Phu Quoc Tourist Boat Tragedy Claims 15 Lives as Rescue Efforts Continue off Vietnam's Resort Island

A sightseeing boat carrying mostly Indian tourists capsized off Vietnam’s popular island of Phu Quoc, leaving at least 15 people dead. Authorities continue search and rescue efforts as investigators work to determine the cause of the accident.

A sightseeing excursion off Vietnam’s resort island of Phu Quoc ended in tragedy recently when a passenger boat capsized in rough seas, leaving at least 15 people dead and prompting an ongoing search and rescue operation.

According to Vietnamese news outlet VnExpress, citing local authorities, the vessel overturned while returning from Hon May Rut Island to An Thoi Port, approximately 400 metres offshore. The boat was carrying 36 people, including 32 tourists from India, three crew members, and one attendant.

Twenty-one people were rescued following the accident, while emergency teams continued efforts to locate any remaining passengers. Authorities have not yet confirmed the final casualty figures as rescue operations and investigations continue.

VnExpress reported that sea conditions were challenging at the time of the incident, with rough weather and large waves believed to have contributed to the capsizing. Officials are investigating the precise circumstances surrounding the accident.

India’s Embassy in Vietnam said it was closely monitoring developments and had established emergency response centres in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to assist affected families.

In a statement, the embassy described the incident as “tragic,” adding that the exact details were still being determined as local authorities continued search and rescue operations.

Phu Quoc, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is Vietnam’s largest island and one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing holiday destinations. Known for its white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, island-hopping excursions, and marine attractions, the island has experienced a significant tourism boom in recent years, attracting visitors from across Asia and beyond.

Boat excursions to nearby islands, including Hon May Rut, are among the area’s most popular activities, offering opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, and sightseeing. Operators routinely monitor weather conditions before departures, although sudden changes in sea conditions can pose challenges, particularly during periods of unsettled weather.

Maritime accidents involving tourist vessels are relatively uncommon in Vietnam’s established resort destinations, though safety standards and weather-related operating procedures have come under renewed scrutiny following previous incidents elsewhere in the region. Authorities are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the accident as part of the ongoing investigation.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over one of Vietnam’s premier tourism destinations, with condolences continuing to pour in as rescue crews and officials work to support survivors and the families of those affected.

The incident was reported by VnExpress, with additional reporting from CNN and Reuters.

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