The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched the Coral College project, a bilingual e-learning platform that introduces visitors to marine safety, environmental awareness, and responsible tourism practices. Available online, the platform is currently piloted in Phuket with strong collaboration across multiple sectors.
The project brings together the Centre for Innovation and Digital Technology Management at Chiang Mai University, Global Impact Consulting Co., Ltd. (Hackathon Thailand), and a network of local marine tourism businesses to engage both domestic and international tourists.
The official launch took place at Chalong Pier in Phuket, with senior representatives from the provincial government, TAT, academic institutions, and marine tourism businesses in attendance.
Wajanan Silpawornwiwat, TAT Executive Director of Southern region, spoke briefly on the significance of the initiative.
“Phuket, recognised globally as a top-tier marine tourism destination, is the ideal place to launch this Initiative. With its diverse marine ecosystems and steady flow of international visitors, it’s the right place to set a new standard for how tourism and marine conservation can work together.”
Coral College features a series of short, interactive experiences covering topics like marine safety, coral reef protection, and sustainable underwater tourism. The content is designed to help travellers pick up essential tips before heading out to snorkel, freedive or explore the sea.
Thailand sees more than six million marine tourists each year, yet a lack of awareness often leads to harmful behaviours-stepping on coral, disturbing wildlife, or underestimating natural hazards like rip currents. Coral College aims to tackle these issues by offering travellers a simple, accessible way to get informed before exploring the ocean.
Additionally, the initiative encourages travellers to approach Thailand’s marine environments with greater care and awareness. It offers practical tools to help them enjoy the ocean safely while supporting long-term conservation.
Tourists participating in the Coral College programme and engaging with the platform’s interactive games are eligible for exclusive benefits and souvenirs from TAT and local tourism partners, including Love Andaman Co., Ltd., Nikorn Marine Co., Ltd., and Andaman Wave Master Co., Ltd.
Coral College goes beyond basic awareness. It’s a practical tool designed to improve safety and encourage more responsible travel across Thailand’s marine tourism sector. The initiative reflects TAT’s long-term commitment to protecting ocean ecosystems and supporting the industry’s sustainable future.
After the pilot phase in Phuket, the initiative is set to expand to other key coastal provinces including Krabi, Trang, Satun, Chumphon, and Surat Thani, extending its reach to more of Thailand’s most popular seaside destinations.
For further information:
- Call TAT Phuket Office at 076-212-213
- Email: tatphuket@tat.or.th
- Reach out via Facebook at TAT Phuket – Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phuket Office
Press release
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