Vietnam Boat Tragedy: How Did The Speedboat Carrying 32 Indian Tourists Capsize Near Phu Quoc?

Last Updated:July 11, 2026, 16:35 IST

A speedboat carrying 32 Indian tourists capsized 400 metres from shore near Vietnam's Phu Quoc Island, prompting frantic rescue operations.

At least 15 Indian tourists were killed in a tragic accident after a speedboat overturned near Vietnam’s popular Phu Quoc Island, prompting extensive rescue operations and emergency measures to assist affected families.

The boat, operated by Ocean Pear Island Company and carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members, was travelling from Hon May Rut Islet to An Thoi Port, about 25 km from Phu Quoc, when it capsized about 400 metres from shore, according to local media outlet VnExpress.

Local authorities managed to rescue 21 people, including three crew members and an attendant, while 15 tourists died in the accident. Nearby tourist boats rushed to assist after spotting the overturned boat.

“In a tragic incident, a boat carrying several Indian tourists has capsized near Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam a few hours ago. Exact details of the incident are being ascertained as search and rescue operations by local authorities are ongoing," said the Indian embassy in Vietnam.

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How Did The Boat Capsize?

According to the report, the sea conditions were rough at the time of the accident, with large waves appearing in the area. It is possible that the boat overturned due to choppy waters, although there was no rain and other tourist boats were still operating in the area.

The boat capsized 400 metres from shore, throwing everyone aboard into the sea, according to the authorities in the Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone. Authorities rushed to the scene to initiate rescue efforts.

A boat operator told VnExpress that his vessel reached the scene within about five minutes, but several Indian tourists were trapped inside the boat, which made rescue efforts difficult. “Only a few people were brought out conscious," he said.

The An Thoi Border Guard dispatched two vessels and 35 officers to join rescue efforts alongside the navy, coast guard and other authorities. The rescuers brought all 36 people to shore, with 15 Indian tourists – two women and 13 men – confirmed dead.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting thousands of visitors from India. The May Rut Islet is a popular destination for snorkelling and diving activities.

About the Author

Aveek Banerjee

Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int...Read More

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