Foreign couple rescued after kayaking mishap in Krabi canal

A foreign couple was rescued on Saturday evening after becoming stranded during a guided kayaking trip in Tha Len canal, also known as Ao Thalane, in Krabi province near Phuket, according to local reports and the tour guide involved. The pair were found unharmed after their kayak became stuck in mud in the mangrove-lined waterway as the tide receded.

The incident happened in one of Krabi’s best-known eco-tourism areas, where kayaking routes wind through mangrove forests, tidal channels and limestone karsts. Officials and tour operators regularly warn that conditions in the area can change quickly with the tides.

Guide says pair paddled beyond briefing limits

The tour guide said the couple began arguing during the outbound paddle and moved ahead without following the pre-trip safety briefing on tide schedules and route limits.

It was unclear whether they misunderstood the instructions because of a language barrier or ignored them during the dispute. As daylight faded, they were unable to paddle back.

Receding tide left kayak stuck in mud

The falling tide left the kayak stranded in thick mud among the mangroves in darkness and rain. The couple stayed on the vessel because they were too frightened to get out as conditions worsened.

The guide later launched a search and found them sitting quietly on the kayak before bringing them back safely. He said that without help, they might have had to wait for the next morning’s high tide.

Thai social media reports said the tension between the couple eased during the ordeal and that they reconciled while waiting to be rescued. No injuries were reported.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/05/03/foreign-couple-rescued-after-kayaking-mishap-in-krabis-tha-len-canal/