The Quang Ninh Finance Department has announced new transportation and accommodation prices for tourists visiting Ha Long Bay.

The cost of hiring a boat to cruise the bay will vary between VND280,000 (US$13) and VND600,000 ($29) per hour. The price of package tours will run from VND700,000 ($33) to VND5 million ($238) per customer for every 24 hours.

The fares will increase by a maximum of 30 per cent during festivals and holidays.

The announcement is aimed at creating a transparent and safe tourism environment.

By the end of October, Quang Ninh had welcomed more than 6.5 million tourists, reaching more than 87 per cent of its annual target. The number of tourists also represented a year-on-year increase of 10 per cent. The northern province hopes to receive 7.5 million of visitors this year. — VNS