A collision between a speedboat carrying numerous tourists and a fishing trawler occurred near the Phi Phi Islands in southern Thailand. The Korawich Marine 888, with 55 passengers on board, crashed on a Sunday morning, leading to a large-scale rescue effort. Despite rescue attempts, an 18-year-old Russian tourist named Elizaveta S tragically lost her life.
Reports indicate that around twelve individuals sustained injuries, with one person initially in critical condition and transported to Phi Phi Hospital. The remaining injured passengers received medical attention from paramedics before being moved to hospitals in Phuket for further care.
The incident occurred in the vicinity of Koh Gai Island, close to the Phi Phi Islands, in 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, Pichai Samut 1, remained unharmed, and there were no indications of oil spillage or environmental harm.
The Russian Consulate General in Phuket confirmed the death of the young Russian woman and expressed condolences. Investigations are underway to determine the factors contributing to the collision, such as speed, visibility, and navigation protocols. Despite the incident taking place in Krabi Province waters, Phuket-based rescue and medical teams were dispatched due to their proximity and resources.
Although the nationalities of all passengers have not been officially disclosed, it is reported that Russian-speaking tourists were among those onboard. The southern Andaman coast of Thailand is a popular tourist boating area, especially during the peak winter season, with numerous speedboat services operating daily between Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.
