
Phuket – Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, in collaboration with Andamanda Phuket Water Park, has launched a new initiative called “Water Hero: Water Safety for Kids,” aiming to create positive change within the community. This training program offers free swimming and water safety instruction for local schoolchildren as part of the organizations’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) mission to reduce drowning rates among Thai youth.




The program is designed to address a major safety challenge in Thailand, where only 16% of Thai children can swim, despite the country being rich in aquatic environments. “Water Hero” focuses on teaching basic survival skills and raising awareness of water-related accidents.
Recognizing the limited resources of local schools, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach is providing the venue, equipment, swimming pool, safety staff, first aid personnel, food, beverages, and transportation for the students. Meanwhile, Andamanda Phuket is contributing a team of professional instructors and internationally certified lifeguards to deliver high-quality training.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe environment. This program reflects Marriott’s commitment to being a part of the community by equipping children with essential life-saving skills,” said Trevor May, General Manager of the Marriott resort group.




Andamanda Phuket, recognized for its ‘regional safety standards’, is working with “Ellis & Associates”, a global leader in aquatic safety, to develop a comprehensive training curriculum and implement the highest safety protocols for local students.
“We are committed to building a safe, knowledgeable community when it comes to water safety. This initiative is a true example of using lifeguarding expertise for the benefit of the community,” said Vorawan James, Director of Lifeguard Operations at Andamanda Water Park.

The “Water Hero: Water Safety for Kids” program will run from June to November 2025, with weekly sessions every Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Each session will train up to 35 students, across four different class levels, ensuring all participants receive individual attention and high-quality instruction.
Strong support for the initiative has come from Patong Municipality School – Ban Sai Nam Yen, a local municipal school that is actively helping students participate in this meaningful program.
This initiative reinforces both organizations’ long-term commitment to impactful CSR efforts, focusing on safety, well-being, and the development of youth potential in Phuket.