Can I request a special menu dragon boat dinner cruise (e.g. no seafood, halal)?

Yeah, you absolutely can request a special menu on a Hue dragon boat dinner cruise — especially if you’re going with one of the more reputable operators in Huế or wherever you’re booking from. Just don’t leave it to the last minute. These cruises usually offer set menus, but they’re used to handling dietary needs — no seafood, vegetarian, halal, gluten-free, the whole range.

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What works best: tell them clearly at least 24–48 hours in advance. If you’re booking through a travel agent or hotel, make sure they pass the info on — and follow up yourself just to be sure. Vietnamese hospitality is super accommodating, but details can get lost if it’s a busy weekend or if you’re dealing with a third party.

Some boats, like the ones run by Toa Kham Boat or Huong Giang Cruise, often serve set meals with stuff like steamed fish, shrimp, and squid — so if seafood’s off the table for you, they need to know early enough to swap in other dishes. Halal’s trickier, but not impossible. Many places don’t have official halal certification, but they can offer pork-free meals with chicken, beef, and lots of vegetarian stuff. Just be clear if it’s religious/halal strict or just preference.

Real example: I was on a Perfume River dinner cruise last September. Booked through a local tour guide named Phúc. My friend’s vegetarian, and I don’t do shellfish. We messaged two days ahead, and they customized our meal — swapped shrimp for tofu dishes and fish cakes with grilled chicken. Nothing fancy, but it was solid and we didn’t have to pick through our plates. No extra charge either.

Oh — and if you’re vegan or have strict requirements like halal, ask what oil they use (some places use animal fat in broths or sauces without realizing it’s an issue)