Picture courtesy: Naewna

 

In a dramatic rescue, six tourists narrowly escaped disaster after their kayaks capsized amidst strong waves off Thailand's Koh Chang.

 

On 5 January 2025, the Royal Thai Navy's Koh Chang Maritime Security Centre (Sor Por Kor Koh Chang) responded to two separate kayak accidents near Koh Yuak and Koh Suwan.

The first incident occurred at 12:30 PM when four Czech tourists ventured out kayaking near Koh Yuak in Trat Province. Rough seas overturned their kayaks, prompting a nearby observer to alert the authorities.

 

The Navy swiftly dispatched a rescue team, successfully bringing all four tourists to safety. One tourist sustained minor injuries and received immediate first aid onshore.

 

Picture courtesy: Naewna

 

While returning the rescued tourists, the Navy team spotted two Russian tourists struggling against the waves near Koh Suwan.

 

The tourists had sought refuge from the rough conditions. The rescuers coordinated to safely guide them back to shore by 2:30 PM.

 

Picture courtesy: Naewna

 

All six tourists were unharmed. The Czech nationals were transferred to a tour boat, while the Russians were safely taken to their hotel at Barali, Koh Chang, reported Naeewna.

 

Initial reports suggest that unfamiliarity with local conditions and unexpected strong waves led to the accidents. The Koh Chang Maritime Security Centre has issued a reminder to tourists to check weather conditions before venturing out and to adhere to safety measures, including wearing life jackets at all times.

 

-- 2025-01-06

 

 

2 hours ago, webfact said:

Initial reports suggest that unfamiliarity with local conditions and unexpected strong waves led to the accidents. The Koh Chang Maritime Security Centre has issued a reminder to tourists to check weather conditions before venturing out and to adhere to safety measures, including wearing life jackets at all times.

So if sea conditions are such that it's dangerous surely the vendors who rent out the kayaks should have tourist safety in mind?

1 hour ago, hotchilli said:

So if sea conditions are such that it's dangerous surely the vendors who rent out the kayaks should have tourist safety in mind?

You ting too mut.😉

1 hour ago, Gandtee said:

You ting too mut.😉

Apologies for forgetting where I am... I'll try to do better 😃

On 1/5/2025 at 10:58 PM, hotchilli said:

So if sea conditions are such that it's dangerous surely the vendors who rent out the kayaks should have tourist safety in mind?

 

It's all about $$.

 

How many times have I heard horror stories from Phuket of longboat and speedboat trips that turned into nightmares.  Plus the occasional ferry that sinks. Me and boats in Thailand are finished, one exception the short trip over to Koh Chang and even then I sit near the lifebelts.  

Are you saying $$$ first over safety? 
 

I wonder if the tourists will have to pay for any damage to the kayaks if they were even recovered or lost at sea?