CHONBURI – All 33 crew members of a fishing boat were safely rescued after their vessel sank in the Gulf of Thailand following a large wave strike on January 3. The incident, which was reported on January 5, resulted in no injuries, thanks to a coordinated maritime response.

14 Tourists Rescued After Charter Boat Capsizes Off Pattaya Coast

The boat, identified as the N. Kong Thon Thany, was operating approximately at latitude 12°20’17”N, longitude 100°46’39”E when it encountered rough seas. A large wave caused the bow to take on water, exacerbated by fishing nets obstructing drainage openings. The added weight led the bow to submerge, and the vessel ultimately sank.

Upon receiving the distress signal, the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center (ศรชล.) and the Chonburi Maritime Security Coordination Center (ศคท.จว.ชลบุรี) mobilized rescue units, including patrol vessel Tor.267 and nearby fishing boats. Crew members were retrieved from the water and transferred to the vessel Sor. Kitnarong, which brought them to Sattahip Fishing Pier under escort by Tor.267. They arrived ashore around 9:30 p.m.

Five Rescued After Long-Tail Boat Drifts Dangerously Near Phuket

Authorities confirmed that all 33 individuals were accounted for and did not require medical treatment. The Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center emphasized its role as the lead agency in maritime security operations, noting its commitment to safeguarding lives and national maritime interests. An investigation into the precise cause of the sinking is ongoing.

-Thailand News (TN)