Phuket: A catamaran capsized while carrying 38 tourists and crew members for diving on Racha Island in Phuket. Everyone was rescued and returned to shore safely. Today (January 13, 2025) at approximately 1:10 p.m., officers received a report of an incident involving a catamaran named Emiray 888 with 38 people on board, consisting of 33 Chinese tourists, 2 tour guides, and 3 crew members. The tourists were taking a one-day trip from Chalong Pier in Mueang District, Phuket Province. Water entered the boat, causing it to slowly sink north of Racha Island, 1.6 nautical miles from shore. The rescue center coordinated with officers and patrol boats, as well as speedboats from several nearby companies, to provide assistance to all tourists and passengers on the boat in a timely manner, resulting in the safety of all tourists and passengers on the boat.
According to Thai News Agency, as for the cause of the water entering the boat and causing it to sink later, officials will re-inspect. Most recently, Phuket Province has contacted the Chinese Consulate to inform them that all citizens are safe.