Thailand, a nation renowned for its pristine beaches and bustling marine tourism, has long been a magnet for travelers seeking sun, sea, and sand. Yet, the majestic waters that contribute to its allure also conceal a less celebrated aspect: shark encounters. This page provides a comprehensive and regularly updated account of shark attacks in Thailand. While such incidents remain rare, understanding the nature of human-shark interactions is crucial for ensuring both the safety of visitors and the preservation of the delicate marine ecosystem.
Recent Shark Attacks in Thailand
| Date / Time | Country / Area | Activity | Name | Sex / Age | Injury | Species |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05-01-2022 Afternoon | THAILAND ,Phuket | Playing in the water | Napat Chaiyarak Christenko | M /8 | Laceration to left calf | 1m shark |
| 07-23-2021 | THAILAND ,Chanthaburi Province | Moving captive shark | Boonterm Singhasura | M /55 | Lacerations to lower right leg PROVOKED INCIDENT | Bull shark, +100kg |
| 05-28-2020 | THAILAND ,Muang district of Satun province, | Playing | Harafat Limapicharsakul | M /12 | Left foot bitten | Bull shark |
| 01-12-2020 07h15 | THAILAND ,Phang Nga Province | Swimming | Hans-Peter Malten | M /75 | Calf bitten | |
| 04-30-2018 | THAILAND ,Hua Hin | Swimming | female | F | Minor injury to ankle | |
| 04-15-2018 | THAILAND ,Hua Hin | Swimming | Werner Danielsen | M /54 | Lacerations to foot and ankle | Juvenile bull shark |
| 09-01-2015 08h30 | THAILAND ,Phuket | Wading | Jane Neame | F /37 | Left foot & ankle bitten | small shark |
| 09-02-2005 | THAILAND | Removing shark from net | Ham, a Cambodian migrant worker | M /21 | FATAL PROVOKED INCIDENT | 2 m [6.75'] shark, 200-kg shark T |
| 08-12-2001 | THAILAND ,Rayong Province | Fell off banana boat | O. Jaimaung & friend | M /21 | Legs bitten | 3 m [10'] shark |
| 01-05-2000 | THAILAND ,Phang nga Province | Diving | Stephan Kahl | M /35 | FATAL | |
| 08-03-1979 | THAILAND ,Southern Thailand | Murdered by Thai pirates | male | M | FATAL | |
| 11-14-1966 | THAILAND | Vinit Tantikarn | /28 | No details |
Which beaches in Thailand have the highest reports of shark encounters?
In Thailand, beaches like Phuket’s Patong Beach and Koh Tao’s Sairee Beach occasionally report shark sightings. However, no specific beach is consistently flagged for shark encounters. It’s advisable to consult local advisories and fishermen when visiting these or other beaches for the most recent information on shark activity.
Are there specific activities that may increase the risk of shark encounters in Thailand?
Yes, in Thailand, certain activities might slightly raise the risk of encounters with species like Blacktip Reef Sharks and Bamboo Sharks. Specifically, swimming near fishing areas or during dawn or dusk could potentially increase the likelihood of a shark encounter.
What should I do if I spot a shark while swimming in Thailand?
If you spot a shark while swimming in Thailand, remain calm, avoid making sudden movements, and slowly make your way back to shore. Always adhere to local guidelines and warnings to ensure your safety when engaging in marine activities.
