Vietnam, strategically located on a busy maritime trade route, is making strides toward becoming a top regional cruise tourism destination. With direct connections to major markets such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, the country is poised to experience significant growth in this high-end tourism sector. The government is focused on leveraging the country’s natural beauty, coastal infrastructure, and growing international tourism demand to attract luxury cruise ships.
Vietnam’s 3,260-kilometer coastline, more than 4,000 islands, and deep-water ports make it an ideal destination for cruise tourism. With a variety of stunning bays, pristine beaches, and well-equipped port systems for large ships, the country offers a promising outlook for cruise tourism development.
Significant Growth in Cruise Tourism
Recent statistics from the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT) show promising figures for early 2025. In January alone, nearly 2.1 million international visitors arrived in Vietnam, with 45,000 arriving by sea. Coastal cities like Da Nang, Ha Long (Quang Ninh), Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), and Ho Chi Minh City are already receiving a steady stream of luxury cruise ships.
For instance, the Celebrity Solstice recently docked in Ho Chi Minh City, bringing over 3,000 European and American tourists. Similarly, in February, three five-star cruise ships brought around 3,300 international visitors to Phu Quoc island city in Kien Giang province. The city has seen a sharp rise in cruise ship traffic, with over 35 ships and 42,500 passengers arriving in 2024—an impressive 2.3-fold increase compared to 2023.
Da Nang’s Tien Sa Port, a crucial hub for the region, is expected to welcome 76 ships and 70,000 passengers in 2025, marking a 64% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, Khanh Hoa province’s Cam Ranh International Port received the Norwegian Spirit last month, bringing 1,900 tourists from across the globe. Over the first two months of 2025, Khanh Hoa has welcomed seven international cruise ships, totaling over 12,500 tourists.
In the north, Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province anticipates welcoming 60 cruise ships and 90,000 tourists in 2025, showcasing the country’s growing appeal to global travelers. The peak cruise season, from January to April, is expected to see even more bustling activity.
Challenges to Overcome
While Vietnam’s cruise tourism is on the rise, challenges remain that could hinder its potential to become a major regional hub. Dr. Pham Ha, CEO and Founder of Lux Group, highlighted several issues affecting the sector. Despite having nearly 30 coastal provinces and cities with great cruise tourism potential, only a few are actively engaging the market. One of the most pressing concerns is the lack of dedicated ports for cruise ships.
Many ports in Vietnam still prioritize cargo shipping, leaving passenger ships with limited docking space. This issue not only affects the logistics of cruise tourism but also hampers tourists’ experience. In some cases, passengers must walk long distances to reach sightseeing transport or excursion points. As a result, tourists may feel their time in port is less enjoyable, impacting their overall experience and spending.
Moreover, Vietnam currently lacks an integrated onshore tourism infrastructure. While tourists may enjoy their time aboard the cruise, the lack of diverse onshore activities, entertainment, and cultural experiences means that many visitors return to their ships early, without fully exploring the destination. This limits the opportunity for tourists to spend more and enjoy longer stays.
Solutions for Growth
To unlock the full potential of cruise tourism, Dr. Ha stresses the need for a comprehensive strategy. He suggests the development of specialized ports to cater to cruise ships and recommends modernizing infrastructure, including entertainment zones, shopping centers, and cultural venues that can meet tourists’ diverse needs.
Additionally, the simplification of visa policies could play a significant role in encouraging longer stays. Dr. Ha proposes the introduction of collective visas for entire ships or even visa exemptions for cruise tourists, similar to policies in other countries. This approach would likely encourage tourists to extend their stays onshore, leading to increased tourism revenue.
Vietnam must also focus on offering unique cultural and tourism products that differentiate it from other regional destinations. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Vietnam has the potential to create unique experiences that attract high-spending, long-term tourists.
Vietnam’s Cruise Tourism Future
With its growing international appeal, strategic location, and rich cultural heritage, Vietnam has the potential to become a major player in the regional cruise tourism market. However, to achieve this, the country must continue to invest in infrastructure, services, and policies that create an inviting and seamless experience for international cruise passengers. With the right support, Vietnam’s cruise tourism sector could flourish, bringing significant economic benefits to coastal regions and positioning the country as a premier destination for luxury cruise tourism in Asia.
For further updates on Vietnam’s tourism growth, visit Coleman News.
