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Koh Chang has seen decline in visitors, Samui ferry operator raises fares
Tourism operators on Thai resort islands are bracing for the effects of the sudden sharp increase in fuel prices on Thursday.
A survey on Koh Chang in the eastern province of Trat found that pump prices on the island are about three baht higher than on the mainland, with gasoline surging to 52.39 baht per litre.
Diesel now costs 18% more than it did a day ago, while increases for other fuels range from 14% to 22%.
Wasan Rungmanee, a representative of public transport drivers on Koh Chang, said the sudden increase of 6 baht per litre has had a severe impact. He said such a sharp hike is far more difficult to absorb compared to gradual increases of 0.50 or 1 baht.
While drivers have not increased passenger fares as of Thursday, Mr Wasan said they would assess the situation over the next week before making a decision.
If fuel prices appear likely to decline, fares will remain unchanged, he said. However, if the situation persists, some operators may be unable to continue running services, as costs have risen while passenger numbers have dropped significantly.
The decline in tourists is partly due to recent unrest along the Thai-Cambodian border. Combined with high fuel prices and limited availability, this could lead to a drop in family travellers, Mr Wasan added.
A food vendor, Nanthawan Sangthong, said her business has also been affected, as transport and ingredient costs have risen in line with fuel prices. However, she has not raised food prices, instead reducing portion sizes to ease the burden on local residents, especially low-income salaried workers.
Ferry services to and from Koh Chang have also been temporarily adjusted. The first and last trips will operate as usual at 6.30am and 6.30pm, while daytime services will depart only when enough vehicles fill the ferry. Departure times may vary depending on traffic volume.
In Surat Thani, Seatran Ferry Co Ltd announced fare increases for services between Donsak Pier on the mainland and Koh Samui and Koh Phangan due to rising fuel prices.
Donsak-Samui-Donsak fares will increase from 180 to 210 baht, and Donsak-Phangan-Donsak fares will rise from 250 to 280 baht.
The new fares will take effect on Friday. For online bookings, the new rates will apply from 8pm Thursday onwards.
