RTN Rescues Nine Fishermen After Boat Sinks off Phuket

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod.

Nine fishermen were rescued after their vessel capsized in rough seas near Racha Yai Island, Phuket. The Royal Thai Navy deployed the HTMS Hua Hin and a helicopter to bring all crew members safely back to shore.

At around 14:50 on 12 August, the Maritime Security Command Centre Region 3 received a distress call from the owner of the fishing boat Chok Mana 1. The vessel had been struck by large waves while turning to head back to shore. Unable to withstand the strong currents, the boat capsized just off the southwest coast of Racha Yai Island at coordinates 7°32.000′, 98°05.000′, approximately 25 nautical miles from the Third Naval Area Command pier.

All nine crew members were wearing life jackets when the incident occurred, leaving them adrift in open water.

Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul, Director of the Maritime Security Command Centre Region 3, immediately ordered a rescue operation. A Sikorsky S-76B transport helicopter was dispatched to the reported location, along with the HTMS Hua Hin. Coordination with other relevant agencies was also undertaken to ensure swift assistance.

The navy confirmed later in the evening that all nine crew members had been rescued unharmed. They were transported back to the Third Naval Area Command pier in Phuket for medical checks and debriefing.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-08-13