Home » Cruise News of Vietnam » Vietnam Unveils Stunning Growth in Cruise Tourism with Record-Breaking Arrivals and Unmatched Scenic Voyages Along Beihai Ha Long Route
Published on
November 15, 2025
Vietnam is experiencing a remarkable surge in global cruise tourism, with the Beihai Ha Long route playing a pivotal role in driving this growth. The route, which links China and Vietnam, has seen a steady increase in international arrivals, particularly from Europe, the US, and China, reflecting the country’s growing appeal as a must-visit destination. The stunning beauty of Ha Long Bay, combined with its UNESCO World Heritage status, continues to draw travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. With expanded cruise offerings and increased international ship arrivals, Vietnam is positioning itself as a dominant player in the global cruise tourism market, offering visitors the chance to explore one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.
The 2025 cruise tourism season has officially begun on the Beihai (China) – Ha Long (Vietnam) sea route, offering travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning views of Ha Long Bay and enjoy city tours of Ha Long and Bai Chay. As the season progresses, tourists can expect a variety of enriching experiences, with scenic cruises offering an up-close look at one of the most iconic landscapes in Southeast Asia.
For the 2025–2026 cruise season, running from October 2025 to April 2026, a total of nine cruises are scheduled along the Beihai – Ha Long route, with each voyage bringing international travelers to Quang Ninh. These cruises highlight the growing demand for Vietnam’s coastal beauty, providing a seamless connection between China, Vietnam, and other regions while offering memorable, immersive experiences for passengers.
One of the notable highlights came on November 13, when the Ha Long International Cruise Port welcomed the Malta-flagged Celebrity, a luxurious cruise liner carrying 2,800 visitors from Europe and the United States. This marks a significant milestone for the region, demonstrating the resurgence of international cruise tourism. The continuous arrival of such international ships signals a promising recovery in the sector, which had been impacted in previous years.
From January to October 2025, the Ha Long International Cruise Port handled a total of 44 international cruise arrivals, welcoming 56,647 passengers, marking a 9% increase from the previous year. The growth of international arrivals, particularly from Europe, the US, and China, indicates a positive upward trend in the luxury cruise market. This resurgence is a reflection of the broader revival of global travel, as tourists return to explore the natural wonders of Vietnam, with Ha Long Bay at the forefront of these attractions.
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands, continues to attract visitors from all corners of the globe. The bay’s inclusion in the list of natural wonders of the world only enhances its appeal, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both beauty and cultural heritage. The steady influx of international cruise ships docking at the port underscores the growing importance of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam’s tourism strategy, as it strengthens its position as a global tourism hotspot.
As the 2025 season progresses, the Ha Long International Cruise Port is poised to welcome even more international vessels. In November alone, 10 additional international cruise ships are expected to dock at the port, pushing the total number of arrivals for the year to 23. This growth is a testament to the successful efforts of local authorities to position Quang Ninh as a top-tier cruise destination in the region.
Looking ahead, Quang Ninh province is setting ambitious targets for the final months of 2025. The province aims to attract approximately 2.77 million visitors during the last two months of the year, with tourism revenue projected to reach around VND8.64 trillion (approximately US$328 million). This will help Quang Ninh meet its yearly tourism goals, with an estimated 21.2 million visitors and VND58 trillion in total tourism revenue.
The continued rise in international cruise arrivals is not just a sign of recovery, but also a testament to the resilience of Vietnam’s tourism industry, particularly in its luxury cruise segment. With Ha Long Bay as its crown jewel, the region is expected to see continued growth in the coming years, further solidifying its place on the global tourism map.
As Quang Ninh looks to build on this momentum, the province is enhancing its infrastructure and services to accommodate the growing number of visitors. This includes the expansion of the Ha Long International Cruise Port, improving transportation links, and developing more tourist-friendly amenities. All these efforts align with the province’s broader tourism development strategy, which seeks to create a sustainable and world-class tourism experience for both international visitors and locals alike.
Vietnam is witnessing a powerful surge in global cruise tourism, with the Beihai Ha Long route leading the way in attracting international travelers. The breathtaking beauty of Ha Long Bay, combined with increased cruise arrivals, solidifies Vietnam’s growing status as a top global tourism destination.
With Vietnam’s tourism industry bouncing back and Ha Long Bay leading the charge, the Beihai – Ha Long cruise route represents a key opportunity for travelers to explore the beauty and history of this unique part of the world. Whether cruising through the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay or participating in guided city tours, the Beihai – Ha Long route offers something for every traveler, further enhancing Vietnam’s status as a prime global tourism destination.
