Boats banned from leaving Phu Quoc due to storm

Boat services to Phu Quoc Island have been suspended due to the effect of Storm Podul.

Many tourists stranded on Phu Quoc Island

On August 29, many tourists that want to buy tickets from Phu Quoc Island to Rach Gia City were told that all boat services had been suspended due to strong winds and waves.

Thinh, a stranded tourist, said, "We were only told about the suspension after arriving at the ticket booth. We had already checked out of our hotel. We also don't know when the services will be resumed."

Nguyen Thi To Nga, director of a Superdong high-speed boat service, said, "We received the notice that there would be strong waves and winds on August 29 so all tourist boat services from Rach Gia and Ha Tien to Phu Quoc must be suspended."

She went on to say that they had sent the notification to all customers and guided them on how to convert their tickets to August 30 trips. Those who disagreed would have a 100% refund.

"Due to the effect of Storm Podul, we have asked all fishing boats to seek shelter and banned other boats from leaving ports. The authorities are monitoring the weather and guide the residents on how to deal with the storm," said Mai Van Huynh, chairman of Phu Quoc Island People’s Committee.

Many people worry that Phu Quoc may experience heavy rains and suffer another severe flood like that experienced in early August. The authorities were asked to quickly deal with constructions that encroach upon canals and rivers and upgrade the drainage system.