Vietnam Authorities Warn of Water Travel Dangers After Deadly Phu Quoc Boat Capsize

Authorities are issuing stern warnings about the dangers of water travel after a tragic tourist boat capsize in Phu Quoc on July 11 resulted in significant loss of life. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of adhering to maritime safety regulations.

Police in Ho Chi Minh City noted a recent surge in demand for tourist boat and speedboat excursions. While these trips offer exciting island exploration, they carry inherent risks, especially during unpredictable weather or when safety guidelines are ignored. Many travelers exhibit a casual attitude towards safety, such as not wearing life vests correctly, removing them mid-journey, or standing up and moving around while the vessel is in motion. These seemingly minor actions can dramatically increase the danger if an unexpected incident occurs.

The Department of Firefighting, Prevention, and Rescue Police (PC07) of the Ho Chi Minh City Police Department has provided crucial safety recommendations. They urge individuals and tour operators to only use licensed vessels that meet safety standards. Passengers must wear life vests properly throughout the entire journey and never remove them while the boat is moving. It is essential to monitor weather forecasts and avoid travel during warnings of thunderstorms, strong winds, or high waves. Passengers should always follow the instructions of the captain and crew, avoid crowding, and ensure close supervision of children and the elderly.

Boat operators and businesses are reminded of their responsibilities. They must conduct regular technical checks on their vessels before departure, ensure all required safety equipment, including life vests and rescue devices, is available and functional. They must brief passengers on safety procedures and the use of life-saving equipment before setting off. Operating vessels in adverse weather conditions or when safety standards are not met is strictly prohibited. The statement emphasized that water safety is a shared responsibility, relying heavily on both regulatory oversight and the personal vigilance of every passenger.