Phuket, Thailand— Ten passengers were injured Thursday morning when a tourist boat engine exploded just after ignition off the coast of Phuket, throwing people into the water and setting the vessel on fire.
The boat was carrying 14 foreign tourists and two Thai crew members for a day trip to nearby islands. The incident happened around 10:40 a.m. near Chalong Bay. The captain had just restarted the engine after a brief stop.
Witnesses said they smelled fuel, then heard a loud bang. Flames shot from the stern. The explosion ripped open the engine cover. Passengers seated at the back suffered burns to their legs and arms.
"We heard the engine struggling, then it exploded. People screamed," one tourist who was on a nearby longtail boat said. He helped pull two injured passengers from the sea.
Phuket Marine Police and rescue boats reached the scene in 15 minutes. They found the boat half-burned and drifting. Ten people were taken to Chalong Hospital and Vachira Phuket Hospital. Two had serious burns. The others had cuts and smoke inhalation.
The marine office confirmed the boat was licensed for 25 passengers. Initial checks point to a fuel leak and vapor buildup in the enclosed engine compartment. The owner claimed the boat passed inspection last month.
Tourism officials said this is the third engine-related boat incident in Phuket waters in the past two months. Operators are under pressure to cut costs. Old engines are common. Safety drills are rarely done.
The harbour master ordered the boat impounded for forensic inspection. The captain is being questioned. Officials said charges could follow if negligence is found.
All island tours from Chalong Pier were suspended for the afternoon while marine officers checked other vessels.
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