PATTAYA – A group of 14 Thai tourists survived a harrowing maritime ordeal after their chartered fishing boat capsized in stormy seas off the Pattaya coast on Friday. The passengers, all family members from Bangkok, endured over seven hours in the water before being rescued in a coordinated operation by maritime authorities.

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The vessel departed Laem Bali Hai pier at 7 AM en route to Koh Man Wichai when skipper Suphat Juyaem, known as “Tai Lek,” descended below deck to repair a malfunctioning bilge pump and engine. While he worked, powerful waves struck the boat’s port side, causing it to list severely and sink rapidly. Passengers reported inadequate life jacket usage and limited swimming ability among the group.

All 14 tourists rescued after boat capsizes off Pattaya https://t.co/0ODsIAEgHo #Thailand

— Bangkok Post (@BKK_POST) November 22, 2025

In a desperate bid for survival, four passengers including a young girl swam to a nearby island for help while the remaining ten, including two young boys and the unconscious skipper, clung to floating debris. The Chon Buri Maritime Enforcement Command Centre launched search operations after receiving distress signals at 1:33 PM, eventually locating all individuals by 5:30 PM.

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The skipper was hospitalized in unconscious condition from water inhalation, while all other passengers were confirmed safe. Authorities have initiated a full investigation into the vessel’s safety protocols and equipment.

-Thailand News (TN)