Tourist boat capsizes in Phu Quoc, killing 15 foreigners

Authorities in Vietnam's An Giang province are coordinating efforts to address the aftermath of a tourist boat capsizing near Phu Quoc island, which claimed the lives of 15 foreign visitors. Nguyen Tien Hai, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee, confirmed that provincial leaders have directed immediate action to support the victims and manage the situation.

The incident occurred when the boat, en route from Hon May Rut Ngoai to An Thoi port, encountered severe waves and strong winds, causing it to overturn. Rescue teams responded swiftly, reaching the distressed vessel to save those who could be helped and transport them to the Phu Quoc Special Administrative Region's medical center for urgent care. Some passengers were rescued in time and survived.

For the deceased, An Giang province will collaborate with the Cho Ray Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City for post-mortem examinations as per regulations. Provincial Chairman Ho Van Dung has instructed relevant departments to work with Cho Ray Hospital on the autopsies and to handle procedures for foreign nationals, including repatriation if necessary. The province is also reinforcing rescue operations and medical support to save lives.

An initial report from the Phu Quoc Special Administrative Region indicated that the boat, AG-26751, captained by Nguyen Hong Hai, was carrying 32 tourists and three crew members when it departed from Hon May Rut Ngoai. Approximately 500 meters into the journey, the boat capsized due to large waves. By 4 p.m. on July 11, 2026, 15 foreign tourists had been confirmed dead. The report also noted that out of over 100 tourist boats operating in Phu Quoc as of July 2026, only about 70 were deemed operational, with others suspended due to safety concerns.

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The province is directing increased rescue and salvage forces, maximizing efforts to rescue and recover victims, and providing medical support to save tourists. For victims who did not survive, procedures will be carried out according to regulations. The cause of the incident will be investigated to examine and handle the accident according to regulations.