Cruise ships panned for fireworks callousness amid Ha Long Bay accident rescue efforts

The displays on Saturday night by Ambassador Cruise and Sea Octopus took place just hours after the Vinh Xanh 58 overturned with 49 people on board including over 20 children.

The accident claimed the lives of 35 people while four others were still unaccounted for until now.

Many tourists expressed shock that the fireworks went ahead despite the sirens blaring across Ha Long City as rescue operations continued into the night on Saturday.

"Watching the live stream, I couldn’t believe it," Ha Viet, a tourist from Hanoi, said.

"Rescue teams were still struggling to find victims, yet some cruise ships were hosting entertainment activities like nothing had happened."

Vinh Xanh 58 was struck by a sudden thunderstorm at around 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Thuy Anh, a tourism industry worker in Ha Long, called the fireworks display "insensitive and unprofessional."

"Some claimed the ships lost internet connection and weren’t aware of the tragedy, but that’s unreasonable. The accident happened in the afternoon and the fireworks didn’t start until 9 p.m."

While many people slammed the fireworks displays, others urged for understanding, pointing out that the companies had issued public apologies.

A tourist familiar with Ha Long cruises said activities such as music and fireworks are often highlights for both local and international guests in the evenings.

"The cruise operators have apologized and committed to addressing the consequences."

On Sunday Ambassador Cruise and Sea Octopus issued formal apologies on their social media pages.

Ambassador Cruise said the fireworks were part of a pre-planned schedule but admitted to a "lack of sensitivity," which caused emotional distress to victims' families and the public.

Sea Octopus described its fireworks display as a "serious and unacceptable mistake" due to poor communication and situational awareness among its crew.

The company pledged to tighten procedures, improve emergency communication and support affected families during this difficult time.