(VNA) – The high-speed cruise liner Beiyou 16 with a crew of 22 on board safely docked at Tuan Chau port on Tuesday to test-run a maritime tourist route between Beihai in the Chinese province of Guangxi and Ha Long Bay in Vietnam’s northern province of Quang Ninh.

Beiyou 16's crew members are welcomed at Tuan Chau port (Photo: VNA)

Following the trial run, the first three-hour voyage will operate this April with two trips a week, each carrying 800 passengers. The new service will promote tourism and marine transport in Ha Long Bay, a world heritage site and one of the world’s 7 natural wonders. It will offer the two countries a chance to boost bilateral trade and introduce their cultures in a more rapid, convenient and safe way.