By Minh Phương

Mermaids have long captured our imaginations, embodying the mysteries of the deep seas. If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a mermaid, there’s a place in Hà Nội where that dream can come true.

Mermaiding, the practice of swimming in a mermaid tail costume. Photo courtesy of Mermaid Village

Every weekend, a group of divers gathers at the National Convention Centre in Hà Nội, transforming into mermaids. The group, known as "Làng Tiên Cá" (Mermaid Village), actively helps diving enthusiasts acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for mermaid diving, including how to protect themselves from potential dangers.

Mermaid diving is essentially free diving without the use of scuba tanks, requiring divers to hold their breath throughout the process. Unlike regular diving, mermaid diving involves wearing a tight, large tail over a monofin, so mastering breath-holding and swimming with the tail is essential.

"Everyone must know how to swim first, then learn the dolphin kick technique, followed by methods for body relaxation underwater. On average, it takes about three months of regular practice to perform beautiful, flexible, and graceful movements," Đặng Ngát, a mermaid diving instructor, said.

"Mermaid diving is different from regular swimming and diving because the tight tail makes swimming and movement more challenging. The monofin and tail together weigh about three to five kilograms."

Ngát (2nd left) shows the dolphin kick technique to learners. VNS Photo Hải Anh

The sport was first introduced in Việt Nam around five years ago but only gained popularity in the past year, with dozens of clubs, groups, and mermaid diving courses flourishing in HCM City and Hà Nội.

Trần Việt Hưng, a member of the group, said: "The number of members has quadrupled over the last eight months, as many people are seeking a 'healing' therapy after tiring days at work. Beginners may find it difficult to adapt, as wearing a tail can make it feel like their legs are 'tied together'.

"However, with practice, they will master the technique. A flexible body allows them to create swimming poses and flick their hair like a real mermaid."

The risks associated with mermaid diving include cramps and even breathlessness, as your legs are pressed together when diving with a fishtail.

KITTED OUT: The diver wears a monofin and a mermaid tail, which together weigh up to five kilograms. VNS Photo Minh Phương

Ngát emphasised the importance of safety: "When engaging in this sport, we must train our physical strength and equip ourselves with various survival, swimming, diving, first aid, and rescue skills. This ensures that we can protect ourselves and our fellow divers."

Attracted by the graceful, flexible movements and the enchanting beauty of the "fish" tails, Trương Mỹ Hằng has become adept at moving through the water after a few years of practice. She has also been pleasantly surprised by the health benefits the sport offers.

"The first time I learned about mermaid diving was through a viral clip on the internet. I saw people diving with sharks, which made me very curious. Since taking up this sport, I’m no longer afraid of deep water and feel confident swimming underwater, even at depths of up to seven metres. My lung capacity and overall health have also significantly improved," Hằng said.

Mermaid diving isn’t just for women; it has also attracted men.

"For me, as a man, it's a bit more challenging compared to women. The dolphin kick technique requires a certain level of flexibility, which is harder for men to achieve. However, this isn’t an insurmountable obstacle. With diligent practice and frequent use of the monofin, you can master it," Nguyễn Huy Minh said.

After months of training with the team, Minh and some other members have even had the chance to transform and perform in underwater mermaid shows at aquariums.

"Our audience is mostly children," Minh said. "They are very excited and thrilled to see mermaids swimming in a tank about five to seven metres deep. When we look through the glass and see them smiling and clapping, it gives us a special feeling. We feel that we are bringing joy and laughter to the children, making the images of mermaids they see in books or on television come to life."

For many, mermaid diving is an exciting new way to explore the underwater world. Phan Thị Liễu, a diving learner, now hopes her daughter can share in the wonder of the underwater world.

"I think the world is very beautiful and vibrant, so just living on land is not enough. If we can explore the skies or dive underwater, our world will expand. I really want to accompany my children as they explore the world," she said.

The mermaid scene blurs the boundaries between fantasy and reality, enchanting enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. VNS