Marine Department Intervenes Against Tour Boats Damaging Coral at Racha Yai Island

According to a report by Matichon Online on September 4, 2026, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources has launched an enforcement operation against tour boats operating near Racha Yai Island. Officials intervened after discovering vessels violating marine protection measures by anchoring directly onto the seabed rather than utilizing designated mooring buoys.

This practice poses a significant risk to the local marine ecosystem, as the anchors and chains can scrape and destroy fragile coral reefs. The department emphasized that these regulations are in place to preserve the biodiversity of the area, which is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.

For travelers and residents, this enforcement highlights the ongoing efforts to manage the environmental impact of tourism in Phuket’s surrounding waters. While the immediate intervention aims to curb current damage, it remains to be confirmed what specific penalties the operators will face and whether additional monitoring measures will be implemented to prevent future infractions. Visitors are encouraged to choose tour operators that strictly adhere to environmental guidelines and utilize proper mooring systems to ensure the long-term health of the reefs.