A speedboat carrying numerous tourists collided head-on with a fishing trawler near the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand. The incident involving the Korawich Marine 888 resulted in the tragic death of an 18-year-old Russian tourist, identified as Elizaveta S. Reports indicate that at least twelve individuals sustained injuries, with one person initially in critical condition and transported to Phi Phi Hospital for treatment before being transferred to hospitals in Phuket for further assessment.
The collision occurred close to Koh Gai Island, causing the speedboat to overturn and sink in the Andaman Sea after its bow was torn off. Fortunately, the fishing trawler, Pichai Samut 1, remained undamaged, and there were no indications of oil spillage or environmental harm. The Russian Consulate General in Phuket verified the Russian woman’s death and is working to gather more information about the other victims.
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including factors such as speed, visibility, and navigation procedures at the time. Despite the incident happening in Krabi Province waters, rescue and medical teams from Phuket were swiftly mobilized due to their proximity and resources. While the nationalities of all passengers have not been officially disclosed, it is reported that there were Russian-speaking tourists among the passengers.
The Andaman coast in southern Thailand is a popular tourist boating region, especially during the peak winter season, with numerous speedboats shuttling passengers daily between Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.