The Quang Nam Province People's Court found Le Sen, 54, guilty of violating maritime traffic regulations during the incident about 3 kilometers off the coast.
The tragedy occurred on Feb. 26, 2022, when a motorboat carrying Sen, two crew members and 36 tourists capsized while returning from Cham Island to Hoi An beach.
Despite strong winds and high waves, Sen failed to reduce the vessel's speed, operating at 20-25 kph in an area with a 9 kph safety limit. The captain, with over 30 years of experience, admitted to misjudging sea conditions.
Investigations revealed the boat had undergone modifications in 2019, adding a roof to create a cabin in compliance with 2018 Ministry of Transport regulations. Local authorities noted fatal accidents were unprecedented in the area before these alterations.
Nguyen Van Son, chairman of Hoi An City People's Committee, said that while all passengers wore life jackets, the enclosed cabin made escape difficult during the capsize.
Sen expressed remorse, hoping for forgiveness from the victims' families. The case has highlighted concerns about vessel modifications and safety protocols in Vietnam's tourism industry.
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