The cruise boat slowly leaves the Hoang Long pier, about 200 meters downstream from Ham Rong bridge, beginning its journey along the Mã River. From the boat’s deck, tourists enjoy a different view of Thanh Hoa’s villages, alluvial flats, historical sites and scenic attractions along both banks of the river.
Launched in 2015, “Traversing the Ma River” is the province’s first waterway tour, connecting the Dong Son ancient village, Truc Lam Ham Rong Zen Monastery, and Co Bo Temple.
Tran Thinh Thuong, a visitor said: “Thanh Haa has done a very good job of preserving its natural landscapes. The historical and cultural sites included in the tour are particularly impressive and offer visitors valuable experiences.”
“Traversing the Ma River” is more than just a sightseeing journey. Tourists on board are treated to folk music, songs and dishes featuring the flavors of the river region. Visitors can enjoy goby fish, river prawns, sour soup, and prawns wrapped in water spinach, all familiar ingredients that take on local specialties.
Hoang Thi Lan Anh, a visitor from Hung Yen province, said: “The food is distinctive and impressive. The river prawns, goby fish and sour soup are delicious. The prawns wrapped in water spinach and served with mustard are amazing.”
For the night tour, when the city lights turn on, the cruise boat leaves the pier. Visitors can enjoy calm and relax moments, listening to Ma River chanting, joining in musical performances and experiencing the release of floating lanterns.
The musical genre emerged directly from the daily work habits, boat rowing, and river life of local workers. The melodies are gentle when boats travel downstream and powerful when they move against the current and cross rapids. Over time, Ma River chanting has typified Thanh Hoa.
Hoang Van Huy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Thanh Hoa Inland Waterway and Transport Construction Company, said: “Ma River chanting is an integral part of Thanh Hoa’s cultural identity, so we have included this traditional folk singing performance in the night tour.”
From daytime river cruises to evenings filled with chanting, “Traversing the Ma River” program is transforming the river from a scenic backdrop into a cultural space, creating new experiences for visitors and adding value to Thanh Hoa’s tourism.
