PHUKET, THAILAND – A foreign tourist narrowly avoided a fatal accident after falling from a speedboat and ending up in the water dangerously close to the vessel’s propeller, authorities said.
Dramatic rescue at Ratsada Pier
At about 10:30 a.m. on 7 October, officers from Marine Police Region 3, Division 8 were patrolling near Ratsada Pier on Phuket’s east coast when they came upon a chaotic scene. Witnesses reported that a passenger had slipped from a tour speedboat and, while trying to climb back on board, fell onto the sand as the vessel began to drift backwards. The propeller was reported to be alarmingly close to the woman’s body as bystanders screamed for help.
Marine police and the boat crew rushed to pull the woman from the water. She sustained only minor abrasions and received treatment on shore.
Boatsman had no licence
Following the rescue, officers inspected the vessel and discovered the operator, identified only as Tharawut, could not produce a boat licence or an operating permit. The marine police arrested him on the spot and filed a charge under Section 150 of the Thai Maritime Act, officials said.
The boat was temporarily seized pending further investigation.
Authorities warn about illegal operators
A spokesperson for the marine police stressed that tourist and crew safety is their top priority and urged all operators to comply with licensing and safety requirements. The incident highlights an ongoing problem in Phuket, where illegal or unqualified boat operators occasionally offer tours without meeting regulatory standards.
In response, authorities announced a review and stepped-up inspections of vessels operating in the area.
Aftermath and possible penalties
The rescued tourist, whose nationality has not been disclosed, thanked the officers and rescue personnel for their swift action. While she escaped with minor injuries, officials warned the incident could easily have been fatal.
The arrested operator faces fines or possible imprisonment if found guilty. Investigations are continuing.
Advice for visitors
Officials urged tourists to book boat trips only with licensed providers and to ask about the crew’s qualifications and safety measures before boarding. The marine police said they will intensify patrols to prevent similar incidents.
How should tourists in Phuket verify a boat operator’s credentials to avoid such near-misses?