The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has identified Pattaya as the location for Thailand's first cruise terminal, aiming to boost the country's maritime tourism capacity. The project will be presented to the future government.
Ekkarat Khantharo, director of the Maritime Ministry's regional office in Pattaya, provided an update on the development of cruise ports and terminals in the country. He revealed that there are plans to build such facilities in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.
Locations suitable for large cruise ships and vessels with a draft of up to 12 meters have been investigated for the Gulf of Thailand. The ministry concluded that Pattaya is the most suitable place in the eastern region for a cruise terminal. After a public referendum and consultation with consultancy firms on economic, physical and environmental impacts, Bali Hai Cape was chosen as the location for the project.
Ekkarat reported that the terminal will extend approximately 900 meters into the sea from the cape. The project is expected to cost between 6 billion and 7 billion baht and will be financed through a public-private partnership. Referendums have been held at both local and provincial levels. Inputs and suggestions have already been collected from stakeholders in the fishing industry, tourism industry and public sector.
If the project is realized, the terminal will be the first location in Thailand where very large cruise ships can dock.
Ekkarat added that a consultancy firm is currently preparing a summary of the project's economic, environmental and other impacts after public hearings. This report will be submitted to the Ministry of Justice so that the cabinet can decide whether or not to continue the project.
Ekkarat expressed hope that the incoming government will support the project.
Source: NNT- National News Bureau of Thailand
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Known as Khun Peter (62), lives alternately in Apeldoorn and Pattaya. In a relationship with Kanchana for 14 years. Not yet retired, have my own company, something with insurance. Crazy about animals, especially dogs and music.
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