Review Author: Jenben

Review Date: 14 Mar 2024

Review Body: The boat is great, beautifully appointed and the food, a set lunch and BBQ and buffet dinner on day 1, and breakfast and brunch on day 2 were of a high quality, cooked and presented beautifully by the chef and his team. We had steak cooked on the BBQ and was the best beef we have eaten on our trip through SE Asia. The Cruise Leader Henry was excellent and led us on a short and comfortable cycling trip to the village of Viet Hai on Cat Ba Island which was really interesting, as the Au Co cruise provides financial support to social enterprise initiatives on the island. We had a special occasion to celebrate and booked the Long Quan suite on the boat which was excellent (we would have loved more down time to enjoy it!). However, the crew also recognised our special celebration in a lovely way at the evening dinner, which we were very appreciative of. I would also like to recognise the wonderful musician, Andre, who provided local Vietnamese music on board during lunch and the evening meal, wearing traditional dress. I would recommend this cruise and the one day version, based on our experience. Halong Bay is outstanding natural scenery, but unfortunately you need to be prepared as the environment is suffering from a lot of pollution. I hope the actions being taken to safeguard it are successful over the coming years.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Nico

Review Date: 01 Dec 2025

Review Body: The tour was lovely, with one of the best cruise ships in terms of deco and comfort. Cruise director Elijah was sweet and helpful. The crew Sunny, Jon, Mia were very helpful and accommodating. They really made us feel welcome and well taken care of. Was disappointed that due to operational issues, we could not stop at the village and do the activities described in the tour package. Regardless, we enjoyed the informative excursion to the caves, and the kayaking was a fun and safe challenge for my mum (over 60!). Many elderly felt safe to try these activities and which is a testament to the attention and care of the crew. Dinner was absolutely delicious, so thank you Chef and crew. Wine tasting with Tam was fun and cute! Overall I highly recommend it. Ha Long Bay is a must see in your lifetime.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Gerard

Review Date: 14 Nov 2025

Review Body: Excellent trip - excellent food - nice room etc. what made it special was the excellent staff led by Elijah. The whole experience was very well organised.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Marcus

Review Date: 14 Mar 2025

Review Body: Really cool time, did the one day cruise, got to kayak and go through a cave. The boat was super nice. The staff was really helpful and attentive.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Sabrina

Review Date: 17 Nov 2025

Review Body: I absolutely loved every minute on that cruise. It was my first time on such a modern cruise and I was Solo Traveling but had the best time ever. All the staff members take such good care they are friendly attentive and always there if you need something. The rooms are beautiful and you have an incredible view with a small balcony and every room has a bathtub with view as well. The food was very delicious but if you are not into seafood tell the staff in advance and they will prepare a super alternative for you. Everything is well planned you are never bored but also you have enough time on your own and if you dont want to participate in the activities its absolutely no problem. I personally loved the Foot Massage (probably the best I ever had) and the evening meditation with Emma on the upper deck that was pure magic. I can truly recommend this cruise trip to everyone! Especially cause its a modern eco-friendly boat , very intimate and a beautiful staff almost like hanging around with friends. Its a lot of money you pay BUT every penny was worth it! Thank you again for everything definitely one of my highlights of this trip✨❤️

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Utkarsh

Review Date: 31 Jul 2025

Review Body: My experience on The Bhaya Soul was nothing short of extraordinary, and I give it my absolute highest recommendation. From start to finish, every detail was handled with perfection. Our General Manager, Nam, delivered service unlike anything I’ve ever experienced—attentive, warm, and truly world-class. The excursions were incredible, especially the peaceful kayaking through the bay, which felt secluded and far from the tourist crowds. The boat itself is stunning—brand new, modern, and designed with the luxury feel of a private yacht. Dining onboard was like fine dining at sea, every meal beautifully crafted and presented. The onboard massages were blissful and the pickup and drop-off arrangements were seamless, making the whole journey effortless. I have traveled extensively, but I have never experienced better service in my life. If you want an unforgettable cruise through Ha Long Bay, The Bhaya Soul is in a class of its own.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Elena

Review Date: 31 Aug 2025

Review Body: We had such a great time on our Halong Bay trip with Bhaya Soul. The boat is brand new and takes a quieter, more exclusive route away from most of the other cruises. Things kicked off with a glass of bubbles, a warm welcome from the team, and a tasty 4-course lunch. The seafood was cooked perfectly, and the dessert was a nice surprise. Same goes for dinner! While cruising we tried the spa, kayaking, sleeping and walking meditation, squid fishing, and even joined a floating village activity. Everything felt relaxed and well thought out. The only thing we’d change is booking an extra night - just to have more time by the pool and to squeeze in another spa treatment. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, and we’d happily do it all again. Big thanks to Mr. Nam and Mr. Harry for taking such great care of us during the cruise.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Komal

Review Date: 31 Jul 2025

Review Body: It was a great experience by the crew. Especially Ms Chan has provided an excellent service and has provided with detailed and personalised experience to the whole family. Would recommend anybody to avail their services.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Nelly

Review Date: 31 Aug 2025

Review Body: We had the best crew! So friendly and caring, especially John Anh Vuong, our tour guide. Stunning landscapes - I understand now why it is an UNESCO protected area - and the food on board was so good.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Joseph

Review Date: 31 Jul 2025

Review Body: Wonderful, peaceful and beautiful experience. The scenery, accommodation and service were all first class. The whole family benefited and enjoyed it.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Alexandre

Review Date: 31 Jul 2025

Review Body: A magnificent boat, spacious and luxurious rooms, Vietnamese gourmet meals, dream anchorages and top-notch Service. What else!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Tim E

Review Date: 29 Mar 2026

Review Body: Great boat. Great team - especially Tom. Great food. It is expensive, but is worthy.

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Halong Bay cruise with kayak sunset drinks cooking and squid fishing

Itinerary Description: 08:00–08:50: Pick-up from your hotel lobby in Hanoi Old Quarter, if you book our limousine bus. Please note that the shared transfer may include 1–2 short roadside stops along the way for restroom breaks, coffee/snacks, or a quick stretch. These stops are usually at roadside shops, but there is no pressure or obligation to buy anything. 11:30: Arrive at our center, located within the Tuan Chau International Marina. 12:00: Board the cruise and inspect the cabin before heading to the Halong Restaurant for a safety briefing, as well as to meet the Cruise Manager and the crew while enjoying a fresh welcome drink. 12:30: Enjoy lunch as we cruise towards the southeast of Halong Bay. 15:00: Explore the tranquil Ba Ham Lake Area by kayak, gliding through emerald waters and uncovering hidden lakes. 16:30: Return to the cruise to freshen up and prepare for the afternoon activities. 17:00–18:30: Happy Hour begins and lasts for 90 minutes. Enjoy a selection of drinks while admiring the glorious sunset over enchanting Halong Bay—an experience that is both relaxing and truly captivating amidst the bay’s majestic scenery. 17:30: Join the Master Chef “Halong Bay Edition” competition on the sundeck (or in the restaurant, depending on the weather). Try your hand at preparing authentic Vietnamese dishes, discover the finesse of local cuisine, and stand a chance to win exciting prizes as the cruise gradually anchors for an overnight stay. 19:00: Savor the sumptuous dinner in the restaurant. 21:00: Join a vibrant rice wine tasting session at the restaurant or bar, and discover fascinating facts about Vietnam’s most popular rice wines, including local favorites from the Halong region. Traditionally enjoyed to support digestion, it’s also a gentle way to unwind before bedtime. Guests may also try squid fishing under the quiet night sky of the bay for a playful evening experience. 21:30: Enjoy the second Happy Hour promotion of the day on a selection of drinks until 22:30. Take this time to relax, unwind, and engage in great conversations with fellow passengers.

Itinerary Day 2

Itinerary Summary: Sunrise Tai Chi breakfast and cave or floating village kayak before disembarkation

Itinerary Description: 06:15: Rejuvenate the body and spirit with an awakening Tai Chi lesson as the sun rises over the acclaimed UNESCO Heritage Site. 06:30–09:30: Start the day with a hearty breakfast. 07:15: Passengers can choose either to: Visit Tien Ong Cave, renowned for its rich archaeological heritage and striking natural beauty, or Discover the Cua Van Floating Culture Center, a jewel of Ha Long Bay, by kayak or traditional rowing boat while immersing yourself in one of the world’s most captivating destinations, as hailed by Travel + Leisure Magazine. 08:15: Return to the boat and take a moment to prepare your luggage for check-out, while a leisurely breakfast continues to be served in the restaurant. 09:30: Get ready to check out and settle your bills at the reception area. 10:00: Disembark at Tuan Chau International Marina. Farewell.