VietnamNet would like to introduce a special series by tourism expert Doan Huu Duc, focusing on the development of Vietnam’s river-to-sea tourism. Through in-depth analysis and firsthand insights, the series explores how Vietnam can unlock the full potential of its inland waterways and vast coastline.

From the pioneering efforts of private enterprises like Focus Travel to the strategic significance of regional governance reforms, the series offers a comprehensive vision for transforming the Mekong Delta into a world-class tourism hub.

This is a timely and vital roadmap for integrating river and sea tourism into Vietnam’s broader economic and cultural future.

Beyond the river: Unlocking Vietnam’s river-to-sea tourism advantage

In the ongoing dialogue about river cruise tourism in Southeast Asia, Cambodia has received commendation for its well-organized development of Mekong River itineraries.

However, Vietnam has a tremendous opportunity to emerge as a leader in this space, capitalizing on its unique position that integrates both river and sea tourism.

Cambodia's river cruise offerings have thrived along the Tonle Sap–Mekong–Phnom Penh corridor, where companies like Victoria Mekong have expertly crafted experiences that seamlessly blend culture, comfort, and immersive exploration.

However, Cambodia’s coastal tourism, particularly around the stunning Sihanoukville beach, remains notably disconnected from these inland cruise experiences due to significant infrastructure challenges and geographical barriers. The recent Funan canal project, while promising, does not prioritize tourism as it should.

Vietnam presents a breathtaking tapestry of experiences with its unique blend of river and sea tourism. The country’s extensive coastline is beautifully complemented by the intricate waterways of the Mekong Delta, offering exciting opportunities for “river-to-sea” tourism circuits.

Imagine embarking on a serene cruise along the Tien Giang River, gliding smoothly past the vibrant floating markets of Cai Be or the historic charm of Sa Dec. Each bend in the river reveals the lush, riverside cultures of Vinh Long and Tra Vinh, offering travelers an immersive experience rich in tradition and storytelling.

As the journey continues, the ferrying waters lead to the majestic Hau Giang River, where the bustling hubs of Chau Doc, Can Tho, and Soc Trang unfold. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant life of local communities, discovering their customs and savoring their renowned culinary delights.

From the banks of the river, you can seamlessly transition to expansive marine routes, opening up access to the pristine paradise of islands such as Phu Quoc and Nam Du, the charming coastal experiences of Vung Tau and Con Dao, and the stunning vistas along the South-Central Coast from Mui Ne to Nha Trang and Da Nang.

The significance of cruising through these waters lies not just in the breathtaking landscapes but also in the profound connections it fosters. Travelers have the unique opportunity to enjoy a mosaic of experiences, indulging in the delectable heritage foods that reflect the region's rich history and diverse cultural influences.

The cruise becomes a celebration of Vietnam’s four major local ethnicities: the Khmer with their rich traditions, the Cham with their intricate artistry, the Sino-Vietnamese with their historical roots, and the Kinh with their widespread cultural impact. Each ethnicity adds a distinct layer to the journey, inviting tourists to engage with the local customs, languages, and flavors that define this captivating nation.

Ultimately, this immersive exploration offers a profound understanding of Vietnam, allowing visitors to appreciate its diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and the rich tapestry of life that thrives along its rivers and coasts.

No other mainland Southeast Asian country currently offers the same logistical and experiential link between river and sea. If Vietnam seizes this opportunity, it can create multi-modal cruise experiences that traverse various ecosystems and cultural regions, thereby attracting high-value tourists who are likely to stay longer and spend more.

To maximize this potential, Vietnam should consider investing in estuarine ports and docking facilities, enhancing logistics and multimodal transport, creating cohesive destination planning and packaging, and aligning regulations between inland and marine authorities.

Vietnam, with its unique geographic, demographic, and gastronomic strengths, stands poised to revolutionize tourism by pioneering a new model centered around river-sea integration.

As the nation advances with bold administrative reforms and robust infrastructure upgrades, harnessing the vibrant connectivity of its breathtaking landscape will significantly elevate the tourism experience, captivating and enchanting every visitor.

Doan Huu Duc