About 5,000 United States sailors and marines from the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln are arriving in Thailand for shore leave after spending more than 250 days at sea.
The vessel docked at the port of Laem Chabang, allowing crew members to visit the nearby resort city of Pattaya. For the crew on board, stepping ashore marks a long-awaited period of relief following an extended deployment.
The USS Abraham Lincoln is a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier operated by the United States Navy. Laem Chabang, situated in Chonburi Province along the Gulf of Thailand, serves as Thailand's primary deep-water port capable of handling massive naval vessels.
Extended deployment to the Middle East
The aircraft carrier originally departed for a scheduled voyage into the Pacific Ocean in late 2025. However, due to the war with Iran, the vessel was redeployed to the Middle East, remaining deployed significantly longer than initially planned.
American media outlets reported severe psychological strain among the crew during the prolonged mission, as well as logistical problems including supply disruptions and faulty toilets. Reports also noted suspected suicide attempts on board. The US Navy acknowledged the challenging conditions on the ship, but stressed that the crew received adequate support.
Rest and recreation in Pattaya
The sailors are now visiting Pattaya, a coastal resort town situated on the Gulf of Thailand. Famous worldwide for its vibrant nightlife, the city has been regarded for decades as a focal point for sex tourism in Southeast Asia. Local businesses, including hotels, bars, restaurants, and shops, are anticipating a significant boost in revenue from the visit.
Pattaya's connection to American troops dates back to the Vietnam War in the mid-1960s, when thousands of US soldiers traveled to the area for rest and recreation. The regular influx of service members rapidly transformed the former fishing village into an international entertainment hub. Local authorities stated that the crew will spend several days in Pattaya before the ship resumes its voyage.
Shore leave restrictions and guidelines
Pattaya city administrators and local police have put precautionary measures in place for the arrival. To maintain order and ensure effective supervision, American soldiers are permitted to disembark only in small, controlled groups.
Military authorities have prohibited sailors from participating in risky water sports and consuming marijuana. Although Thailand decriminalised cannabis in 2022, making it partially legal, the substance remains strictly off-limits for the visiting troops. After completing their multi-day shore leave, the crew will rejoin the USS Abraham Lincoln as it continues its journey back to the United States.
