Natchapong Pranit, Chief of the Phuket Marine Office, led an inspection team to the boat dock in Chalong, where they collected evidence yesterday (Apr 2) to determine the cause of the fire, which completely destroyed the vessel.
The investigation is being conducted in coordination with local police, forensic experts, public health officials and representatives of the boat’s owner.
The speedboat, ‘Thana Marine 555’, departed from Chalong Pier, carrying 37 foreign tourists, guides and crew members, the Phuket Marine Office reported.
The explosion occurred while the boat was anchored, allowing passengers to swim and view coral before heading to Phi Phi Island.
The injured included the boat’s engine mechanic, who sustained 50% burns and remains in treatment at Vachira Phuket Hospital. Other injured individuals have since been discharged, the report confirmed.
Officials have imposed a temporary ban on the boat’s use, and the owner has moved it to a dock for further examination.
Marine Department Director-General Kritphet Chaichuay has ordered a fact-finding committee to report its findings within seven days, with a full forensic analysis expected to take around 30 days, the Phuket Marine Office noted.
Preliminary findings suggest the fire originated from the boat’s left-side stern while the mechanic was attempting to fix an engine failure.
At the time of the incident, only four people ‒ the guide, helmsman, mechanic and a crew member ‒ remained onboard, as passengers had disembarked.
The investigation team is investigating whether mechanical faults or other factors contributed to the explosion, the report said.
In response to the incident, officials have announced stricter regulations for boat inspections. The frequency of mandatory checks for fibreglass speedboats will be increased from once a year to at least twice a year.
Additionally, boats must undergo thorough safety checks before departure, including maintenance assessments and oil residue cleaning to prevent potential fire hazards, the Phuket Marine Office said.