Shocking footage has revealed the terrifying moment dozens of holidaymakers were thrown into the sea after a catastrophic boat collision off the coast of Thailand.
Panic in the Andaman Sea
All 52 people aboard the Korawich Marine 888 tourist speedboat, including passengers and crew, were flung into the water following a head-on collision with a fishing trawler. The horrific incident occurred early on Sunday morning near Koh Gai Island, in the popular tourist waters between Phuket and Krabi close to the Phi Phi Islands.
Images from the scene show the sheer desperation of the situation, with tourists' heads visible above the water as they screamed for help. The front section of the speedboat was completely torn off by the force of the impact, leaving the vessel sinking. Some survivors were seen attempting to clamber onto the wreckage to escape the water while awaiting rescue.
Mass Rescue Operation Launched
Witnesses described scenes of panic as passengers struggled to stay afloat and help their loved ones. "People were screaming and holding onto each other. Some were pulling their loved ones out of the water," one witness recounted.
A major rescue mission was swiftly launched. While all individuals were pulled from the sea, the aftermath was severe. One tourist, believed to be an 18-year-old Russian woman named Elizaveta S, tragically lost her life. At least a dozen other passengers sustained injuries, with one initially reported to be in a critical condition and rushed to Phi Phi Hospital.
The remaining injured were treated by paramedics at the scene before being transferred to hospitals in Phuket for further observation and care.
Investigation into the Cause
Thai authorities have confirmed that the fishing trawler, identified as the Pichai Samut 1, sustained no damage. In stark contrast, the tourist speedboat suffered catastrophic structural failure.
An official investigation into the cause of the crash is now underway. Officials are expected to examine multiple factors, including:
- The speed of both vessels at the time of the incident.
- Visibility and weather conditions.
- Navigation practices and possible route deviations.
The disaster has cast a shadow over the renowned holiday destination, raising urgent questions about marine safety protocols in one of Thailand's busiest tourist regions.
