Emeraude Classic Cruises is not just another luxury cruise; it’s a floating piece of history and a tribute to the spirit of adventure that has defined Ha Long Bay for generations. This iconic vessel, inspired by a serendipitous discovery in Paris in 1999, carries a timeless story of adventure and exploration that spans continents and centuries, connecting France to Vietnam in a narrative as captivating as the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay itself.
Beginning from an Antique Box
The story of Emeraude Classic Cruises begins with a small, unassuming antique box. In late 1999, a young French entrepreneur named Eric Merlin stumbled upon this box at a flea market in Paris. The box was engraved with the word “Indochine,” and inside were three postcards, each offering a glimpse into the past. One of these postcards would become the key to an incredible journey—on it was an image of a steamship named “Emeraude” floating on the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay. The postcard’s image, with its mysterious allure and historical depth, piqued Eric’s interest. Intrigued by the origins of the steamship and what stories it might hold, Eric began a quest to uncover the vessel’s history.
What started as a curious find quickly turned into a cross-continental journey. Eric felt compelled to learn more about this ship that had once graced the legendary waters of Ha Long Bay, a place that itself is steeped in natural beauty and cultural significance. Little did Eric know that his discovery would lead to the revival of an iconic cruise that would once again sail through these magnificent waters, bridging the gap between past and present.
The Story of the Roque Family
Eric’s search to uncover the history of the Emeraude steamship eventually led him to the story of the Roque family—a family of French settlers who lived and worked in Indochina during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Roques were adventurers, entrepreneurs, and pioneers who, like many of their contemporaries, sought new opportunities in the far-off lands of the East. The three Roque brothers—Victor, Xavier, and Henry—left their small village in France for the Far East in search of fortune and adventure.
In the mid-1800s, with a spirit of exploration and a desire to conquer new frontiers, Victor and Xavier embarked on a journey that took them to Vietnam, then known as part of French Indochina. They settled in the region and quickly established themselves in the trading and shipping industries, eventually building a small fleet of steamships to navigate the waterways of Indochina.
Among these ships was the original Emeraude, an 80-ton steamship designed to transport goods and passengers between Ha Long Bay and the surrounding areas. The Emeraude quickly became an important vessel, ferrying international tourists who were eager to explore the wonders of Ha Long Bay, a destination that was already gaining worldwide recognition for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald-green waters.
The Revival of Emeraude Classic
The discovery of the Emeraude’s history inspired Eric Merlin to bring this storied vessel back to life. After years of research and planning, Eric embarked on a mission to recreate the Emeraude, honoring its legacy while incorporating modern comforts. In 2003, his dream became a reality with the launch of the new Emeraude Classic Cruise—a vessel meticulously designed to mirror the original steamship, down to its French colonial-era aesthetics and elegant design.
The Emeraude Classic is a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into the revival process. With three spacious decks, 37 luxurious cabins, two bars, and a restaurant, the Emeraude Classic offers its passengers a unique blend of history and modernity. Although it retains the charm of the original steamship, this new vessel is equipped with all the amenities expected of a contemporary luxury cruise, ensuring that guests can enjoy their journey in complete comfort.
Since its launch, the Emeraude Classic has become an iconic presence on Ha Long Bay, offering both domestic and international tourists a chance to experience this UNESCO World Heritage site in a way that few other vessels can match. The ship’s elegant design, combined with its rich history, makes every voyage a journey through time, allowing passengers to relive the golden age of travel while soaking in the breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay.
The Enduring Spirit of Exploration
At its core, Emeraude Classic Cruises is much more than just a luxury cruise—it’s a symbol of the enduring spirit of exploration that has driven countless adventurers to seek out new horizons. From its early days transporting passengers through the waterways of Indochina to its current role as a premier cruise ship on Ha Long Bay, the Emeraude embodies the spirit of discovery that spans generations.
The story of Emeraude is also a story of perseverance and ambition. It is a reminder of the bold vision of the Roque family, whose entrepreneurial spirit brought them to the Far East in search of fortune, and of Eric Merlin, whose passion for history and adventure led him to revive this legendary vessel. Together, these two stories converge on the waters of Ha Long Bay, where the Emeraude continues to sail, offering passengers an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
A Journey Through Time
Emeraude Classic Cruises offers more than just a scenic voyage across the bay—it provides a deeply immersive experience that connects passengers with the rich history and timeless beauty of Ha Long Bay. As guests step aboard the Emeraude, they are not only embarking on a journey across the sea but also traveling back in time to an era when luxury travel was defined by elegance, sophistication, and a sense of wonder.
Today, Emeraude Classic Cruises continues to preserve the spirit of adventure that defined the original Emeraude steamship while offering modern travelers an unparalleled experience. Whether exploring the karsts of Ha Long Bay from the ship’s decks or savoring a meal in its elegant dining room, every moment aboard the Emeraude is steeped in history and imbued with the spirit of exploration that has captivated travelers for centuries.
In the end, Emeraude Classic Cruises is not just about luxury—it’s about honoring the legacy of those who came before and sharing the beauty of Ha Long Bay with the world. As the ship glides through the emerald waters, it carries with it the stories of adventurers, dreamers, and explorers, inviting each new passenger to become a part of its rich history.
