A collision between a speedboat carrying numerous tourists and a fishing trawler occurred near the Phi Phi Islands in southern Thailand. The incident involved the Korawich Marine 888, which was carrying 55 passengers and resulted in a tragic fatality of an 18-year-old Russian tourist named Elizaveta S. Despite rescue efforts, she did not survive.
Reports indicate that around twelve individuals sustained injuries during the collision. One person was initially in critical condition and was rushed to Phi Phi Hospital, while the others received medical attention from paramedics before being transferred to hospitals in Phuket for further treatment.
The accident transpired close to Koh Gai Island, near the Phi Phi Islands, within the waters between Phuket and Krabi. The speedboat’s bow was severely damaged in the collision, causing it to capsize and sink in the Andaman Sea. Fortunately, the fishing trawler, named Pichai Samut 1, remained undamaged, and there were no indications of oil spills or environmental harm.
The Russian Consulate General in Phuket confirmed the unfortunate passing of the young Russian woman. Yegor Ivanov, the Russian Consul General, expressed their condolences and mentioned ongoing efforts to gather information on other victims involved in the incident.
Authorities are currently investigating the factors contributing to the collision, such as speed, visibility, and navigation protocols at the time of the accident. Despite occurring in Krabi Province waters, rescue and medical teams from Phuket were promptly dispatched due to their nearby location and capabilities.
While the nationalities of all passengers have not been officially disclosed, it is reported that there were Russian-speaking tourists among those onboard. The southern Andaman coast of Thailand is renowned for its tourist boating activities, particularly during the peak winter season, with numerous speedboats shuttling passengers daily between Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.