The brewing dispute over sovereignty in the South China Sea is taking a new twist with Vietnam about to offer holidays to the hotly disputed Spratly Islands for ‘patriotic cruisers.’
The Ho Chi Minh government plans to allow tour operators to start cruises to Truong Sa Island, describing it as "the big trip of your life, reviving national pride and citizens’ awareness of the sacred maritime sovereignty of the country."
The Spratly islands in the South China Sea have become a diplomatic minefield as Vietnam, China, the Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia all claim jurisdiction over some or all of the contested islands.
The six-day cruises, which are likely to rile Chinese authorities, will include night fishing, visits to a lighthouse and snorkelling.
Local media said the $800 cruises could begin as early as June 22.
Earlier this year Vietnam’s Ministry of Transport announced plans for start commercial flights to Truong Sa Lon.
