Thailand is accelerating plans to develop new cruise terminals on both its Gulf and Andaman coasts, aiming to strengthen its position in cruise tourism and increase visitor numbers. The Transport Ministry confirmed discussions with Royal Caribbean Group (RCG), which is targeting 120,000 visitors to Thailand this year through more than 45 cruise calls. The initiative is expected to ease port congestion and improve the country’s ability to handle large cruise vessels.
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The proposal forms part of a broader government push to expand tourism infrastructure and capture higher-value travel segments. The ministry recently held talks with senior RCG executives, led by Deputy Permanent Secretary for Transport and Head of the Transport Cluster, Panya Chupanich, alongside Wendy Yamazaki, Regional Vice President for Government Relations in Asia at RCG. Representatives from the Port Authority of Thailand also joined the discussions via video conference.
Authorities are focusing on developing large-scale cruise terminals under public-private partnership (PPP) models to attract private investment. Key locations under consideration include Koh Samui, Phuket and the upper Gulf of Thailand, with feasibility studies assessing potential sites between Pattaya and Sattahip. The aim is to create a connected cruise network linking both coasts and integrating Thailand more effectively into global cruise routes.
Both the government and RCG acknowledged that rapid growth in cruise tourism presents challenges, particularly a shortage of port facilities capable of accommodating large, world-class ships. Discussions centred on improving infrastructure and operational standards to support increasing demand. The expansion is seen as essential to sustaining tourism-led economic growth.
To support potential investors, the Transport Ministry is preparing detailed development plans for Laem Chabang Port and other high-potential areas. These plans will include clear project timelines, which will be shared with RCG and other interested investors to aid business planning and investment decisions. Officials emphasised the importance of coordinated development to ensure long-term success.
The Nation reported that feasibility studies will determine final locations and project scope, while the government continues engaging with private partners. The initiative reflects Thailand’s ambition to strengthen its global tourism standing by improving infrastructure and expanding cruise travel capacity.
Picture courtesy of The Nation
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 23 Mar 2026
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