Is it safe to ride speedboats and ferries around Phuket after the recent incident?
Insider's Response
Sea excursions, speedboats, and ferries are part of the popular tourist experience in Phuket, but safety remains an important topic and should always be kept in mind.
In January 2026, a serious collision occurred between a tourist boat and a fishing vessel, as a result of which one tourist died and more than 20 were injured. Also, in early January 2026, a fire damaged more than 20 speedboats at Chalong Pier. These cases show that tragedies can happen due to bad weather, technical malfunction, or navigation errors.
However, most sea excursions take place without incidents: thousands of boats transport tourists to the islands every day, and operators comply with all safety measures. Insurance and licensing of companies are controlled by the government of Thailand.
Water safety recommendations
● Check the availability of life jackets and communication equipment on board
● Check the weather forecast and avoid trips in bad weather
● Choose licensed tour operators with good reviews
● Do not board boats that are clearly overloaded or not equipped with safety equipment
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