This luxurious private option offers an intimate way to explore the stunning surrounds of Halong Bay

Modelled on the traditional Chinese junks that used to sail on the bay, the handcrafted teak and oak the Legend Halong is an intimate and elegant option for a Halong Bay cruise. With only two cabins the Legend Halong offers the chance to escape the crowds and absorb the atmosphere of this beautiful region in peace and privacy. The small size of the vessel also permits it to take a different route taken through Bai Tu Long Bay, visiting hidden corners off the usual tourist trail. On board you will have your own captain, boat mechanic, chef, waiter, and tour guide who will all be on hand to make sure you have a great time!

The converted rice barges that comprise the small fleet of Bassac Mekong cruise boats provide our favourite setting from which to explore the waterways and floating markets of the delta. Ranging from 6 to 24 cabins, each of the dark-wood Bassac boats has two dining rooms, a sun deck, bar and lounge area providing plenty of space to relax and make the journey your own.

The Bhaya Cruise provides high quality accommodation on the beautiful waters of Halong Bay.

As with many of the boats, the Bhaya offers both one and two night cruising options, with the first day itinerary being the same in both cases. Boarding takes place at around midday, with a seafood lunch immediately following an initial welcome and safety briefing. The boat sets sail through the sublime scenery of the Bai Tu Bay during lunch, and reaches the shore excursion destination mid-afternoon. The itinerary may vary depending on season and weather conditions, but a regular stop is at the remarkable Van Vieng fishing village, a floating community resident in a sheltered bay in the midst of the limestone karst peaks. You will transfer from the main boat to small sampans, and be rowed through the village to the spectacular cave mouth through which the locals access the sea. On return to the boat time is at leisure to swim or sit back and enjoy the wonderful setting. Evening meal is at 7.30, after which you can try your hand at squid fishing if the mood takes you.

Travel in style as you head along the Mekong in this beautiful traditional colonial boat

Head along the Mekong in style with the full board Pandaw Cruise ship. Sail through the Delta from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam to Siem Reap in Cambodia or in the reverse. Shorter trips are also on offer, heading to or from Phnom Penh in either direction. The boat will travel up or down stream over a number of nights, stopping off at local floating markets, riverside villages and countless places of outstanding natural beauty. The ship itself is comfortable and will provide the perfect balance of cultural sightseeing and relaxation and the cruise is well known for its enjoyable and inclusive atmosphere. The rooms are elegantly decorated in teak and brass and the whole boat has an air of elegance and sophistication, right down to the attentive staff.

There is no better, or more relaxing way, to explore the beautiful reaches of the Mekong River in Southern Laos than aboard the elegant Vat Phou Cruise. Take a delightful two-night cruise meandering through the 4,000 Islands, stopping off at the magnificent Wat Phou temple ruins, after which the ship is named. The ship itself is a former teak barge, converted lovingly into a cosy passenger vessel, with 12 comfortable, air-conditioned cabins and first-rate facilities.