves, and secluded beaches for swimming and kayaking.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  Can the itinerary be customized?

  For private charters and special occasions, yes - within the bay's navigation rules and weather conditions. Talk to our team about tailored routes and experiences.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  Where does the cruise depart from?

  We depart from Tuan Chau, where guests check in at our private waiting lounge before boarding - a calmer, more comfortable start than the crowded public terminals.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  How do I get from Hanoi to the port, and how long is the transfer?

  The drive from Hanoi to the Tuan Chau area takes roughly 3 hours via expressway. We can arrange door-to-door transfers from your Hanoi hotel.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  Is hotel transfer included - private car or shuttle?

  Transfers are not included in the cruise fare. Shared limousine shuttle service between Hanoi and Ha Long is available at an additional charge, and private transfers can also be arranged upon request.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  How far is Hai Phong (Cat Bi) Airport from the port?

  Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong is approximately 45 minutes-1 hour away, making it a convenient arrival point alongside Hanoi.

• Itineraries, Bays & Transfers

  Can you arrange transfers around early or late flights?

  Yes. Share your flight details and we'll align your transfer and, if needed, suggest pre- or post-cruise accommodation.