Went to China town twice in as many days, both times there were "boat cops" at every station that would not let anyone stand on the deck at the back of the boat. The boat would not leave until everyone was inside. They say it is very un-safe, but they will cram 500 people inside the boat.
If this thing went down I would sooner be on the deck where I could jump to safety...
Is this a fairly recent thing? (maybe since the boat accident down south?)
Had that happen on a water taxi in BKK once. A chap in brown on the dock made everyone get inside before he'd let the boat go. It lasted until the boat was 100m away from the dock, then back out, although I didn't notice anyone looking toward the dock as they came out. I was second one back out...555
