People jump into the sea to escape raging ferry fire in Gulf of Thailand. All 108 on board are safe

Smoke rises from a ferry in Surat Thani province, Thailand, Thursday, April 4, 2024. The ferry caught fire off the southern Thailand coast on Thursday morning while carrying more than a hundred people, sending panicking passengers to jump into the sea to escape the raging blaze.

Panicked passengers leaped into the sea to escape a fierce ferry fire in the Gulf of Thailand early Thursday, with all 108 individuals on board ultimately rescued unharmed.

The overnight ferry, traveling from Surat Thani province and bound for Koh Tao, a renowned tourist spot off the Thai coast, experienced a sudden emergency as recounted by one passenger. Maitree Promjampa described hearing a crackling noise and detecting smoke moments before chaos ensued.

Maitree narrated the swift progression of events: "We could barely get the life vests in time. It was chaotic. People were weeping … I also teared up." The situation escalated rapidly after the appearance of billowing smoke and flames, prompting passengers to sound the alarm.

Of the ferry's occupants, 97 were passengers, as reported by Surat Thani officials on Facebook. Fortunately, all individuals, including passengers and crew, were successfully rescued without any casualties, according to the province's public relations department.

Videos captured the intense moments as passengers evacuated the ferry, donning life vests amidst thick black smoke engulfing the vessel. Multiple boats responded to the distress call approximately 20 minutes later, although initial fears of potential explosions prevented them from approaching the ferry closely. As a result, passengers resorted to jumping into the sea for their rescue. Notably, the ferry also carried several vehicles at the time of the incident.

"Everyone had to help themselves," Maitree remarked, reflecting on the self-reliance required during the rescue operation.

Authorities reported that the fire, originating in the engine room, has been brought under control. However, investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. Remarkably, despite the intense blaze, the ferry remained afloat and did not sink.

The Surat Thani to Koh Tao ferry is a vital transport link for both commuters and tourists, covering a distance of approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the coast of Thailand.