Catamaran Partially Sinks Near Koh Hey, Phuket: Passengers Unaffected

Picture from responders.

A catamaran named OMBRE (HSB5551) partially sank near Koh Hey in Phuket’s Rawai Subdistrict on December 16, after water began flooding the rear of the vessel. Despite efforts to pump out the water, the boat ultimately capsized around 14:00.

The incident occurred near the floating “jigsaw” mooring buoys off Banana Beach, Koh Hey. Fortunately, all passengers had already disembarked and were enjoying their time on the island, while the crew members on board escaped unharmed.

Phuket’s Marine Department has coordinated with the boat owner to salvage the vessel, with recovery operations expected to conclude by the afternoon of December 17. An official order will be issued to prohibit further use of the vessel until a full investigation is completed.

The OMBRE, registered at Samui Port, is a passenger catamaran operating between Ranong and Satun Provinces within 24 nautical miles of the shore under calm conditions. The vessel has a capacity of 60 passengers, with a crew of 6, including one captain.

According to reports, the catamaran had successfully transported a group of tourists to Banana Beach, Koh Hey. After the tourists disembarked, the captain secured the vessel to a mooring buoy to wait for their return. Shortly after, water began flooding the rear of the boat, leading to the vessel listing and the sinking.

Tourists were safely transported back to shore via an alternate boat chartered by the tour company.

-- 2024-12-17