Getting from Pattaya to Hua Hin or vice versa just got a whole lot easier after the launch of a new ferry service between the 2 cities. The launch of the route was suppose to take place in January but was delayed because of unsafe weather conditions, reports local media.
The official proceedings took place last week with Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith attending the opening of the 1st ferry route across the Gulf of Thailand. The ferry serves Bali Hai pier in South Pattaya and Khao Takiab pier in Hua Hin offering travellers an easy way to get around Thailand. It currently takes over 5 hours to drive between the 2 cities, but the ferry trip says it takes around 2 hours to complete the route.
“The project was initiated in response to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s policy on promoting water transport between the western side and the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand,” says Arkhom. “It provides an alternative transportation mode and will later add value to the tourism industry in coastal provinces.”
The entire trip is 113 kilometres and provides a much needed shortcut. Royal Passenger Liner operates the service and the company uses a double decker passenger catamaran named Royal 1. The ship has 286 economy seats with 44 business class seats and two VIP rooms with eight seats in each room Price for an economy ticket us THB 1,250 while prices for other tickets has yet to be set by the company.
The service was scheduled to begin on 12 January but bad weather forced the postponement of the official launch. There is already a study being conducted to see if the route should be expanded or if there is demand for vehicle service in addition to carrying passengers, reports The Nation.
Featured Image: www.yourthailand.net
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