From Natural Wonders to Regional Economic Growth Drivers

Focusing on Infrastructure and Service Development

Located in the eastern part of the city, the Cat Hai Special Economic Zone is a land of immense potential, strategically positioned to directly connect with deep-sea ports, a rich archipelago, and strong economic and marine tourism development opportunities.

Dubbed the “Green Heart” of Cat Hai, the allure of the Cat Ba Archipelago stems from its globally recognized heritage values, such as the UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve in 2004 and the World Natural Heritage Site (combined with Ha Long Bay in 2023). Cat Ba’s tourism is evolving towards eco-friendly, luxury, and authentic experiences, offering diverse products catering to beachside vacationers, Lan Ha Bay cruise enthusiasts, Cat Ba National Park trekkers, and those seeking local fishing experiences with indigenous communities.

Hai Phong is accelerating the construction of tourism infrastructure projects in the Cat Hai Special Economic Zone, aiming to transform the island into a new gem. Notable projects include the Central Cat Ba Bay Tourism and Commercial Zone, the Xuan Dam Golf Course (under planning adjustments), ferry terminals, and tourism facilities in Cai Beo, as well as a hot mineral urban tourism and service complex in Xuan Dam, currently under planning review.

Ancient Cai Beo Fishing Village. Photo: Nguyen Thien Vuong

According to Pham Tri Tuyen, Head of the Culture and Society Department of Cat Hai Special Economic Zone, the area currently boasts 323 tourist accommodations with a total of 6,589 rooms, including 3 five-star hotels. Additionally, 152 overnight cruise ships operate in the Cat Ba Archipelago’s bays, offering 1,359 rooms. There are also 77 tourist service businesses and numerous homestays provided by locals during peak seasons. This robust infrastructure is crucial for meeting the diverse needs of visitors, especially international tourists who favor winter travel.

To boost tourism during the autumn and winter seasons, local authorities will intensify marketing efforts, promoting Cat Ba as a year-round destination, particularly highlighting its UNESCO World Natural Heritage status alongside Ha Long Bay. Promotional activities will leverage digital platforms such as international TV, websites, social media (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube), and partnerships with airlines and travel companies. The focus will be on enhancing sports tourism, island experiences, and cruise connections to expand the tourism space and attract international visitors year-round.

Cat Ba’s Emerging Advantages

As a coastal island, Cat Ba enjoys milder autumn and winter temperatures, typically 1-2°C warmer than the mainland, making it ideal for outdoor activities and scenic tours without excessive physical strain.

International tourists visiting Cat Hai. Photo: Trong Luan

In November, Cat Ba welcomed over 201,925 tourists, including approximately 105,051 international visitors. This brings the total international arrivals for the year to over 4.33 million, a 25.6% increase compared to 2024 and surpassing the annual target by 6.2%. Encouragingly, international visitor numbers have been steadily rising, particularly during winter months.

Cat Ba’s rich forest and marine ecosystems, featuring pristine rainforests, coral reefs, caves, and rare species like the Cat Ba langur, set it apart from other coastal destinations. During winter, mild weather and cool breezes make activities such as forest exploration, Ngự Lâm Peak trekking, Lan Ha Bay kayaking, and sunset viewing among limestone karsts uniquely appealing.

To further attract visitors in 2025, especially international tourists in the final months, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism will implement comprehensive strategies. These include innovative marketing campaigns, promoting cultural events, sports, and tourism highlights, and showcasing Hai Phong’s cultural heritage, cuisine, and unique attractions across media channels, social platforms, and airline partnerships.