Attention when visiting Thailand’s islands: Feeding fish or taking photos with starfish in coral reef areas may result in fines

▲ Thailand is a top choice for many people’s island vacations, but remember that “picking up starfish” for photos or “feeding fish” in protected waters is against the law. (Photo / Provided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

With summer in full swing, diving in island nations is a highly popular activity, but some seemingly harmless behaviors can lead to serious trouble.For instance, Thailand places great emphasis on marine ecological preservation. In protected areas such as coral reefs, it’s common for tourists to be tempted to “pick up starfish” for photos or “feed fish” with breadcrumbs while diving—both of which are illegal. Offenders may face fines of up to 100,000 Thai baht or imprisonment for up to one year, so travelers should pay special attention.

Accordingto Thai local mediareports, a recent incident occurred on Koh Racha Yai in Phuket, Thailand, where a Korean tour guide was arrested for leading tourists in feeding fish. This act violates the laws of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR). Feeding fish in Thailand’s protected marine areas can result in imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of 100,000 Thai baht, or both. In February of this year, there was also a case where a Russian tourist broke the law and was released on bail of 100,000 Thai baht.

Additionally, marine life such as starfish and sea urchins must not be casually picked up or played with—this is also illegal in Thailand. In short, even if a tour guide offers you breadcrumbs to feed fish or a starfish to take photos with, remember not to accept them, to avoid turning a joyful moment into a regrettable one. Not just in Thailand, but also in other diving destinations and nature reserves such as Australia and the Maldives, similar regulations are in place.