When it comes to exploring the wonders of Northern Vietnam, cruising through Lan Ha Bay is a magical way to do it. But for travelers with dietary requirements like mine, finding the right cruise can feel daunting. Thankfully, I found Mon Cheri Cruise, the first in Halong Bay to offer a certified halal menu, complete with diverse Vietnamese flavors and luxury experiences. Here’s how my halal-friendly getaway became one of the most memorable highlights of my trip to Vietnam.

Why did I choose Mon Cheri?

As someone who eats halal, I approached cruise planning cautiously. Many cruises I came across mentioned they could “adjust meals” for halal guests, but that kind of improvisation didn’t feel reassuring. I wanted a cruise that respected my dietary needs from the start.

That’s when a friend recommended Mon Cheri, highlighting their certified halal kitchen and seamless experience. With that peace of mind, I booked a 3-day, 2-night package through besthalongcruises.com for only $297 per person and provided my dietary preferences in advance, ready to experience the bay without compromise.

Halal Dining Done Right: The Meals That Made My Cruise

The food on Mon Cheri Cruise was nothing short of impressive. Their halal options were thoughtfully curated, available as both set menus (for lunch and dinner) and buffet spreads (for breakfast and arrival day lunch).

The buffet included over 20 dishes, from fresh fruits and salads to seafood, chicken, nuts, and Vietnamese staples, all clearly labeled with ingredients. For a halal eater, this transparency was a huge relief. Staff were also ready to assist if I had any questions.

My personal favorite? The famous Ha Long-style hand-pounded squid cake. Slightly crispy, bouncy in texture, and bursting with subtle seasoning, it was simple but unforgettable.

The set menus, however, were the true stars. These multi-course Vietnamese meals showcased regional ingredients like lotus seeds, passion fruit, and herbs in creative, authentic ways. One highlight was the grilled lobster with pineapple sauce and emerald rice, a unique combination of sweet, smoky, and savory. Another memorable dish was the Northwest-style grilled chicken, richly marinated with spices I had never tasted before.

Each meal was not only halal-certified but elegantly presented and deeply flavorful, proving that dietary accommodation doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. What’s more, the consultants from Best Halong Cruises regularly checked in after each meal to hear my feedback, which I truly appreciated.

If you’re a halal foodie like me, book the Mon Cheri Cruise with Best Halong Cruises!

Luxurious Cabins with a View

Beyond the dining, Mon Cheri also delivered in comfort. My cabin was spacious and well-appointed, with a private balcony overlooking the bay and a bathtub perfect for post-excursion relaxation.

The décor struck a perfect balance between modern elegance and Vietnamese charm. And if you’re looking to unwind beyond your room, the ship itself has plenty to offer, including a rooftop swimming pool, spa services, and a cocktail bar for evening relaxation. Every corner of the ship felt curated for comfort.

A Cruise Route Less Traveled

What made Mon Cheri even more appealing was its itinerary, cruising through Lan Ha Bay, a quieter alternative to the often-crowded Halong Bay. This allowed for more peaceful scenery, better photo opportunities, and a deeper connection with nature.

Here’s what my 3D2N journey looked like:

• Day 1: After check-in and a delicious welcome lunch, we sailed toward Tra Bau, where we kayaked through the Dark and Bright Cave or opted for a local bamboo boat experience. Later, some guests took a dip in the bay as the sun dipped below the karsts.
• Day 2: The day began with biking through Cat Ba National Park, reaching Viet Hai Village, where time seemed to slow down. We later visited Monkey Island for a panoramic viewpoint and a refreshing swim. The final stop was a floating fishing village, where we saw how locals raise fish, including some impressively large ones!
• Day 3: Our last morning included a guided tour of Trung Trang Cave, where we learned about the cave’s wartime history. Then, back to the cruise for brunch and one final scenic sail back to port.

Between excursions, onboard activities like Tai Chi at sunrise, cooking demos, squid fishing, and Happy Hour made the trip fly by. I had worried about feeling bored on a boat, but instead, I found myself wishing I had booked an extra night.

Service That Truly Cares

One of the most remarkable parts of this cruise was the genuinely kind and attentive staff. They knew my dietary needs before I even stepped aboard, and consistently ensured I felt informed, included, and comfortable.

Service was both professional and warm, from the restaurant team remembering my preferences to the tour guides enthusiastically sharing stories about each destination. There was never a moment I felt like “just another guest.” Every interaction felt personal.

It’s rare to find this level of service paired with luxury, and Mon Cheri managed to do both effortlessly.

Final Verdict: Is Mon Cheri Cruise Worth It for Halal Travelers?

Without a doubt, yes. Mon Cheri Cruise didn’t just meet my expectations; it exceeded them. From the certified halal menu and authentic Vietnamese cuisine, to the beautifully designed cabins, peaceful Lan Ha Bay route, and heartfelt service, everything was thoughtfully designed with guest experience in mind.

Whether you’re a halal traveler or simply someone looking for a luxurious, crowd-free alternative to Halong Bay, Mon Cheri offers the perfect blend of culture, comfort, and cuisine. For me, it wasn’t just a cruise but a deeply satisfying travel memory I’ll always cherish.

A big thank you to besthalongcruises.com for making my trip planning so much easier and less overwhelming. Even if you don’t follow a halal diet, you’ll find a wide variety of Halong Bay cruises to suit your preferences. Find your cruise here!