TRAT — Large schools of colourful jellyfish appearing in the sea in this eastern province have drawn many tourists who travelled from all over the country to get a good look at this sea creature.
The atmosphere at Sai Ngern beach in tambon Laem Klad of Muang district was lively on Friday, with hundreds of holiday-makers flocking to the area to view huge jellyfish in various colours and species floating along the beach stretching for almost 3 kilometres.
Many rented boats to go to the sea to see the jellfish bloom.
Somjit Khampui, a local fisherman, said a large number of cup jellyfish normally appeared in Trat by the end of September every year, but this time they came late due to climate change.
However, the number of cup jellyfish in tambon Laem Klad sharply increased this year, he said.
He and other fishermen had provided boat rental services for tourists to view the jellyfish. Each boat could carry five tourists, who are charged 100 baht each. Life jackets were also provided.
Bottles of vinegar were also prepared to provide first aid to tourists in the event they were stung by the poisonous box jellyfish, said Mr Somjit.
Pornthep Wisetpol, a visitor from Chanthaburi, said he took his family for holidaying in Trat to view the colourful jellyfish. He was also impressed by an abundance of marine life in Trat.
Tom Khampankaew, 60, of Lampang, said it was her first trip to Trat as her family wanted to see the the jellyfish bloom.
A close-up picture of jellyfish in Trat sea. (Photo by Jakkrit Waewkraihong)