When travelling to Ko Mak, do not miss the chance to visit the Solar Boat, one of the islandžs environmentally-friendly activities. This solar-powered boat sets aside the typical combustion engine that pumps out both noise and air pollution. Instead, visitors are treated to a serene trip at a leisurely speed and a wonderful view that is loved by many.

The local community realised that visiting boats can cause an unwelcome amount of noise pollution and leave behind traces of oil in the sea. Thus, the solar cell boat project was created with the support of researchers in the field. Leading the charge was Prof. Suwan Pitaksintom, a scientist and specialist at the Marine National Park Operation Centre 4, Trat Province, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The group hammered away at the design and fund-raising over the course of 4 years until the boat was completed in December 2016. The boat went into operation in January 2017.

The solar cell boat is a catamaran, a type of multi-hulled boat that features two parallel hulls of equal size. Boats of this design are stabilised through the use of wide beams. Mounted on the roof are six, 600-watt solar panels. The panels work to generate electricity from the light of the sun, that is then stored in batteries that feed into the two 5-horse power motors. These motors drive the boat at a speed of 4.5 knots (8.3 km/hour), which is around 20km/day (2.5 hours).

The boat stretches 7m long and is 3.5m wide, with the capacity to hold 8 people. The passenger cabin is spacious and is wide open in all directions, offering an excellent view all around. The most remarkable point is the comfort of the voyage. The boat glides along at a suitable pace, but is free of the rattles, noises and smells of a traditional engine.

This makes the solar cell boat ideal for travelling short distances at a relaxing speed to truly appreciate the view. The service offers trips from Ko Mak to Ko Kham, Ko Rayang and Ko Kradat. Visitors can stop to bask on the beach, snorkel the reefs, take a hand at fishing, or simply float at sea waiting for the sun to set.

The solar cell boat is operated by the Ko Mak Tourism Club. To experience and support eco-friendly tourism, please contact Khun Thanin Suttitanakul (Khun Ake) at Tel.: +66(0)9 0130 7655.