Initial reports state that six people, including two Russians, one Chinese and three Thais, drowned when an overloaded ferry returning to Pattaya from Koh Larn capsized.
The 2-storey boat, which allegedly had a max capacity of 150 people, was believed to be crowded with 200 Thai, European and Asian tourists as it left Samae Beach heading to Bali Hai pier.
It is believed a pump failed, causing the lower level to fill with water. A panic ensued, sending all passengers from below to the upper level, making the vessel top heavy and causing it to list heavily to one side and sink about 1 km from shore near Nuan Beach.
Witnesses said there were not enough life vests for all passengers.
Memorial Hospital took in five injured people, as well as three of the deceased, one male and one female Russian and one male Chinese.
One deceased Thai male was taken to Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, along with two critically injured people and four others who suffered only minor injuries.
Names of the victims have not yet been released.
