HCMC – Mekong Delta River Tourism Development
Connecting Heritage, Culture, and Sustainable Growth
On November 30, 2024, a seminar in Can Tho City brought together experts, managers, and businesses to discuss strategies for developing river tourism products connecting Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) with the Mekong Delta. This marks an important step in unlocking the potential of the region’s abundant waterways, unique river culture, and stunning natural landscapes.
Potential for River Tourism
Nguyen Van Dung, Vice Chairman of the HCMC People’s Committee, highlighted the Mekong Delta’s extensive network of over 28,000 kilometers of rivers and canals, along with its vibrant river culture linked to agricultural lifestyles. HCMC, with its strategic rivers like Dong Nai, Saigon, and Nha Be, is well-positioned to serve as a hub connecting river routes to the Mekong provinces and international destinations such as Cambodia.
Dung noted that Vietnam’s tourism development strategy through 2030 has identified the Mekong Delta as a key destination for eco-tourism, river culture experiences, orchard tours, and island retreats. To realize this vision, the HCMC Department of Tourism recently surveyed river routes connecting HCMC to nine provinces, including Long An, Tien Giang, Vinh Long, and Can Tho. The findings revealed immense potential but also challenges such as inconsistent infrastructure, a lack of modern piers, and environmental issues.
Lux Cruises Group’s Vision
Vietnam’s first boutique cruise line™, Lux Cruises Group, announced plans to launch 10 luxury cruises on the Saigon River, offering short (HCMC city tours), long (HCMC-Mekong routes), and international (to Cambodia via the Mekong) itineraries.
The first of these, Amiral Cruises for Presidents, will launch in 2025 on the Saigon River. This “voyage through time” aims to explore history, nature, culture, and the people of the region, connecting the past, present, and future.
A highlight of these cruises will be journeys to Nha Rong Wharf, where President Ho Chi Minh embarked on his quest for national independence. These trips aim to deliver premium tourism experiences while evoking national pride. Guests will explore the southern river culture, enjoy local cuisine, and experience luxurious onboard services deeply rooted in Vietnamese heritage.
Challenges and Opportunities
During the seminar, participants emphasized the need for comprehensive planning, modern infrastructure such as large cruise ports, and enhanced services at destinations. Environmental protection, particularly addressing river waste and promoting eco-friendly transportation, was also a top priority.
Researcher Nham Hung suggested leveraging folk knowledge and history to create unique tourism products. He referenced scholar Pham Quynh’s admiration for the Tien and Hau rivers and the nostalgic journey from Soc Trang to Saigon described in Hau Giang – Ba Thac by Vuong Hong Sen. These cultural and historical elements could differentiate river tourism products and attract more visitors.
Towards Sustainable Development
Concluding the seminar, Nguyen Van Dung emphasized the importance of regional collaboration to develop distinctive, competitive, and sustainable tourism products. He called for businesses like Lux Cruises Group to contribute not only by tapping into tourism potential but also by preserving the region’s cultural and natural heritage.
With the launch of luxury cruises and inter-regional routes combining culture, history, and premium services, HCMC and the Mekong Delta are poised to become top destinations for domestic and international travelers. This initiative not only promises economic growth but also serves as a platform to showcase Vietnam’s heritage to the world.
