Unlocking Maritime Tourism Potential: Ho Chi Minh City Collaborates to Overcome Challenges

On the afternoon of October 23rd, during a press conference addressing Ho Chi Minh City's socio-economic developments, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Thao, Head of the Tourism Resource Development Planning Department (Department of Tourism), announced that the city is piloting the reception of international cruise ships at the Cai Mep - Thi Vai port area.

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Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Thao, Head of Tourism Resource Development Planning Department (Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism), shared insights at a press conference on October 23rd.

According to Ms. Thao, the ports in the Cai Mep – Thi Vai area were initially established for cargo transportation, not passenger services. To accommodate international cruise ships, infrastructure and manpower upgrades are necessary, along with a strategic plan to manage the growing number of cruise passengers.

From now until June 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism will collaborate with port authorities to finalize pilot program applications for receiving international cruise ships. They will also work with travel agencies and relevant parties to prepare the necessary infrastructure, aiming to expand passenger services beyond the pilot phase.

Ms. Thao revealed that between 2026 and 2030, the city plans to invest in three international passenger port projects in the old Vung Tau and Khanh Hoi areas to meet the surging demand for cruise tourism.

Regarding this matter, Mr. Nguyen Kien Giang, Deputy Head of Traffic Infrastructure Management and Operation Department (Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction), explained that Cai Mep port is designated as a gateway and international transshipment hub, while Thi Vai port supports regional economic development with facilities for general cargo, containers, bulk cargo, and liquid/gas.

International terminals in the Bai Truoc area of Vung Tau are designed to accommodate ships up to 125,000GT, Mui Den Do area up to 60,000GT, and Saigon River terminals up to 30,000GT.

The Ministry of Construction has approved the continued reception of international cruise ships at select Cai Mep – Thi Vai ports until June 30, 2026. Therefore, these ports will continue to welcome international passengers in accordance with the Ministry’s directive.

Long-term plans include the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction’s completed pre-feasibility study report for the Vung Tau International Passenger Port project. This report has been submitted to the city government for investment approval, aiming to meet the growing demand for international passenger sea transport and support the city’s tourism and economic development.

Khang Di

– 12:30 AM, October 24, 2025

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