No-number ship wharf relic unveils new look after restoration

Hai Phong City has invested nearly 235 billion VND to extensively restore and upgrade the no-number ship wharf (K15 wharf) in Do Son, transforming it into a spacious cultural tourism product with synchronized infrastructure and landscape.

Adjacent to the sea embankment, a stone replica of a no-number ship and soldiers stands, measuring 19.8 meters by 5.92 meters. Bronze statues on the ship's deck recreate the farewell ceremony for soldiers embarking on their missions.

Among the newly constructed components are: the relic complex entrance gate, a memorial, a main square, a pier for releasing flower lanterns, and a temple dedicated to heroes and martyrs.

The K15 wharf, nestled at the foot of Van Hoa hill in Do Son ward, marks "kilometer zero" of the Ho Chi Minh trail at sea. This legendary strategic transport route played a crucial role during the resistance war against the United States for national salvation.

Beginning with the Phuong Dong one ship's maiden voyage on 11/10/1962, and continuing until its historical mission concluded, 88 no-number ships departed from K15 wharf. These vessels transported nearly 5,000 tons of weapons, ammunition, and thousands of tons of goods, providing vital aid to the Southern battlefield.

Today, remnants of the old wharf, including rows of piles, emerge from the sea near Vung Set.

The project also includes a sturdy concrete embankment along the sea and a pier for releasing flower lanterns at the location of the old wharf piles.

A square-leafed mangrove tree, brought from Truong Sa by the Ho Chi Minh Trail at Sea Traditional Association, has been planted within the relic grounds.

To commemorate this historic site, a memorial has been constructed, honoring the resounding victories and the sacrifices of heroes and martyrs who gave their lives for the nation.

In 2008, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism recognized K15 wharf as a national historical relic. In 2024, it was further designated as a special national relic within the Ho Chi Minh trail at sea historical relic complex.

After many years of exposure to harsh sea environments, storms, and the passage of time, the K15 wharf relic had deteriorated. Hai Phong City initiated a construction investment project to restore and upgrade the K15 relic complex, covering an area of 2.28 hectares, with a total investment of nearly 235 billion VND.

Compared to its previous state, the relic now features a new parking lot, a square, and restrooms. The project is expected to be inaugurated on 13/5, coinciding with Hai Phong Liberation Day.

The temple dedicated to heroes and martyrs who perished while on duty aboard the no-number ships was built on the site of the Nam Hai God temple. The new Nam Hai God temple has been relocated to the rear. Inside the temple, a plaque lists the names of heroes and martyrs, alongside historical documents and a diorama of the Ho Chi Minh trail at sea.

This site will also serve as a space for educating younger generations about revolutionary traditions, hosting tribute events, memorial ceremonies, and historical experiential tourism.

Behind the ship model, a bronze relief of General Vo Nguyen Giap with the Navy measures 11.71 meters by 6.68 meters. It is mounted on a stainless steel frame and supported by a reinforced concrete structure.

Hai Phong City organized a design competition, selecting three reliefs and three ship models to advance to the final round. Following feedback from the art council and advisory group, the artists refined their designs, which were then displayed for public opinion to determine the best option.