Bhaya Cruises has joined SUN⁽ˣ⁾ Malta’s Climate Friendly Travel programme, strengthening its role as the leader in sustainable cruising in Halong Bay. Discover what this partnership means for eco-conscious travelers and the future of tourism in Vietnam.
Setting Sail Towards a Climate-Friendly Future
In recent years, travel has taken on new meaning. More than just ticking destinations off a bucket list, travelers today are looking for experiences that matter, to themselves and to the planet. The global movement toward responsible tourism is growing stronger, and in Vietnam, Bhaya Cruises is leading the way.
With its newly announced partnership with SUN⁽ˣ⁾ Malta’s Climate Friendly Travel (CFT) programme, Bhaya Cruises has reaffirmed its role as a pioneer in sustainable travel. This collaboration signals a future where luxury cruising in Halong Bay does not come at the cost of the environment but instead helps protect it for generations to come.
What Is the Climate Friendly Travel Programme?
The Climate Friendly Travel initiative, launched by SUN⁽ˣ⁾ Malta, is more than just a certification. It is a worldwide movement designed to align tourism businesses with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
At its core, the programme empowers tourism operators to measure, manage, and reduce their carbon footprint while remaining transparent and accountable through a global Climate Neutral Registry.
Key pillars of the CFT programme include:
- Net-Zero by 2050: A pathway for companies to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to climate-neutral operations.
- Education and Training: Through the CFT Diploma in partnership with the Institute for Tourism Studies in Malta, the initiative is building a new generation of 100,000 “Strong Climate Champions” by 2030.
- Community and Collaboration: By fostering summits, youth initiatives, and knowledge-sharing, the programme connects global stakeholders working toward a resilient tourism industry.
By joining this initiative, Bhaya Cruises not only strengthens its environmental commitments but also becomes part of a global network of change-makers in tourism.
Bhaya Cruises: A History of Sustainability in Halong Bay
Bhaya Cruises is not new to the concept of sustainability. For nearly two decades, the brand has been recognized as one of the most environmentally responsible operators in Halong Bay. Its sustainability journey reflects an understanding that Halong Bay’s fragile ecosystem, which is famous for its limestone karsts and emerald waters, is both the foundation of its business and a natural wonder to be safeguarded.
Some of Bhaya’s signature green initiatives include:
- Zero Single-Use Plastic Onboard
Bhaya was among the first cruise companies in Vietnam to implement a ban on single-use plastics. From paper straws to refillable glass bottles and water stations, every detail has been considered to reduce plastic pollution in Halong Bay. - Wastewater Treatment Systems
All Bhaya vessels are equipped with advanced treatment systems that ensure no untreated wastewater is discharged into the bay. This protects marine life and preserves the water quality that defines the destination. - “Clean the Bay” Campaigns
Since 2013, Bhaya has hosted annual cleanup drives that gather volunteers, NGOs, and staff to collect plastic waste from Halong Bay’s waters and shorelines. These efforts not only remove tons of trash but also raise awareness among local communities and visitors. - Cat Ba Langur Conservation
Through partnerships with conservation organizations, Bhaya contributes to protecting the critically endangered Cat Ba Langur, a species found only in the Cat Ba region. Awareness campaigns onboard educate guests about biodiversity preservation. - Energy-Saving Initiatives
With the “Switch It Off” campaign, Bhaya encourages staff and guests to reduce unnecessary energy consumption, lowering emissions while fostering mindfulness about resource use.
These efforts have earned Bhaya recognition both locally and internationally, but the partnership with the Climate Friendly Travel programme represents an important new chapter: one that focuses not only on local practices but also on global accountability.
Why This Partnership Matters
The collaboration between Bhaya Cruises and the CFT programme is more than symbolic. It has tangible benefits for the company, the environment, and travelers.
Global Standards, Local Impact
Joining the Climate Friendly Travel Registry means Bhaya’s sustainability commitments are measured against international benchmarks. This adds credibility and ensures Halong Bay’s protection is part of a larger, scientifically grounded effort.
Transparency for Travelers
Today’s travelers want to know where their money goes. Through CFT, Bhaya’s climate strategies, targets, and progress are made public, giving eco-conscious guests the confidence that their choices are aligned with their values.
A Greener Cruise Experience
From waste reduction to lower emissions, Bhaya’s alignment with CFT translates into a cruise experience that is both luxurious and eco-friendly. Guests can enjoy the beauty of Halong Bay while knowing their footprint is minimized.
Inspiration for the Industry
As one of the first cruise operators in Vietnam to join CFT, Bhaya sets an example for other tourism businesses in the region. Its leadership could spark wider change across the industry, encouraging more operators to prioritize climate action.
The Traveler’s Perspective: Why Choose Bhaya?
For travelers, sustainability is no longer a niche preference; it is becoming an expectation. Choosing Bhaya Cruises means choosing a journey that reflects care for the environment without compromising on comfort or authenticity.
Guests onboard can expect:
- Multi-course dining crafted from local, seasonal ingredients – supporting nearby farmers and reducing food miles.
- Opportunities to learn about conservation projects, from protecting the Cat Ba Langur to joining hands-on activities like waste cleanups.
- Assurance that their voyage is backed by a verified commitment to net-zero by 2050.
This makes Bhaya not just a cruise, but a meaningful contribution to preserving Halong Bay.
Looking Ahead: Bhaya’s Green Horizon
The partnership with Climate Friendly Travel marks only the beginning. As Bhaya Cruises continues its journey, future projects may include renewable energy adoption, carbon offset programs, and deeper collaborations with conservation groups.
By combining luxury, culture, and environmental stewardship, Bhaya is proving that cruising can be both indulgent and responsible. For Halong Bay, this means a brighter, cleaner future, one where the timeless beauty of its limestone cliffs and emerald waters endures for decades to come.
Conclusion: Setting Sail with Purpose
Bhaya Cruises’ alliance with the Climate Friendly Travel programme is more than a partnership, it is a promise. A promise to guests that their experiences are climate-conscious, a promise to the community that tourism can bring positive change, and a promise to the planet that Halong Bay will remain a wonder to be cherished.
For eco-conscious travelers, this means every journey with Bhaya is not just about seeing Halong Bay, it’s about being part of a movement to protect it.
Ready to explore Halong Bay with purpose? Discover Bhaya Cruises’ sustainable journeys and join the movement toward climate-friendly travel.
