Phu Quoc Island Tragedy: Vietnam Tightens Safety Measures for Marine Tourism

A tragic maritime accident involving a tourist boat capsizing off the southern coast of Phu Quoc Island has claimed the lives of 15 Indian tourists, marking one of the most severe incidents in recent years. This tragedy has sounded an alarm regarding the safety management of marine tourism in Vietnam, prompting authorities to implement comprehensive and decisive measures. The incident occurred on the afternoon of July 11, when the speedboat Ocean Pearl Island (registration number AG-26751) capsized shortly after departing the pier. Out of the 36 people on board, 15 perished, while 21 were rescued. Local authorities immediately activated the highest level of rescue operations and coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate the repatriation of the deceased and provide support to the victims' families. While initial reports suggested extreme weather conditions as the cause, the accident has exposed significant shortcomings in the management of tourist vessels. The Director of the An Giang Department of Tourism has called for stricter control over tourist transport, emphasizing thorough departure procedures, especially for trips around islands, and the consistent provision of weather information, particularly during the rainy season and peak summer tourism period. Concerns have also been raised about the suitability of enclosed cabin speedboats for passenger transport. A similar incident in 2022 in Quang Nam province (now Da Nang City), which resulted in 17 deaths, highlighted how enclosed spaces hindered passenger escape. The issue of life jacket non-compliance has also emerged as a serious problem, with footage from the accident scene showing many passengers not wearing them. A combination of lax supervision by some boat captains and guides, and passenger complacency, appears to have contributed to the fatal outcome. Phu Quoc Island currently has approximately 100 tourist boats in operation, but only 70 meet the SB (river-sea) standard. The remaining 30 vessels, despite being non-compliant, have reportedly continued to operate, posing a direct threat to tourist safety. Local authorities had ordered these non-compliant boats to cease operations, yet their continued presence was noted just before the accident. Investigations are underway by law enforcement agencies to determine the exact cause of the accident and to hold responsible parties accountable. The Chairman of the Phu Quoc Special Administrative Region has mandated that all tourism businesses adhere to legally stipulated safety standards, particularly regarding the provision of life jackets and the establishment of beach rescue services. The An Giang Provincial People's Committee has also instructed the provincial police and the Procuracy to conduct an objective and rigorous investigation into the responsibilities of all involved organizations and individuals. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of the entire maritime transport management system, including vessel registration, licensing, technical safety, departure procedures, and life-saving equipment, has been ordered. Local police are conducting awareness campaigns for boat owners and operators, emphasizing compliance with maritime traffic laws, enhancing emergency response capabilities, prohibiting night and adverse weather operations, and ensuring the mandatory presence of life jackets and fire extinguishers before commencing any voyage. Source: Nhan Dan