A ferry captain allegedly splashed green paint on his rival's face before stabbing him in a boat rage attack.

Manus Pomthong, 32, allegedly clashed with Noppadol Pinthong, 52, over docking space at Koh Loi pier in Chonburi, Thailand.

Witnesses said the two men had argued last month, but the dispute was briefly deescalated by onlookers.

However, Manus allegedly returned on August 31 carrying a can of oil-based paint and a crowbar before attacking the older sailor.

Footage shows police escorting Manus into the back of a truck to be taken to the station for questioning.

Rescuers then assisted Noppadol, who was covered in sticky pigment, to an ambulance before transporting him to Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital.

Their colleague Adisak Wilailert, 31, said: 'Manus asked me what life could be in prison, but I did not know what he was thinking. I have not seen him for a while after they fought the first time.'

Adisak's girlfriend also told police she saw Manus walking toward the pier carrying the paint and crowbar.

Adisak added: 'I asked him what he intended to do with them, but he did not answer. I then heard the commotion from my brother that Manus was attacking Noppadol.'

An officer from the Sri Racha district station said: 'We received the report at 4pm. Last month, Manus accused Noppadol of steering his vessel too heavily, creating waves that damaged nearby boats. He also accused Noppadol of hogging a mooring spot with his boat.'

Noppadol suffered wounds behind his right ear. He said: 'I previously fought with Manus but believed the matter had been settled. He splashed me with paint and struck me several times with the crowbar.'

Police said both the crowbar and can of paint used in the attack were allegedly thrown into the sea.

Manus has been remanded in custody while Noppadol said he plans to file formal complaints after receiving medical treatment.