Thailand introduces yacht quarantine to boost tourism

Those visiting Thailand can now opt to spend their mandatory two-week Coronavirus quarantine on a yacht. Thailand is offering this option to visitors, with hope that this initiative will help bring 1.8 billion baht in yacht tourism revenue. As per the reports, those wanting to avail this option will be required to show proof of a negative PCR test, and also have their location and health monitored.

The pilot scheme was originally announced in November. Now, it is expected that around 100 yachts will be a part of this program, which is currently taking place in Phuket. Reportedly, those choosing this option, will be required to wear a smart wristband, which will be monitoring their vital signs, including blood pressure and temperature, and location. Further, reports have it that the watch will be able to transmit information at sea, within a radius of 10 km. The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA) is working on the said program with mobile operator Advanced Info Service, local tech start up, and tourism operators in Phuket. The Royal Thai Navy members will be tracking and monitoring the boats, and while the visitors are done with their 14-day quarantine, they will be allowed to return to a dock in Phuket and enter the island. Thailand relies on tourism, and as per record, Phuket lost more than 320 billion baht ($10.407) in revenue due to the pandemic. Reason being visitors were not allowed to enter the island, to prevent the spread of virus. With this move, Thailand hopes that it will help generate 1.8 billion baht in revenue, which has been gradually opening its borders since October.