Lucky Seven ‘Float’ to Safety After Phuket Longtail Boat Capsizes

A frightening ordeal turned into a miraculous escape as all seven passengers aboard a longtail boat were safely rescued after the vessel capsized near Koh Rang Yai, just off Phuket’s eastern coast. Thanks to quick action from nearby boats and rescue teams, the passengers were brought ashore, with only minor injuries reported.

Immediate Response to the Phuket Boat Capsizing

Rescue Teams Spring into Action

The drama unfolded at approximately 5:20 pm on October 21, when a longtail boat carrying seven passengers capsized just ten minutes from the shore. Rescue teams, alerted to the scene, quickly responded, departing from AA Marina Pier in Rassada. Nearby vessels also joined the rescue effort, ensuring a swift and coordinated response.

A Diverse Group of Passengers Saved

The passengers included six Thai nationals and a man holding dual British and Taiwanese citizenship. Despite the harrowing incident, all seven were plucked to safety and rushed to the shore without any life-threatening injuries. Police confirmed that the rescue operation lasted about one hour, marking it as a successful and rapid intervention.

The Incident and Aftermath

What Led to the Capsizing?

Passengers reported that the boat had been traveling at a safe speed when it suddenly tilted and capsized, likely due to high waves. Although the exact cause is still under investigation, high seas are believed to have played a critical role in the boat’s instability, causing it to overturn near Koh Rang Yai.

Safe but Shaken: Passengers Treated for Minor Injuries

Upon being rescued, the group was transported to Bangkok Hospital Phuket, where four passengers were found to be completely unharmed, while three others were treated for minor injuries, such as scrapes. Thankfully, none of the injuries were serious enough to require an overnight stay, allowing all passengers to return safely.

Longtail Boat Recovery and Investigation

Efforts to Recover the Boat

While the passengers were being rescued, three boat operators remained at the scene, working tirelessly to right the overturned longtail boat. Once the rescue operation was completed, the vessel was towed to Tambon Phru Nai on Koh Yao Yai for further inspection.

Ongoing Investigation into the Cause

Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the capsizing. While early reports suggest that rough seas were the primary cause, further analysis is being conducted to ensure all safety protocols were followed and to prevent future accidents of this nature.

Conclusion: A Lucky Escape at Sea

The quick action of rescue teams and nearby vessels ensured that what could have been a tragic event turned into a lucky escape. All seven passengers survived the capsizing with minimal injuries, highlighting the importance of rapid emergency response in maritime incidents. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring safety for future travelers on Phuket’s beautiful but sometimes unpredictable waters.