Phuket-Centered Two-Coast Plan Targets Thailand Cruise Hub Status
The strategy was presented during the Thailand Cruise Port Infrastructure Prioritization Forum 2026 held at the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa in Mai Khao, bringing together senior government officials, tourism…
A “two-coast” strategy aimed at turning Thailand into a regional cruise hub was presented in Phuket on May 16, 2026, during the Thailand Cruise Port Infrastructure Prioritization Forum 2026 at the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa in Mai Khao. The forum brought together senior government officials, tourism executives, cruise industry representatives and private-sector leaders to map out the future of the country’s cruise tourism infrastructure.
The event was organised by the Senate Committee on Tourism and Sports and chaired by committee chairman Pisut Rattanawong.
Network links Andaman and Gulf ports
Officials said the plan would connect the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea into a unified marine tourism network. Key ports named in the strategy were Phuket, Laem Chabang and Songkhla, alongside emerging destinations including Krabi, Satun, Ranong and Trat.
The proposal also divides ports by capability. Categories include Home Ports, Ports of Call and Boutique or Expedition Ports for smaller luxury cruise vessels.
Pisut said Thailand was entering a crucial period in defining a new role in the global cruise industry. He said the country wanted to move beyond being only a tourist destination and become a strategic regional partner for long-term cruise growth.
Infrastructure push tied to sustainability and business travel
Participants said port development would need to be matched by environmental protection, upgraded tourist attractions and stronger community participation. An official report on the forum said the meeting would help create a national roadmap for cruise port development and identify investment priorities, public-private partnership opportunities and the agencies responsible for carrying out the strategy.
TCEB representatives said the cruise sector would also be linked with Thailand’s MICE industry, using cruise ships as platforms for international business events and incentive travel.
Among attendees were TCEB Deputy Director Dr Suratchanu Thongmee, Songkhla Deputy Governor Chucheep Thammapetch, Prachuap Khiri Khan Deputy Governor Preeda Sukjai, Thai Chamber of Commerce Honorary President Klin Sarasin, Thai Cruise Business Association President Wattana Choksuvanich, Ministry of Transport Inspector General Puripat Teerakulphisut and Thalang District Chief Wilailak Ruangphol.
Source: https://www.thephuketnews.com/two-coast-plan-to-make-phuket-regional-cruise-hub-100243.php
