On Saturday, July 20, 2025, a tragic speedboat accident near Phu Quoc island in southern Vietnam claimed the lives of 15 Indian tourists. The boat was carrying a total of 32 Indian tourists along with 4 crew members when it capsized during a thunderstorm.
Authorities confirmed that 21 people were rescued from the water and those injured were taken to local hospitals for treatment. The incident occurred approximately 400 meters from the popular Hon May Rut Ngoai island as the boat was returning to the An Thoi International Port.
Details of the Speedboat Incident
The speedboat, named Wonder Sea, was reportedly returning from a day trip when it overturned. Local media reports indicate that the vessel capsized due to the severe weather conditions present at the time. Witnesses described the chaotic scene, where nearby boats immediately rushed to assist in the rescue efforts.
Photos shared on social media depicted the moments when rescuers pulled victims from the water. Many passengers were trapped inside the overturned vessel, complicating the rescue operations, according to the VN Express news site.
Rescue Operations and Response
Following the accident, Vietnamese border guards, navy, and coastguard units were dispatched to the scene to aid in the rescue operations. An official statement from India’s embassy in Hanoi confirmed that local authorities were actively working to rescue survivors and coordinate with the victims’ families.
The embassy has set up control rooms in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to facilitate communication and support for those affected. “Exact details of the incident are being ascertained,” the embassy stated.
Historical Context of Maritime Accidents in Vietnam
This incident marks a significant maritime tragedy in Vietnam, echoing the capsizing of the Wonder Sea in Ha Long Bay last July, which resulted in the deaths of 39 people. Such accidents raise concerns about the safety regulations governing tourist boats in the region, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
Phu Quoc, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is a well-known destination popular among tourists for its stunning beaches and clear waters. The island, along with Hon May Rut Island, attracts millions of visitors annually, highlighting the need for stringent safety measures in the tourism sector.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
