Gulf ferry finally gets its launch
CHON BURI: The Pattaya-Hua Hin ferry service was officially launched yesterday after a month’s delay due to bad weather.
At Pattaya’s Bali Hai pier in Chon Buri, the ferry service yesterday commenced its operation after its official debut was postponed from Jan 12 during last month’s poor weather.
The ferry will run from the Bali Hai pier to Hua Hin’s Saphan Pla in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The journey, covering about 113 kilometres, takes around two hours, much shorter than five to six hours by road, as the route cuts across the Gulf of Thailand.
The launching ceremony, chaired by Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, also featured an activity, the Route of Glorious, which was attended by journalists and actors and actresses including Mario Maurer, Davika “Mai” Hoorne and Rinlanee “Joy” Sripen.
Mr Arkhom said the ferry project was aimed at linking water and land transport between the western and eastern Gulf of Thailand to promote tourism at seafront provinces along the Gulf.
Meanwhile, Marine Department (MD) director-general Sorasak Saensombat yesterday said the ferry service launch was regarded as a New Year’s gift for Thais.
Mr Sorasak said the department is considering developing the project further by focusing on ferries which can accommodate both vehicles and people as well as exploring other sea routes, adding tourist centres will also be built.
The Pattaya-Hua Hin ferry service is operated by Royal Passenger Liner Co. The ferry is an air-conditioned vessel, named Royal 1, which is a large-sized catamaran speedboat with 286 economy seats, 44 business seats and two VIP rooms with eight seats each. The vessel has passed an safety inspection by the MD.
After the ceremony, more than 200 passengers from the media boarded the ferry to Hua Hin. Seahawk helicopters from the Royal Thai Navy provided security.