Tour Operator Fined for Allowing Drinking, Smoking at Phi Phi National Park
PHI PHI ISLANDS, Thailand — A tour operator has been fined 10,000 baht after allowing foreign tourists to drink beer and smoke cigarettes while swimming at Pileh Lagoon in the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, officials confirmed on Friday, April 26.
The incident, captured on video and widely shared on social media, drew sharp criticism. The footage showed tourists openly consuming alcohol and smoking in the protected marine area, actions which violate Thailand’s National Park Act of 2019 and park-specific regulations.
The viral post scathingly criticized the tour company for its negligence, stating, “If nature is destroyed, it’s not their problem!!” After the footage went public, the page administrator said they were contacted by someone claiming to be a national park official, demanding the video’s removal — a move described as both “unprofessional” and “intimidating.”
Saengsri Songthong, head of the Phi Phi national park, confirmed an immediate investigation was launched. Officials found the group had chartered a speedboat and brought alcohol into the national park, distributing it among themselves.
Beyond the fine, the tour company received a formal warning, with park authorities emphasizing the need for strict enforcement of park rules to protect the fragile environment.
“The park is committed to preserving its natural beauty and ensuring visitors respect the regulations,” Saengsri said.
