Vietnam strives to attract more foreign visitors by sea

According to Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ho Anh Tuan, about 3-5 percent of international tourists visit Vietnam by sea each year.

Asia is now considered an attractive destination for big tourism ships with many modern seaports, Tuan said, adding that an estimated 3.7 million foreigners will choose cruise ships to go to Asian countries by 2017.

Vietnam defines its maritime economy, including maritime tourism, as one of its key development orientations in the time ahead. This is clearly reflected in the tourism development strategy by 2020 with a vision to 2030, approved by Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.

Accordingly, the country will focus on increasing the quality of maritime tourism products, improving the capacity of hospitality staff serving tourists by sea and simplifying customs and administrative procedures they face, the deputy minister added.

During the conference, participants proposed encouraging investment in modern shopping centres and entertainment services near beaches and seaports to lengthen visitors’ stay and increase their expenditure.

They also suggested relevant agencies coordinate with the Asia Cruise Association to attract more international tourists using cruise ships to Vietnam.