Russian Tourists Rescued After Tourist Boat Emergency Near Koh Larn

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin.

 

Thirty-five Russian tourists were safely evacuated after their tour boat encountered engine trouble, causing thick black smoke to billow into the sky near Koh Sak, close to Koh Larn, off the coast of Pattaya.

 

The incident occurred at approximately 10:00 on 18 March, when Pattaya’s Marine Disaster Prevention and Rescue Centre received an emergency call regarding a fire onboard a tourist vessel, a catamaran, bearing the name Pattaya Bay Cruise. Rescue teams, including firefighting boats, were immediately dispatched to the scene, located around 500 metres from the island.

 

Upon arrival, rescue workers found large plumes of black smoke emerging from beneath the vessel, initially raising fears of a fire. However, after a thorough inspection by marine rescue personnel and the ship’s captain, it was confirmed that the smoke was caused by a mechanical failure in the engine’s exhaust system, rather than an actual blaze.

 

At the time of the incident, the boat was en route to Koh Sak with its 35 Russian passengers. Acting swiftly, the captain radioed for assistance and coordinated the safe transfer of all passengers to another vessel. No injuries were reported.

 

The captain later explained that the issue stemmed from a disconnection in the exhaust system, which resulted in excessive smoke emissions. He assured authorities that there was no fire and that the situation was brought under control without further complications.

 

Authorities are expected to conduct a full inspection of the boat to ensure compliance with safety regulations before it is allowed to operate again. Meanwhile, local officials have reiterated the importance of strict safety protocols for all tour operators in the region.

 

-- 2025-03-18

 

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