Long weekend draws thousands to Koh Kut and Koh Mak

Thailand's first three-day holiday of the 2026 high season has seen a significant influx of tourists to Koh Kut and Koh Mak. On 10 October at 09:30, hundreds of Thai and foreign visitors gathered at Ban Laem Sok pier in Trat’s Mueang district to board ferries operated by Boonsiri High Speed Ferries, Seudam Go, and Koh Kut Express.

The holiday, running from 10 to 13 October and coinciding with the anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's passing, also marks the first major break in Trat's high season, drawing a crowd of 3,000–4,000 tourists. Speedboats began carrying visitors to Koh Kut at 09:45, with a second group of over 600 passengers departing at 10:45 for both Koh Kut and Koh Mak.

Boonsiri High Speed Ferries manager Atthaphon Klinthap noted a noticeable rise in bookings and passenger numbers, attributing the increase to the school break and Thai visitors comprising the majority. The surge is a positive sign for businesses reopening after suspending operations during the green season. The school break has made it easier for Thai families to take holidays, with bookings for the year-end and New Year periods already coming in.

Tourism on Koh Chang, however, remains relatively quiet, with owner Thawisak Wongwilas citing recent flooding and Russian visitors as factors impacting tourist numbers. Despite these challenges, Thawisak anticipates an increase in visitors after the Loy Krathong festival, predicting a potentially stronger year-end season for Koh Chang.