Boat travelers will have an opportunity to enjoy the bay's scenic beauty while discovering the traditional maritime culture of Quang Ninh's coastal communities.
The three-plank sailboat has one bottom plank, two side planks, and two batwing-shaped sails that enable the boat to sail efficiently even against the wind. This traditional means of transport offers visitors a culturally rich experience that differs from modern tourist boats. The sightseeing route follows the shoreline of Ha Long Bay, departing from the Quang Ninh Waterway Passenger Transport Company's terminal and returning to the Quang Ninh Museum and Library.
Six boats built at the workshop of artisan Le Duc Chan in Lien Hoa ward have been put into service in the first phase. Each boat preserves traditional boat-building knowledge and reflects the distinctive maritime life of local coastal communities.
Chan said: "My ancestors created this type of sailboat. It can sail with the wind, across the wind, against the wind, and against the current, greatly reducing manual rowing."
Against the backdrop of the Ha Long Bay World Natural Heritage Site, the red sails create a striking visual effect and evoke the region's traditional maritime culture. The boat service will diversify tourism services and support a greener, more sustainable tourism model that places culture at its core.
Some visitors say they are impressed with the new service:
"On board, visitors are served with tea and local cakes that recreate the feeling of old Ha Long."
"I'm delighted to experience the traditional three-plank sailboat. I believe this service will attract more visitors to Ha Long Bay."
10 three-plank sailboats are expected to be in operation soon, forming a fleet of distinctive heritage boats on Ha Long Bay. Quang Ninh province plans to develop additional tourism products, such as boat races and souvenirs inspired by the three-plank sailboat.
