PATTAYA, Thailand – A large parasailing platform remains stranded on Pattaya Beach 11 days after a powerful storm broke its anchor and swept it ashore, affecting nearby beach-chair operators and tourists. The platform, measuring about 50 metres long and 18 metres wide, was swept onto the beach in front of the Tropicana Hotel in central Pattaya, during heavy storms on September 24. Its continued presence has obstructed the beach view and contributed to quieter conditions in the nearby beach-chair area, with operators reporting fewer customers.
Owner Sawang Kladkhemtong, 69, said strong winds and waves broke the platform’s anchor while it was moored offshore for parasailing activities offering 360-degree views of Pattaya. The impact damaged the hull and underside in several places, with hundreds of leaks reported beneath the platform. Sawang said workers must wait for the water level to fall before repairs can safely be carried out. He said attempting to tow the damaged platform away before repairs are completed could cause it to sink.
Sawang described the storm as one of the most severe natural events in the area in decades, with waves rising higher than the platform and pushing it toward the Pattaya shoreline. He said discussions had been held with some affected beach operators and asked for more time to complete the repairs. He expects the platform to be restored within about 10 days before being towed back offshore to its original operating area.
