Our Responsibility

Columbus Cruises is well aware of its position in the community and is proud of its reputation as an employer of over 40 local people. We feel strongly about making a positive contribution to the communities we work in.

Our recent recruitment drive saw us employing a number of graduates from Hanoi's famed KOTO and Hoa Sua restaurants. These two restaurants have long-established training programs that empower disadvantaged young people from Hanoi and the surrounding areas. Graduates of KOTO and Hoa Sua's training programs gain hospitality and catering skills as well as life skills to help them with their personal development. Both establishments have a near 100% success rate and their graduates go on to work in resorts, hotels and restaurants all over Vietnam.

The company has also taken active steps in educating the local people of Ha Long Bay. Preservation of the culture, and protection of the natural environment is paramount to the future of Vietnam's premier natural attraction. Columbus has made great efforts in educating locals about the risks involved with activities such as dynamite fishing, careless waste disposal and the destruction of coral reefs. These practices not only destroy the natural beauty of the Bay, they also have a direct impact on the livelihoods of its residents. By increasing awareness of the sensitivity of the Bay, and the economic fallout that will result if it is not properly cared for, we believe the locals will take greater care of their natural environment.

In addition, Columbus has had a long-standing commitment to the economy of these communities. All the fresh seafood our guests eat on board our boats is purchased daily from the local floating villages, and our kayaks are stored and maintained here as well. Columbus Cruises is proud to be able to offer the residents of Ha Long Bay a source of steady and ongoing employment.