A high-speed boat carrying numerous tourists collided head-on with a fishing trawler near the Phi Phi Islands in southern Thailand on a Sunday morning. The vessel, Korawich Marine 888, was carrying 55 individuals when the accident occurred, prompting a large-scale rescue mission. Unfortunately, an 18-year-old Russian tourist named Elizaveta S lost her life despite rescue efforts.
Reports indicate that at least twelve people sustained injuries during the collision. One individual was initially in critical condition and was rushed to Phi Phi Hospital, while others received initial treatment from paramedics before being transferred to hospitals in Phuket for further evaluation.
The incident unfolded near Koh Gai Island, in close proximity to the Phi Phi Islands, within the waters between Phuket and Krabi, as confirmed by Thai officials and local media. The front part of the speedboat was ripped off upon impact, causing the vessel to capsize and sink in the Andaman Sea. Fortunately, the fishing trawler, Pichai Samut 1, remained undamaged, and no oil spills or environmental harm were reported.
The Russian Consulate General in Phuket verified the unfortunate passing of the young Russian woman and mentioned ongoing efforts to gather information on other victims. Authorities are actively investigating the collision’s causes, focusing on factors such as speed, visibility, and navigation practices at the time. Despite the incident occurring in Krabi Province waters, rescue and medical teams from Phuket swiftly responded due to their proximity and readiness.
While the nationalities of all passengers have not been officially disclosed, Russian media noted the presence of Russian-speaking tourists among those on board. Thailand’s southern Andaman coast serves as a popular tourist boating destination, especially during the peak winter season, with numerous speedboats navigating daily between Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.