Report Tourists Rescued from Sinking Boat Near Phuket’s Shores

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Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation

 

A routine dive excursion spiralled into chaos on Wednesday afternoon when a tour boat with five foreign tourists started taking on water off Thailand’s picturesque Phuket coast.

 

The drama unfolded around 4:50 pm as the Poseidon tour boat experienced mechanical issues while navigating between Koh Yao and Koh Khieo. An exhaust pipe malfunction led to water flooding the vessel, explained Rewat Areerob, President of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO).

 

With quick-thinking urgency, the boat’s operator alerted the Khaimuk (Pearl) Tourist Assistance Centre. This swift communication triggered an immediate response from Patrol Boat 3, which quickly arrived on the scene, ensuring all passengers were evacuated unharmed.

 

“Thankfully, everyone was brought back to Chalong Pier safe and sound,” Rewat reassured.

 

On the water, the Mermaid boat’s crew managed to temporarily patch the leak, halting further water ingress. The Poseidon was then safely towed back by the Andaman Pearl 3 and Mermaid boats.

 

This incident adds to a concerning series of maritime mishaps involving tour boats in Thailand’s renowned holiday destinations.

 

Such incidents highlight the importance of stringent marine safety standards to protect both tourists and crew. In particular, rigorous checks on mechanical systems could prevent similar occurrences and ensure the safety of those enjoying Thailand’s stunning aquatic wonders.

 

The financial implications of these rescues can also ripple through the local economy. Tourist operators may face repair costs running into thousands of Thai Baht, and potential impacts on the island's lucrative tourism sector cannot be ignored.

 

The safety of tourists remains paramount, as does the need for continuous improvement in maritime operations. Regular training and quick emergency response are essential to maintaining travellers’ confidence in venturing to these globally admired waters.

 

While this occasion ended without loss or injury, it serves as a stark reminder of the perils that come with sea travel. It is imperative that boat operators and marine officials continue to work together to uphold high safety standards, ensuring such near-misses remain a rarity.

 

The focus now shifts toward preventive measures, aiming to avert future incidents and bolster Thailand’s reputation as a safe and inviting destination for adventure-seeking tourists from all over the globe.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-11