Oil from Wreck of Sealloyd Arc Washes Ashore Near Phuket

Oil leaking from the wreck of the sunken cargo ship Sealloyd Arc has reached beaches near Phuket and the Racha Islands, Thai authorities confirmed, calling the situation “worrying.”

For 19 days, response teams have sprayed dispersants at the wreck site, and early winds kept the oil offshore. However, reports of tar balls and oil clumps began emerging on 25 February, first at Kahang Beach (Koh Hey) and later across parts of Racha Island, including Patok Bay, Tue Bay, Hila Bay, and Siam Bay.

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources warned that even small quantities of oil toxins could damage coral reefs and marine life. Cleanup crews are manually removing tar balls, and additional containment booms have been deployed, though reports suggest coverage remains insufficient.

Diving operations to assess and contain the leak were delayed amid cost negotiations but reportedly began on 26 February.

The Sealloyd Arc sank on 7 February about five miles southeast of Phuket after issuing a distress call. The 6,500-dwt vessel rests at a depth of 61 meters, carrying approximately 98 tonnes of heavy fuel oil and 32 tonnes of marine diesel. The vessel was also transporting nearly 300 containers, including a small number declared as hazardous cargo.

Authorities have warned that worsening seasonal sea conditions expected in April could increase environmental risks if the leak is not fully contained.