PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, Thailand – Marine authorities are closely monitoring a sunken fishing fuel vessel carrying approximately 280,000 liters of diesel in the Gulf of Thailand, amid concerns that a potential oil spill could threaten marine ecosystems and coastal resources. The vessel, named Venus 14, sank at around 9am on November 11, 2026, approximately 28 nautical miles off the coast of Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Initial inspections by the Central Gulf of Thailand Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre confirmed the location of the wreck at latitude 12°20′ north and longitude 100°29′ east. The site is approximately 28 nautical miles from marine resources in Sam Roi Yot district and 50 nautical miles from Mueang district.
Although no oil leakage has been reported so far, authorities are maintaining close surveillance because of the substantial quantity of diesel remaining on board. A preliminary oil spill movement simulation by the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) indicates that any leaked fuel could drift southwards before turning west or southwest, depending on prevailing conditions.
Authorities warned that the severity of any environmental damage would depend on the type and volume of oil released, its concentration, exposure duration and the vulnerability of affected marine ecosystems. Lighter petroleum products can cause acute toxic effects, particularly during the initial stages of exposure, while heavier oils can coat marine organisms and surfaces, potentially remaining in the environment for extended periods.
The simulation also identified potential risks to coral reef areas if an oil slick enters Prachuap Bay. Up to 61 rai of coral reefs could be affected, covering five locations Ko Raet – 25 rai, Khao Lom Muak – 15 rai, Ko Lak – 11 rai, Ko Rom – 6 rai, and Ko Hai Lam – 4 rai. Marine authorities are continuing to monitor the sunken vessel and surrounding waters for signs of leakage, with the priority being to prevent damage to sensitive marine habitats and coastal resources.
