Tourist Boats Capsize in China, 3 Dead, 60 Hurt

A peaceful sightseeing trip turned into a nightmare when multiple tourist boats capsized in a Chinese river, leading to the tragic deaths of 3 people and leaving at least 60 injured. The accident occurred in the popular tourist destination of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, known for its stunning natural beauty and river cruises.

• Tourist boats capsized in the scenic region of Guangxi, China

• 3 tourists confirmed dead, including one child

• At least 60 injured, several seriously, rushed to local hospitals

• Overcrowding and a sudden storm likely caused the boats to overturn

• Rescue operations involved hundreds of emergency workers

• Chinese authorities have launched an investigation into the incident

• The public demands stricter safety regulations for tourist services

The accident took place on the Lijiang River in Guilin, a world-famous tourist area known for its dramatic karst mountain landscape and river cruises.

• The Lijiang River is considered one of China’s most beautiful waterways

• Tourists flock to Guilin for scenic boat tours, often featured in Chinese art and poetry

• The area is frequently crowded, especially during national holidays and weekends

• The weather was calm in the morning, drawing hundreds of tourists to the river

• Around 2 PM local time, the weather changed suddenly with strong winds and heavy rain

• The river became turbulent, and two boats carrying over 70 people capsized within minutes

• Passengers were thrown into the water, and many could not swim or were not wearing life jackets

As soon as the boats capsized, emergency services were activated. Local fishermen, rescue divers, and firefighters rushed to the scene.

• More than 150 rescuers are involved, including drones and underwater cameras

• Survivors were pulled from the water, some clinging to debris or boat parts

• Victims were rushed to Guilin People’s Hospital and surrounding clinics

• The rescue continued into the night using floodlights and infrared equipment

• 3 people have died, including one elderly tourist and a young child

• All victims were part of a domestic tour group from Eastern China

• 60+ injured, including:

  • Broken bones

  • Hypothermia

  • Head injuries from being thrown into rocks or boat parts

Tourists and local boat operators gave chilling accounts of the moments before and after the capsizing.

“We were enjoying the view when the wind suddenly picked up. Waves crashed over the boat. People screamed, and before we knew it, we were in the water,” — Chen Li, a survivor from the first boat

“There were no warnings about the weather. I didn’t see anyone distributing life jackets,” — Tour guide from Guilin

Chinese officials have launched a formal investigation to determine responsibility and prevent such tragedies in the future.

“We will not tolerate negligence. If safety regulations were ignored, strict action will be taken,” — Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism

“Rescue operations are complete, and now the focus is on supporting victims and holding those responsible accountable,” — Local government official

This tragic incident has once again put a spotlight on the safety standards of China’s tourism industry, especially during peak seasons.

• Lack of weather monitoring systems on rivers

• Insufficient training of boat staff in emergency procedures

• No enforcement of life jacket use

• Pressure on local operators to take more passengers for profit

Tourism watchdogs are urging the government to revamp safety protocols and conduct surprise inspections regularly.

Although the victims are confirmed to be Chinese nationals, the incident has attracted international attention due to the global popularity of Guilin as a tourist destination.

• Several foreign tour companies have paused bookings to the region

• Travel advisories are being reviewed

• Online forums and travel groups are filled with safety concerns and calls for better regulation

The capsizing of tourist boats in China’s Guilin region is a heartbreaking reminder that safety can never be compromised, no matter how beautiful or popular a destination is. As families mourn and survivors recover, it is now up to the authorities to ensure this never happens again.