Krabi –
Authorities are conducting an urgent search for a missing tourist after a kayak overturned in rough seas off Railay Bay, Krabi.
According to the Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, two tourists rented a kayak and set out from Railay Bay before being swept away by strong winds and waves earlier this week. The vessel capsized about half a nautical mile from shore. One tourist was rescued by a nearby operator’s boat, while the other remains missing.
Upon receiving the report, Park Chief Saengsuree Songthong ordered immediate deployment of search teams from the Railay Information Center, the Poda Island ranger unit, and the Talay Waek Information Center. They were joined by the Third Naval Area Command, local tourism associations, and private operators. Search efforts have been carried out both at sea and along the coastline.
Challenging weather conditions, including high waves and unstable winds, have hampered the initial operation. Only a kayak paddle was recovered near the site of the incident. Authorities have announced plans to intensify the search with coordinated manpower until the missing tourist is found.
Members of the public or local operators with information are urged to contact the Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park at 075-656150 or via the park’s official Facebook page.
The park has also issued a safety advisory, urging boat operators and tourists to exercise extreme caution when navigating the Andaman Sea during this period of strong waves, thunderstorms, and heavy rain.
Officials expressed solidarity with all search teams and called for collective vigilance to prioritize maritime safety.
