Ferry to Koh Larn sinks after striking pier, passengers safe

CHON BURI: Panic briefly gripped passengers when a three‑deck ferry struck a pier structure while docking at Koh Larn on Wednesday, damaging its stern and causing it to partially sink. All on board escaped unharmed.

Images and video clips shared on social media showed the vessel taking on water beside the island’s pier as bystanders reacted in shock. The posts were accompanied by a message saying, “Everyone is safe”.

Reporters at the scene found the ferry, named Ocean Lana, submerged alongside the pier at Koh Larn. No injuries were reported, although several tourists were visibly shaken by the incident.

Witnesses said the ferry had been carrying about 25–30 passengers from Pattaya to Koh Larn. As it approached the pier — which is currently a temporary structure — the vessel’s stern struck part of the bridge framework with significant force while manoeuvring to dock.

The impact damaged the hull, allowing seawater to enter and causing the ferry to sink shortly afterwards.

Local residents and personnel at the pier quickly assisted, helping all passengers disembark safely before the situation worsened.

The Ocean Lana is a three-storey, air-conditioned ferry café operating on the Pattaya–Koh Larn route, featuring an open-air deck for sea views and offering beverage services on board.