Maya and Loh Samah bays, two popular tourist spots on Phi Phi Le Island in Krabi province, are now closed until September 30, due to strong winds and high waves during the monsoon season.

The chief of the Hat Noppharat Thara -Muko Phi National Park, Rakchanok Paenoi, said that the closures are meant for the safety of tourists and to allow nature to recover during the monsoon season, which normally brings heavy rain, strong wind and high waves.

She said that tourist boats are frequently unable to dock at a pier at the opposite side of Maya Bay, due to the choppy seas, posing a risk to tourists.

Three long-tailed boats capsized near a pier as they were bound for the Phi-Phi islands in Nang Bay sub-district yesterday (Tuesday). Attempts to salvage the vessels have been suspended due to strong winds and high waves.

Dozens of long-tailed boats have temporarily suspended services and have taken shelter about 500 metres from the pier.

Rakchanok said that the two popular bays, Maya Bay in particular, have been visited by many tourists over the past several months, to the extent that the natural environment and ecological system may be affected, hence the need to close the bays to all visitors for two months.

The national park has also advised tourist boat operators to exercise extra caution when organising island sightseeing trips during the monsoon season.