First cruise ship arrives in Phu Quoc post-Covid with 2,600 passengers

By Ngoc Tai May 21, 2023 | 08:28 pm PT

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

Italian-flagged cruise ship Costa Serena berthed in Phu Quoc on Sunday with 2,600 foreign tourists, the first international vessel to arrive after Covid.

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

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.