Marine Safety in Thailand

BANGKOK – Thai authorities have stepped up efforts to ensure the safety of visitors by reviewing all safety standards and regulations concerning all modes of transportation and to tighten and enhance marine safety measures in all of the Kingdom’s marine tourism destinations as well as on rivers and lakes.

 

The Ministry of Transport, the Marine Department, and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports are working in collaboration to enforce marine safety measures with the aim of reducing accidents and improving the travel experience for both tourists and local residents.

 

1. Drug and alcohol checks for all boat operators before and after journeys (new legislation).

2. New marine speed limits based on engine size. Mandatory GPS devices for any boats that will carry more than 12 passengers (new legislation).

3. All boat passengers will be required to wear life jackets at all times when on the boat.

4. Port officials to check operators’ licenses and passenger numbers to ensure that limits are not exceeded.

5. Port officials to enforce the use of red and green flag signalling to warn boat operators about weather conditions.

6. Copies of tourist passports and ID cards to be made before the journey.

7. New CCTV systems to be installed at every port (new legislation).

8. Severe penalties and bans for any businesses or boat operators that break the rules (new legislation).

9. New and comprehensive testing for anyone applying for a boat operator’s license.

10. Operators’ licenses to be reviewed and renewed every five years.

 

– Always use life jackets when taking a boat trip, whether in the sea or river. Take particular care when swimming off coastal areas, especially during the monsoon season. Always comply with warning signs, especially red flags, and only swim in approved beaches.

– Jellyfish can come close to the shore, especially during the rainy season. Their sting can be fatal.

– Heed the advice of locals and officials when going out on boats and get advice from your hotel and the safest boat operators and dive services. Make sure you always listen to the crew and dive masters to ensure you know all safety instructions.

– If you rent jet skis or water sports equipment, make sure that safety precautions are adequate and well in place. Rent only from reputable, licensed and insured operators. Thoroughly check for damage before use and insist on training.

– In the rainy season from May to October, visitors should take good care when swimming, diving, kayaking or white-water rafting in rivers or close to waterfalls, as the currents can be extremely strong.

– Anyone who wants to ask for assistance in case of accidents can contact the Marine Department’s Helpline 1111 or submit complaints with the Tourist Police Hotline 1155. The service is available 24 hours.