A collision occurred between a speedboat carrying numerous tourists and a fishing trawler off the Phi Phi Islands in southern Thailand. The speedboat, named Korawich Marine 888, was carrying 55 individuals when it crashed, leading to an extensive rescue operation. Unfortunately, an 18-year-old Russian tourist named Elizaveta S lost her life despite rescue efforts.
Reports indicate that around a dozen people sustained injuries, with one person initially in critical condition and transported to Phi Phi Hospital. The rest received medical attention from paramedics before being moved to hospitals in Phuket for further evaluation.
The incident happened near Koh Gai Island, close to the Phi Phi Islands, within the waters between Phuket and Krabi. The collision caused the speedboat’s bow to be ripped off, resulting in the vessel capsizing and sinking in the Andaman Sea. Fortunately, the fishing trawler, Pichai Samut 1, remained undamaged, and there were no indications of any oil leaks or environmental harm.
The Russian Consulate General in Phuket confirmed the death of the young Russian woman and stated that they were investigating the circumstances of the accident, including factors like speed, visibility, and navigation practices at the time. Although the crash took place in Krabi Province waters, responders from Phuket were dispatched due to their proximity and resources.
While the nationalities of all passengers have not been officially disclosed, it is reported that there were Russian-speaking tourists on board. The Andaman coast of southern Thailand is a popular tourist boating area, especially during the peak winter season, with numerous speedboats operating daily between Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands.