“Hua-Thong” Long tail Boats: A Unique Symbol of Southern Thailand’s Tourism

The unique Huathong longtail boat is one of the attractions for tourists who appreciate the 'Thainess' of the Andaman coast. These small boats, which range in size from 7-8 meters to over 10 meters, are equipped with outboard engines. They are characterized by a high, curved bow that meets a raised prow and a wedge-shaped stern. The beautiful seas of the Andaman coast, which attract tourists from around the world to experience its natural beauty and unique culture, make the Huatong boat a popular mode of travel.

The longtail boat, a Thai vessel, is characterized by its most distinctive feature: a long tail shaft with an engine that extends from the back. These boats are central to the history, culture, and way of life of the people living in the Andaman region.

Commonly used in southern Thailand, longtail boats are a familiar sight along the Andaman coast in provinces like Krabi, Phuket, Phang Nga, Ranong, Trang, and Satun. Locals primarily use them for fishing and catching aquatic animals. The craftsmanship of these boats originates from local wisdom, with Krabi being the first province in the region to produce them. This has led to the formation of skilled boatbuilding groups, and the occupation has become a significant source of livelihood for many in the area. Each builder brings a unique blend of skill and artistry to the craft.

Now, these boats have been adapted to serve tourists, especially those visiting Phi Phi Island in Krabi Province, and have become a distinct part of Krabi's identity. Previously, this type of boat construction was rare, as it relied on the local wisdom of the Andaman Sea fishing community. As tourism has become more prominent, the boats have been adapted to preserve this local wisdom while serving both Thai and international visitors. This allows tourists to experience the unique culture of southern Thailand.

Long-tailed boats as a form of tourism

The evolution of long-tailed boats has led to a variety of services for tourists. They're used for everything from transporting passengers between hotels and piers to island hopping, which is especially popular around Phi Phi Island. These boats also offer various unique trips, each with its own contemporary design.

Phuket, a popular tourist destination, attracts numerous international visitors. They can take trips on long-tailed boats to nearby islands, experiencing the unique charm of southern Thailand's Andaman coast. Some of these boats are traditional, resembling fishing vessels, while others are more elaborately decorated. All are designed with a concept of relaxation, fun, and a casual atmosphere to meet the needs of today's travelers.

The boat is decorated to suit a more modern lifestyle, with added color, beautiful props, comfortable seating, and various toys like slides, swimming pools, and paddle boards. While this may cater to the needs of many tourists, the boat still maintains the traditional shape and appearance of a long-tailed boat. Its equipment is still made from wood, which is also a unique feature. The engine is typically installed at the back, but some boats now use speedboat engines for more convenience.

This is an example of a modern long-tailed boat, designed to suit contemporary tastes.

The Super S  : boat is designed to meet the needs of both Thai and international tourists, with an emphasis on a luxurious lifestyle. It is a two-story boat that offers half-day and full-day tours to the most-visited islands in Phuket Province, including Koh Hey, Koh Khai, Koh Mai Thon, and Koh Racha. This boat is suitable for groups of 1-6 people.

The Super F : boat is designed similarly to the Super F, but its decor is different, catering to a more modern lifestyle for both Thai and foreign tourists. It offers half-day and full-day trips to popular islands in Phuket, such as Koh Hey, Koh Khai, Koh Mai Thon, and Koh Racha. This boat is suitable for 1-6 people.

The online world also plays a role in attracting tourists to experience the atmosphere of Huathong long-tailed boats, particularly in southern tourist destinations like Krabi, Phuket, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun. The uniqueness of these boats remains essential for continued preservation, regardless of the passage of time. This is because communities on the Andaman coast rely on Huathong long-tailed boats for both fishing and transportation to various islands. Tourism plays a key role in allowing the world to witness this unique part of Thai identity.

Writer : Better Call Nika