Typhoon Aftermath: Recovery Efforts in Quang Ninh

Tran Van Hong, who operates the Hong Hai fleet, shared his experience during the recent typhoon, Yagi, that struck Quang Ninh. Anticipating severe weather, he and his crew relocated their tourism boats to safer docks at Tuan Chau and Bai Chay, securing them to prevent damage. Despite these precautions, the relentless winds and waves resulted in collisions with other vessels, causing significant damage.

Post-typhoon, the area where the fleet was located was in ruins, with substantial harm to the boats’ hulls and engines. Fortunately, after a week of repairs, Hong Hai was able to resume operations and welcome back passengers swiftly.

“As soon as the provincial authorities allowed us to resume operations, my fleet has been bustling with activity,” he remarked.

Co To Island was hit hard, being the first area to feel the storm’s impact. Winds reached 17 levels, resulting in considerable destruction, including ripped roofs. In this challenging situation, various accommodation providers offered refuge to local residents.

Le Thi Loan, the proprietor of Co To View, described how her hotel filled with locals seeking shelter as the storm approached. She provided complimentary meals and lodging to those in need.

The intense winds damaged many windows at her establishment. Given Co To’s location as an island, repairs and restocking supplies were challenging compared to the mainland. However, guests and local residents assisted in sourcing materials like metal roofing and window glass, enabling her hotel to recover quickly.

“We managed to reopen shortly after the storm. Without the help from locals, it would have taken us much longer to get back on our feet,” Loan stated.

By September 13, Ha Long Bay was back in business, welcoming cruise operations once again. Remarkably, just a week following the storm, Quang Ninh’s tourism industry revived, attracting 6,000 visitors, including international guests.

On the reopening day, approximately 1,000 tourists enjoyed the sights of Ha Long Bay on around 50 cruises.

Reports indicate that 315 out of 359 tourist and accommodation boats, which is approximately 88 percent, are prepared to serve guests.

Pham Ha, president of Lux Group, noted that after repairs, Heritage Binh Chuan began welcoming guests again on September 13, while its sister cruise, Emper Cruises Legacy Ha Long, which suffered more extensive damage, resumed services on September 16.

Both cruises quickly saw full bookings through the end of September, with most guests arriving from Europe and the US. Six groups of travelers, each comprised of about 100 tourists, have been hosted so far, with an expected increase in numbers for October.

“We are currently repairing the high-speed vessels that ferry passengers to the cruises, which should be ready by mid-October. Additionally, the port terminal has just reopened,” stated Ha.

“However, we urgently need to clean up the bay’s environment as there is a significant amount of debris left from the storm. The sunken boats that have yet to be salvaged also pose a risk,” he added.

The Sun Group, owners of several entertainment parks affected by the typhoon, resumed operations at Sun World Ha Long on September 23. Dragon Park is expected to open mid-October.

Tran Van Minh, CEO of Sun World Ha Long, noted that the visitor numbers have remained steady, predominantly from South Korea and Taiwan (China), making up 78 percent of their guests.

In contrast, Hai Phong’s tourism industry is still grappling with recovery. Even after twenty days, Cat Ba’s hotels and restaurants are in need of repairs.

Pham Tri Tuyen from Cat Hai district disclosed that the typhoon inflicted damages amounting to VND1.3 trillion, with only 30-40 percent of local guesthouses and hotels ready to host travelers.