Urgent Cleanup Underway After Cargo Ship “Sealloyd Arc” Sinks Off Phuket

The Royal Thai Navy is actively managing the aftermath of the cargo ship ‘Sealloyd Arc’ sinking near Phuket, resulting in over 200 scattered containers and an oil spill. The incident occurred off the coast of Ko Kaeo Yai, prompting immediate action from various agencies, including disaster response teams and marine police, to mitigate environmental damage. As salvage operations begin, authorities are warning vessels to navigate cautiously in affected waters.

Rescue Operations and Environmental Concerns

The ‘Sealloyd Arc’ capsized on February 7, 2026, while carrying 297 containers, including 14 containing hazardous materials. The distress call was received by the Maritime Force Command Center for Region 3 at 3:20 p.m. when the vessel began taking on water three nautical miles south of Cape Phromthep. Before the naval rescue units arrived, a nearby fishing vessel successfully rescued eight crew members. Another eight were subsequently retrieved by the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation’s patrol vessel, ‘Andaman Pearl 5,’ with all crew members reported safe and unharmed.

In response to the sinking, the Royal Thai Navy deployed several ships, including the HTMS ‘Punyee’ and HTMS ‘Hua Hin,’ to assist in the rescue efforts. A DO-228 patrol aircraft was also dispatched to assess the situation from above. Initial aerial surveys revealed an oil spill stretching approximately 4.5 miles long and one mile wide, although no slicks had reached Phuket’s coastline yet. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have mobilized resources, including oil containment booms and 4,000 liters of dispersant, to address the spill.

Salvage Efforts and Ongoing Investigations

As salvage operations commence, the Third Naval Area Command is coordinating with relevant agencies to stabilize the situation. Plans are in place to tow the ‘Sealloyd Arc’ to Phuket Deep Sea Port for further assessment and recovery. A crisis center has been established by the Royal Thai Navy to oversee the operation and ensure a prompt response to any further developments.

Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the incident, with a focus on improving safety measures for future maritime operations. Authorities have issued warnings to seafarers to remain vigilant when navigating near the area affected by the sinking. As the situation unfolds, ongoing assessments and response planning will be crucial in minimizing the environmental impact and ensuring the safety of marine activities in the region.