In Phan Thiet – Mui Ne and many coastal villages of Central and Southern Vietnam, whales (respectfully called “Ca Ong” – "Grandfather Fish") are revered as sacred protectors of the ocean.
Fishermen believe Ca Ong is a divine being who helps boats in distress, shielding them from storms and rough seas. To them, the whale is not just an animal, but "Ngai Ca Ong" – a holy and respected sea deity.
Folk Tale: “The Whale Saved the Boats”
Long ago, during a violent sea storm, a fleet of fishing boats from Mui Ne was caught in fierce winds and towering waves. Just as the boats were about to be lost, a giant whale suddenly surfaced. It used its body to block the waves and gently pushed the boats toward the shore. The fishermen survived and believed it was Ngai Ca Ong himself who appeared to save them.
Since then, when a whale washes ashore, locals consider it a sacred event. A solemn funeral is held, and the whale is respectfully laid to rest at Lang Ong Nam Hai – the Whale Temple in Phan Thiet.
Whale Worship Tradition
Today, Lang Ong still preserves a 20-meter-long whale skeleton. Fishermen and locals visit to:
Pray for calm seas, safe journeys, and plentiful catches
Wish for health, fortune, and peace for their families.
