Bhaya Soul Cruise Retreat 2 Days and 1 Night on Halong Bay

Travelers dreaming of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonder will find the Bhaya Soul Cruise Retreat offers a serene, authentic way to experience Halong Bay. This 2-day, 1-night cruise combines comfort, culture, and wellness, making it an appealing choice for those wanting more than just sightseeing.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the luxurious and well-designed boat ensures comfort and style. Second, the unique itinerary takes you to less crowded, peaceful spots like Ho Ba Ham and Tien Ong Cave, away from the typical tourist hustle. Lastly, the wellness activities, like herbal therapy and meditation, add a calming dimension that’s perfect for relaxation.

However, there’s a slight consideration: the price point of $398 per person may seem steep for some, especially since beverages and personal expenses aren’t included. Still, for the quality of services, scenery, and the opportunity to disconnect, many will find it a worthwhile investment.

This tour suits travelers who value comfort, authentic cultural encounters, and wellness. Ideal for couples, wellness seekers, or anyone looking for a more refined, peaceful experience of Halong Bay rather than a loud, boisterous cruise.

Key Points

• Luxurious vessel with thoughtful design and amenities
• Peaceful, lesser-visited spots like Ho Ba Ham and Cua Van Floating Village
• Wellness-focused activities including herbal therapy, meditation, and gourmet canapés
• All-inclusive meals with options for dietary preferences and allergies
• Group size limited to 30, ensuring a cozy experience
• Price reflects value through premium services, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins at Tuan Chau Port

Your adventure starts at Tuan Chau Island, a central hub for most Halong Bay cruises. The pickup service is straightforward, and upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed aboard the Bhaya Soul, a vessel that’s been praised for its beautiful design and comfort. The staff is friendly, providing a safety briefing and crew introductions, which sets a welcoming tone for the journey.

Traveling about one and a half hours to the bay, the boat offers stunning views of the surrounding water and limestone karsts, building anticipation for what’s to come. The inclusion of a welcome drink helps set a relaxed vibe right from the start.

Exploring Ba Hạ Lake by Kayak

One of the cruise’s highlights is the visit to Ba Hạ Lake, a tranquil spot away from the more crowded parts of Halong Bay. Here, you can try kayaking—an activity that many guests found to be a peaceful, almost meditative way to explore. The option to kayak between 14:30-15:30 or 15:45-16:45 allows flexibility, especially for those who want to pace themselves or combine it with other activities.

The reviews back this up: guests appreciated the calm, hidden lakes, and found it a perfect way to connect with nature. One reviewer highlighted the stunning scenery and the peaceful atmosphere, noting that it felt like a secret escape.

Visiting Tien Ong Cave at Sunset

In the late afternoon, the cruise anchors near Tien Ong Cave, a site praised not just for its natural beauty but also for its archaeological significance. The scheduled meditative walk inside the cave offers a rare chance to experience mindfulness amid ancient natural formations.

Guests often rave about the calm ambiance of this spot, and those who enjoyed it mention the gourmet canapés and drinks available on the deck as the sun sets, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Wellness Activities and Gourmet Dining

Included in the experience is a complimentary 40-minute herbal foot ritual and wellness treatment, which many guests have described as a luxurious and restorative addition. The cruise also offers gourmet meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—prepared with attention to quality and presentation.

Guests often note the delicious food, with some mentioning the tapas-style canapés during happy hour, which pairs beautifully with the scenic views. Dietary requests are welcomed with at least a week’s notice, a thoughtful touch for those with specific needs.

The Second Day: Mornings and Cua Van

On the second morning, the cruise begins with a meditative walk in Tien Ong Cave, a peaceful start that many reviews describe as a highlight. The cave’s natural and archaeological wonder makes it a fascinating visit, especially for history and nature buffs.

Later, the Cua Van Floating Village provides an authentic glimpse into traditional life on the bay. Guests can explore the floating houses via kayak or traditional rowing boat, getting close to the local community. Many guests say this is the “jewel” of the trip and worth the time for its stunning scenery and cultural insight.

The Facilities and Extras

The vessel offers free access to lounges, a four-season swimming pool, and other amenities, making the stay both relaxing and comfortable. The small group size (max 30) ensures personalized service, which reviewers have appreciated.

Guests frequently mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides, such as My Duke, Mr. Tony, Miss Emma, and Mr. Harry, whose helpfulness and local insights elevated the trip. The guides’ attentiveness adds an extra layer of value to the experience.

Practical Details: What to Expect

• Transportation: Pick-up from Tuan Chau Island is included; there’s no mention of Hanoi transfers, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling from Hanoi.
• Duration: The cruise lasts roughly 2 days, with most activities scheduled mid-morning to late afternoon, allowing time to relax or enjoy additional excursions.
• Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere.
• Price: At $398 per person, the experience offers a premium package with all meals, activities, and wellness treatments included—arguably offering good value given the quality of amenities and scenery.
• Flexibility: The itinerary may shift due to weather or tides; kayaking or swimming could be canceled if conditions aren’t safe, so flexibility is key.

Additional Considerations

• Beverages outside of the provided drinks are not included, so budgeting for personal expenses is wise.
• You’ll need to provide passport or ID details before departure.
• The tour is non-refundable—think carefully before booking, especially during uncertain weather periods.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise is perfect for wellness seekers who want to combine natural beauty with relaxation. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate authentic cultural experiences and a quieter, more refined environment. Couples looking for a romantic escape, or anyone craving comfort amidst nature, will find this trip a memorable choice.

On the flip side, if you prefer a more energetic or budget-friendly experience, or are traveling solo on a tight schedule, you might want to explore other options. But if tranquility, quality, and meaningful experiences are your priority, this cruise ticks those boxes.

The Sum Up

The Bhaya Soul Cruise Retreat offers a sophisticated, calming way to experience Halong Bay, blending scenic beauty, cultural richness, and wellness. Its well-designed boat, intimate group size, and thoughtfully curated itinerary make it stand out among the many options available.

You’ll love its peaceful stops like Ba Hạ Lake and Cua Van, the delicious inclusive meals, and the relaxing wellness activities that leave you feeling restored. The experience’s emphasis on comfort and authentic encounters ensures that you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll have meaningful memories and a sense of inner peace.

For those seeking a refined, tranquil escape that values quality over quantity, this cruise provides a well-rounded, memorable adventure that’s worth every penny.

FAQ

Is transportation from Hanoi included?
No, the tour includes pick-up from Tuan Chau Island, but transportation from Hanoi is not specified. You may need to arrange separate transfer.

What is the maximum group size?
The cruise hosts up to 30 travelers, creating an intimate and personalized environment.

Are meals and drinks included?
All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, along with gourmet canapés. Beverages outside of the provided drinks are not included.

Can I customize dietary preferences?
Yes, you should advise at least one week before departure about any food allergies or special dietary needs.

What activities are available during the cruise?
Guests can enjoy kayaking, wellness treatments, walking meditation, and exploring caves and floating villages.

Is this cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most activities involve walking or kayaking, so it may not be ideal for travelers with mobility challenges. Check with the provider for specific concerns.

In summary, the Bhaya Soul Cruise Retreat is a fantastic choice for those looking for a peaceful, luxurious way to explore Halong Bay. It combines scenic stops, culture, and wellness in an intimate setting, making it a memorable part of any Vietnam trip.