HCM City authorities will allow public tours to Truong Sa, also known as the Spratly Islands, from June 22.

The municipal government has requested the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and several local firms to make plans for tours to the islands.

Saigontourist, Saigon Newport Company and Tan Cang Offshore Travel JSC were asked to join the plan.

The city plans to launch the first tour to the islands on June 22.

The tour is expected to not only offer tourists with new experience but also uphold the national patriotism and Vietnam's claim of sovereignty over the islands.

The Spratly archipelago is some 305 nautical miles off the coast of Vung Tau City, 250 nautical miles form Phu Quoc Island and 270 nautical miles from Binh Thuan Province’s Phan Thiet City.

It covers 160,000-180,000 square kilometres and comprises 137 islands and outcrops, and five submerged islands.

Some photos of Spratly Islands: