Phuket officials prepare pre-high-season jet-ski crackdown
Officials have announced tighter controls on jet-ski rental operators, including vessel registration, GPS tracking and mandatory accident insurance.
Phuket officials are preparing another pre-high-season crackdown on jet-ski rental operators, with measures covering registration, marine safety and enforcement of beach businesses.
The plans were discussed at a meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on 4 November 2026, chaired by Vice Governor Romdon Hayiawae, apparently acting on behalf of Governor Chotinarin Kerdsom. The Phuket Public Relations Office promoted the initiative as “Phuket takes decisive action!” under the “Phuket Model: 10 Key Measures”.
The proposed measures include inspections and registration of jet-ski operators, clearer vessel identification, separate operating areas for jet-skis and swimmers, GPS tracking of vessel locations and speeds, and mandatory accident insurance for rental watercraft.
Officials also discussed creating a database of licensed and unlicensed operators, reviewing the responsibilities of enforcement agencies and investigating businesses suspected of using Thai nominees to conceal foreign ownership.
The announcement comes amid recurring safety incidents and previous enforcement campaigns. The Phuket News reported that three incidents in recent months had highlighted risks linked to jet-ski operations around Phuket.
