A tragic boat accident in Vietnam’s famous Ha Long Bay on Saturday afternoon claimed the lives of at least 34 people, according to reports from state media. The incident occurred when a tourist boat carrying families capsized during a sudden storm. Rescue teams are still searching for the missing passengers.

Boat Capsizes Due to Storm

According to VNExpress, the vessel was carrying 48 tourists and five crew members when heavy rain and strong winds struck the UNESCO World Heritage site, causing the boat to overturn. The boat, which was ferrying mainly families from the capital city Hanoi, capsized quickly due to the storm’s force.

“Border guards rescued 11 people and recovered 34 bodies,” VNExpress reported.

Among the survivors was a 14-year-old boy, who was trapped inside the overturned boat for four hours before being rescued. Officials said most of the passengers were tourists from Hanoi, with over 20 children on board.

28 dead as Tourist Boat Capsizes in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. pic.twitter.com/rQyIF1Dkaf

— Biblical Watchman (@Satoshian2) July 19, 2025

Rescue Operations and Weather Warnings

Authorities are continuing rescue efforts as some passengers remain unaccounted for. The disaster happened just as a tropical storm is threatening the region. The national weather service has warned that Storm Wipha is moving toward northern Vietnam. It is expected to hit the coastal areas, including Ha Long Bay, in the coming week.

Rescue teams are working against time to find survivors before weather conditions worsen. The suddenness of the storm left little time for passengers to react, contributing to the high death toll.

Ha Long Bay's Risk of Storm Impact

Ha Long Bay, known for its stunning limestone islands and clear waters, is now facing the additional threat of worsening weather. The national forecast agency confirmed that Storm Wipha could bring more rain and strong winds to the area, complicating ongoing rescue operations.

Officials have urged caution for all vessels operating in the region as they prepare for the arrival of the storm.

The tourist boat disaster has shocked the country, as families from Hanoi’s capital lost their loved ones during a routine sightseeing trip. With the storm approaching, authorities are racing to complete rescue operations and avoid further tragedy.