French family rescued after 16 hours adrift off Koh Samui

A French father and his two young sons, aged five and seven, were rescued after spending more than 16 hours adrift off the coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. The incident began when their rented jet ski capsized during a trip on August 13, 2026.

Local authorities and rescue teams utilized speedboats and other jet skis to search the waters between Koh Samui and the nearby island of Koh Phangan. The family was located around 10 a.m. on Friday with the jet ski almost entirely submerged. Rescuers reported that the family members were pale and exhausted after swallowing seawater during the night. All three were taken to a hospital for medical checks and were subsequently discharged.

The father, who described himself as an experienced driver, stated that large waves caused the engine to stop and the craft to capsize approximately 15 minutes into the ride. However, the jet ski operator suggested the family may have traveled beyond the area permitted by their rental agreement. Investigators are currently examining the circumstances of the accident. The family has reportedly chosen to remain in Thailand to continue their holiday.