Fishermen in Co To District have recently observed multiple groups of dolphins in the waters. While catching cuttlefish on Phai Islet, a fisherman spotted dozens of dolphins swimming near his fishing boat. He managed to capture photos of these sea creatures using his smartphone. Locals have reported occasional sightings of dolphins in the waters off Co To Island, but recently, as many as 30 dolphins have visited the island. Additionally, whales and sea turtles are also frequently spotted in the area. Last year, border guards recorded a video of dolphins swimming six nautical miles from the beach while patrolling the coast. The Co To District People’s Committee has taken steps to protect marine creatures by banning the use of single-use plastic bags and encouraging the use of environmentally friendly containers. The presence of these sea creatures serves as evidence of the district’s commitment to environmental conservation.
The marine ecosystem improves, attracting dolphins, whales, and turtles to Co To Island, administered by Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam. Photo: Tuan Anh / Tuoi Tre |
Last August, locals also spotted a rare turtle in the waters. Since September 15 of last year, tourists have been banned from using single-use plastic bags on the island. The district encourages both locals and visitors to use environmentally friendly containers instead. This commitment to environmental protection and the measures taken to restrict the use of plastic bags have attracted various sea creatures to the area.
Con Dao from “hell on earth” to “tourist paradise”
Con Dao has been voted one of the best “secret” and most “appealing” islands on earth by Australian Lonely Planet and US Travel and Leisure magazines. Once a “hell on earth” for thousands of political prisoners before 1975, Con Dao has now turned into “tourist heaven” home to deserted white sand beaches with crystal clear waters and a natural reserve boasting rich marine ecosystems.