HCMC will soon open seven more waterway routes and implement projects to build wharfs and boat stops to continue developing waterway tourism.

Staffers of a resort on the riverside of the Saigon River greet customers 

The city announced a waterway tourism development scheme several years ago and has introduced abundant waterway tourism products to tourists. However, the suspension of Bach Dang Wharf among other reasons has prompted cancellations of many waterway tours.

At a meeting of the municipal People’s Committee on socio-economic performance in the first nine months and key missions in the remaining three months of the year held on September 25, the HCMC Department of Tourism proposed the city government create favorable conditions to build some more wharfs, piers and stations for boats.

The city government at the meeting on September 25 assigned the Department of Tourism to coordinate with relevant agencies to improve the quality of tourism products and services in the city in the rest of the year, including waterway tourism.

On September 28, local travel companies will introduce seven new waterways and five new motor boats for carrying tourists on these routes.

Chiem Thanh Long, director of Binh Quoi Tourist Village, the investor of the five motor boats, said the boats with a capacity of 20 people each will carry tourists from Tan Cang to Cu Chi, Binh Duong, Can Gio and District 9. The company will add more tourist attractions and services to make these tours more attractive.

Specifically, tourists taking the Bach Dang Wharf-Cu Chi tour can visit gardens in Binh Duong Province in addition to Cu Chi District. Or tours to Can Gio will take in not only Dan Xay Ecotourism Resort but also Can Thanh, the center of Can Gio District. The company will also upgrade tourist attractions and add tours to pagodas in District 9.

According to data of the city government, HCMC welcomed 4.2 million international arrivals in January-September, up 16% year-on-year. Revenue from tourism increased 10% to VND84.6 trillion (US$3.72 million).

SGT