The confirmation comes as heavy rains lashed the island today (Sept 16), as the fallout from tropical storm Vamco making landfall in Vietnam whipped waves up to three metres tall in the Andaman region.
While all boats less than 10 metres long are banned from taking to deep waters off Phuket, they are permitted to make short journeys to nearby islands, a Marine official told The Phuket News.
“Small boats are not permitted to make journeys from Phuket to distant islands, such as Phu Phi or Koh Racha,” he said.
“But they are permitted to take tourists to islands that are closer, such as Koh Lone, Coral Island and other nearby islands in Phang Nga Bay.”
“Most longtail trips are not too far,” the officer said. “If it is only a short journey, then it is still allowed. Just be careful.”
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) today issued another weather advisory, forecasting heavy to very heavy rain in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun.
Southwesterly winds gusting up to 40kmh are expected to create waves of up to three meters in thundershower areas.