The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently launched the Coral College project, a bilingual e-learning platform that introduces visitors to marine safety, environmental awareness, and responsible tourism practices.
Available online, the platform’s pilot run is currently ongoing in Phuket in partnership with strong collaboration across sectors.
The project brings together the Center for Innovation and Digital Technology Management at Chiang Mai University, Global Impact Consulting Co, Ltd (Hackathon Thailand), and a network of local marine tourism businesses to engage both domestic and international tourists.
The official launch took place on Thursday, 24th July, at the Chalong Pier in Phuket, with senior representatives from the provincial government, TAT, academic institutions, and marine tourism businesses in attendance.
TAT executive director in the southern region Wajanan Silpawornwiwat said: “Phuket, recognised globally as a top-tier marine tourism destination, is the ideal place to launch this initiative. With its diverse marine ecosystems and steady flow of international visitors, it’s the right place to set a new standard for how tourism and marine conservation can work together.”
What exactly is the Coral College?
Coral College features a series of short, interactive experiences covering topics like marine safety, coral reef protection, and sustainable underwater tourism.
The content is designed to help travellers pick up essential tips before heading out to snorkel, freedive, or explore the sea.
Thailand sees more than six million marine tourists each year, yet a lack of awareness often leads to harmful behaviours:stepping on coral, disturbing wildlife, or underestimating natural hazards like rip currents.
Coral College aims to tackle these issues by offering travellers a simple, accessible way to get informed before exploring the ocean.
As Silpawornwiwat explains: “Coral College encourages travellers to approach Thailand’s marine environments with greater care and awareness. It offers practical tools to help them enjoy the ocean safely while supporting long-term conservation.”
Tourists participating in the Coral College programme and engaging with the platform’s interactive games are eligible for exclusive benefits and souvenirs from TAT and local tourism partners, including Love Andaman, Nikorn Marine, and Andaman Wave Master.
Beyond environmental awareness
Coral College goes beyond basic awareness. It’s a practical tool designed to improve safety and encourage more responsible travel across Thailand’s marine tourism sector.
The initiative reflects TAT’s long-term commitment to protecting ocean ecosystems and supporting the industry’s sustainable future.
The initiative will expand in the next phase to other key coastal provinces including Krabi, Trang, Satun, Chumphon, and Surat Thani, extending its reach to more of Thailand’s most popular coastal destinations.
