The Transport Ministry has updated its regulations regarding the size of super yachts navigating Thai waters in an effort to position Thailand as a premier marina hub in Asia.
Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced on Friday that the Marine Department has recently revised guidelines for the arrival of super yachts and sports boats to align with the current maritime landscape and bolster marine tourism.
“This regulation has been in effect since August 2015 and requires updates to reflect current realities. It supports the government’s initiative to attract affluent foreign tourists,” she stated.
“Thailand aims to become a regional center for ocean tourism and cruise travel, backed by government efforts to promote the country as an Asian marina hub,” she added.
Marine Department director Kritpetch Chaichuay noted that the new regulations redefine the classifications of such vessels. The minimum length for large cruising and sports boats (super yachts) has been reduced from over 30 meters to 24 meters and above, still with a maximum capacity of 12 passengers, aligning with international standards.
Additionally, insurance coverage is now mandated at a minimum of US$5 million (approximately 171 million baht) per incident.
Mr. Kritpetch mentioned that applications for permission can be submitted through an electronic service system, with supporting documentation accepted in both Thai and English. The processing time for approvals is set at within 25 working days.
The Ministry of Transport has observed a rise in the number of yachts over 24 meters arriving and departing from Phuket in recent years, with data indicating that 41 super yachts visited Phuket in 2021, increasing to 117 in 2022 and 148 in 2023.
Phuket and Koh Samui have emerged as the top destinations for vessels in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, respectively. The ministry is also working on developing two cruise terminal projects at Laem Chabang Port and Koh Samui.
