Visitors explore the Sài Gòn River by a double-decker water bus. — VNA/VNS Photo

HCM CITY — A range of new tourism products have been launched in HCM City to lure more tourists for the year-end travel season, according to the city Department of Tourism.

The maiden double-decker water bus along the Sài Gòn River is one of the city's thrilling sightseeing tours that started operation last Saturday.

The daily one-hour tour entitled “Saigon River SightSeeing” is priced from VNĐ177,000 – 339,000 (US$7-16).

Tourists can view the sunrise and sunset on the Sài Gòn River and enjoy the fresh air by taking a cruise along the river, said Nguyễn Kim Toản, director of Thường Nhật Co., Ltd., which operates the service.

It is expected to diversify tourism products and experiences in the city to serve tourists for the year-end holidays.

Earlier this month, the department in coordination with the District 7 People’s Committee introduced new waterway tourism products. The Ngôi Sao Việt boat terminal in the district serves as the starting point for various waterway tourism routes to Nhà Bè District and Cần Giờ District in HCM City, Cần Giuộc in Long Anh Province and Đại Phước golf course in Đồng Nai Province.

Nearly 47 river tours and waterway routes are currently being operated, offering inner-city waterway routes and mid-range routes connecting the city with neighbouring provinces, according to the department.

The District 1 People’s Committee has recently launched the“District 1-Night Colours” tour that allows tourists to learn about the city’s history, enjoy art performances, explore night streets, have dinner, go shopping and relax with spa services.

Dozens of tourism products have been developed under the city’s initiative – “Each district has at least one product” – that is aimed at diversifying tourism products in the city to attract tourists.

The city welcomed five million foreign tourist arrivals this year, a year-on-year increase of 44 per cent.

The number of domestic tourists rose by 12 per cent compared to the previous year to reach 35 million. Tourism revenue is estimated at VNĐ160 trillion ($6.6 billion), up 22 per cent year-on-year.

The city targets receiving six million international tourists and 38 million domestic tourists in 2024. Tourism revenue is expected to reach VNĐ190 million ($7.8 billion). — VNS