TIEN HAI COMMUNE (HAI TAC ISLAND), KIEN GIANG PROVINCE – A joyful excursion turned into a heartbreaking tragedy this past Sunday, August 17, off the coast of Hai Tac (Pirate) Island, after two female tourists from out of province drowned when their stand-up paddleboard (SUP) was overturned by powerful waves. The incident has cast a somber mood over the popular tourist destination and prompted calls for greater water safety awareness.
The two victims, whose identities are being withheld pending full family notification, were reportedly visiting the scenic archipelago, located in the Gulf of Thailand and administered by Tien Hai commune, Kien Giang province.
According to initial reports from local authorities, the two women had rented a single stand-up paddleboard to explore the coastal waters near the main island. Witnesses stated that the sea conditions on Sunday, while sunny, were challenging, with strong winds and unexpectedly large waves rolling into the bay.
The pair were paddling a significant distance from the shore when a particularly large wave struck their SUP, flipping it over and throwing both women into the turbulent water. It is believed that neither of the tourists was wearing a life vest.
Frantic Rescue Efforts Fall Short
Onlookers on the beach and local boat operators noticed the tourists in distress and immediately launched a rescue effort. Several local fishermen and tour boat staff rushed to the scene to pull the women from the water.
By the time rescuers reached them, both women were unconscious. They were brought back to the shore where local medical personnel and other tourists performed frantic CPR and other first aid measures in an attempt to revive them.
Despite their best efforts, both women were pronounced dead at the scene. A local official from the Tien Hai Commune People's Committee confirmed the fatalities, expressing deep sorrow over the incident.
"This is a profoundly tragic event for our community and for the families of the victims," the official stated. "We are coordinating with provincial authorities to provide the utmost support to the families during this difficult time. An investigation into the full circumstances of the accident is now underway."
A Sobering Reminder of Ocean Dangers
The incident has served as a stark and painful reminder of the inherent dangers of ocean recreational activities, even on what appears to be a calm day. Hai Tac Island, a growing tourist spot known for its rustic charm and beautiful beaches, is now grappling with this tragedy.
Authorities are expected to review safety regulations for water sports equipment rentals, including the mandatory use of life vests for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking, especially when sea conditions are unpredictable. Tour operators are also being urged to provide more explicit warnings to visitors about the potential for strong currents and sudden large waves in the area.
The bodies of the two victims are being transported back to their hometowns for funeral rites. The local community on Hai Tac Island has expressed its collective grief, with many residents and business owners extending their condolences to the bereaved families.
