Emeraude bridges the gap between Hanoi and Halong

Written by Pham Van Ha (ha@emeraude-cruises.com)
Thursday, 9 August 2007

Hanoi, Vietnam; Emeraude Classic Cruises solves a logistical challenge for travelers Aug. 1 when the cruise operator launches shuttle bus service between Hanoi and Halong Bay.
   
With a pair of 16-seat Ford Transit vans, the shuttle service will make daily departures from both Hanoi and Halong. The eastbound bus to Halong leaves from the Emeraude’s sales office at 59A Ly Thai To Street every morning at 8:30; the westbound bus to Hanoi leaves the Emeraude’s pier in Bai Chay each morning at 9:30. The shuttle costs US $35 return for Emeraude passengers. “The transit from Hanoi to Halong, and vice versa, has always been a logistical hurdle for some passengers, especially those who’ve come to us independently,” said Kurt Walter, general manager of Emeraude Classic Cruises. “Now that the boat’s acquired an exceptional level of popularity, there’s more demand on that route than ever. So we were happy to build that bridge!”

A one-of-a-kind cruising vessel on Ha Long Bay, the Emeraude is a near-replica of a stern-wheel paddle steamer that ferried tourists about the bay from 1906 until 1937. The present vessel features 36 air-conditioned cabins and two posh suites, ample deck space, a 80-seat restaurant, spa treatments and other amenities that are singular to Ha Long Bay.
    
“We’re anxious to make every passenger’s experience, from the moment they leave Hanoi to the moment of their return, as comfortable and as memorable as possible,” said Walter. “It’s for that same reason that we’re incrementally upgrading our services, in transportation, at check-in and with the English-speaking capabilities of our staff, including the shuttle’s driver.”

Later this year, Walter’s crew plans to debut the Emeraude Café in Halong. “We believe we’re already offering the pre-eminent waterborne experience on the bay,” he said. “But there’s no reason we can’t make the Emeraude experience even more attractive.”

During August and September, Emeraude Classic Cruises is offering “Vietnam Independence Day Celebrations” for local residents. The rate for this special promotion is at US$ 100/person, including return transfer on the new shuttle. Other terms & conditions will apply.