Jet-skis wrangle more Patong sand space with new zones

PHUKET: Two jet-ski and parasailing zones and two swimming zones have been added to Patong Beach to fulfill the needs of tourists, Governor Nisit Jansomwong told the Phuket Gazette yesterday.

When the zones were first established last year (story here), there were three swimming areas, each 500 meters wide and extending 150 meters offshore, and two jet-ski zones each about 300 meters wide, with jet-skis prohibited from venturing any more than one nautical mile offshore.

Now, there are five swimming zones and four jet-ski zones, all of which are 200 meters wide.

“We need to have more options for tourists to choose from on a holiday destination like Phuket. When tourists spend money on activities such as jet-skiing, it gives a boost to the local economy,” Governor Nisit explained.

“We added the zones at the request of operators, but also as a response to tourists’ needs.”

Jet-ski and parasailing operators must keep their vehicles parked inside their zones and in the water, noted Gov Nisit.

“The swimming zones will be marked with buoys 200m apart and 120m into the sea. Even though these areas are marked for swimming, I urge all tourists to swim carefully,” Gov Nisit said.

“All locals and tourists should keep an eye out for any operators who break the rules. Please report any dangerous or suspicious activities to Patong Police, Patong Municipality, the Governor’s Office or any other relevant officers.”

— Kritsada Mueanhawong