Due to the inability of larger vessels to salvage the ship, authorities are currently stationed to protect the site where the suspected ancient shipwreck was found. The leadership of Hội An city has tasked the Hội An Cultural Heritage Management Center to conduct a detailed study and survey to devise a plan for salvaging the ship’s hull, and if necessary, will invite archaeologists to participate in the research.
On the morning of December 27, authorities were present at the site where the suspected ancient shipwreck emerged along the coast of Tân Thành, Cẩm An Ward, Hội An City (Quảng Nam).
The wreck of the suspected ancient ship has sparked curiosity among many.
Mr. Nguyễn Thành Công, Deputy Chairman of the Cẩm An People’s Committee, stated that the shipwreck was discovered by locals around 9 AM yesterday, December 26, on the beach approximately 400 meters from the ward’s committee headquarters.
The ship is approximately 15 meters long and 3 meters wide. The wooden frame surrounding the hull has emerged from the sand, resembling the form of an ancient ship.
Authorities have been deployed to secure the site. “According to local experience, this is an ancient trading boat from long ago, and it has been submerged for quite some time. We are waiting for specialized agencies to clarify the situation,” Mr. Công said.
Many curious locals have come to view the shipwreck near the beach. Mr. Nguyễn Đông (60 years old, from Tân Thành neighborhood) believes that the shipwreck’s location was previously a garden area for residents. However, due to years of erosion and land reclamation, people had to relocate. Storms and tidal waves have eroded the land, causing the shipwreck to surface.
Mr. Đông speculates that this shipwreck could be an ancient trading boat, a type of vessel used for sailing, made from rare black wood and known for its durability. It can be said that this is a centuries-old ship.
In a statement to the press, Nguyễn Văn Sơn, Chairman of Hội An City, indicated that he has directed specialized forces to the site to gather information. He believes that the wooden shipwreck discovered is an ancient trading boat that sank long ago. This type of boat was used by traders in Hội An to transport rice, fish, and other essential goods for sale throughout the region. This type of boat is also over 100 years old.
The city has instructed the Hội An Cultural Heritage Management Center to conduct a thorough study and survey to plan the salvage of the shipwreck. If necessary, they will involve archaeologists in the research.
According to Mr. Phạm Phú Ngọc, Director of the Hội An Cultural Heritage Management Center, the ship is of significant value and has a considerable age. The unit arrived at the site as soon as they received the information, but high waves have prevented the salvaging of the ship.
