via Vietnam Plus, 28 December 2023: Hoi An city authorities in Quang Nam province have taken swift protective measures after the discovery of a suspected ancient shipwreck near Cam An ward. The area has been cordoned off, with around-the-clock security to prevent unauthorized salvage. The find, made during an emergency coastal embankment project, revealed wooden beams resembling a ship’s structure. Due to high tides, further details are yet to be determined. Hoi An has reported the discovery to the Quang Nam Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, as the city administration lacks authority for excavation. Local fishermen speculate the wreckage to be an ancient merchant vessel.
Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Nguyen Van Lanh said on December 27 that in addition to such measures to prevent unauthorised salvage operations, work are underway to raise local awareness about legal regulations on the protection of underwater heritage.
The incident unfolded on December 26 in the area where an emergency coastal embankment project was underway to combat erosion at Cua Dai beach. Local residents discovered an object believed to be a long-lost vessel. The impact of tidal surges and ocean waves caused a portion of the ship to protrude above the water surface.
According to Lanh, upon receiving reports of the discovery, specialised personnel from the city’s cultural heritage conservation centre were sent to the scene to conduct an initial check. However, due to high tides over the past two days, the detailed structure of the artifact and the measurements of the wooden elements remain undetermined. Observations have indicated multiple dark brown wooden beams protruding from the sea surface, resembling the shape of a boat with a pointed end.
