Waterfront - Boat

"Boat, do you remember the shore? The shore, with unwavering loyalty, awaits your boat..."

The image of boats and docks has always been intertwined as two inseparable entities, especially in folk songs and poignant ballads. The boats silently leave the dock in the early morning on the calm river, only to return to their old waiting place, gathering together in one spot.

Throughout the length and breadth of Vietnam, boats can be found at almost every location. Sometimes, boats line up closely together at the Trang An boat dock, waiting for tourists to arrive.

Sometimes you can admire a few dugout canoes in the sunset on the tranquil Lak Lake. Other times, you can listen to the sound of oars splashing in the water from a boat reflected in the peaceful and poetic Hoai River, or spot the "mobile homes" of the locals at Cai Rang floating market at dusk.

From a means of transportation, the boat has become a source of livelihood and shelter for the people living along the riverbanks year-round.

Heritage Magazine