The operation was launched after a distress call was received via the department’s 1465 hotline at around midday.
Mr Pratakorn, who made the call, reported that a small yellow fishing boat carrying three men had suffered engine trouble and had been drifting west of Kata, unable to contact family members two days, reported Thai MECC 3.
Patrol boat T.272 was dispatched immediately to search for the stranded crew.
An investigation confirmed the boat had gone fishing off Kata when the engine failed. Strong winds then pushed the vessel further out to sea.
At about 3:45pm, T.272 located the vessel some 21 nautical miles west of Kata. All three fishermen were found in good health and were taken aboard the rescue vessel. The boat was towed safely back to shore at Chalong Bay.
Officials confirmed that sea conditions at the time were calm, with no strong waves, contributing to the safe recovery of the men.
Thai MECC 3 reiterated its commitment to protecting maritime interests and ensuring the safety of those at sea. Members of the public are urged to call the 1465 maritime emergency hotline, available 24 hours a day, in the event of maritime incidents, natural disasters or emergencies.