Malaysia to Launch First Fully Muslim-Friendly Cruise
The new cruise designed specifically for Muslim travelers is set to make history when it departs from Port Klang, Malaysia, on November 29, 2025.
The ship is being billed as the world’s first fully Muslim-friendly cruise – offering 100% halal-certified food, alcohol-free beverages, dedicated prayer rooms, and onboard guidance for prayer times. Even afternoon tea will be served halal.
Operating under a partnership between Astro Ocean Cruise and Hwajing Travel & Tours, the ship supports Malaysia’s ambition to become a global leader in Muslim-friendly tourism.
The 1,760-passenger vessel will sail a series of short itineraries, including a three-day, two-night route between Penang and Port Klang, and a four-day, three-night voyage covering Penang and Langkawi.
Speaking to Metro, Hassan Bulbul, a Leicester-based travel content creator and winner of Halal Travel Influencer of the Year, said he welcomed the initiative.
“This is amazing – I’m really excited for it because the one thing I’ve not been able to do yet is go on a cruise.
“The biggest thing stopping me is that the majority of cruises unfortunately don’t have Muslim-friendly facilities.”
Bulbul, who regularly documents the challenges of travelling as a Muslim, said access to halal-certified food remains the biggest obstacle when planning holidays.
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“As Muslims, we need to have our food halal certified, so there’s a lot we can’t eat or that need to be made in a certain way.”
He recalled struggling to find suitable food during visits to Venice and Barcelona, and said it can also be difficult to locate nearby mosques or prayer spaces in some European cities.
“We don’t expect every country to change everything in accordance with us, it just makes things easier and it feels a bit more welcoming.”
Onboard Piano Land, guests can expect menus showcasing halal international cuisine, including Hong Kong-style roasted duck and an array of mocktails served across the ship’s restaurants and lounges.
In addition to its religious facilities, the cruise will feature children’s clubs, family entertainment, spa treatments, and wellness workshops promoting mindful living.
Bulbul said the launch is an important milestone for inclusivity in travel.
“This is a huge step forward for the halal travel industry,
“Catering for Muslim guests doesn’t affect non-Muslims it just opens cruising up to more people. Hopefully the success of this ship will inspire other lines to do the same.”
Source: cruisemummy.co.uk
