Each ferry heading out of Phuket will be checked to ensure it is not overloaded with passengers, that there are enough life jackets for all on board, and that the skipper of the boat is not drunk.
This morning at Rassada Port – the main departure point for ferries to Phi Phi – tourists appeared surprised and a little nervous when uniformed officials came of board, but grateful when they understood what was going on. Some had officials pose with them for pictures.
The Director of the Marine Office, Phuriphat Theerakulpisut, told The Phuket News, “Today there are only three or four ferry departures [from Rassada], which is a smaller number than at this time last year.
“We work closely with the Marine Police to check life jackets and alcohol levels of the crew. There are 1,500 ferry boats, small and large, at Rassada Port, which all have to be checked.”
Usually, the ferries are spot-checked but during Songkran every ferry will be boarded before departure and checked as part of Phuket Governor Maitree Intusut’s Songkran policy. He said.
Mr Phuriphat smiled, adding, “I am happy when tourists are safe travelling around Phuket. And I would add, ‘With the right number on board, your safety’s ensured.’”