Ships are docked at the Hạ Long International Passenger Port in Quảng Ninh. — VBA/VNS Photo.

QUẢNG NINH — Tourism in Quảng Ninh is rebounding after a temporary decline following the capsising of a tourist boat in Hạ Long Bay during a squall on July 19, largely thanks to enhanced tourism safety and promotion efforts.

According to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Quảng Ninh welcomed an average of 7,000–8,000 visitors daily in early August.

Local authorities quickly implemented safety enhancements, including upgrading communication devices across the fleet, adding six new storm shelters in Hạ Long Bay, and approving the installation of warning systems for storms and lightning at key locations, especially in Hạ Long Bay, Bái Tử Long Bay and coastal areas. The provincial Military Command also deployed a ship designated to medical services and two patrol boats to conduct patrols around the clock.

To restore visitor confidence, the province is actively promoting tourism nationwide. Nguyễn Thế Huệ, head of the Quảng Ninh Tourism Association, said many travel agencies from neighbouring localities have committed to resuming tours to Quảng Ninh. A tourism stimulus conference is planned for September, followed by a national travel forum in October.

Đoàn Mạnh Linh, head of the Travel Division under the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, noted that international tourism has remained stable, particularly with visitors from Japan, the Philippines, and Malaysia. By mid-August, an increase in the Republic of Korea’s MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) tourists is expected, along with high-spending tourists from the US by September.

To position Quảng Ninh as a safe and attractive destination, businesses are launching new experiences. Sun Group has introduced a fireworks show on every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at Bãi Cháy. A kite flying and boat racing festival is planned for September, and a food festival will follow in October.

Nguyễn Thanh Tung, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the province will continue to host major events through the end of 2025, including the National U23 Fencing Championship, a cultural and culinary showcase of top Quảng Ninh chefs, an OCOP fair, the Hạ Long Bay Heritage International Marathon, and the Yên Tử Heritage Marathon.

In August, efforts will focus on developing tourism linked to the Yên Tử – Vĩnh Nghiêm – Côn Sơn – Kiếp Bạc heritage route, connecting it with Hạ Long Bay to highlight the UNESCO-recognised complex. A communication campaign will promote the area’s spiritual and cultural significance.

Between January and July, Quảng Ninh welcomed over 14.6 million tourists, a 13 per cent increase year-on-year, including more than 2.6 million international visitors. Tourism revenue reached VNĐ36.7 trillion (US$1.39 billion ), up 25 per cent. The province targets 20 million tourists in 2025, including 4.5 million international arrivals. — VNA/VNS