From June 15, passenger boats operating between Quy Nhon Ward and Nhon Chau Island, commonly known as Cu Lao Xanh, began departing from Mui Tan Terminal on Xuan Dieu Street.
The new terminal is expected to improve passenger services and ease pressure on Quy Nhon Fishing Port, the island's former departure point.
The 30-km waterway linking the mainland and Nhon Chau Island attracts growing numbers of visitors, particularly during the summer tourism season.
Authorities said the fishing port, originally built to support fishing and seafood logistics activities, was no longer well suited to the needs of a modern tourism destination due to congestion, noise and environmental concerns.
During an inspection of the terminal on June 15, Gia Lai People's Committee Chairman Pham Anh Tuan called for strict safety controls on vessels and passenger operations.
Provincial agencies were instructed to review navigation channels and waterway conditions to ensure safe and uninterrupted transport services.
Authorities also pledged to strengthen oversight of tourism businesses and address unfair competition among tour operators.
Most visitors currently travel on package tours, with ticket prices varying among operators. Authorities plan to introduce a unified fare system once Mui Tan Terminal becomes the main departure point for the island.
Nhon Chau is Gia Lai's only island commune and has undergone significant development in recent years through infrastructure investment and livelihood support programmes.
Tourism and services now account for around 45 per cent of the local economy, with activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, coral diving and marine tourism attracting increasing numbers of visitors.
