1. Boarding & Passenger Responsibilities

To help ensure an orderly departure, guests are asked to arrive at the designated meeting point on time and follow the crew’s check-in instructions.

• Follow the confirmed pickup, meeting-point, and boarding instructions provided before the tour.
• Keep your booking confirmation and any required identification documents available when requested.
• Listen carefully to the safety briefing before the cruise departs and whenever instructions are repeated.
• Remain in designated passenger areas and follow crew directions when moving around the vessel.
• Inform the crew promptly if you feel unwell, need assistance, or notice a safety concern.

2. Safety Onboard

A cruise vessel is a moving environment. Please use handrails where provided, take care on stairs and wet surfaces, and avoid rushing between decks.

3. Kayaking, Bamboo Boat & Island Activities

Some itineraries include kayaking or a traditional bamboo boat experience at Luon Cave, as well as time at Ti Top Island. These activities take place in natural environments and may be adjusted according to weather, water conditions, safety requirements, or local operating instructions.

• Follow the activity guide’s instructions before entering or leaving a kayak or bamboo boat.
• Wear the safety equipment provided and use it as instructed.
• Remain within the designated activity area and do not approach other vessels or restricted zones.
• Do not stand up, rock the kayak, or exchange places while on the water unless instructed by the guide.
• For swimming or hiking, follow posted notices and the guidance of local staff and your tour guide.
• Guests who are unsure whether an activity is suitable for them should speak with the guide before participating.

For the planned activity sequence and tour schedule, please see the Hercules Premium Cruise itinerary.

4. Children & Family Travel

Families are welcome aboard. For the comfort and safety of younger guests, parents or accompanying adults are responsible for supervising children throughout the journey, including during transfers, boarding, onboard time, and shore excursions.

• Children should remain with their accompanying adult and follow crew instructions.
• Keep children away from railings, stairways, and restricted operational areas unless accompanied and permitted.
• Parents or guardians should assess whether each activity is appropriate for their child.
• Inform the crew if a child needs assistance or has a specific requirement relevant to the trip.

5. Respectful Conduct & Onboard Facilities

We ask all guests to help maintain a pleasant environment for fellow passengers and crew.

• Treat crew members, guides, local staff, and other guests with courtesy and respect.
• Use onboard facilities responsibly and follow any instructions or notices displayed in each area.
• Do not enter crew-only, technical, or otherwise restricted areas.
• Do not tamper with safety equipment or operate vessel equipment without authorization.
• Follow the crew’s directions regarding smoking, alcohol service, and any activity that may affect passenger safety or comfort.
• Guests whose conduct creates a safety risk may be asked to stop the activity and follow the crew’s instructions.

6. Protecting Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is a shared natural and cultural environment. Please help keep the bay and its visitor sites clean and respected during your visit.

• Use the designated bins onboard and at visitor facilities; do not throw rubbish into the bay.
• Do not throw food, plastic, cigarette ends, or other objects into the water.
• Do not remove, damage, or disturb natural features, wildlife, or cultural and historical sites.
• Follow local instructions at caves, beaches, islands, and other visitor areas.
• Keep noise at a considerate level and respect other visitors and local communities.

7. Weather, Itinerary Changes & Cancellations

Cruise operations and shore activities may be affected by weather, sea conditions, traffic, or instructions from the relevant Ha Long Bay management authorities. For safety or operational reasons, the itinerary, activity sequence, or departure arrangements may be adjusted.

For more information about cancellations, rescheduling, and common pre-trip questions, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions.

8. Booking Information & Special Requests

Please review your booking details before departure and contact our team in advance if you need to update passenger information, clarify transfer arrangements, or communicate a dietary request or other requirement.

For booking assistance or special requests, please use our Contact & Reservation page.