Search Underway for Missing Tourist After Kayak Accident Near Railay Bay

Thai authorities have launched an intensive search operation after a tourist went missing when a kayak overturned in rough seas near Railay Bay in Krabi province.

According to officials from Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, two tourists rented a kayak and departed from Railay Bay before encountering strong winds and heavy waves earlier this week.

The kayak reportedly capsized around half a nautical mile from the shore after being caught in deteriorating weather conditions in the Andaman Sea.

One of the tourists was rescued by a nearby boat operated by a local tourism company, while the second person remains missing.

Following the incident, Park Chief Saengsuree Songthong ordered an immediate large-scale search operation involving teams from the Railay Information Center, the Poda Island ranger unit, and the Talay Waek Information Center.

The operation has also received support from the Third Naval Area Command, local tourism associations, and private boat operators assisting with the search both offshore and along nearby beaches.

Officials said difficult weather conditions, including strong currents, unstable winds, and high waves, have complicated rescue efforts. So far, search teams have recovered only a kayak paddle near the area where the vessel overturned.

Authorities confirmed that the search operation will continue with expanded manpower and coordinated support until the missing tourist is located.

The national park has also issued a warning urging tourists and marine operators to exercise extreme caution while traveling in the Andaman Sea during the current monsoon conditions, which have brought thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and dangerous waves to southern Thailand.

Officials additionally appealed to local residents and tourism operators to immediately report any relevant information that could assist rescue teams.