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Tag: Samui

  • Thailand Plans $362M Mega Cruise Terminal on Koh Samui to Boost Tourism

    Thailand Plans $362M Mega Cruise Terminal on Koh Samui to Boost Tourism

    Thailand is advancing a significant cruise terminal project, valued at THB12.2-billion (US$362-million), on Koh Samui, the country’s second-largest island. The terminal has been designed to accommodate large cruise ships and is part of 262 substantial transport initiatives slated for completion by 2027. The collective investment for these projects totals THB229.76 billion, as divulged by the Transport Ministry.

    Project Management and Approval Process

    The Marine Department is overseeing this major development, which aims to bolster maritime transportation, host larger cruise vessels and facilitate the growth of Thailand’s cruise tourism industry. The project is presently under review by the Transport Ministry, and once approved in principle, it will be put forward to the Cabinet for further approval.

    Simultaneously, applications for land usage under the jurisdiction of pertinent agencies such as the Royal Forest Department are being processed. The ministry expects Cabinet approval by 2027, followed by the bidding process in 2028. Construction is anticipated to begin shortly after and operations are projected to start by 2032, with an operational period of 30 years.

    Projected Benefits and Economic Impact

    Upon completion, the terminal is slated to serve between 200,000 and 400,000 tourists annually and should be able to manage approximately 240 cruise ship dockings each year. A study of the project estimates that the terminal could produce around THB46 billion in economic value over its 30-year lifespan, with an economic rate of return exceeding 15%.

    Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand and approximately 700 kilometers south of Bangkok, is the country’s second-largest island after Phuket. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, vibrant nightlife, and access to nearby marine attractions such as the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main purpose of the cruise terminal project on Koh Samui?
    The cruise terminal project aims to enhance maritime transportation, accommodate larger cruise vessels, and support the growth of Thailand’s cruise tourism industry.

    When is the terminal expected to commence operations?
    The terminal is projected to start operations by 2032, with an operational period of 30 years.

    What is the expected economic impact of the terminal?
    The terminal could generate approximately THB46 billion in economic value over 30 years, with an economic rate of return surpassing 15%.

  • 2017 Samui Regatta continues successful trend, with Centara Grand Beach Resort as Sponsor

    2017 Samui Regatta continues successful trend, with Centara Grand Beach Resort as Sponsor

    Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui once again showed itself capable of handling international water sports events, being the host sponsor for the Samui Regatta 20-27 May. The Regatta, in its 16th year, has grown to attract the best yachts in Asia and a large spectator following. They come to Samui for great sailing, fantastic beach parties, and the island’s acclaimed hospitality.

    Samui Island itself is acknowledged for its white-sand beaches, sparkling blue sea, breezy coconut trees and picture-postcard tropical appeal. Lately it has proven itself a leading sports tourism destination, especially in yachting. With full support from the Thai government and its policy to promote sports tourism, Samui has attracted more international events and sports enthusiasts to the country during the last decade. The now-famous Samui Regatta is one of the blue-ribbon international events exemplifying this trend.

    “This is another opportunity for people to recognize our resort, not only as a luxurious tropical tourist destination but also a superb water sport venue,” said Denis Thouvard, the resort’s General Manager. “We are located in a prime area where nature and civilization mesh perfectly. Our private beachfront offers Chaweng’s soft white sand, crystal clear water, and peaceful space for personal relaxation or fun activities such as swimming, sailing, jet-skiing and yachting. The resort is also an ideal base for exploring Samui and its island neighbors Koh Nang Yuan and Ang Thong National Marine Park. It is next to Samui’s main town and 20 minutes from the airport. Our guests enjoy wonderful vacations in this tropical paradise.”

    “Samui Island is one of the top tourism and yachting destinations in Asia,” added Ms. Kae Wattana, Managing Director of Regattas Asia. “We have organised Samui Regatta for 15 years and each year we see the number of yachts that come to the island is growing. I believe this growth will continue as more and more people experience the beauty of Samui and the unmatched sailing it has to offer. This year we will again have a spectator boat at Samui Regatta which members of the public and tourists can join to experience the event and learn more about yachting. Our aim is bring the event and yachting closer to people, to increase people’s understanding of yachting, and to attract more visitors to Samui Island. Having Centara, a leading Thai hospitality brand, joined just as main host for this event is helping us to ensure that all participants will be treated professionally and bring back not only a trophy or medal from a competition but also a fantastic memory in Samui as well”.

    The Samui Regatta consists of five days of racing and six nights of parties, including daily prize-awarding on the beach and a lavish Gala Dinner hosted by Centara Grand Beach Resort on the final night. This event showcases Samui’s reputation as a leading yachting destination and contributes significant revenues to the local economy. Surveys show most of the approximately 500 participants come from overseas and have high incomes.

    “As part of the Samui community, we are proud to support the people and economy of this island,” General Manager Thouvard concluded. “In the future we look forward to seeing more tourists, both returning guests and new visitors who want to witness Samui’s natural beauty with their own eyes.”

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  • Hooters Thailand expands into Samui

    Hooters Thailand expands into Samui

    Just a week after opening its first outlet in Bangkok, Hooters Thailand has announced its entry into the resort town of Samui.

    Hooters Thailand, operated by Southeast Asia master franchise Destination Resorts, now has four Hooters restaurants in Thailand either trading or under construction. The others are in Pattaya and Phuket.

    The Samui location will be located at 168/2 Moo 2, Tambol Bophut, Amphur Kos Samui, Suratthani, in the heart of the bustling central Chaweng Beach area. It will open in early 2016.

    The beachfront location will seat 220 guests and feature an approximately 2277 sqft, plus a spacious 1000 sqft outdoor patio.

    Samui is part of a 30-location Southeast Asia development agreement between Hooters and Bangkok-based international franchisee, Destination Resorts, making Thailand the leader in Hooters Southeast Asia expansion efforts. Along with a recent location in Phuket and another scheduled to open in Bangkok, Samui will bolster Hooters presence in Thailand. Hooters will also open their largest international location in Pattaya, Thailand, in December.

    Said Gary Murray, CEO, Destination Resorts: “The beach oasis atmosphere for which Hooters is well-known around the world will be a perfect match for Chaweng Beach, named by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the top five best island beaches for partying earlier this year.”

    With two additional locations set to open in Bangkok in the coming months, Murray plans to continue growth in Thailand and concentrate heavily in Hong Kong and the Philippines in the coming years.