US aircraft carrier reaches Thailand after 200 days at sea as sailors take a break in Pattaya

After more than 200 days at sea, the USS Abraham Lincoln has reached Thailand, giving thousands of sailors and Marines a break after an unusually long deployment marked by reports of serious problems aboard the ship.

The 330-metre-long, nuclear-powered aircraft carrier entered Laem Chabang port in Chon Buri province early Wednesday, around 20 kilometres from Pattaya. About 4,800 crew members arrived on the Lincoln, while another 312 personnel were aboard the destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen Jr., according to the Bangkok Post.

The carrier left San Diego in November 2025 for an operation in the Pacific, but the war with Iran led to its redeployment to the Middle East. Several media outlets reported that the crew spent more than 200 days without a port call. Although US carrier deployments can last for months, such a long period without a regular stop is unusual.

Reports cited problems with the water supply, blocked toilets and mounting psychological pressure linked to various onboard conditions. Relatives said some crew members had tried to jump overboard in certain cases. The US military rejected the most serious allegations.

The personnel are expected to spend five days resting while supplies are brought aboard. Rear Admiral Robert E. Loughran said the arrival offered sailors and Marines “the well-deserved opportunity to rest and recharge.” Around 40 buses will take them between Laem Chabang and Pattaya. They may visit Koh Larn and stay in hotels, but water sports and cannabis use are prohibited. They may visit Pattaya’s famous Walking Street, though they must leave the entertainment district by 2 a.m.

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The well-deserved opportunity to rest and recharge.