Speedboat Carrying 36 Passengers and Crew Explodes into Fire Off Phuket, Thailand Injuring Several Tourists

The speedboat was about 50 meters offshore when the explosion happened

A speedboat carrying 36 people, including crew members, erupted in flames near Maiton Island, off the coast of Phuket, Thailand. The fire sent thick black smoke billowing into the sky, visible from miles away, as flames rapidly engulfed the vessel.

The boat, located approximately 60 yards offshore, forced passengers to jump into the water to escape. Initial reports indicate that six individuals sustained injuries, including three tourists, the boat’s captain, a guide, and the mechanic. Most of the passengers were holidaymakers from Russia and Kazakhstan. The exact cause of the fire remains unconfirmed, but one report suggested that the engine exploded during a swimming stop, triggering the blaze.

Firefighters on the scene

Eyewitness accounts state that the fire was caused by an engine malfunction. As rescue services rushed to the scene, the vessel drifted ashore, where it was completely consumed by the flames. The Phuket Information Centre confirmed that all passengers and crew managed to evacuate in time, though minor injuries were reported.

Emergency response teams were deployed immediately following the explosion. The Marine Tourist Rescue Centre, the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre, and the Royal Thai Navy responded swiftly, with the HTMS Hua Hin dispatched to assist in the operation.

Thick plumes of black smoke billowed into the sky

Maiton Island, also known as Koh Mai Thon, is a small private island in the Andaman Sea, renowned for its clear waters, coral reefs, and pristine sandy beaches. The incident has raised concerns regarding the safety of marine tourism in the region.