The ‘Passenger Ship Exercise 2025’ was led by the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center Region 3 (Thai-MECC 3), based at the Royal Thai Navy Third Naval Area Command at Cape Panwa, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and a wide network of public and private stakeholders.
A highlight of the drill was the participation of the ‘Genting Dream’ cruise ship, which served as the setting for realistic disaster scenarios designed to test emergency responder’s readiness in the event of a large-scale maritime emergency.
The exercise simulated three core scenarios:
- Evacuation of passengers and crew using lifeboats (tender boats);
- Rescue of people forced to jump overboard after failing to board lifeboats in time;
- Response to a fire on board, with fire suppression supported by firefighters from the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO) and the Royal Thai Navy vessel HTMS Panyi.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Admiral Phairoj Fuangchanchai, Director-General of Thai-MECC, with Rear Admiral Benjamaporn Wongnakornsawang, Director of the Training and Education Bureau, outlining the exercise’s objectives and later joining officials in observing the onboard operations.
An exhibition showcasing maritime safety initiatives and emergency tools was held alongside the exercise, with representatives from participating agencies taking part in the event.
Key participants in the operation included the Royal Thai Navy, Marine Department, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Ministry of Public Health, National Institute for Emergency Medicine, NT Public Co Ltd, Royal Thai Police, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation along with local safety network organisations and private sector partners.
Officials said the drill was conducted in alignment with international maritime safety protocols under the SOLAS Convention and the standards of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It also serves to strengthen Thailand’s position as a regional leader in maritime security and safety, said Thai MECC Spokesperson Capt Pichet Songtan.
Thai-MECC Region 3 reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national maritime interests and ensuring the safety of both citizens and tourists in the Andaman region. Members of the public can report emergencies at sea 24 hours a day by calling the Marine Department Region 3 hotline at 1465, Capt Pichet added.