About Emeraude Cruise

09:20' AM - Saturday, 19/06/2010

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In 1910 a paddle steamer called the Emeraude was offering unforgettable cruises in Halong Bay for visitors to what was then French Indochina. The Emeraude was part of a flotilla owned by the Roque family who had left Bordeaux in 1858 in search of adventure and fortune. Over a period of more than 50 years they found both. After several ups and downs including successful trading and timber businesses, near bankruptcy and being taken hostage by pirates, the Roque brothers built Emeraude, Perle, Saphir, Rubis and Onyx to ferry passengers and freight along the waterways of Indochina and cruise on magnificent Halong Bay .Today the Emeraude offers a regular cruise service on board a luxurious replica steamer with 39 cabins meticulously designed to evoke the nostalgic charm of colonial Indochina.

The Ship

On the Emeraude, buoyed by one of the world's most beautiful bays, little things matter. Colonial style brass fans. Hardwood floors. Beadboard walls. And the most comfortable beds on the bay. In every cabin, the rich decor evokes another age, when craftsmanship mattered more than the bottom line.

But make no mistake: The Emeraude makes concessions to the modern era, with air conditioning, electricity and other amenities typical of an upscale hotel room. No need to bring your own hair dryer. We've got that. Umbrellas, slippers, bathrobes. We've imagined all the contingencies so you'll be fully prepared to enjoy your cruise.

• Year in Operation : December 2003 Built by Song Cam Shipyard
• Length : 56 m
• Beam : 10m
• Draft : 2.6m
• Cabin : 36 luxury Cabins
• + 01 Paul Roque Suite
• + 01 Suite Emeraude
• Engine : 2* 540 HP ( Caterpillar )
• Generator: 460 KVA
• Tonnage : 700 tones
• Cruising Speed : 10 nautical knots

The Captain's Suite

Also housed on the sundeck and benefiting from the same stunning views is the Captain's Suite.

At nearly 17 square metres, the port-side suite is spacious and comfortable and lined with colonial-era bamboo matting.

On the wall, antique maps will help you plot the vessel's path through the karsts and islands of Halong Bay.

The Emeraude Suite

At 19.5 square metres, the luxurious Emeraude Suite is roomy enough for a queen-sized bed, as well as a large sofa and space to entertain, which makes it a favourite with families.

Its cream and green colour scheme adds warmth and nostalgia to the wooden fixtures and flooring. A sundeck location on the starboard side and ample windows deliver wide views across the bay.

Outside, an adjacent sitting area is the perfect place to enjoy a drink or relax and marvel at the passing scenery.

The Paul Roque Suite

Named after the original Emeraude's first owner, this was the vessel's suite.

At nearly 16-square metres, it is the smallest of the three but has a trump card. The popularity of the Paul Roque Suite remains unrivalled due to a private deck. The deck features both sun loungers and chairs for uninterrupted relaxation.

Its situation on the bow's upper deck adds to a feeling of unhurried, truly tranquil travel.

Inside, comfortable chairs, a rug and checked wall coverings add to the "golden age" feel.

Wide windows ensure fabulous views.

34 Deluxe and Superior Luxury Cabins

Emeraude's twin and double rooms each feature innerspring mattresses to ensure a comfortable night's sleep.

Each room is equipped with all the necessary amenities, from air conditioning to hot showers.

Ultimately, the greatest attraction remains outside your cabin door. Each room opens directly onto the deck.

Superior rooms are located on lower deck with deluxe rooms on the upper deck.

Each bespoke cabin exudes warmth and character with high standards of workmanship, distinguished style and impeccable service. With its polished wooden floors and brass fixtures and fittings the Emeraude’s rooms offer timeless elegance.

Room to relax

Space, privacy and relaxation are themes that run throughout the Emeraude.

On the main and upper decks, there are a number of quiet seating areas. And there's always an opportunity to stretch out on a sundeck lounger.

The emphasis is always on the bay itself. The aim is to provide true comfort at all times in order to best enjoy the surroundings.

Restaurant and Bars

The Emeraude’s restaurant offers delicious, freshly caught local seafood and other specialties. While enjoying breathtaking views of the bay, passengers can enjoy the simple and honest flavors of traditional fare.

From the sun deck, passengers can enjoy a soothing foot massage while sipping a refreshing cocktail and gazing at the rock formations reflected in the crystal clear water of the bay. The Emeraude’s huge paddle wheel opens to reveal a swimming deck offering passengers the opportunity to swim in the calm waters of the bay surrounded by the majestic scenery. At dawn, that most magical time as the sun rises, the soft and graceful movements of a t’ai chi class on the deck complement the atmospheric silence of the bay.

Emeraude Cafe

Opened in late 2007, Emeraude Cafe is an ideal jumping off point for your adventure on Halong Bay. Grab a bite while you wait for embarkation. Check your email. Surf the Net. Browse our souvenirs. And anticipate the voyage that’s about to begin.

The cafe serves a selection of Western food, including made-to-order sandwiches, panini and pizza. Along with an extensive variety of teas, coffees and fresh juices, the café has an excellent wine list, sourced from around the world.

A cozy interior and outdoor terrace provides space for up to 70 diners. Beyond the Cafe’s culinary attractions, the new facility features complimentary wireless access, two Internet terminals and a souvenir boutique.

There’s also a sales desk in the café if you’d like to book passage on the Emeraude, or one of our new soft adventures.

The Flavor

Dining on the Emeraude reflects the ambitions and aspirations of the vessel itself.

Vietnamese ingredients, enhanced by European culinary traditions, create a culinary experience without peer on Halong Bay.

Quality, good taste and elegance define every buffet in our classic wood-panelled dining room.

Lunch

After you board the Emeraude, the lunch buffet is quickly served. Look out for classics like chicken cordon bleu alongside pork tenderloin and a range of salads and lighter options. Fresh spring rolls offer a local flavour alongside freshly caught seafood.

Dinner

In the evening, dining is a stylish affair. The buffet includes rump steak and fresh Halong Bay steamed prawns. The selection includes shellfish, salads, soups and rice dishes. For dessert, choices vary from a range of cakes to old favorites like bread and butter pudding. There is also an array of tropical fruit.

Breakfast

Wake early to enjoy sunrise and it won't be long before aromas from the kitchen find you. Bacon, chipolatas, scrambled eggs and cold cuts await. A chef cooks omelettes to your specifications. A rice congee or "chao" adds local flavor while croissants and pastry add a European touch. Italian Lavazza coffee is served.

Drinks

Throughout your cruise, bars in the dining room and on the sundeck ensure satisfaction for every thirst. A lengthy wine list caters to all tastes. Cocktails beg to be drunk on the deck at sunset as canapés are served. For beer drinkers there is a range of international and local brews. Alternatively enjoy a coffee served hot or iced depending on the climate. A pot of green tea adds an additional authentic touch. Relax, we'll bring it to your table.

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