Tourist boats in Ha Long Bay
According to the Ha Long Tourist Boat Association, there are 500 tourist boats operating in the world-famous bay and over 170 of them have had their licenses revoked due expired registrations. Meanwhile over 20 boats are being repaired. The remaining boats can only serve some 20,000 passengers daily.
"We may only be able to serve two thirds of the passengers during the Reunification Day (April 30) and May Day Holiday," the association said. "But we have to put safety first."
Director of Quang Ninh Tourism Department, Pham Ngoc Thuy, also noted that they really wanted to receive more visitors but they have to ensure the quality of services.
"Services that do not meet quality standards must be halted as we've committed to providing the best services to visitors to Quang Ninh," the official said.
In an effort to revive tourism, Quang Ninh debuted its nightlife cruise service at Ha Long International Passenger Port from April 28.
Thirty tourist boats will serve tours from 6 pm to 10 pm, allowing visitors to enjoy dinner and admire the bay at night.
Quang Ninh wants to receive 10 million tourists this year, including 1.5 million foreigners.
