The proposed terminal, designed to serve large cruise ships, is among 262 major transport projects planned for 2027, with a combined investment value of THB229.76 billion, according to the Transport Ministry, as reported by The Nation.
Managed by the Marine Department, the project aims to enhance maritime transportation, accommodate larger cruise vessels, and support the expansion of Thailand’s cruise tourism sector.
The project is currently being reviewed by the Transport Ministry and will be submitted to the transport minister for approval in principle before being forwarded to the Cabinet.
Koh Samui, Thailand. Photo by Unsplash/Antonio Araujo |
Applications for permission to use land under the jurisdiction of relevant agencies, including the Royal Forest Department, will be processed alongside the approval process. Preparations for the submissions are ongoing.
In May, Deputy Transport Minister Sanphet Bunyamanee said he was pushing for the cruise terminal with a targeted completion date in 2032, according to The Bangkok Post.
According to the ministry’s preliminary timeline, Cabinet approval is expected in 2027, followed by the bidding process in 2028. Construction is expected to begin shortly thereafter, with the terminal scheduled to commence operations in 2032. The planned operating period is 30 years.
Once operational, the terminal is expected to serve between 200,000 and 400,000 tourists annually and accommodate about 240 cruise ship calls each year.
A project study estimates the terminal could generate approximately THB46 billion in economic value over 30 years, with an economic rate of return of more than 15%.
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island after Phuket and is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 700 kilometers south of Bangkok. The island is known for its beaches, luxury resorts, nightlife, and access to nearby marine attractions such as Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park.
Comments are closed.