December 25th 2023.
Millie Young, a 57 year-old artist from Brighton, was on a dream trip with family and friends in southern Thailand when tragedy struck. She was one of 18 passengers on board the Reggae Queen when it was caught in rough seas around four nautical miles from the Surin Islands archipelago.
The boat was hit with strong waves shortly before 9am local time. Sixteen of the passengers were rescued, but Millie and a female Thai crew member were swept up by the treacherous Andaman Sea.
The UK Foreign Office has since confirmed that they are supporting Millie's family following the incident. A spokesperson released a statement saying: “We are supporting the family of a British woman and are in contact with the local authorities after an incident in Thailand.”
The Thai navy, along with helicopters and the coastguard, have launched a search for Millie and the other missing woman. According to local news website Khaosod, they could have been swept up to 111km from the Reggae Queen by strong currents. Rear Admiral Pongmit Narongkul, the navy chief leading the effort, said: “The wind in the area is quite strong, which is an obstacle to the search.”
The Surin Islands are usually known for its picturesque beauty, drawing visitors from around the world for snorkelling, diving and sea tours. However, conditions in November and December are typically the most dangerous of the year, with strong currents, powerful waves and heavy rain.
Millie’s family and friends remain hopeful that she will be found safe and well. Meanwhile, the UK Foreign Office and the Thai authorities continue to work together to bring her home.
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