PATTAYA — Pattaya is preparing to officially issue sea walker permits this October, becoming the first area in Thailand to regulate this underwater tourism activity. The move aims to balance environmental conservation with sustainable tourism.
Ten sea walker operators in Pattaya met with city officials on September 9 at City Hall. Deputy Mayor Wuthisak Rermkij chaired the session, while Pornpirom Seuadaeng, Director of Environmental Health Promotion, explained the draft permit requirements for underwater tourism activities.
New Regulatory Framework
The meeting established unified guidelines to ensure sea walker operations comply with relevant laws while protecting coral reefs and marine ecosystems. The draft includes 19 key requirements:
- Applicants must be Thai nationals with previously registered businesses
- Operations limited to city-designated areas approved by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources
- Valid tourism business licenses required
- Operators must complete certified training programs
- Boats must meet tourism vessel standards with Marine Department permits
- All diving equipment must pass safety certification
- Life-saving equipment meeting diving standards mandatory
What is Sea Walker?
Sea Walker allows tourists to walk on the ocean floor while wearing transparent helmets connected to oxygen lines from boats above. Participants descend 7-10 meters for 15-20 minute sessions, breathing normally while observing marine life. The activity has gained global popularity. In Pattaya, operations have shifted from coral reef areas to designated open-sea zones to prevent environmental damage.
Current Operations
Pattaya currently offers sea walker services at 1,600 baht per person across 19 locations. Each boat can serve two points depending on tidal conditions. Operations use 30×30 meter designated areas with installed flooring and barriers, typically at 5-7 meter depths for 10-minute sessions.
The city will establish a monitoring committee to inspect service standards and ensure tourist safety after permits are issued.
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