Quang Ninh Province to Enhance Cruise Tourism

Northern Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province is poised to boost its cruise tourism sector after its excellent performance in 2024.

The province, which is home to UNESCO-recognised natural heritage Ha Long Bay, welcomed 19 million tourists, including 3.8 million foreigners, in the past year, with cruise travelers making a significant contribution.

Quang Ninh has been tirelessly promoting its integrated infrastructure, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage to attract cruise liners, capitalizing on its proximity to China, Japan, and South Korea. Approximately 60 international cruise ships brought over 100,000 visitors to Ha Long last year, with renowned brands like Viking Orion and Royal Caribbean making stops.

The province hopes to welcome 20 million tourists in 2025, including 4.5 million international visitors.

Game-changing initiatives

Among the initiatives implemented by Quang Ninh authorities are enhanced cruise itineraries, such as routes from China’s Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Beihai to Ha Long. The Blue Dream Melody cruise ship, for instance, brought 400 Chinese tourists to Ha Long in late 2024, signaling a growing demand.

Moving forward, the province’s tourism sector will continue to upgrade infrastructure, develop high-end tourism products, and ensure top-quality services. Special emphasis will be placed on training staff, improving safety standards, and collaborating with travel agencies to create customized experiences for cruise passengers.

Ha Long City also plans to integrate cultural themes, such as the City of Flowers and City of Festivals, to further enhance its appeal. The province intends to form partnerships with reputable tour operators and host media and travel agencies to showcase its offerings.

With these robust strategies, Quang Ninh is positioning itself as a leading cruise destination in Vietnam and the region.