Attractive coastal and island tourism

Coastal and island tourism has always been a strength of Quang Ninh's tourism industry. Although the peak summer tourist season has only just begun, the number of visitors to the province's coastal and island routes has already increased significantly. Besides the traditional domestic tourism market, coastal and island routes have seen a surge in international tourists.

International visitors experience the "Heritage Journey".

When visiting Quang Ninh, international tourists particularly love and consider Ha Long Bay a must-experience destination. In the first four months of the year, Ha Long Bay welcomed over 1.1 million tourists, including approximately 900,000 international visitors. Around 500 high-quality vessels operate in Ha Long Bay, many of which are newly built steel-hulled ships, yachts, superyachts, and restaurant ships, offering diverse and upscale options for tourists. Cruise lines are focusing on increasing staff, improving service quality, and innovating experiences on the bay, combining culinary delights and artistic performances. Jade Karam, Manager of Grand Pioneers Cruises, stated: "International tourists, especially luxury travelers, are particularly interested in the quality of service and unique local cultural experiences. Recognizing this demand, our company strives to exploit the unique maritime cultural values ​​of Quang Ninh, along with the traditional culture of Vietnam, conveying them through characteristic dishes and workshops." The unit also organizes artistic performances with fireworks and many surprise gifts to create more excitement and novelty for visitors.

Van Don district also recorded a high increase in international tourists. During the April 30th - May 1st holiday period alone, approximately 2,000 international tourists visited Van Don. Ms. Ly Thanh Nguyen, Head of the Culture, Science and Information Department of Van Don district, stated: "The tourism infrastructure system has been continuously upgraded, especially the connecting transportation routes such as the Van Don - Mong Cai expressway, Van Don International Airport, and Ao Tien International Port… creating optimal conditions for the travel of tourists, especially foreign tourists. In addition, the communication efforts have been implemented synchronously, focusing on social media platforms and official provincial and district information websites… contributing to a strong effect and attracting attention from the tourism community both domestically and internationally."

The South Korean tour group enjoyed their choice of scuba diving services in Co To island district.

In Co To district, the peak of the summer tourist season has already welcomed a large number of international tourists. It is estimated that from the beginning of the year until now, the district has received approximately 1,200 visitors. Tourists prioritize participating in and experiencing life as fishermen with local people in "a day as a fisherman" tours. In addition, many cultural and artistic activities organized by localities in the district have attracted tens of thousands of participants, creating an unprecedentedly vibrant and impressive festive atmosphere. In 2025, tourist routes such as Co To Con Island and Thanh Lan Island will resume operation, opening up more opportunities for tourists to explore pristine islands and seas. Many tourism services such as snorkeling, fishing village tours, kayaking, and ecotourism are being effectively developed, enriching itineraries and enhancing tourist experiences.

At Ao Tien International Port alone, the number of international tourists traveling to Van Don and Co To islands has increased 4-5 times since the beginning of the year compared to the same period in 2024. According to Mr. Le Minh Manh, Port Manager of Ao Tien International Port, the high increase in international tourists is due to convenient transportation infrastructure and upgraded accommodation facilities. Ship owners have also proactively applied technology, making it easier for tourists to book tickets, thereby facilitating travel to the islands for foreign visitors. We have recruited and trained port staff with strong foreign language skills to handle procedures for tourists. At the same time, we have improved the quality of service at the port, helping domestic and international tourists have the most complete and convenient experience.

To further maximize the potential of coastal and island tourism and attract more tourists, especially foreign visitors, the province has developed plans to invest in and upgrade infrastructure at ports, mooring areas, and piers; and improve technical and safety conditions at ports. Along with this, top priority is given to developing safe coastal and island tourism products that protect the ecological environment and landscape. Simultaneously, the province is promoting linkages in coastal and island tourism development between tourism businesses and the fisheries, aquaculture, offshore fishing, maritime transport, and maritime services sectors.

Localities such as Van Don and Co To are also aiming to develop marine and island tourism in depth, exploiting services for relaxation, entertainment, exploration, and water sports on the surface, underwater, and on remote islands; exploiting the potential and advantages from the sea... while simultaneously honoring marine and island culture, maximizing the participation of local communities in marine and island tourism activities, creating livelihoods and income for the people. In addition, they are developing suitable human resources, training local personnel with knowledge, skills, foreign language proficiency, computer literacy, and cultural understanding... to serve local tourism activities.

Hoang Quynh

Source: https://baoquangninh.vn/hap-dan-du-lich-bien-dao-3358617.html