Southeast Asia Information Harbor News (www.dnyxxg.com) July 25, 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) launched the “Coral Academy” project, a bilingual e-learning platform designed to introduce tourists to marine safety, environmental awareness, and responsible tourism practices. The platform, located at https://coralcollegethailand.org, is currently being piloted in Phuket in close collaboration with various industries.
The project brings together the Chiang Mai University Center for Innovation and Digital Technology Management, Hackathon Thailand, and a network of local marine tourism businesses to attract both domestic and international tourists.
The launch ceremony was officially held yesterday (July 24, 2025) at Chalong Pier in Phuket, attended by senior representatives from the Phuket government, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, academic institutions, and marine tourism enterprises.
Ms. Vajanan Silpawanwiwat, Executive Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Southern Region, stated: “Phuket, a globally recognized top marine tourism destination, is the ideal location to launch this initiative. With its diverse marine ecosystems and stable international tourist flow, Phuket is the perfect place to set a new benchmark for cooperation between tourism and marine conservation.”
The Coral Academy offers a series of short, interactive experiences covering topics such as marine safety, coral reef conservation, and sustainable underwater tourism. These sessions aim to help visitors acquire the necessary skills before heading out for snorkeling, freediving, or exploring the ocean.
Thailand receives over six million marine tourists annually; however, due to a lack of awareness about marine conservation, tourists often engage in harmful behaviors such as trampling corals, harassing wildlife, or underestimating natural hazards like strong currents. The Coral Academy aims to address these issues by providing visitors with a simple and accessible way to learn about marine life before exploring the ocean.
“The Coral Academy encourages visitors to treat Thailand’s marine environment with greater care and raises environmental awareness. The academy provides practical tools to help visitors enjoy the ocean safely while supporting long-term marine conservation efforts,” Ms. Vajanan added.
Visitors participating in the Coral Academy program and engaging in interactive games on the platform are eligible for exclusive perks and souvenirs from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and local tourism partners, including Love Andaman, Nikorn Marine, and Andaman Wave Master.
The Coral Academy goes beyond basic knowledge; it's a practical tool designed to improve safety in Thailand's marine tourism industry and encourage more responsible travel. The program reflects the TAT's long-term commitment to protecting marine ecosystems and supporting the industry's sustainable development.
The next phase of the program will expand to other major coastal provinces, including Krabi, Trang, Satun, Chumphon, and Surat Thani, extending its reach to more of Thailand's most popular coastal destinations.
