A devastating boating accident in Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay has resulted in at least 34 confirmed deaths, with several others still missing. The accident occurred when a sudden thunderstorm struck the area, causing a tourist boat named Wonder Seas to capsize on Saturday.
The boat was carrying 48 passengers and five crew members on a sightseeing tour of the scenic bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its towering limestone islands and emerald waters.
Fourteen-Year-Old Rescued After Hours in Hull as Storm Triggers Boat Capsize
Rescue teams managed to save 11 individuals from the wreckage, while divers and emergency crews continue searching for those still unaccounted for. Dramatic video footage captured the chaos of the rescue efforts, showing survivors clinging to the overturned hull and others being pulled onto smaller rescue boats amidst the choppy sea.
One of the most remarkable rescues involved a 14-year-old boy who survived four hours trapped in an air pocket inside the capsized vessel before being saved.
The incident was triggered by extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and sudden hailstorms. An eyewitness described the sky turning dark around 2 p.m., followed by “hailstones as big as toes,” accompanied by thunder and lightning. The boat reportedly overturned due to the powerful gusts, and despite safety protocols, many passengers were caught off guard by the rapidly changing conditions.
Rescue Efforts Continue as Survivors Found Alive in Ha Long Bay Tragedy
Among the rescued was a 10-year-old boy who is now in stable condition at Bai Chay Hospital, according to the hospital’s director. Rescue teams, including a group of 15 divers, have been working tirelessly to locate any remaining survivors. Bui Cong Hoan, a local cruise ship official, noted that air pockets in the overturned hull may have helped some passengers survive until rescuers arrived.
Although no American citizens are believed to have been on board, the U.S. State Department has confirmed its awareness of the incident and readiness to provide consular support if needed. Ha Long Bay, located in northern Vietnam’s Quang Ninh Province, is one of the country’s most visited natural wonders.
The name “Ha Long” means “Descending Dragon,” based on local legends. This tragedy underscores the vulnerability of even well-regulated tourist operations to sudden natural disasters.
