The picturesque surroundings of Halong Bay, off the north-east coast of Vietnam, create a popular cruising spot for people all over the planet. It is a place for relaxation, admiring spectacular views and partaking in some exclusive experiences only possible in this area of the world.

Starting in 2007, Bhaya is the largest cruise operator in the bay and a perfect choice for anyone wanting to discover this part of Vietnam. There’s the option of either a two or three-day sailing aboard a range of luxurious ships and, as you can see below, there are plenty of reasons to choose them.

Exclusive Experiences

Whilst most companies operating in this part of the world will stick to a well-forged route through Halong Bay, Bhaya offers a different experience. Not only do they also sail through the far less visited Lan Ha Bay, but they can offer a number of exclusive activities and excursions. One such example is a stop at a floating pearl farm to learn how the locals cultivate and collect the pearls, whilst enjoying a delicious Vietnamese meal.

Seamless Arrival

The closest airport to Halong Bay is in Hanoi, but could still be a four-hour drive from your departure point if traffic is really bad. To help you avoid this, Bhaya provides transfers via helicopter or seaplane, reducing your journey to just 45 minutes. If, however, this isn’t within your budget, you can relax in the knowledge that a shuttle bus or private car will take you directly to the embarkation point in a stress-free manner. What’s more, once you arrive in Halong Bay, you can unwind in Bhaya’s dedicated cruise centre before you check-in to your cabin.

Responsible Travel

Bhaya understands the importance of protecting the area through which they sail and the land around it. Therefore, they are involved in a number of community projects to ensure they remain sustainable and environmentally conscious. These projects include initiatives to save the Cat Ba langur (a small primate that is close to extinction), employing people from the local communities, preserving the bay with the help on onboard treatment systems, and not disposing of wastewater or rubbish into the bay.

Beautiful and Authentic Ships

There are a total of 19 ships available when you choose to cruise Halong Bay with Bhaya, including private charters that cater for anything from one to six guests. The flagships are the Bhaya Classic line, but there is also the option to upgrade your experience by choosing from the Bhaya Premium line. Whichever you opt for, you will sail aboard a traditional wooden vessel; be served by friendly, English-speaking crew; and have the chance to relax in a spa complete with Jacuzzi. The main difference when you upgrade is that the ship will have a much smaller capacity, allowing for a more intimate and personalised cruise.

Finally, why not consider an extended break on board one of the twin AU CO ships, which offer three-day cruises instead of two-day ones? These luxurious vessels are made from steel and take you further afield to explore Bai Tu Long Bay as well as Halong Bay. There is an open-air Jacuzzi on board and BBQs are often served from the sundeck.

Aboard all of the ships, you will be immersed in Vietnamese culture via a series of activities. These include cookery classes, tai chi sessions, bamboo boat tours and traditional tea ceremonies.

If you would like to discover Ha Long Bay in authentic luxury, talk to us about our Bhaya cruises. Our experienced team will be able to help you find the perfect itinerary aboard the ideal ship.