Koh Larn speedboat operators brawl over passenger competition

A physical altercation broke out between rival speedboat operators on Tawaen Beach, Koh Larn, on August 27. The brawl, which occurred in front of tourists and locals, was reportedly triggered by long-standing tensions regarding competition for passengers and price undercutting on the route between Koh Larn and Pattaya.

The dispute involved two distinct groups: long-term operators based on Koh Larn, some with over 30 years of experience, and Pattaya-based operators who have traveled to the island to provide the same services.

Following the incident, local Koh Larn operators expressed concern on social media that such violence damages the island’s reputation and risks labeling the area as lawless. They have called on Pattaya City officials to implement stricter regulations and organization of the speedboat business to prevent future conflicts and protect the local tourism industry.