The trial took place yesterday (Dec 29), led by Phuket Vice Governor Teeraphong Chuaychoo, who chaired a field inspection covering pier readiness, travel time, passenger handling and overall system safety.
Joining the inspection were Phuket Marine Office Director Adoon Raluekmoon; Sirinat National Park Chief Paphavin Yanglang; Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri; Phuket Provincial Industrial Council President Montavee Hongyok; Phuket City Development Company (PKCD) Chairman Waitat Upatising; along with officials from Phuket International Airport, fisheries authorities, private sector representatives and related agencies.
The inspection began at Phuket International Airport, where officials reviewed the planned check-in and passenger processing system for boat users. The group then travelled to Sirinat National Park to inspect the location of a proposed temporary pier before boarding a vessel to test the water route from the park to Patong Beach.
After arriving at Patong, the delegation transferred by bus to survey onward land-transport connections, including hotel transfer routes and passenger drop-off management points, particularly around the Tri Trang area, to assess capacity, safety and readiness.
Vice Governor Teerapong said the exercise was designed to test the full operating concept of the proposed service.
“Today’s test covered all key aspects of Phuket’s potential water transport system, including travel time, luggage handling, passenger capacity, safety standards and possible impact from the project,” he said. “The findings will now be evaluated to determine the next steps.”
If approved, the service is expected to significantly reduce road traffic, particularly on key routes between the airport and Patong, while also shortening travel time during peak tourist periods. Authorities also emphasised that the project would create opportunities for local transport groups to participate in the system, rather than replacing existing services.
Phuket Marine Office Director Adoon confirmed that the initiative followed policy direction from the Ministry of Transport. He said the initial test indicated that both vessels and piers were sufficiently prepared to support trial operations, with a phased expansion of the service currently under consideration.
Patong Mayor Lalita added that the municipality strongly supports the initiative, noting that Patong faces some of the island’s most severe congestion, especially during high season.
“Boat taxis will provide another convenient option for tourists and help relieve traffic pressure in our city,” she said.
Provincial officials noted that the trial marks an important step in the long-term development of Phuket’s water transport network, aimed at connecting the airport with key tourism areas while improving travel efficiency, boosting visitor convenience and enhancing Phuket’s overall transport infrastructure.
The trial results will now be compiled and presented for further consideration as Phuket pushes forward with alternative transport solutions to match its growth as a tourist destination, said an official report of the event.