Pattaya bans US Navy personnel from visiting Soi 6, Soi 6/1 and Soi 7 during the upcoming visit of the USS Abraham Lincoln and two accompanying vessels to Chon Buri. More than 5,000 US Navy personnel are expected in the region, with around 3,000 forecast to visit Pattaya during the September port call.
US Navy ships arriving in Chon Buri
The US Navy carrier strike group, led by the USS Abraham Lincoln, is scheduled to dock in Chon Buri from September 2 to 6.
The port visit is expected to bring a significant number of US Navy personnel to Pattaya. Local authorities estimate around 60% of the personnel, approximately 3,000 people, will travel to the city and stay overnight.
Pattaya officials held a security and facilitation meeting at Pattaya City Hall on August 31 to prepare for the visit and discuss measures aimed at maintaining public safety and preventing crime.
The meeting was chaired by Pattaya mayoral secretary Bancha Kullawanit and Pattaya City Clerk Kiattisak Sriwongchai.
Pol Col Milin Pianchang, commander of Tourist Police Division 1’s Sub-Division 2, also attended alongside administrative officials and representatives from the visiting ships’ security teams.
Pattaya bans US Navy personnel from several areas
As part of the security arrangements, US Navy personnel have been instructed not to enter or use several locations and services in Pattaya.
The restricted areas and activities include:
- Soi 6
- Soi 6/1
- Soi 7
- Cannabis shops and pharmacies
- Water-based activities
Pattaya’s Soi 6, Soi 6/1 and Soi 7 are well-known nightlife areas, with numerous beer bars and entertainment venues attracting foreign visitors and local customers.
US Navy personnel will still be allowed to visit other Pattaya entertainment areas, including Walking Street. However, they must follow designated time restrictions and leave the area by 2:00am.
Pattaya bans US Navy personnel from restricted activities
The restrictions also cover cannabis shops, pharmacies and water-based activities.
The measures form part of Pattaya’s preparations for the expected increase in visitors during the naval port call.
Officials have also instructed businesses and service providers to charge fair prices and provide proper services. Businesses have been warned against overcharging tourists or US Navy personnel or taking advantage of the increased demand.
Authorities warn against sexual exploitation
Officials have also issued warnings concerning sexual exploitation during the US Navy visit to Pattaya.
Businesses and members of the public were reminded that the purchase and sale of sexual services are illegal under Thai law. Authorities stressed that sexual exploitation involving children or anyone under 18 is strictly prohibited.
The warnings form part of wider efforts to prevent crime and protect visitors during the port visit.
Tourist Police prepare for US Navy visit to Pattaya
The Tourist Police and local authorities will work alongside other agencies to monitor the situation and respond to incidents during the port visit.
Tourists and members of the public who see suspicious activity or require assistance can contact the Tourist Police on 1155. The hotline operates 24 hours a day.
Visitors can also use the Thailand Tourist Police app to contact officers and share their location when requesting assistance.
What the US Navy visit means for Pattaya
The arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln and accompanying vessels is expected to bring thousands of US Navy personnel into Pattaya during the September port call.
The Pattaya bans on access to Soi 6, Soi 6/1 and Soi 7 form part of wider security measures introduced ahead of the visit.
Although these three areas have been designated off-limits, other major Pattaya entertainment areas remain accessible, including Walking Street, subject to the 2:00am departure requirement.
Authorities have urged businesses and visitors to follow the regulations, charge fair prices and report suspicious activity to the Tourist Police.
