We took an eight cabin boat (8 couples), which offered just the right balance of social interaction and privacy. Shuttle from Hanoi, two days and a night on the boat.
The guide (“Lucky”, I think it’s Vuong in Vietnamese) was excellent, knowledgable in all aspects of Vietnam, friendly and open to any discussion or question. You don’t want your guide to just be an encyclopedia, rather to help you sense the flavour of Vietnam and Lucky deserves a high score on both. He made good use of the travel time from Hanoi with explanations and open conversation.
Food on the cruise was exceptional. Imagine a chef working full time for 16 guests. Cooking lesson was fun and the chef’s live display of ornamental sculpting of fruit and vegetables was brilliant, beats any Las Vegas magician act in hands down.
The boat includes a bar and stores kayaks on board for that highly recommended rowing stint to the monkeys island.
Cabins are spacious with individual shower and toilet.

– Reviewed by Xoyo G –