HCMC – Local authorities in the coastal province of Khanh Hoa have proposed the Ministry of Transport extend the pilot period of a tourist submarine service in Nha Trang Bay.

The province has also suggested that the ministry complete the regulatory framework and conduct the pilot performance evaluation so that the service may be formally launched.

The 24-seat submersible, originally known as the Triton DeepView 24, offers passengers with dives of around 30 minutes in Nha Trang Bay’s Bai Bang and Hon Mot islets.

The service is operated by domestic hospitality operator Vinpearl Joint Stock Company, featuring marine life inside a transparent acrylic hull at depths of up to 100 meters.

Local authorities recently agreed to Vinpearl’s plan to extend the service to Hon Mun Island and other neighboring areas, with operational priorities laid on environmental conservation aspects.

The Ministry of Transport approved a two-year submarine service for tourist pilots in Nha Trang Bay beginning in February 2021.