A collision occurred between a speedboat filled with numerous tourists and a fishing trawler near the Phi Phi Islands in southern Thailand. The incident involved the Korawich Marine 888, carrying 55 individuals, resulting in a tragic outcome for an 18-year-old Russian tourist identified as Elizaveta S, despite rescue efforts.
Reports indicate that several people sustained injuries, with one individual initially in critical condition and transported to Phi Phi Hospital, while others received medical attention from paramedics before being transferred to hospitals in Phuket for further care.
The collision, which occurred near Koh Gai Island close to the Phi Phi Islands, caused the speedboat’s bow to be torn off, leading to its capsizing and sinking in the Andaman Sea. Fortunately, the fishing trawler, Pichai Samut 1, remained undamaged, and there were no indications of oil spills or environmental harm.
The Russian Consulate General in Phuket confirmed the unfortunate passing of the young Russian woman and is in the process of gathering information on other victims. Authorities are actively investigating the collision’s causes, including factors such as speed, visibility, and navigation protocols at the time.
Although the crash took place within Krabi Province waters, rescue and medical teams from Phuket were swiftly dispatched due to their proximity and resources. While the nationalities of all passengers have not been officially disclosed, it is reported that Russian-speaking tourists were among those aboard.
The Andaman coast in southern Thailand, a popular tourist boating region, experiences high traffic especially during the peak winter season, with numerous speedboats shuttling passengers daily between Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.