Koh Samui, a picturesque island in Thailand, is set to undergo a major transformation with the approval of a new cruise terminal. The project, which is estimated to cost 12.1 billion baht, aims to boost tourism in Surat Thani and attract more visitors to the region. Deputy Caretaker Minister Manaporn Charoensri and Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit recently visited Koh Samui to review the progress of major transport infrastructure projects, including the new cruise terminal.
The proposed cruise terminal is scheduled to open in 2032 and is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy. The terminal will cover 47 rai of land at Laem Hin Khom, a deep-sea location that is ideal for port development. The project has been carefully studied by the Marine Department, which has assessed the feasibility of the terminal and its potential economic benefits.
According to Manaporn, the PPP net cost investment model is being considered as the most suitable financing option for the project. This model is projected to generate economic benefits of at least 46 billion baht over 37 years, with an expected economic internal rate of return (EIRR) of over 15%. The study has been submitted to the ministry for further consideration and is expected to receive approval from the Cabinet next month.
Once approved, the bidding process for the construction of the terminal will begin. Construction is set to start in 2029 and is expected to take at least three years to complete. The terminal is anticipated to be fully operational by 2032, with the capacity to handle 120 cruise landings annually and attract 180,000 cruise visitors to the island each year.
Manaporn emphasized that the new terminal will be a game-changer for tourism in Surat Thani, stimulating economic growth and attracting private investors to the region. The project has received positive feedback from investors, who see it as a valuable opportunity to enhance the province’s tourism industry.
The approval of the cruise terminal is part of a broader effort by the ministry to strengthen Surat Thani’s tourism infrastructure and provide visitors with enhanced experiences in the region. The project aligns with the government’s vision to promote sustainable tourism and drive economic development in Thailand.
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Project Overview Economic Impact Future Prospects
Future Prospects
In conclusion, the approval of the 12.1 billion baht cruise terminal in Koh Samui represents a significant milestone for the region’s tourism industry. The project is expected to create new opportunities for economic growth, attract more visitors to the island, and enhance the overall travel experience for tourists. With careful planning and strategic implementation, the new cruise terminal is poised to position Koh Samui as a premier cruise destination in Southeast Asia.