Phi Phi islands: Tourist boat sinking prompts safety concerns

A startling incident unfolded on the serene waters surrounding Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands when a longtail boat, tasked with ferrying six tourists to Bamboo Island, sank. The boat sinking mishap has triggered an urgent call from the chief of the Phi Phi Islands National Park, Yutthaphong Damsrisuk, for all boat operators to step up their safety measures.

The alarm bells started ringing on Friday morning, November 17, when officers stationed at the National Park Protection unit on Bamboo Island received news of the boat’s sinking. The ill-fated boat christened Choksiri Nathorn, had just completed its task of transporting tourists from Phi Phi Don to Bamboo Island when it encountered large waves.

As the boat was being steered towards a mooring area, the waves swamped it, leading to its eventual sinking.

Despite the severity of the incident, it was fortunate that no lives were lost. The officers on duty promptly sprang into action, providing assistance and working towards the recovery of the sunken boat, as confirmed by Yutthapong.

This incident at Phi Phi Islands has led to a heightened sense of urgency regarding the maintenance of safety standards by boat operators. Yutthapong issued a notice encouraging vigilance against inclement weather conditions, which had been in effect since November 16 and continued through yesterday.

The issued warning underscored the importance of safety measures needed to prevent potential water accidents. Given the sailing conditions during the monsoon season, marked by heavy rain and strong winds, the notice advised caution while conducting tourism activities or any activities within the tourist areas.

The notice further urged all boat operators within the Hat Nopparat Thara – Phi Phi Islands National Park to ensure their boats were in prime condition.

It also stressed the importance of life jackets, advising that they be worn at all times during boating and water-based activities. Lastly, the notice urged everyone to closely follow weather news reports from the Meteorological Department of Thailand, reported Phuket News.