THAP LAMU

• Latitude: 8.56823
• Longitude: 98.2214
• South-East Asia
• Port in Thailand

Location: Thap Lamu Thailand

Thap Lamu is a notable marine port located in Thailand, primarily recognized for its strategic positioning in the Andaman Sea. Here’s a detailed description and the key specifications of Thap Lamu port:

Overview

• Name: Thap Lamu
• Country: Thailand
• Location: Khao Lak, Phang Nga Province
• Coordinates: Approximately 8.56° N latitude and 98.24° E longitude.

Port Specifications

1. Purpose and Usage:

   • Commercial Use: Primarily used for fishing and as a departure point for boats heading to the Similan and Surin Islands, popular diving and snorkeling destinations.
   • Naval Base: Features facilities for the Royal Thai Navy.
   • Tourism: Significant traffic related to tourism, especially diving and marine excursions.

2. Facilities:

   • Berthing: Multiple berths to accommodate fishing vessels, commercial boats, and tourist boats.
   • Cargo Handling: Limited facilities for cargo; not a major commercial cargo port.
   • Passenger Services: Terminals are available to facilitate tourist traffic; services include ticketing and boarding for island tours.
   • Fueling and Supplies: Availability of essential supplies and refueling services for boats and ships.

3. Infrastructure:

   • Access: Good road connections to nearby cities and tourist areas. The port is accessible by local roads from the main highway.
   • Amenities: Basic amenities such as restrooms, waiting areas, and small shops for provisions. Tourist-oriented services are prominent.
   • Security: Security protocols in place, especially due to the presence of the Royal Thai Navy.

4. Navigational Information:

   • Depth: The draft depth suitable for small to medium-sized vessels. Not suitable for large container ships or deep-draft vessels.
   • Anchorage: Designated anchorage areas for boats waiting to dock or for passenger transfers.
   • Tides and Currents: Local knowledge of tides and currents is essential for safe navigation.

Environmental Considerations

• Sustainability Efforts: Initiatives to minimize environmental impact, given the proximity to marine conservation areas like the Similan Islands National Park.
• Waste Management: Efforts to manage and reduce marine pollution, with facilities for waste collection.

Connectivity

• Proximity to Airports: Closest major airport is Phuket International Airport, approximately 90 kilometers to the south. Other smaller regional airports also serve the region.
• Nearby Attractions: Proximity to several diving and snorkeling hotspots, national parks, and tourist attractions in Khao Lak and the surrounding areas.

Strategic Importance

• Tourism Hub: Vital for marine tourism, contributing significantly to the local economy through tourism-related activities.
• Navy Operations: Key point for the Royal Thai Navy’s operations in the Andaman Sea, adding strategic defense importance.

Potential Developments

• Expansion Plans: Possible development projects to enhance tourist facilities and improve logistical capacities, inspired by increasing tourist traffic.
• Sustainability Projects: Ongoing efforts aimed at environmental conservation and sustainable tourism promotion.

In conclusion, Thap Lamu serves an essential role in tourism and naval operations, with its primary focus on facilitating marine excursions and serving as a base for the Royal Thai Navy. While not a major commercial cargo port, it has a significant economic impact on the region through tourism and associated activities.