Ha Long Bay witnessed a sudden maritime tragedy on Saturday afternoon when a passenger cruise ship carrying 53 people—including 48 tourists and five crew—capsized amid strong winds and rough seas. The incident occurred in the bay’s northern waters off Quang Ninh province.
Vietnam News Agency confirmed that at least three people lost their lives in the accident, while rescue teams have pulled 10 survivors to safety. Local coast guard units, fishing boats and nearby vessels joined forces in ongoing search-and-rescue efforts.
The accident underscores the risks of sudden weather shifts in coastal tourism hotspots. Meteorological authorities had issued wind advisories earlier in the day, warning of gusty conditions and choppy waves that can challenge even experienced crews.
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its emerald waters and limestone karsts, attracts millions of global travelers each year. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder for digital nomads, eco-tourists and operators to stay vigilant and prioritize safety protocols on the water.
As investigations continue, the maritime community and travel industry are focusing on lessons learned, aiming to enhance real-time monitoring and emergency response systems to prevent future disasters.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
