Quang Ninh: Over 2,300 international tourists arrive on luxury cruise ships to kick off the new year in Ha Long Bay.

On the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year 2026 (Year of the Horse), Ha Long International Cruise Port welcomed two luxury cruise ships, marking the beginning of a series of exciting voyages in this heritage region.

On the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse), the atmosphere at Ha Long International Cruise Port ( Quang Ninh ) became more vibrant than ever. The lively sound of lion dance drums, combined with the vibrant colors of peach blossoms, created a culturally rich welcome for the first 2,300 international tourists arriving at the port in the new year.

On the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse 2026, Ha Long International Cruise Port was bustling with activity as it welcomed international visitors.

A brilliant start in a land of heritage.

The group of tourists, mostly from Europe and China, traveled on two luxury cruise ships. Upon arrival, they received a warm welcome from the leaders of Quang Ninh province and local departments. This event marked the beginning of a series of five consecutive international cruise ship visits to Ha Long Bay during this year's Tet holiday.

Immediately after the welcoming ceremony, the groups of visitors began their journey to explore the World Natural Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, participating in a city tour to experience the culture, cuisine, and unique lifestyle of the local people. Thanks to thorough preparation, immigration procedures and tour coordination went smoothly, ensuring absolute safety for tourists.

Mr. Bui Van Khang, Chairman of the Quang Ninh Provincial People's Committee, sent lucky money and New Year wishes to international tourists.

Deep impressions of the traditional Vietnamese Tet holiday.

For many tourists, arriving in Ha Long Bay on the first day of the Lunar New Year is an unforgettable experience. Tourist Ye Zhuo (China) shared: "I visited Ha Long Bay ten years ago and have always wanted to return. This time, the cruise trip coincided with the Lunar New Year, so I decided to bring my whole family along."

Meanwhile, Paul Overstreet, a tourist from the United States, was pleasantly surprised: "I am truly impressed with the warm welcome and traditional Tet rituals in Vietnam. This is a fantastic start to my journey exploring the heritage bay."

Ms. Paul Overstreet, a tourist from the United States, expressed her joy at visiting Quang Ninh for the first time during the Lunar New Year.

Towards becoming a high-end cruise tourism destination.

Mr. Bui Quang Tuan, Deputy Executive Director of Ha Long International Cruise Port, said that the unit is aiming for a professional reception model according to international standards. Besides upgrading infrastructure, the port is also focusing on incorporating folk art products into the reception process to promote local culture.

Mr. Nguyen Viet Dung, Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Quang Ninh province, welcomed visitors with laurel wreaths.

In 2026, Quang Ninh province has set an ambitious target of 22 million tourists, including 5.2 million international visitors. Specifically in the cruise ship segment, the province expects to welcome approximately 88 cruise ships carrying nearly 150,000 passengers from key markets such as the US, Germany, the UK, Canada, and China.

By 2026, Quang Ninh aims to welcome 22 million tourists, including 5.2 million international visitors.

The consecutive arrival of luxury cruise ships at the beginning of the new year affirms Quang Ninh's position on the regional maritime tourism map. This is an important driving force for the province to realize its goal of making tourism a key economic sector and developing sustainably in the 2026-2030 period.

Tourists are excited about Quang Ninh's welcome during the Lunar New Year.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/quang-ninh-hon-2300-khach-quoc-te-di-sieu-du-thuyen-xong-dat-vinh-ha-long-dau-nam-425115.html