HANOI, July 20 – A tourist boat carrying 53 people capsized in Ha Long Bay, a popular tourist destination in Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam, leaving at least 28 people dead.
The accident occurred at approximately 1:45 p.m. on Saturday (July 19), shortly after Typhoon Wipha moved into the South China Sea. Strong winds and high waves were reported near the area of Dau Go Cave in Ha Long Bay, causing the vessel, identified by registration number QN-7105, to overturn.
According to the Thanh Nien newspaper, the boat was carrying 53 people, including 48 tourists and five crew members.
As of 8:45 p.m. local time, the Vietnam News Agency reported that rescue teams had saved 11 individuals and recovered the bodies of 28 victims, including eight children.
Authorities have yet to release details regarding the identities or nationalities of the tourists. Rescue efforts remain ongoing.
Ha Long Bay spans an area of 1,500 square kilometers and is home to nearly 2,000 islands. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts millions of domestic and international visitors each year.