Leading boutique cruise operator Ambassador Cruise has launched a remarkable dining experience under the starlit skies of UNESCO World Heritage listed bays Halong and Lan Ha.
The new ‘Dining Under the Stars’ concept on Ambassador Cruise’s overnight cruises features two menus, crafted by executive chef Nguyen Gia Thien, accompanied by live entertainment on the luxurious vessels’ elegant 360-degree sundecks.
Softly-lit, white tablecloth service and an incredible backdrop of myriad limestone karsts silhouetted against the night sky evoke a romantic atmosphere. Guests choose between international and Vietnamese dinner menus; both underpinned by fresh, premium ingredients.
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As part of the five-course “Heritage By Night” menu, guests select two main courses from five gourmet options including roasted sea bass fillet with chorizo butter and zucchini emulsion, pan-seared beef medallion served with crispy potato and meat jus, and caramelized duck breast flambé with gnocchi and orange jus.
An opportunity to sample authentic traditional Vietnamese cuisine, the ‘Four Seasons’ menu includes the likes of deep-fried Halong squid cake with young sticky rice, marinated beef and pomelo salad, and stir-fried scallop with organic mushroom.
The Dining Under the Stars experience’s cherry on top is Ambassador’s international live band performing a medley of classic hits in English, Vietnamese, Korean, Indian and Filipino every day of the week except for Monday.
“Our ‘Dining Under the Stars’ concept builds upon the magic of Halong and Lan Ha bays by creating a one-of-a-kind sensory experience under a canopy of stars,” said Nguyen Cao Son, chairman of Asia Premier Cruises (APC) Corporation that owns and operates Ambassador Cruise. “Ambassador Cruise is a pioneer, bringing compelling new experiences to Halong Bay that encourage travellers to return again and again.”
Chef Thien’s menus have been influenced by his recent travels to France, where he trained extensively. “My training in France was transformative in that I could honor my cultural heritage and embrace international gastronomic excellence,” he said.
“Dining Under the Stars” is available for booking on all overnight Ambassador Cruise journeys in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. It will also be available on dinner cruises during summer months for an additional charge.
Since launching its first vessel in 2021, Ambassador Cruise has made a name for itself as the leading luxury cruise operator on Halong Bay. Its vessels include Ambassador I, Ambassador II, Ambassador Signature and Lavoya Boutique Day Cruise. Guests choose from a variety of journeys including overnight cruises of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, day cruises, and dinner cruises.