Hundreds of cruise ships have dropped anchor and begun storm-preparedness measures in Tuan Chau (Quang Ninh), following the province’s announcement suspending all tourist vessel departures from Ha Long Bay due to the approaching storm Wipha.

Cruise services were suspended, and crew members immediately began tying down vessels and securing equipment in preparation for Storm No. 3.

Earlier, on the afternoon of July 20, the Quang Ninh Inland Waterways Port Authority and Vessel Registry issued an urgent notice temporarily suspending port departure permits for all passenger transport vessels within the province.

Given the complexity of Storm No. 3 Wipha, authorities continue to closely monitor weather updates from the official meteorological agency. Timely alerts are being issued to shipowners, ports, captains, and all relevant parties to proactively implement safety measures. All units have been instructed to remain vigilant and take no risks when facing the impact of the approaching storm.

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On the morning of July 21, Quang Ninh experienced heavy rainfall. At Dock 27 in Tuan Chau Port, hundreds of tourist boats halted operations and anchored to avoid the storm.
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In addition to mooring lines fixed to the mainland, adjacent boats were tied together to prevent damage from turbulent waves.
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Amid rain and wind, crews stocked up on food supplies. According to crew members, the anchorage area is manned 24/7 to adjust mooring lines and handle unexpected situations.
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At Tuan Chau wharf, all tourist boats ceased operations, lying motionless at the docks.
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The entire resort area, roads, and parking lots appeared deserted, with no tourists in sight.
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A quiet scene inside one of the passenger terminals at Tuan Chau Port. Currently, vessels returning to shore to drop off passengers are still permitted under the supervision of the Inland Waterways Port Authority and Vessel Registry.
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Captain Nguyen Van Thap was onboard early this morning, personally directing his crew to reinforce the tour boat. “After receiving the emergency alert about Storm No. 3, and especially following the recent windstorm incident that capsized a vessel, I decided to halt operations and drop anchor for safety starting the afternoon of July 19,” he said.
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Tuan Chau Island lies in eerie silence before the landfall of Storm No. 3.
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Thach Thao - Pham Cong