Thai Government sets 2029 construction start for new cruise terminal

The Thai Government has said that it expects construction of a new international cruise terminal in Koh Samui Island in Surat Thani Province in eastern Thailand to commence in 2029 and last for approximately three years.

Plans are also in place to attract cruise ships travelling between Singapore and Pattaya as well as other destinations via the Gulf of Thailand.

The Koh Samui terminal project has a total cost of approximately THB12.172 billion (US$360 million). The project will entail the development of 7.52 hectares and the construction of a new large pier that will be able to accommodate one 2,500-guest ship and one 4,000-guest ship simultaneously.

The nearest facility capable of accommodating passenger vessels with large capacities visiting Koh Samui is the port in Don Sak some 64 kilometres away. However, the port is open only to ferries and tour vessels.

The project is part of a broader government initiative of enhancing tourism infrastructure in Surat Thani.