TRAT, Thailand – A ferry operator serving Koh Chang has scaled back a planned fare increase and issued a public apology after facing widespread criticism from residents, tourists, and local businesses.
The controversy began after operators proposed steep fare hikes, citing surging fuel costs that have risen from around 26 baht per litre in 2016—when current fares were set—to as high as 50 baht per litre today. Initial proposals suggested increasing passenger fares from 80 baht to 130 baht, and car ferry fees for four-wheel vehicles from 120 baht to 280 baht.
The move sparked immediate backlash across Trat, with concerns that higher transport costs would hurt tourism and place an added burden on local residents, particularly students who rely on daily ferry travel.
In response, the provincial governor convened an urgent meeting with relevant authorities and ferry operators to review the proposal. Following the meeting and public pressure, the company revised its pricing plan.
Under the new structure, set to take effect on April 10, passenger fares will increase modestly from 80 baht to 90 baht, while four-wheel vehicle fees will rise from 120 baht to 200 baht—significantly lower than the initially proposed rates.
In a formal statement, the ferry operator acknowledged that earlier communication had been unclear and caused confusion, affecting both tourists and local businesses, including a drop in tour bookings. The company apologized and said it aimed to strike a balance between operational sustainability and affordability.
Local officials emphasized that clear communication is critical to maintaining confidence in Koh Chang as a tourism destination. Community members also highlighted the broader impact of rising fuel prices, noting that increased travel costs could significantly affect families, especially those supporting children commuting to schools on the mainland.
Despite the adjustment, the operator maintained that a fare increase is necessary to reflect current economic realities, while pledging to keep prices as reasonable as possible.
