Tourists were rescued after a boat capsized in a multi-purpose dam in Thailand, killing their local guide.

The vessel was carrying 18 people, including 16 foreign holidaymakers, the boat operator, and the guide, when it capsized in the Ratchaprapha Dam reservoir in Surat Thani on Sunday, July 20.

Nirut Saetan, head of the Ban Cheow Lan Pier Tourist Service Centre, confirmed that the boat carried five Belgian and 11 Dutch nationals at around 11:28 am.

All passengers, including the boat operator, were rescued without injuries.

However, the guide, identified as Thassawan, 44, was found to be suffering from water inhalation and was taken to Ban Ta Khun Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead at 12:30 pm.

Officials said the cause of death was pulmonary oedema as a result of drowning.

Footage shows the rescue boat arriving, with the victim lying on a stretcher being carried by responders.

Preliminary investigations suggest the boat capsized after being caught in unexpectedly strong winds while crossing the reservoir.

Governor Theerut Supawiboonphol ordered authorities to assist those affected and instructed the marine office to ensure all tourist boats meet safety standards, including the use of life jackets.

He also directed that vessels be barred from operating in poor weather or low-visibility conditions until deemed safe.

Ratchaprapha Dam, also known as Cheow Lan Dam, is a rockfill dam located in Surat Thani Province. Built between 1982 and 1987, it created the scenic Chiew Lan Reservoir, which covers about 185 square kilometres. The area is a popular spot for boating, floating raft houses, fishing, and nature tourism.