Planning a romantic proposal to your beloved can be both enthralling and nerve-wracking. When I decided to propose to my girlfriend, I knew it had to be special. Among thousands of ideas, I chose to propose to her at Halong Bay, one of the most beautiful places on earth and a highlight stop on our Vietnam trip. And the Orchid Trendy Cruise as the perfect setting was my choice for this life-changing moment.
Why Halong Bay and Orchid Trendy Cruise?
Halong Bay is famous for its breathtaking scenery, with thousands of limestone islands rising from emerald waters. With mesmerizing photos of this World Heritage Site we saw on the internet, it became the top of my girlfriend’s bucket list when we planned a 2-week visit to Vietnam.
After some research, I found out that there were hundreds of options for an overnight cruise trip in Halong Bay, and choosing one to suit my intentions really took time. Eventually, with the help of my travel consultant from halongbaycruises.com, I picked Orchid Trendy Cruise. This cruise belongs to a famous cruising fleet exploring Lan Ha Bay, a neighboring bay of Halong. It features 20 cabins with a private balcony at each one, excellent service, high-class facilities for a luxurious and intimate experience, and, of course, a spacious sundeck for a romantic proposal.
Here’s how I planned and executed a surprise proposal on the Orchid Trendy Cruise with the help of the amazing cruise staff, and some tips for anyone looking to create their own magical moment.
The Planning Phase
1. Choosing the Right Cruise
After considering several options, I chose the Orchid Trendy Cruise. Known for its luxurious amenities, small boat with fewer people, and excellent service, the cruise seemed like the ideal choice for such a special occasion. It offers stunning views, comfortable accommodations, and a variety of activities.
2. Booking and Informing the Staff
I booked the cruise well in advance, choosing a room with a private balcony. While booking, I informed the consultant about my plan to propose and requested her assistance with the setup on board. They were incredibly helpful in assisting me with an idea, and they were also excited to be part of this special event.
3. Deciding on the Proposal Spot
After discussing with the staff, I decided that the sundeck at sunset would be the perfect location and moment for the proposal. The panoramic views of Halong Bay, combined with the golden hour’s romantic light, would create an idyllic setting.
Setting Up the Surprise
1. Simple Décor
I wanted the setup to be elegant yet simple. I coordinated with the cruise staff to decorate the sundeck with some basic elements:
Balloons: in our favorite colors.
Flowers: a lovely rose bouquet as my girlfriend’s favorite
Cake: a small, beautifully decorated cake to celebrate the moment.
Candles: LED candles to add a romantic touch without the risk of fire.
2. Involving the Crew
The crew was instrumental in setting up the decor while keeping everything a surprise. They arranged the balloons and flowers and set up a small table with the cake. Their attention to detail and enthusiasm were truly heartwarming.
The Big Day
1. Enjoying the Cruise Before the Big Moment
We boarded the Orchid Trendy Cruise in the early afternoon after about 2.5 hours of driving from Hanoi. The welcome drink and warm hospitality immediately set a pleasant tone for the trip. We spent the afternoon exploring the cruise, participating in kayaking, and then going back to our room before enjoying the sunset party.
2. Pre-Proposal Activities
To keep the surprise intact, we took part in a kayaking trip in Dark & Bright Cave, a unique tunnel cave leading to a peaceful lagoon. This kept us engaged and provided beautiful backdrops for photos, all while building anticipation for the evening.
3. The Proposal
As the sun began to set, I suggested to my girlfriend that we should visit the sundeck to enjoy the views. That’s when we saw the staff had done a fantastic job with the setup. The balloons swayed gently in the breezes, the candles added a warm glow, and the cake was a delightful addition.
With the stunning Halong Bay as our backdrop, I got down on one knee and asked the love of my life to marry me. She said yes! The moment was perfect, filled with joy and love, captured beautifully by the staff who were ready with a camera.
4. Celebrating the Engagement
After the proposal, we celebrated our love with the cake and a bottle of champagne I had booked beforehand. The staff congratulated us and even arranged for a special table for dinner, making the evening even more special.
Tips for Planning a Proposal on a Halong Bay Cruise
Choose the Right Cruise: Opt for a reputable cruise like the Orchid Trendy for excellent service and amenities.
Inform the Travel Consultant and Cruise Crew: Let the staff know about your proposal plan. They can assist with the setup and offer valuable suggestions.
Pick the Perfect Spot: The sundeck is ideal for a sunset proposal, offering stunning views and a romantic atmosphere.
Keep It Simple: A few thoughtful decorations like balloons and flowers can create a romantic atmosphere without overwhelming the moment.
Have a Backup Plan: The weather can be unpredictable, so prepare an indoor option just in case.
Enjoy the Day: Engage in the cruise’s activities to keep the surprise element and make the day enjoyable for both of you.
Conclusion
Proposing on the Orchid Trendy Cruise in Halong Bay was a dream come true. The magnificent scenery, top-notch service, and careful planning made it a perfect moment. I hope this sharing helps you plan your own unforgettable proposal. Halong Bay is truly a magical place to start a new chapter in life.
