Review
The 2 Au Co boats may well be the nicest of the larger craft on Halong Bay - with 32 comfortably appointed cabins, all with private balconies.
While I've been impressed with amenities, service, meals and the overall quality of all of the boats I've reviewed for Rusty Compass over the past years, The Au Co is probably a notch or two higher in quality again. There isn't a lot in it. And you'll pay a premium for it.
Like most of the boats we've looked at on Halong Bay, the Au Co has generous viewing decks and common areas. It was full during my cruise but it never felt crowded.
The boat is designed as an old world cruiser with a mix of western and Asian interior styles. At 20 metres, the lead-in cabins (Deluxe) are a comfortable size. If you want something extra special, upgrade to a 40sqm suite with an additional generous private deck.
The cruising activities on the Au Co have been reduced like other operators in recent years. Check to confirm excursions.
Food and service were both good. The Au Co crew has struck the happy balance between natural Vietnamese good-humour and efficient professional service. They were terrific.
The Au Co offers full day as well as 1 and 2 night cruises. The 2 night cruise makes the most sense in terms of the effort required to get to Halong Bay, the splendour of the bay and the benefit of some relaxed time aboard the boat. Shorter cruises feel a litle rushed.
Shorter cruises make more sense during winter months when conditions can be overcast and cold.
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