A sunken Panama-flagged cargo ship, SEALLOYD ARC, has caused large oil slicks to wash ashore near Phuket, posing threats to marine life and tourism. The incident began when the vessel sank off Koh Kaew Noi on February 7, 2026. Since February 25, oil clumps have been seen on Koh Hey's beaches, heightening concerns.

Get today's headlines by email

The ship carried 297 containers and over 90 tonnes of fuel oil, leading to environmental worries as oil-coated marine life has been observed. Crabs along the shores are visibly impacted, with some appearing weakened, reflecting growing ecosystem damage. The threat to Phuket's tourism industry is also significant, given its reliance on clean and safe beaches.

In response, Rear Admiral Weerudom Muangchin from the Thai Maritime Enforcement Coordinating Center (Thai-MECC) Region 3 has deployed a Shoreline Cleanup team. This team is actively working to remove the oil from Koh Hey beach to protect marine resources and ensure safety for tourists and the public. The authorities aim to mitigate further damage and safeguard the coast.

Monitoring efforts continue as authorities assess the slick's movement and plan recovery strategies. Businesses and locals are also vigilant, worried about potential economic impacts. Related agencies commit to fast-tracking restoration and urge public cooperation in reporting any troubling sightings.

Efforts to manage the aftermath are ongoing, with the focus on restoring affected areas and maintaining Phuket’s tourism appeal. This situation underscores the urgent need for effective oil spill response mechanisms, reported The Nation.

Key Takeaways

• The cargo ship sinking has led to environmental and tourism concerns near Phuket.

• Cleanup teams are working to remove oil from affected beaches to protect ecosystems.

• Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and planning recovery efforts.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 27 Feb 2026

View full record

The oil spill near Phuket is clearly an environmental issue for Thailand, with damage to beaches and tourism.

But under international maritime law, the ship’s owner is ultimately responsible for cleanup costs, compensation, and fines.

Thailand’s agencies may handle the immediate response, yet any expenses should be pursued against the vessel’s owner and insurers.

Why did the Thai authorities act so slowly?

Why were there no/minimal efforts to contain the initial spill, and remove the escaped oil? Does Thailand not have the facilities to undertake such operations?

Where there no efforts to stop the oil leak(s) or remove the remaining oil in the sunken vessel?

The horse has bolted - not my problem!!!

A significant amount of global shipping passes close to the Thai coast - why do you think the Chinese are pushing for a canal or land bridge across southern Thailand, so they can avoid the congested Straits of Malacca. Is Thailand prepared for a major oil spill?

What would be the reaction in places like Koh Samui, Phuket, Hua Hin - Cha Am, Pattaya-Jomtien, etc. if their beaches were covered with oil?