Pictures courtesy of Khaosod 

 

A 24-year-old man was rescued after his kayak capsized in rough seas off Pattaya on the night of 25 September. The alert was raised at 23:00 when the Maritime Disaster Prevention Radio Centre received a distress signal indicating someone was struggling in the water. Rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation responded quickly and found the man clinging to his overturned kayak along with his belongings.

 

The victim was identified as Mr Santiphong, whose surname was withheld. He had set out earlier that evening intending to kayak from Krathing Lai Beach towards Koh Larn, where he planned to camp. However, worsening weather conditions caused his kayak, heavily loaded with gear, to take on water before eventually capsizing.

 

Despite being thrown into the sea, Mr Santiphong managed to stay afloat and hold on to his vessel. He activated the emergency alert function on his Apple Watch, sending a distress signal to the maritime centre. Rescue personnel were dispatched to his location and successfully brought him safely back to shore.

 

Mr Santiphong later explained that strong waves and the weight of his equipment had made controlling the kayak increasingly difficult. As water entered the vessel, he had little time to react before it overturned. He credited his smartwatch with enabling him to call for help and avoid further danger.

 

Authorities have confirmed that he was unharmed and did not require hospitalisation after the ordeal. They emphasised the importance of carrying reliable communication devices when travelling at sea, particularly in unstable weather conditions. Rescue officials also reminded the public to monitor marine forecasts and avoid unnecessary risks during high winds or rough waves.
 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• A 24-year-old kayaker was rescued after capsizing off Pattaya on 25 September.

• He used his Apple Watch to send an emergency alert for assistance.

• Authorities urge sea travellers to check conditions and carry safety devices.

 

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  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-09-26

 

 

 

 

I have seen plenty of warnings against swimming etc of late due to rough waters from that huge typhoon Ragasa! So I guess Apple aren't making a smart watch!

What a great function to have on a watch. Few, if any kayakers would carry an EPERB on such a short journey. Leaving at night was madness and I don't see a light so that he'd be visible to other vessels.  God watches over fools and small children.