Minister orders crackdown on illegal jet skis and tighter taxi compliance in Phuket
Thailand’s deputy transport minister ordered tougher action against illegal jet skis and told taxi operators in Phuket to comply with regulations during a province-wide transport safety inspection.
Deputy Transport Minister Sapphasit Boonyamanee ordered strict enforcement against illegal jet skis and directed taxi operators to comply with regulations during a transport safety inspection across Phuket.
The inspection began at Patong Beach, where authorities checked jet ski operations for unlicensed vessels, expired permits and unauthorized services encroaching on swimming zones. Patong has about 170 jet skis run by more than 50 businesses, with average rental fees of 1,500 baht for 30 minutes. Officials said all vessels must be properly registered to protect tourists.
Across Phuket, 384 licensed jet skis have been categorized into four groups: fully registered operators at Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamala, Bang Tao and Naka Island; businesses awaiting provincial approval; operators endorsed at provincial meetings; and illegal vessels outside the system. The source said authorized jet ski numbers have risen since 2004, with the latest addition of 62 vessels in 2026.
Boonyamanee also met lifeguards at Patong and emphasized strict enforcement of red-flag warnings during rough seas. With an estimated 5,000 tourists visiting Patong each day in peak season, he called for vigilance to prevent accidents that could harm Phuket’s reputation.
Patong Municipality has expanded CCTV coverage and plans to add more beach lighting, while ATV patrols are set to strengthen safety at night.
The delegation later inspected passenger boat services and Phuket Deep Sea Port to review readiness for cruise ships and maritime safety measures. Officials also examined progress on the Phuket Expressway Project, Phase 1 from Kathu to Patong, at the Kathu tunnel entrance on Highway 4029.
The inspection ended at Phuket International Airport, where the minister told taxi operators to improve service quality and follow regulations to provide safe and reliable transport for residents and visitors.
