A cruise terminal in Koh Samui is projected to open in 2032, aiming to enhance tourism in Surat Thani, according to Deputy Caretaker Minister Manaporn Charoensri.
Ms. Manaporn, who visited Koh Samui alongside Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, reported on the status of significant transportation infrastructure developments in the region.
Mr. Suriya highlighted that the ministry is currently pursuing multiple new initiatives primarily designed to bolster the tourism sector.
On Saturday, Ms. Manaporn announced that the Marine Department has finalized its study on the 12.1-billion-baht cruise terminal project, which will occupy 47 rai of land at Laem Hin Khom. The study identified the terminal’s location in tambon Taling Ngam as optimal due to its deep-sea setting, providing a natural windbreak, as well as ample space for the development of a cruise port.
The study addresses necessary emergency response protocols and offers insights into potential full-scale commercial development, evaluating the readiness of the area to be serviced by public utilities, according to Ms. Manaporn.
Additionally, the study investigates the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) net cost investment as the most appropriate financing mechanism for the cruise terminal project. It is projected to generate at least 46 billion baht in economic benefits over 37 years, with an anticipated economic internal rate of return (EIRR) exceeding 15%.
The Marine Department has submitted its findings to the ministry, which will then forward the information to the cabinet for review, as stated by Ms. Manaporn.
She mentioned that the ministry aims to secure project approval by next month, after which the bidding process will commence.
Construction is slated to begin in 2029 and is expected to require a minimum of three years to complete, with the terminal set to become fully operational in 2032.
The terminal is estimated to accommodate 120 cruise arrivals annually, attracting around 180,000 cruise visitors each year, according to Ms. Manaporn.
The project has garnered positive responses from private investors, who believe it will significantly stimulate tourism in the province, she added.
