Speedboat Catches Fire Near Phuket, Injuring Six People

A speedboat named Tana Marine 555 caught fire and exploded off the coast of Phuket, Thailand, on April 1, resulting in six people being injured. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported. 

According to the Director of the Phuket Marine Office, authorities received an emergency call at 9:20 AM local time and quickly dispatched a rescue team to the scene. 

The vessel had departed from Chalong Pier and was carrying 36 tourists—primarily from Kazakhstan and Russia—on a trip to Mai Thon Island. Upon arrival at the island, the tourists entered the water for a swimming excursion. While they were enjoying the sea, the boat’s captain noticed a mechanical issue with the engine. 

In response, the captain contacted the boat owner and requested a replacement vessel to ensure the safety of the guests. However, before the second boat could reach them, a fire broke out aboard the Tana Marine 555. Moments later, the boat exploded just 50 meters from the shore. 

The fire quickly engulfed the speedboat, injuring three crew members—the captain, an engine technician, and a tour guide—who suffered burns and shrapnel wounds. 

Meanwhile, the tourists who were still in the water rushed to safety. A nearby boat came to their aid, rescuing them from the sea. Three tourists sustained minor injuries during the incident, with two requiring medical treatment for burns. They were taken to Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation Hospital. 

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the explosion.