A group of tourists had a lucky escape after the tour boat they were in sank in rough seas near Thailand’s famous James Bond Island.
Nineteen people, including 16 tourists were pulled from the water
It was caused by a collision with another vessel at Khao Hua Yai in Phang Nga Bay.
Four tourists from Belgium and 12 from Norway were taken to hospital for evaluation along with three Thais.
The boat named Wararat sank after hitting another boat carrying 12 Chinese tourists which was undamaged.
The captain of the Wararat told police it was raining heavily and visibility was poor in the bay.
"It was very lucky that they were all wearing life jackets. We always warn tourists to wear life jackets for safety," said Phang Nga vice governor Eakkarat Leeseng, who visited the tourists in hospital with officers from the Tourist Assistance Center.
The vice governor said all injuries sustained were minor.
Police deputy chief investigator Lt. Col. Somkhit Khaosang said investigations continue to discover if the boat company or staff can be held responsible for the accident.
