Due to its size, the ship anchored a kilometer from shore and the passengers were transported to shore in boats.

Costa Serena cruise ship carrying 2,600 passengers arrives in Phu Quoc Island on May 21, 2023.

They visited some popular attractions on the island and did shopping before leaving at 7 p.m. the same day.

Bui Quoc Thai, director of the Department of Tourism of Kien Giang Province, home to Phu Quoc, said most of the visitors were from Thailand, Malaysia, Cuba, and European countries.

It had made a five-day voyage from Thailand to Cambodia’s Sihanoukville before heading to Phu Quoc.

The Costa Serena ship is 290 meters long and can carry a maximum of 3,700 passengers.

Well known for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters and forests, Phu Quoc has for years been a popular holiday destination for both Vietnamese and foreign tourists.

It allows 30-day visa-free entry for foreigners.

Foreign tourist numbers on the rise

Vietnam welcomed 3.7 million foreign visitors in the first four months of the year, registering a 19.2-fold increase from the same period last year, according to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam.

Hoi An launches tour group entry fees

Visitors to Hoi An who arrive as part of guided tour groups will have to purchase tickets to enter the "ancient town" starting May 15.

International search volume for Vietnam tourism ranks 11th in the world

The volume of international searches for Vietnam’s tourism has surged by 10-25 per cent, the eleventh-highest increase in the world, according to Google’s market trend tracker tool.International search volume for Vietnam tourism ranks 11th in the world

Phu Quoc eyes 6-month visa waiver to lure overseas tourists

Authorities in the southern province of Kien Giang, home to Phu Quoc, have proposed extending visa-free stay on the island from the current 30 days to six months.

Vietnam's tourism in April and first four months of 2023

Vietnam’s tourism industry is on track to exceed the target of welcoming 8 million international visitors for 2023, as it has already received 3.7 million international visitors in the first four months of the year.

Source: VnExpress