The marine officer explained that Phuket is bracing for severe storms and waves will be too high for small boats to operate in complete safety. He noted that the warning was officially backed by Phuket’s governor, Nisit Jansomwong, and empowered marine division staff to revoke the licences of any skipper who defied it.
He also explained that any tourist who doubted the seaworthiness of a vessel, especially a speedboat, about to set sail had the right to question the captain. In previous years, some tourists have complained that boats have departed in bad weather because tour companies simply do not want to refund fares already paid.
Governor Jansomwong has already vowed to make boat and ferry travel safe in Phuket’s seas. The marine division says they expect additional warnings during the forthcoming monsoon season.
The main monsoon season in southern Thailand’s Andaman Sea regions typically runs between May and October. Ferries run to reduced schedules at this time of year and cancellations are not unknown during really bad storms. 12GO ASIA provides a convenient online ticket reservations service for ferries to Phuket.
Phuket maritime authorities ban small craft from seas
News in Asia
Phuket maritime authorities have issued an order banning small boats from setting sail today. Phuripat Theerakulpisut is the head of Marine Office 5 and he says the edict applies to craft nine metres long or less.