Pattaya —
On December 24th, 2024, Dr. Pinsak Suraswadi, the Director-General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), led media representatives on a dive to evaluate Sea Walker activities at Koh Larn, Pattaya.
Highlighting the area’s significance as a coral restoration model and a lucrative tourist destination generating over 5 million baht daily, Dr. Pinsak emphasized the balance between economic growth and marine ecosystem preservation.
Sea Walker tours, which allow tourists to explore underwater using helmet-mounted breathing systems, have resumed with strict eco-friendly guidelines. Past activities caused coral damage, prompting a ban, according to Dr. Pinsak.
Now, operators are confined to 38 designated zones away from natural coral reefs, primarily around Koh Larn and Koh Sak. Measures include walkways to minimize sediment disturbance, barriers to protect marine life, and clear regulations to prevent feeding fish.
Dr. Pinsak stressed the importance of prioritizing marine resources over tourism revenue. Violators harming natural habitats will face strict legal action. Authorities will enforce safety and environmental standards before issuing permits to ensure sustainable practices.
TPN Media also notes that an Indian tourist was seriously injured on a sea walker tour earlier this year, contributing to the ban, but stricter safety regulations have now been implemented.