Parasailing Scare in Phuket as Rope Snaps Mid-Air, Tourist and Staff Fall into Sea

A parasailing incident in Phuket briefly turned dangerous when a tourist and an assistant plunged into the sea after a rope failed during take-off. Fortunately, neither of them was injured.

The accident occurred on April 20 and was recorded by a foreign bystander. The video, later posted on TikTok by user @burcuus with the caption “That was close,” shows two men being lifted by a speedboat when a connecting rope suddenly gives way.

According to reports, the broken line linked the parachute to the boat. The pair fell into the water moments after leaving the ground, at what witnesses described as a relatively low altitude. Both escaped unharmed.

It remains unclear whether the tourist involved intends to pursue compensation or legal action. As of now, authorities and relevant agencies have not released official statements regarding the incident.

The footage quickly spread online, sparking criticism and renewed concerns over safety standards among parasailing operators on the island. Social media users questioned whether proper equipment checks are being carried out and whether operators are investing enough in maintenance, especially given the high cost of such activities.

Some commenters highlighted how fortunate it was that the fall occurred shortly after take-off, warning that the consequences could have been far more serious at greater heights. Others called for stricter oversight or even temporary suspension of services until safety can be guaranteed.

The latest incident adds to a series of past safety concerns involving parasailing in Phuket. In early 2025, authorities launched inspections after a staff member died in a fall while assisting a tourist near Karon Beach. The fall was reported to be from a height comparable to a multi-storey building.

Other cases have also raised alarms. In April last year, a foreign tourist was injured after landing on a jet ski during a parasailing activity off Patong Beach. Later in the year, another incident near Kata Beach saw a staff member jump into the water to assist a tourist following a speedboat accident.

Despite previous crackdowns and safety checks, recurring incidents continue to fuel debate over the regulation and supervision of water sports activities in Phuket.