A 60-tonne tugboat sank in rough seas near Koh Thalu in Prachuap Khiri Khan, leaving one crew member missing and two others injured after they drifted in the sea for two days and two nights. Rescue teams, marine police and local fishing boats launched a search operation after the incident was reported to Bang Saphan Noi police on 13 May.
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Police said the vessel belonged to Phairat Rungroj Company and had departed Bang Pakong port en route to tow another vessel at Koh Samui in Surat Thani province. Three people were on board: 18-year-old captain Mr Wu from Nakhon Sawan, 15-year-old Ms Wa from Buriram and 18-year-old Mr Phu from Samut Prakan.
Picture courtesy of Khaosod
The two survivors were rescued on the morning of 13 May at around 8am by a local fishing boat operated by “Tai Kim”, who spotted them floating in the sea and calling for help. They were taken ashore and transferred by emergency responders from Bang Saphan Noi Hospital for treatment after suffering exhaustion and severe fatigue from prolonged exposure at sea.
Mr Phu remains missing. Authorities said search efforts were continuing in waters near Koh Thalu, Moo 5, Sai Thong subdistrict, Bang Saphan district. According to statements from the survivors, the tugboat encountered severe storms and strong winds at around 2pm on 11 May while travelling near Koh Thalu. Water reportedly began leaking into the engine room as the captain attempted to steer the vessel away from heavy waves and towards shelter near the island.
The crew were unable to control the boat against the force of the wind and sea before it capsized. During the sinking, Mr Phu disappeared in the water while the remaining two crew members survived by floating at sea until they were discovered by the fishing vessel.
Khaosod reported that authorities are continuing coordinated searches involving marine police, rescue units and fishing crews from the area. Officials said they hoped the missing crew member would be found as quickly as possible.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 13 May 2026