The Tourism Authority of Thailand is looking with fresh eyes at Bali Hai Pier following the launch of the Pattaya-Hua Hin ferry service, saying an upgraded jetty could become the centerpiece of the city’s tourism industry.
TAT Pattaya Office Director Suladda Sarutilavan said Jan. 12 that the agency welcomed investment and development of the pier, which currently handles about 10,000 people a day – a number that could double with full-scale operation of the ferry.
Bali Hai already is buzzing with Koh Larn tourists, with piers and floating docks jammed from 8-9 a.m., 12-2 p.m. and 4-6 p.m.
Now that Pattaya is connected by water to Hua Hin, another popular tourist destination, city officials are making development plans to respond to the new market that has opened up, she said.
Suladda said the ferry could lead to the start of other businesses, particularly after the catamarans start taking vehicles across the Gulf of Thailand, as well as passengers.
She said the pier has a lot of potential and upgrades intended for next year’s International Fleet Show will have offshoot benefits for tourism as well.
