Navy Boat 215 in Lam Kaen

Did you know there’s another Navy boat in Khao Lak besides the famous 813? It is the Navy Patrol Boat 215. Though less known than Police Boat 813, boat 215 shares the same powerful symbolism of the destruction caused by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.

Visiting Information

Admission: The site is free of charge and opens every day.

How to Get There: Memorial Boat 215 is located in Lam Kaen about 14km, south of Khao Lak Center. It is situated in the Thaplamu Navy Base, just next to the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre. You might need to take your passport to show when you pass through the gate.

History of Navy Police Boat 215

It is said at the information centre that Navy Patrol Boat 215, much like 813, was on duty, patrolling the Royal Thai Family in front of the La Flora resort when the tsunami hit and was washed away about 1.5 km inland. Could it be that the two boats were on patrol duty together on the fateful day? 

The boat, which had once been stationed offshore, now sits on dry land in Lam Kaen, a stark reminder of how far the waves reached and the immense force they carried. Though it is not as well preserved as boat 813, it remains a crucial part of Khao Lak’s collective memory of the disaster.

Why Visit T215?

Navy Boat T215 offers a quieter, more intimate perspective on the tsunami’s devastation. Its location near the Sea Turtle Conservation Center also makes it a perfect stop for those looking to combine a memorial visit with a nature tour. The boat stands as a testament to the tsunami’s lasting impact on the region, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the event in a serene and reflective setting.

Read more about Tsunami memorial sites in Khao Lak here.