During an unusual situation on board, many people's instinctive reaction is: stand up – run out to see – pull out a phone to record. This is usually what you should not do. On a watercraft, chaotic movement can:
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Disrupt vessel balance.
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Block escape routes.
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Hinder the crew.
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Cause panic among other passengers.
In 2026, Quang Ninh stated that the entire tourist boat fleet operating in the Bay must meet all technical safety, lifesaving, and fire prevention and fighting requirements, and be monitored via GPS, AIS, and communication systems.
Priority 1: Listen to the captain and crew
Do not decide on your own to:
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Jump into the water.
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Run to upper decks.
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Transfer to another boat.
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Open technical doors/compartments.
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Put on or take off equipment at your own discretion.
Follow orders. Quang Ninh authorities also continuously instruct visitors to wear life jackets and follow regulations when boarding, disembarking, and visiting sightseeing spots.
Priority 2: Put on your life jacket properly when instructed
Do not just drape it around your neck. Fasten all straps and buckles according to instructions. A life jacket does not prevent accidents, but it buys crucial time for rescue teams to reach you.
If you see someone fall overboard
Alert the crew immediately. If there is a lifebuoy nearby and you know how to use it, follow instructions. Do not jump in to rescue them yourself unless you are trained and the situation requires it. An untrained rescuer can very easily become a second victim.
In case of a severe collision
After a collision, if anyone has:
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Hit their head.
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Lost consciousness.
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Neck/back pain.
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Numbness or weakness in limbs.
do not pull them up to sit just to “see if they are okay.” The Red Cross advises that anyone suspected of having a head, neck, or spinal injury should be kept in their current position, unless movement is required due to immediate danger, CPR, or controlling life-threatening bleeding.
In case of a medical emergency
Notify the crew immediately to:
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Administer first aid.
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Contact on-duty response teams.
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Determine the nearest docking location.
From April 2026, the Quang Ninh health department has deployed a 24/7 standby emergency team on Ti Top Island equipped with emergency supplies and coordination plans with shore-based medical facilities. In critical situations, dial 112.
5 Things Not to Do
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Do not crowd exit routes.
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Do not jump into the sea on your own.
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Do not remove your life jacket without permission.
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Do not run around the boat to film videos.
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Do not spread unverified information that can cause passenger panic.
Pre-Departure Checklist
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Know where life jackets are located.
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Identify escape exits.
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Listen to the safety briefing.
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Wear footwear that is easy to move in.
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Keep personal medications easily accessible.
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Do not lock passports and essential medications deep inside hard-to-reach luggage.
