Eyewitness accounts describe the harrowing moments leading up to the capsizing, with sudden downpours accompanied by massive hailstones and a fierce thunderstorm. A 10-year-old boy made it to safety after managing to escape an air pocket inside the overturned boat, recounting his miraculous survival.

Grief-stricken families shared their heart-wrenching stories, with one mother expressing an unbearable loss over her 21-year-old son. The police confirmed that the search for additional survivors continued amid challenging conditions, including heavy rain obstructing recovery efforts.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has expressed condolences to the victims' families and announced an official investigation into the accident. Authorities have assured the public that any violations leading to the tragedy will be dealt with strictly. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its breathtaking islands, welcomed four million tourists in 2019, highlighting its significance as a leading destination in Vietnam.

This incident underscores the need for improved safety measures in the tourism sector, especially in adverse weather conditions that can swiftly turn a beautiful day into a disastrous one.