Carrying Capacity and Tourism Management Measures for Shallow Reef at Khai Nok Island, Phang Nga Province

Abstract

This research objective was snorkeling carrying capacity (CC) assessment and
recommendations guidelines for tourism management measures for shallow reef at Khai Nok Island,
Phang Nga province. Data collection utilized questionnaire survey from population sampling of 400
visitors who engaged in snorkeling activity at Khai Nok Island. The number of visitors to the site
was also recorded during November 2009 to April 2010. The results showed that physical carrying
capacity of the area was 200 people in the water per period: 10.30-11.30am, 14.30-15.30 pm. This
make current use being over the reef’s CC. The ecological carrying capacity results showed decrease
in percentage of cover of living coral remained below CC. Tourist behavioring term of coral contact
was exceeding CC. The facility carrying capacity was still below CC however the psychological
carrying capacity was exceeding CC. Tourism management measures which should be used include
identifying period in snorkeling, clearly marking entry point for snorkelers, provide knowledge for
tourists on theuseequipment and knowledge of coral reef ecosystems and marine protected area before entering water, zoning areas for tourism activities, apply tourism fees, require the registration of tour operators and prohibit feeding and catchingfish in coral reef.