French Family Rescued After 16 Hours Adrift Off Thai Island
Thestandard · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
A French family survived a terrifying overnight ordeal after their rented jet ski capsized in the waters off Koh Samui, one of Thailand's most popular resort islands. The 50-year-old father and his two young sons, aged five and seven, spent more than 16 hours drifting at sea before being rescued on Friday morning. The family had been taken to hospital for medical checks following their ordeal but were discharged shortly afterwards, local officials confirmed.
Key Points
- The father rented a jet ski at approximately 5:00 pm local time on Thursday from a local operator on Koh Samui island in the Gulf of Thailand
- The rental was initially agreed for a 45-minute ride, but the family failed to return at the scheduled time, prompting the operator to alert rescue authorities
- Search teams using speedboats and additional jet skis combed the waters surrounding Koh Samui and towards nearby Koh Phangan island through the night
- Rescuers found the family at around 10:00 am on Friday, with the jet ski nearly completely submerged and only its front section visible above water
- The father told authorities that rough waves struck the jet ski and caused the engine to stop towards the end of the rental period
Why It Matters
The incident highlights the importance of water safety measures for tourists renting personal watercraft in Thailand's popular resort destinations. The family was wearing life jackets, which authorities say contributed to their survival during the extended drift. The jet ski operator told local media the family may have travelled outside the agreed rental area specified in their contract, raising questions about safety protocols and enforcement for jet ski rentals .
The family has remained in Thailand and continued their holiday after being discharged from hospital, according to local government officials.
The incident highlights the importance of water safety measures for tourists renting personal watercraft in Thailand's popular resort destinations. The family was wearing life jackets, which authorities say contributed to their survival during the extended drift. The jet ski operator told local media the family may have travelled outside the agreed rental area specified in their contract, raising questions about safety protocols and enforcement for jet ski rentals .
The family has remained in Thailand and continued their holiday after being discharged from hospital, according to local government officials.