33 Chinese tourists rescued after boat sinks off Phuket

The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. local time near Koh Racha Yai, approximately 1.6 nautical miles north of the island, according to the Phuket Marine Department, as reported by the Bangkok Post.

The catamaran was traveling toward Koh Hey when a glass window detached, allowing water to flood the vessel. The boat sank about 20 minutes later.

At the time of the incident, there were 33 Chinese tourists on board. All passengers were wearing life vests and were subsequently rescued by nearby boats, The Nation reported.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the sinking.