PATTAYA, THAILAND – Authorities in the coastal area of Na Jomtien ordered the removal of long-abandoned boats after a fresh inspection and the setting of strict clearance deadlines.
Inspection after public complaints
Local residents had lodged complaints about numerous unused vessels lying off Na Jomtien for extended periods. They reported boats in partly dilapidated condition that blocked waterways and affected maritime safety. According to the marine authority, the neglected vessels also disrupted order along the coast and damaged the tourist image of the area south of Pattaya.
Seventeen boats recorded, immediate moves ordered
On 28 January 2026 at 10 a.m., staff from the Pattaya Marine Office (Department of Marine) conducted an on-site inspection together with the administration of the Na Jomtien subdistrict. A total of 17 boats were recorded. Three vessels were officially under repair at the time of the inspection, while 14 were not being maintained and were classified as long-term stationary.
For the 14 boats not in repair, the authorities ordered immediate relocation on the same day, giving owners no further delay. For the three boats undergoing repairs, officials granted a final grace period of up to one month, after which the vessels must be removed without delay once the work is completed.
Previous warnings and financial support
The marine authority recalled that from November to December 2025, repeated warnings had been issued and deadline extensions totalling more than one month had been granted. Some owners had also received government subsidies for repairs from the previous year’s transport budget. The Pattaya Marine Office stated that these extensions had been a reasonable form of accommodation and that the requirements and schedules had been clearly and bindingly communicated to boat owners.
Firm legal action after deadlines
The authority now made it clear that, after the final deadlines expire, it would act strictly in accordance with the law. The stated aim was to prevent accidents on the water and to safeguard the safety of the public and tourists.
“Beyond the specified dates, enforcement will be carried out without exception within the framework of the relevant laws and the authority’s responsibilities.”
said the Pattaya Marine Office, according to the statement.
Appeal to owners and continued checks
The agencies involved called on all boat owners to follow the instructions strictly in order to maintain Na Jomtien as an orderly, safe and long-term usable location for residents and visitors. They emphasised that boats not removed could pose navigation hazards, block waterways and harm the image of the tourist destination. Inspections were to continue to monitor compliance with the orders.