Tourists recount 'life-or-death' Koh Larn diving trip amid storm safety concerns
Tourists described a harrowing snorkeling trip near Koh Larn on May 4 where they were allegedly left struggling in rough seas during a sudden storm, with inadequate staff assistance and delayed warnings. The viral TikTok post has prompted c
Tourists have raised concerns over marine tour safety near Koh Larn after a viral social media post described a diving trip caught in rough seas and strong winds, with passengers allegedly left without adequate assistance during a sudden storm.
A TikTok user shared her experience from a join-trip snorkelling tour near Pattaya on 4 May, saying tourists were allowed into the water despite worsening weather conditions and received no warning about an approaching storm.
According to the woman, staff later announced that a storm was approaching, but while nearby tour boats quickly pulled tourists from the sea, her group was allegedly left floating in rough waters as waves intensified and the boat rocked violently.
She claimed several tourists struggled to swim back to the boat after flotation devices drifted away, while her sister was told by a jet ski operator to hold onto a buoy despite strong waves repeatedly pulling her underwater.
The woman said she and her boyfriend were eventually rescued by another boat and described the incident as a "life-or-death moment."
The post sparked criticism online, with some users claiming they were on the same trip and alleging there were too few staff members to assist tourists during the emergency.
The tourist called on marine tour operators to improve safety measures, including better weather warnings and faster emergency response. No injuries or deaths were reported.
