Three Rescued After Squid Boat Sinks Off Sattahip

Three crew members were rescued after a 20-ton squid fishing boat sank near Koh Rang Kwian, in Sattahip district, Chon Buri, late on 15 February 2026. The incident occurred at around 11pm, prompting an urgent response from rescue services. All three men were brought safely back to shore, with one sustaining minor injuries.

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Rescue officials received a report that a fishing vessel had gone down in waters near Koh Rang Kwian, off the coast of Sattahip. A rescue boat and trained water response personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene to carry out a search and recovery operation. The crew were found floating in the dark amid waves, clinging to buoyant debris to stay afloat.

The sunken vessel, named “Tor Larpduangporn”, was a squid fishing boat weighing approximately 20 tonnes. It sank rapidly near the island, leaving the three crew members stranded at sea. Authorities were able to locate and retrieve them safely despite the limited visibility.

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

According to the skipper, 21-year-old Watchara Poolchuay, water began leaking into the boat quickly as he was steering it back to shore. He said the vessel lost stability, capsized and sank in a short period of time. He and the two other crew members used floating debris to keep themselves above water while awaiting assistance.

One crew member suffered a cut to the eyebrow after being struck during the incident. First aid was administered at the scene before the injured man was transferred for further medical treatment. The remaining two crew members were reported to be unharmed.

Officials have not yet provided further details on the cause of the leak. The vessel’s sinking adds to concerns over maritime safety in coastal waters, particularly during night-time operations. Authorities are expected to conduct further checks and gather additional information from those involved. Amarin reported that rescue teams confirmed that all three lives were saved due to the swift response following the distress report.

Key Takeaways

• A 20-ton squid fishing boat sank near Koh Rang Kwian, Sattahip, at 11pm on 15 February 2026.

• Three crew members were rescued after floating at sea, with one sustaining a minor eyebrow injury.

• The skipper said rapid water leakage caused the vessel to lose stability and sink.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 17 Feb 2026