Chinese Tourist Rescued After Canoe Capsizes Off Phuket Coast

A Chinese tourist who could not swim was rescued at sea off Phuket after her canoe overturned and drifted away from the shore on November 3. A passing fishing boat spotted her clinging to the overturned vessel and brought her safely back to land.

The incident happened at around 5:40pm near the southern tip of Koh Man, off Rawai in Mueang Phuket district.

The woman, believed to be in her 20s, had reportedly set out from Ya Nui Beach in a canoe. Waves subsequently overturned the vessel and carried it further out to sea.

Unable to swim, the tourist initially held on to the canoe to keep herself afloat. She later managed to climb onto its overturned hull and waited for help, using her paddle to attract attention.

A fishing boat returning from the Koh Man area spotted her sitting on the canoe and waving the paddle while calling for assistance.

The crew approached the stranded tourist, helped her onto the fishing boat and took her safely back to shore.

One of the rescuers said the woman had drifted behind Koh Man, where the water was deep and the coastline was some distance away.

After reaching safety, the tourist became emotional and cried. She reportedly explained that a wave had overturned her canoe, leaving her stranded in the sea.

Footage of the rescue later circulated on social media, prompting discussion about safety measures for visitors taking part in water activities around Phuket.

Some users questioned whether sufficient precautions were being taken, including the provision and use of life jackets. Others reminded tourists to check sea conditions before heading out and avoid paddling too far from the shore, particularly if they cannot swim.