PATTAYA, Thailand – A sudden 6-baht spike in fuel prices is forcing boat operators across Pattaya and Sattahip Bay to keep some vessels docked, threatening livelihoods and regional tourism. Tour and fishing boats that normally take visitors on day trips or fishing excursions are struggling as rising costs outpace potential earnings.
“I had to force the boat out today even though we are losing money because customers already arrived,” said Somprasong Boonthamchuay, a local tour and fishing operator in Sattahip. “If fuel prices keep climbing, we may have to refund deposits and temporarily suspend operations.”
Many smaller operators, particularly those with limited capital, are already feeling the strain. Reports indicate that several tour boats in Pattaya are also reducing service or remaining docked, showing that the crisis is not isolated to Sattahip but affects the entire bay’s coastal tourism industry.
At Laem Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya, however, reporters observed that ferries and tour boats to Koh Larn—both large vessels and speedboats—were still operating and serving tourists as usual. Operators expressed shock at the overnight fuel price jump of 6 baht, which left little time to refuel. Most speedboats rely on Gasohol 95, which now costs up to 41.02 baht per liter.
Chalita Bunmachai, president of the Bali Hai Speedboat Association, told reporters: “We are certainly surprised by the current fuel situation, but as speedboat operators, we have no choice but to continue running as long as fuel is available. If supplies run out, the tourism service stops immediately.”
Regarding fare adjustments, Chalita added that the association is monitoring costs closely and will discuss potential price changes if fuel prices continue to rise. For now, she reassured tourists that operators are fully committed to maintaining services to Koh Larn.
The situation is creating a ripple effect across related sectors, from local fishing communities to hospitality and entertainment businesses that depend on day-trippers and tourists who book boat tours. Operators are urging the government to stabilize fuel costs, warning that further delays could lead to permanent closures and a significant blow to the region’s tourism reputation.
“This isn’t just a Sattahip problem,” Somprasong said. “Pattaya faces the same challenges. Both cities rely on tourism and the sea, and if boats stay docked, the whole bay feels the impact.”
With Songkran approaching, operators are desperate for solutions to ensure the busy holiday season isn’t derailed by soaring fuel costs.
