Delegates at the ritual reviewed the history of the establishment of the Hoang Sa flotilla, which was set up in the early 17th century by the Nguyen Lords to patrol the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelagos in order to measure sea routes, explore natural resources, and safeguard national sovereignty over the seas and islands.
The event continued with food offerings, a funeral oration, a requiem for the dead and the launch of replicas of the boats that carried the soldiers and sailors out to sea.
According to traditional beliefs, the boats with effigies of sailors are launched into the seas to pray for peace for the sailors so that they could return home safely.
The ceremony is observed in Ly Son and many coastal areas in Quang Ngai as a strong affirmation of Vietnam’s sovereignty over its seas and islands while educating young people on patriotism.
The ritual was recognised as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in April 2013.
