Vietnam Sets Sail Toward Becoming Asia’s Next Cruise Tourism Hotspot
(VietnamPlus) Nestled along one of the world’s busiest maritime routes and flanked by the cruise powerhouses of China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, Vietnam is poised for a breakthrough in high-end cruise tourism. Its pristine coastline and bustling port cities are increasingly drawing the attention of luxury cruise lines and affluent travelers seeking a new frontier of discovery.
A Wave of International Arrivals
In early 2025, Vietnam welcomed nearly 2.1 million international visitors, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT). Of these, close to 45,000 arrived by sea—a figure that signals a promising tide of opportunity for the cruise industry.
The country’s major coastal cities are already feeling the momentum. Ha Long Bay’s dreamlike limestone karsts, Da Nang’s sun-kissed beaches, Nha Trang’s vibrant resort vibe, and the dynamic urban sprawl of Ho Chi Minh City have seen a steady stream of majestic ships gracing their harbors.
In recent months, Celebrity Solstice brought over 3,000 European and American travelers to explore the colorful Mekong Delta and the energy of Ho Chi Minh City. Phu Quoc Island, the “pearl island” of southern Vietnam, welcomed nearly 3,300 international visitors in just one week via three five-star cruise liners. Meanwhile, Adora Cruise docked at Da Nang’s Tien Sa Port, disembarking 2,400 visitors from Guangzhou.
Da Nang’s cruise tourism sector has surged dramatically, hosting 35 ships and 42,500 passengers in 2024—more than double the previous year. Projections for 2025 anticipate 76 ships and over 70,000 passengers, marking a staggering 64% year-on-year increase.
Not to be outdone, the stunning coastline of Khanh Hoa saw Norwegian Spirit pull into Cam Ranh Port with 1,900 international passengers. Seven cruise ships have already docked in Khanh Hoa in the first two months of the year, bringing over 12,500 visitors. Further north, Ha Long Bay expects to receive 60 cruise ships and some 90,000 visitors by year’s end.
Riding the Momentum
With the January-to-April window being peak cruise season, industry insiders expect this upward trend to continue. For Vietnam, cruise tourism offers more than just volume—it introduces a new profile of high-spending travelers eager to immerse themselves in authentic local culture, cuisine, and shopping experiences.
Navigating the Challenges
Despite these exciting developments, Vietnam’s potential as a world-class cruise destination is hampered by limitations in infrastructure, port services, and immigration policies.
“Vietnam has nearly 30 coastal provinces and cities with huge potential for cruise tourism, yet only a handful are tapping into it,” said Dr. Pham Ha, CEO and Founder of Lux Group, one of Vietnam’s pioneering luxury travel companies.
Current port facilities are often geared toward cargo operations rather than passenger comfort. In many cases, cruise passengers must endure long walks or shuttle transfers to reach sightseeing transport. Worse still, some cruise ships must anchor offshore to make way for freighters, dampening the overall guest experience.
Dr. Ha noted that after days at sea, travelers expect seamless access to vibrant onshore entertainment, shopping, and cultural immersion. Unfortunately, Vietnam still lacks the comprehensive onshore product development that compels cruise guests to linger longer or spend more. Most visitors currently join brief day tours before heading back to their ships.
A Blueprint for Success
To fully unlock its cruise potential, Dr. Ha recommends that Vietnam focus on building dedicated cruise terminals with modern infrastructure, entertainment districts, and shopping precincts designed to satisfy today’s discerning global traveler.
“Cruise tourism brings large groups of visitors who typically stay longer and spend more,” he said. “Vietnam needs to differentiate itself with unique cultural products and experiences that stand out from competing ports on the same itinerary.”
In addition, he advocates for streamlining immigration procedures. Issuing group visas for entire cruise ships, or offering short-term visa exemptions—similar to policies in other countries—would encourage tourists to extend their land-based explorations and enhance overall spending.
As the industry rides this wave of optimism, Vietnam stands at the threshold of becoming Asia’s next must-visit cruise destination. With strategic investments and thoughtful planning, the country’s enchanting coastline may soon be the setting for unforgettable voyages that seamlessly blend luxury with culture and adventure.
