Ho Chi Minh City plans to invest more than VND 1,573 billion (around USD 62 million) between 2025 and 2030 to expand and modernize its waterway transport network, aiming to boost inter-provincial connectivity and unlock tourism potential.
Untapped Potential Along Saigon’s Rivers
At the September 9 conference on “Developing HCMC’s Waterway Transport for Passenger and Tourism Connectivity 2025–2030,” experts highlighted the city’s vast river system as a major advantage for growth.
“Despite the potential, HCMC’s waterway and riverside tourism infrastructure remains fragmented and underdeveloped. A sustainable, modern strategy is urgently needed,” said Trần Thanh Bình from the HCMC Institute for Development Studies.
Currently, services like the Bạch Đằng – Linh Đông river bus, sightseeing cruises, and floating restaurants mainly serve the inner city, while inter-provincial links remain limited.
Regional Connections and Tourism Growth
The proposed plan focuses on building a comprehensive network linking HCMC, Bình Dương, and Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu.
-
Urban routes: Connect new residential and commercial hubs such as Thủ Thiêm, Phú Mỹ Hưng, and Hiệp Phước.
-
Regional routes: Develop high-speed ferry lines to Cần Giờ and Vũng Tàu, forming key economic–tourism corridors.
-
Upgraded ports: Expand Bạch Đằng Wharf (HCMC) and Cầu Đá Wharf (Vũng Tàu) into modern intercity passenger hubs.
-
Tourism services: Create riverside stops featuring local cuisine, specialty markets, eco-tourism sites, and cultural heritage villages such as Long Sơn fishing village.
Investment Model
The project, valued at over VND 1,573 billion, will be implemented under a public–private partnership (PPP) with a Build–Own–Operate (BOO) model, ensuring no state budget subsidies. Revenue will mainly come from commercial and tourism services.
Long-Term Vision
-
2025–2030: Strengthen river bus routes, connect to Bình Dương and Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu.
-
2030–2050: Expand long-haul lines, modernize fleets, and build integrated riverside tourism infrastructure.
Experts stressed that administrative reforms and stronger regional cooperation are essential to unlock the full potential of HCMC’s waterways, transforming the Saigon River into a vibrant transport and tourism hub comparable to Paris or Bangkok.
Related
Discover more from Vietnam Insider
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Source: Vietnam Insider