Thai Authorities Rescue All 97 Passengers from Ferry After Hull Breach Near Kradat Island En Route to Koh Kood

Thai maritime authorities successfully orchestrated the rescue of all 97 individuals aboard a passenger ferry that suffered a significant hull breach while en route to the popular island of Koh Kood. The incident, which occurred near Kradat Island, saw prompt action from various agencies, ensuring no loss of life despite challenging conditions.

Ferry Hull Breach Triggers Urgent Rescue Operation

The vessel was carrying approximately 97 passengers when, around 12:30 PM (local time) on November 20, 2025, its hull was compromised, leading to a rapid ingress of seawater. The ferry was approximately 15 kilometers from Koh Kood Pier and about 20 kilometers from the mainland, placing it in open waters. The crew immediately reported the critical situation and requested urgent assistance, specifically a water pump to combat the flooding.

Coordinated Response Saves All Onboard

Responding swiftly, the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre (TMECC) mobilized a border patrol boat squadron, dispatching multiple support vessels to the scene. Upon arrival, officials discovered that local fishing boats and speedboats had already joined the rescue efforts, actively assisting in the evacuation of both Thai and foreign tourists from the distressed ferry. All passengers were observed wearing life jackets, a testament to effective safety protocols, though some displayed visible signs of distress due to strong winds and high waves battering the area.

Crucially, the coordinated response ensured that all 97 people were brought safely ashore, with no reports of anyone missing. According to the Marine Department in Trat province, the ferry’s hull sustained a rupture causing the vessel to gradually take on water.

Vessel Stability & Recovery Efforts Underway

Fortunately, the boat did not fully submerge. Efforts are currently underway to remove water from the ferry using pumps before it can be slowly towed back to shore for full assessment and repairs. This rapid and efficient rescue operation averted what could have been a much more severe maritime disaster.