For fishermen in coastal areas, Tet Festival (Lunar New Year) is not only present in their homes or on the family feast table, but also quietly spreads on the boat deck with the fresh paint smell, the vibrant red of the flag, and the sacred rituals on the waves.

The colors of spring on “mobile homes”

In the last days of the 12 Lunar month, along the fishing ports of Hoa Hiep ward, Tuy Hoa ward, Tuy An Dong commune, and Song Cau ward, the atmosphere of Tet preparations is bustling from the water surface.

Boats at Dan Phuoc fishing port (Song Cau ward) gathering for Tet celebrations and heading out to sea

For fishermen, the boat is not just a means of fishing, but also their livelihood and a life-or-death companion in the ocean. Therefore, before the Lunar New Year, dressing the boat in a neat and tidy appearance has become a familiar ritual, carrying much spiritual significance.

Mr. Tran Van Nam, owner of a tuna fishing boat, shared while painting the hull: “Fishermen may still be struggling financially, but the boat celebrating Tet (Lunar New Year) cannot be neglected. A well-maintained boat gives us peace of mind when we go out to sea. When we hoist the national flag to the top of the mast, seeing it flutter in the sunlight, everyone feels lighter in the heart and mind, as if carrying hope for a prosperous new year”.

On the bows of the boats ready to set sail, instead of fishing nets, several pots of chrysanthemums and marigolds are carefully tied. In front of the cabin, red paper strips bearing the words “Smooth Sailing,” and “Happy New Year” add a touch of spring color in the vast expanse of the waves. At this moment, the boat is not just a means of transportation, but becomes a space for celebrating Tet Festival.

Lunar New Year's Eve, salty with the taste of the sea

Celebrating Tet festival on a boat or raft is an experience that is both simple and sacred. As fireworks from the mainland echo in the distance, on the boats anchored along the lagoon or offshore, boat owners and raft owners begin their Lunar New Year's Eve rituals. The feast isn't elaborate, but it's complete in the unique way of seafarers: boiled chicken, a plate of sticky rice, a pack of rice cakes, and a bowl of fragrant fish sauce.

The highlight of spring at the seaport is the custom of “opening the sea” to mark the auspicious day. Usually, on the 2nd or 4th day of Tet (Lunar New Year), the boats simultaneously start their engines and set sail. Hundreds of boats follow each other out of the harbor in the dawn light, carrying with them the hope of safe and successful sea voyages.

For those who live by the sea, Tet festival on the boat is not simply a cultural tradition, but a continuation of their strong bond with the sea and sky of their homeland. Spring permeates the hearts of those ready to venture out to sea, carrying the hope for a peaceful and prosperous new year.

Translated by TRINH THUY