Quang Nam Province, Vietnam — At least 15 Indian tourists were killed and several others remain missing after a passenger boat carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members capsized near an island off Vietnam, local authorities said on Saturday.
The incident occurred during a sightseeing trip in the waters near one of the islands in central Vietnam’s coastal region. According to provincial maritime officials, the vessel overturned in rough conditions; rescue teams from the Vietnamese coast guard, local police and nearby fishing vessels immediately launched search-and-rescue operations.
Rescuers have recovered 15 bodies so far, and they are working to locate survivors and any remaining victims. Several passengers who were pulled from the water were taken to local hospitals for treatment of hypothermia, injuries and shock. Authorities have not yet given a final toll for the missing or the injured.
The boat was reportedly carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members at the time of the accident. Vietnamese officials said they were coordinating with Indian consular authorities to confirm passenger lists and notify families of the victims. The Indian Embassy in Hanoi said it was monitoring the situation closely and providing consular assistance.
Local officials described the search as complicated by strong currents and changing weather conditions. Coast guard vessels and helicopters are involved in the operation, and additional teams have been dispatched to comb surrounding waters and islands. Divers are preparing to inspect submerged sections of the boat if needed.
Investigators have opened inquiries into the cause of the capsizing. They are examining whether overcrowding, vessel condition, safety equipment and weather played roles in the disaster. Authorities also plan to review the boat’s licensing and the crew’s qualifications as part of the probe.
The tragedy has raised renewed concerns about maritime safety for tourist excursions in the region, where small passenger boats are commonly used for island hopping and sightseeing. Local officials said they will consider tightened enforcement of safety rules and more rigorous inspections for tourist vessels.
The rescue and recovery operation is ongoing. Vietnamese authorities urged nearby vessels to assist with the search and advised the public to avoid the area to allow emergency teams to work.