At Least 15 Tourists Killed After Boat Capsizes Off the Coast of Popular Island

At least 15 people were killed after a tourist boat capsized in rough waters near one of Vietnam’s most popular island destinations.

The tragedy unfolded at around 1 p.m. local time on Saturday, July 11, near Phu Quoc, according to Vietnam News and Reuters. The vessel was carrying 32 tourists from India and four crew members when it overturned.

The group had been traveling from Hòn Mây Rút Ngoài Island back to An Thới Port aboard a boat reportedly operated by the Ocean Pearl Island Company. The vessel capsized less than a mile from the island as strong winds and high waves battered the area, VN Express reported.

Emergency crews were quickly dispatched to the scene as a massive rescue effort got underway.

First responders pulled survivors from the water and rushed 21 people to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Two of those rescued were reportedly in critical condition.

“The top priority is rescue, bringing all victims ashore and focusing all efforts on providing emergency care to those who are still alive,” Nguyen Tien Hai, secretary of the An Giang Provincial Party Committee, told VN Express.

Authorities submitted a report on the deadly incident to Vietnam’s prime minister, as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, according to Vietnam News.

Officials have also launched an investigation to determine exactly what caused the vessel to overturn.

“Exact details of the incident are being ascertained as search and rescue operations by local authorities are ongoing,” the Embassy of India in Hanoi wrote in a statement on X.

Hòn Mây Rút Ngoài is a popular tourist destination off Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island. The tropical attraction is known for its white-sand beaches and clear blue water.

Tourists typically reach the island by boat in approximately 20 to 40 minutes, according to VN Express.

The Indian Embassy in Hanoi did not immediately respond to a request for additional comment.