Watching fireworks from boats: Unique Han River experience

Premium experience on the Han River

As DIFF 2026 lights up the skies above the Han River, local tour operators have diversified their tourism offerings to give visitors more than just a seat in the grandstands.

Tourist boats, combined with dining and entertainment experiences, are emerging as one of the festival’s most sought-after products.

Nguyen Ngoc Thien, Deputy Director of Hai Van Cat International Travel Joint Stock Company, said tour operators had carefully studied visitor preferences from previous editions of the festival before designing this year’s products.

“Our goal is to diversify the way people experience fireworks. Instead of watching from the shore, visitors can enjoy dinner while admiring the fireworks from the Han River, creating a more immersive and memorable experience”, he said.

Most cruises begin around 5 p.m. on competition nights. After completing boarding procedures and safety checks, vessels head to designated anchoring points, allowing guests to enjoy sunset views over the Han River before the night sky bursts into colour.

“

The experience exceeded expectations. I had seen videos of the festival on social media, but witnessing it in person was a completely different experience.

The atmosphere was incredible. Beyond the fireworks, we could also admire the beauty of the Han River and iconic bridges such as Tran Thi Ly Bridge, Dragon Bridge and Han River Bridge. It was absolutely worth the trip.

Nguyen My Linh, a 22-year-old visitor from Soc Trang Province

Safety and service excellence

Alongside the dazzling displays, safety remains the top priority.

According to local authorities, 23 tourist boats with a combined capacity of more than 2,500 passengers have been licensed to operate during the festival.

Security, traffic management and maritime safety plans have been coordinated among police, military and border guard forces to ensure smooth operations.

Dang Hoa, the owner of Han Giang tourist boat, said operators must undergo rigorous inspections covering technical standards, life-saving equipment, communications systems, fire prevention measures, environmental protection and food safety.

“Maintaining a safe and friendly image for Da Nang tourism has always been our commitment. Protecting visitors means protecting our own reputation and that of the city,” he said.

Tran Dinh Dinh, Executive Director of POSEIDON Cruise, said safety protocols are strictly enforced, with crew members stationed throughout the vessel to assist passengers when needed.

The nearly 200-seat cruise also offers a rich pre-fireworks entertainment program, including Cham dance performances, traditional music, DJ shows and magic acts.

“What we treasure most are the compliments from visitors about our service and the hospitality of Da Nang. Their satisfaction confirms the city’s growing appeal and its ability to constantly refresh tourism products,” he said.

As DIFF continues to elevate Da Nang’s global profile, fireworks cruises are proving that the festival is about much more than spectacular pyrotechnics.

They offer visitors a chance to experience the city from a different angle, blending culture, cuisine, hospitality and unforgettable moments on the water.

Translated by THU LE