From a once-deserted island with only cacti and white sand, Bach Long Vi has become a special economic–administrative zone of Hai Phong city, serving as a firm outpost for fishermen reaching out to sea.
Located more than 110 km from Hai Phong’s mainland, Bach Long Vi (White Dragon’s Tail) is the farthest offshore island in the Gulf of Tonkin, part of the nation’s frontline island systemBach Long Vi was established as a district island in 1992, marking an important milestone in affirming sovereignty and promoting sustainable development in the Northern seas and islandsBach Long Vi special zone was formed by upgrading the former district island, with a natural area of 2.33 km² and a population of nearly 700 people. Its administrative headquarters remain at the former district officeThe zone holds a particularly important role in national defense and security, marine economic development strategy, and is one of the eight major fishing grounds in the Gulf of TonkinThe boat journey from the mainland to Bach Long Vi special zone takes more than six hours. In the photo: Streets filled with flags and flowers in Bach Long Vi on the occasion of celebrating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day and the upcoming municipal Party CongressSince 2001, when a harbor with a capacity of 100 fishing vessels was inaugurated, Bach Long Vi has become increasingly vibrant. The harbor provides fishermen with a safe haven for offshore fishing, storm shelter, and tradingEach month, thousands of fishing boats from across the country dock here for fuel, supplies, and shelter from storms. Catches are landed and distributed to markets and restaurantsWhen fishing boats arrive, fishermen are busy trading fresh seafood, an important livelihood that sustains island householdsAt Bach Long Vi wharf, fishermen unload crates of fish, the result of a night at seaSeafood on Bach Long Vi is diverse, abundant, fresh, and affordable. The island is especially known as the “capital of abalone”The island is supplied with fresh water from a reservoir and electricity from a hybrid system of wind turbines, solar panels, and diesel generators, ensuring 24/7 power for residentsLife in Bach Long Vi special zone has been changing and improving, with better living standards for the peopleReliable access to electricity and water allows residents to expand marine economic activities, invest in freezers, stabilize their lives, and reduce hardshipA moment of rest for a fisherman aboard his vesselBach Long Vi is now home to over 1,000 people. Its education system currently extends only to kindergarten and primary school; after grade 5, children must move to the mainland for further studyIn the 2025–2026 school year, Bach Long Vi Primary School continues to provide both preschool and primary education, with 43 students and 9 teachers and staff membersThe island is also home to naval and border guard units, contributing to security, order, and the defense of sovereignty over the northern seas and islandsSmiles of soldiers stationed on the distant islandThe Buddha Pavilion, dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha, is located on Bach Long peak. It was built in 2012 with donations from benefactors. Entirely made of ironwood and standing over 7 m tall, it is a place of spiritual peace on the islandThe foamy waves embrace the rocky shore, once only white sand and cacti, now a frontline outpost at the nation’s edge
