Tourism
Man Rescued After Five Hours Adrift at Sea Near Koh Yao Yai
A local resident from Koh Yao Yai was rescued by a passing boat after his long-tail boat sank, leaving him adrift for five hours using an icebox lid for buoyancy.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, a man identified as 'Pa Yob' from Koh Yao Yai, Phang Nga province, was rescued after his long-tail boat sank in the open sea. The incident occurred while he was traveling from Koh Yao Yai toward Hua Laem Lan. Following the sinking, the man managed to stay afloat for approximately four to five hours by clinging to a red plastic icebox lid.
He was eventually spotted and rescued by a passing vessel carrying both Thai and international tourists. Footage shared on social media by a user named 'Tao Satith' shows the man being brought aboard the rescue boat, wrapped in a blanket, and safely transported back to his home. The rescue has drawn significant attention online, highlighting the unpredictable nature of maritime travel in the region.
For travelers and residents, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maritime safety protocols when navigating the waters around Phang Nga. While the individual was fortunate to be spotted by a passing boat, the event underscores the risks associated with small-vessel travel in open waters. At this time, details regarding the specific cause of the boat's sinking and whether any emergency distress signals were deployed prior to the rescue remain unconfirmed.