Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City Welcomes Nearly 3,000 International Tourists Aboard Luxury Cruise – A Game-Changer for Southeast Asia’s Tourism!

Published on December 5, 2025

Ho Chi Minh City’s tourism sector received a significant boost with the arrival of the Celebrity Solstice, a luxury cruise ship operated by Celebrity Cruises. Docking at Thi Vai General Port in Phu My ward on December 4, the Malta-flagged vessel brought nearly 2,850 international passengers to the bustling Vietnamese metropolis. The arrival of such a high-profile cruise liner marks another milestone in the city’s post-pandemic tourism recovery.

A Significant Arrival for Vietnam’s Tourism

The Celebrity Solstice’s arrival in Ho Chi Minh City reflects the ongoing resurgence of international tourism to Vietnam. This luxury cruise, known for its modern and lavish amenities, is a part of a regional itinerary that includes other key destinations like Thailand, Hue, Ha Long Bay, and Hong Kong. For many of the passengers on board, Ho Chi Minh City served as one of the main stops on their journey, offering them a chance to explore one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cities.

The cruise’s passengers were greeted with numerous tour options, with a substantial percentage opting to explore the local sights. According to Saigontourist, a prominent Vietnamese travel service company, approximately 75% of the 1,400 passengers who disembarked in Ho Chi Minh City selected tours that showcased the city’s rich cultural offerings. The visitors also ventured to nearby Dong Thap province, further diversifying their travel experiences.

Popular Tour Choices for International Passengers

Among the most sought-after experiences were visits to traditional craft villages and historical sites such as the Cu Chi Tunnels. These cultural tours provided the international visitors with an immersive look into Vietnam’s history and traditions. Additionally, the passengers explored areas outside of the city, including Vung Tau and Ba Ria wards. Notable attractions like Bach Dinh and Bai Truoc were key highlights of these excursions, drawing tourists who sought to connect with Vietnam’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.

The variety of options offered to the passengers emphasizes the city’s tourism versatility, appealing to a wide range of interests, from history and culture to nature and leisure.

The Celebrity Solstice: A Luxury Floating Resort

The Celebrity Solstice is one of the world’s most luxurious and technologically advanced cruise ships, providing an unforgettable experience for passengers. Built by the renowned German shipbuilder Meyer Werft, this impressive vessel was completed in 2008 at a cost of $750 million. With a capacity of 2,850 passengers and a gross tonnage of 122,000 tonnes, the ship measures 317.2 meters in length and 36.8 meters in width. To put its scale into perspective, the ship is about three times the size of a football field.

Onboard, passengers enjoy world-class facilities, including a 1,000-seat theatre, a large outdoor lawn area, a fitness center, a sauna, and an indoor pool. The presence of hot tubs, high-end dining venues, and various entertainment options ensures that visitors are offered an all-encompassing vacation experience on the water.

Cruise Itinerary and Its Impact on Local Tourism

The Celebrity Solstice is not only an important attraction for Ho Chi Minh City but also plays a significant role in promoting regional tourism. After leaving Ho Chi Minh City, the ship continues its journey, visiting Chan May Port in Hue, Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province, and ultimately concluding its voyage in Hong Kong. This itinerary provides passengers with the opportunity to explore various cultural and natural gems across the region, reinforcing the importance of cruise tourism for Southeast Asia.

Vietnam has seen several visits from the Celebrity Solstice during 2025, further boosting the country’s tourism sector. The ship was also the first international cruise to dock in Ho Chi Minh City following the 2025 Lunar New Year (Tet) Festival, further underscoring its significance in the local tourism calendar. The ship’s repeated visits reflect Vietnam’s growing importance as a prime destination for international cruise tourism.

Ho Chi Minh City’s Growing Prominence on the Cruise Map

As part of a growing trend, Ho Chi Minh City has seen a steady increase in international cruise arrivals, reinforcing the city’s status as a major hub for cruise tourism in the region. The success of Celebrity Solstice’s visits highlights Vietnam’s appeal to luxury travelers and solidifies its role in the international cruise circuit.

The Cai Mep–Thi Vai deep-water seaport system, where the Celebrity Solstice docks, has emerged as a key player in attracting international cruise liners. This area has recently experienced a notable rise in cruise arrivals, helping to cement Ho Chi Minh City’s place on the regional cruise tourism map.

A Flourishing Cruise Industry in Vietnam

The Vietnamese cruise industry is experiencing a resurgence, with several luxury cruise ships like the Celebrity Solstice visiting the country in 2025. Vietnam is increasingly becoming a key destination for international tourists looking to explore the cultural and natural wonders of Southeast Asia in style. The growing number of international cruise visitors is not only revitalizing the tourism sector but also benefiting local economies, particularly in cities and regions with cruise ports.

The Role of Local Tourism Providers in Enhancing Visitor Experience

Saigontourist, a key player in the tourism service sector, has been instrumental in providing the necessary infrastructure and services to accommodate the influx of cruise passengers. By offering tailored tours and experiences, the company ensures that visitors make the most of their time in Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings. The diverse range of tours available reflects the city’s ability to meet the expectations of international travelers, ensuring that Vietnam remains a competitive player in the global tourism market.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Vietnam’s Cruise Tourism

The arrival of the Celebrity Solstice in Ho Chi Minh City marks another important chapter in Vietnam’s recovery and growth as a global tourism destination. With an increasing number of international visitors arriving via cruise ships, the country is positioning itself as a premier stop on regional and international cruise itineraries. As Vietnam continues to showcase its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and modern amenities, the future of its cruise tourism sector looks exceptionally bright. This trend will undoubtedly help further the country’s efforts to increase international arrivals and bolster its tourism industry in the years to come.