Vietnam has reported a sharp increase in international arrivals by sea, with numbers rising more than 2.8 times in March compared to February. The country has welcomed 33,700 cruise passengers in the first three months of the year, as more ships have carried tourists to localities across the country. Vietnam has identified sea and island tourism as a priority in its tourism development strategy for 2020, with a vision to 2030. The country’s favourable position on the regional maritime route and 3,260km coastline, as well as its historic and cultural sites, are seen as key attractions.