A British tourist is missing after a fire broke out on the 'Davy Jones Locker,' a scuba-diving boat off the coast of Koh Tao, Thailand. The incident occurred on Sunday, March 16, 2025, around 10 am local time. Authorities are concerned about Alexandra May Clarke, 26, from Lambeth, London, who was reportedly inside the boat’s toilet when the blaze started.
At least 15 other tourists, along with two crewmembers and four instructors, were on board the vessel during the unfortunate event. Initial reports state the fire originated from the engine room, shortly after the crew filled the fuel tank. Colonel Sarayuth Buriwachira of Koh Tao Police reported, "An employee on the ship whose duty was to fill the air tank took extra gasoline to fill the engine tank above the amount until the gasoline overflowed and spilled. When he started the engine, a spark occurred, causing the engine to catch fire and spread, causing the entire ship to burn and eventually sink."
During the chaos, those on the boat were forced to jump overboard to escape the flames. Nearby rescue vessels quickly moved in to aid tourists and crew members. Despite the best efforts, Alexandra Clarke has not yet been found.
Rescue efforts have been impeded by adverse weather conditions, leading officials to call off searches for Clarke as darkness approached on Sunday night. The search is set to resume on Tuesday morning, March 18, 2025, as Thai navy divers continue combing the area and the surrounding wreckage of the boat.
The Thai authorities have charged both the boat's captain and crew with negligence, citing their failure to manage the fuel correctly. According to Captain Natthaphon Sinpoonphon, Deputy Director of the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center of Surat Thani, preliminary reports indicate significant damage to the engine room, captain's cabin, and rear restroom due to the intense fire. "The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation," he added.
A spokesperson for the Foreign Office stated, "We are supporting the family of a British woman who is missing in Thailand and are in contact with local authorities." The grieving family now awaits any news of Clarke, as officials provide continued support during this harrowing time.
The Koh Tao incident highlights concerns over maritime safety, particularly as similar events have occurred recently. Just last year, over 100 passengers were forced to leap from another vessel engulfed by flames. The Thai government has been urged to prioritize improvements to maritime safety regulations, especially after the tragic accident seven years ago, where 46 Chinese tourists lost their lives when their boat capsized near Phuket. The public is left wondering: Will they implement adequate safety measures to prevent such disasters from recurring?
Authorities remain vigilant about improving safety protocols and ensuring the safety of tourists. They have promised to investigate the incident thoroughly and uphold accountability to prevent needless tragedies.
Time is of the essence as rescuers continue their search for Alexandra Clarke. Local authorities are hopeful for her swift and safe return to her family. The search and recovery efforts will continue, and updates are eagerly anticipated as Clarke’s loved ones hold onto hope.
