Uncovering the Mystery of the Phoenix Sinking
What’s the Scoop?
After the tragedy that claimed 47 Chinese tourists in July, Thailand launched a deep dive into the wreck of the Phoenix. The investigation is still in full swing, and officials are pulling apart every snag to figure out why that boat went belly‑first.
Why the Phoenix Matters
Major General Surachate Hakparn, Deputy Chief of the Tourist Police, said the “Phoenix” is a key piece of evidence. “If we nail down what caused the accident, we can give Chinese visitors the reassurance they need,” he told reporters.
What Happened On The Ship
- The Phoenix was carrying 101 souls: 12 crew and 89 tourists – almost all from China. They were heading to a tiny island for snorkeling when a brutal weather storm flipped them over.
- Early salvage attempts were halted by the seas, leaving the wreck to chill underwater.
Why This Matters for Tourism
That 2017 crash was the worst tourist mishap Thailand had seen in years, and it hit the Chinese visitor numbers hard. China feeds roughly a third of Thailand’s record 35.38 million arrivals, and tourism is a major part of the country’s economy.
What the Government Is Doing
To rally visitors back, Thailand has rolled out visa‑fee waivers and other incentives. But, as Surachate insisted, the truth about the Phoenix is the first step toward regaining trust.
In a nutshell: Thailand is digging into the wreck to find the cause, hoping to lift Chinese travelers’ confidence and keep the tourist economy thriving.