A passenger was killed when a tour boat sank off southern Thailand on Saturday.

Fourteen people were onboard the long-tail boat when its rudder control ropes snapped, causing it to capsize near the Pak Meng Bridge in Trang province on May 4.

Crew from a nearby speedboat rescued the distressed passengers, including four children, who were all wearing life vests.

The injured who swallowed water were taken to the Sikao Hospital, where one of them, a woman named Atchara Treeprasertsakul, 68, was pronounced dead.

Police Colonel Yotsawat Krajangwong, superintendent of the Sikao Police Station, and officers later arrived to investigate.

The boat operator, Noppadon Hayang, 50, claimed that while returning to shore, the rudder control ropes suddenly snapped, causing the tourists to gather on one side which led to the boat overturning.

Trang Governor Songkrod Sawangwong said: 'According to the investigation, the boat belonged to a tourism company with a proper business license. The boat driver also had a license, and the boat was registered and insured.

'However, forensic police and marine officials in Trang will investigate the boat's condition further and interrogate the driver and relevant personnel.'

He added that despite wearing a life vest, Atchara had drowned, likely due to the strong currents at sea. He said Atchara's death was covered by insurance, but the tour company may still offer compensation.

Police said they were investigating if anyone was liable for the accident.

With the rainy season approaching and weather warnings issued by the Thai Meteorological Department, Governor Songkrod advised tourists to avoid boating on stormy days.

He said that, regardless of the boat's condition, the tour company should not have offered trips because of the weather.

Thailand and neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia are at the start of their annual monsoon rainy season which sees soaring temperatures followed by powerful rain storms. The rudimentary infrastructure often struggles with the deluge, leading to widespread flash floods.