A dramatic fire broke out on a Phuket tourist boat, leaving the captain injured and sparking a thorough investigation into the incident. This tragic event has raised concerns over the safety of marine vessels in Phuket, particularly those involved in tourism. Here’s a breakdown of what happened and what it means for future voyages in the area.
Blazing Drama in Phuket: Boat Fire Leaves Captain Injured
The Incident: Fire Aboard the Flamingo Lady 2
At 10:35 a.m. on October 3, the Phuket Marine Office received an emergency call about the Flamingo Lady 2, a tour catamaran engulfed in flames. The boat had just finished a routine drop-off of 22 tourists at Koh Naka Yai, a serene island off Phuket’s coast. While heading back to Ao Po Pier, disaster struck when the boat’s right engine malfunctioned.
Engine Malfunction Sparks the Blaze
The malfunction of the right engine caused it to overheat, leading to the ignition of oil vapors. This resulted in a fierce fire that quickly consumed parts of the vessel. Although Captain Charoon Rungsamut, aged 31, and the machine operator Kritsada Karnriab, aged 23, were the only crew members onboard, their attempts to contain the fire were unsuccessful. The captain suffered leg injuries during the incident and was rushed to Thalang Hospital for medical treatment.
Heroic Efforts Amid Panic
While the fire was a terrifying ordeal, it could have been much worse. Luckily, no passengers were on the boat during the fire, averting a potential disaster. The quick response from the crew, despite the challenges, ensured the situation didn’t escalate further. Captain Charoon’s injuries highlight the dangers faced in emergencies like this, but his bravery prevented greater harm.
Investigations and Safety Concerns
Marine officials have launched a full investigation into the cause of the engine malfunction. The Flamingo Lady 2, registered under number 625100075 and licensed until April 2025, raises significant questions regarding the maintenance and safety checks of tourist vessels. With the increasing number of tourists frequenting these boats, ensuring top-tier safety standards has become a pressing concern.
Marine Office Under Pressure to Review Safety Protocols
This incident has placed the Phuket Marine Office under pressure to enhance their safety protocols for all tour operators. The fire raises issues about the maintenance standards of boats, particularly their engines, which are critical for safe operation. The Phuket tourism industry, known for its island-hopping tours, must now assess the reliability of its fleet to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Phuket’s Tourism Safety at Stake
Phuket’s reputation as a premier tourist destination depends on the safety and reliability of its services, including boat tours. Incidents like the Flamingo Lady 2 fire could potentially damage this reputation if safety measures are not re-evaluated and enforced. Tour operators, along with government bodies, must prioritize passenger safety by conducting regular inspections and ensuring adherence to safety regulations.
Related Incidents: Tourists Stranded Due to Severe Weather
This fire incident occurred in the same week as another marine rescue operation in Phuket, where sailors from the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command rescued 143 tourists stranded on Racha Yai Island due to bad weather. The successful rescue showcased the quick response of marine authorities in ensuring the safety of tourists during unforeseen events.
Additional Marine Rescue Efforts in Pattaya
In a separate incident, two men narrowly survived when their boat sank during a squid fishing trip near Koh Chun, Na Kluea. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya Rescue Team and other marine officials responded quickly to the distress call and rescued the men, preventing another potential tragedy at sea.
Conclusion: Ensuring Safer Seas for Phuket’s Tourists
The Flamingo Lady 2 fire serves as a wake-up call for Phuket’s tourism sector. Regular maintenance, stricter safety checks, and enhanced training for crew members are crucial to preventing future accidents. With tourists’ safety at the forefront, it’s essential that the local marine offices, operators, and officials work together to safeguard the reputation of Phuket as a world-class destination.
