Thailand Malaysia Yacht Charter Guide

With its tropical climate, legendary hospitality, dynamic and intriguing cultures and stunning scenery, southeast Asia welcomes visitors with a wealth of attractions

The captivating cruising grounds of Thailand are some of the most exotic and intriguing in the world. Pristine beaches and wing-tipped Buddhist temples litter the landscape along the southwest coastline. This idyllic nation has long been a hot spot for the jet set thanks to its stunning beaches, Zen-like culture, exotic foods and legendary beach parties. The renowned city of Bangkok is the capital, but Thailand’s offshore islands, such as Phuket, are true paradise.

Traditional Thai fishing boat on blue waters

SAMPLE ITINERARY

DAY 1

PHUKET TO KHAO PHING KAN (18 NAUTICAL MILES)

The Yacht Haven Marina in Phuket is the ideal launch pad for a charter through the largely uninhabited surrounding islands. Relax on deck as you cruise east towards Phnag Nga Bay to Khao Phing Kan (aka James Bond Island), arriving late afternoon when the crowds have eased.

DAY 2

KHAO PHING KAN TO KOH HONG (14 NAUTICAL MILES)

The islands of Koh Panak, Koh Hong and Koh Naka Yai are ideal for a quiet anchorage. Kho Naka Yai is well worth a visit for the rare South Sea pearls that are cultivated and sold here. Spend the afternoon swimming with turtles in the sheltered bays

DAY 3

KOH HONG TO PHI PHI ISLANDS (16 NAUTICAL MILES)

Cruise south to the world famous Phi Phi Islands. As you approach, the islands rise from the sea like fortresses as sheer cliffs tower overhead, giving way to beachfront jungle ashore. Head for the southeast end of Phi Phi Don and snorkel in the clear blue waters that lap the rugged island.

DAY 4

PHI PHI ISLANDS TO KOH RACHA (18 NAUTICAL MILES)

Phi Phi Leh is uninhabited, though you can visit during daylight hours. Arrive in time for breakfast before the tourist boats show up and explore the almost enclosed lagoon. Cruise southwest towards the islands of the Koh Racha archipelago.

DAY 5

KOH RACHA

After a peaceful night’s anchorage spend the day discovering the underwater world. Open to the Andaman Sea, the water around Koh Racha is crystal clear and the reefs are rich in marine life – perfect for snorkeling and diving.

DAYS 6 & 7

KOH RACHA TO NAI HARN BAY, PHUKET (11 NAUTICAL MILES)

Cruise back towards Phuket, anchoring in the southwest of the island at Nai Harn bay. The island of Phuket acts as a hub for the region and is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and spas. Spend a few days cruising around the island before disembarking at Phuket’s Yacht Haven Marina.

CHARTER EXPERIENCE

With fascinating, colorful cultures, customs and fantastic cuisine, Thailand is home to one of the world’s most exotic and multifaceted cultures. With a host of attractions, the cruising grounds of Thailand offer a range of natural and spiritual grandeurs.

The southwestern coastline of Thailand boasts a wealth of attractions, including pristine beaches, turquoise waters and an amazing underwater world for outstanding snorkeling and diving. Combined with well-protected anchorages and dramatic limestone landscapes, the Andaman Sea is the reigning maritime jewel of Southeast Asia. On a cruise around Thailand’s west coast you can explore uninhabited islands in Phang Nga Bay. This is the perfect place to hop aboard the yacht’s water toys and play in the crystalline sea.

Divers will want to jump in waters surrounding the Phi Phi islands or the Marine National Park around the Similan Islands and spend leisurely days on the scenic beaches of the Surin Islands, before venturing inland to enjoy the cultural hotspots and nightlife on the Phuket, aka the “Pearl of the Andaman.” Phuket also is brimming with luxury spas, providing the ultimate in relaxation. Enjoy a massage while watching the sunset over a pristine ocean at one of the five-star resorts on the island.

Location Highlights

Climb Sunset Point for spectacular views over the two bays of Phi Phi Don
Watch locals shimmy up bamboo poles in pursuit of prized swallow’s nests, Koh Hong
Kayak through the caves at Koh Hong and Koh Panak
Watch the sun set over the Andaman Sea from the elephant shrine above Nai Harn bay, Phuket
Visit the Hat Nai Yang National Park to see the annual release of protected hatchling sea turtles into the Andaman Sea (April)
Snorkel the Hat Nai Yang National Park (Phuket’s largest coral reef) which lies just 1,400 meters from the shore
Enjoy a treatment at Amanpuri’s Aman Spa, Phuket
Join the yachting crowd at Phuket’s favorite haunt, Catch Beach Club

Expert Advice

A tropical rainy climate dominates most of Southeast Asia, making these cruising grounds a tempting alternative winter charter destination to the popular Caribbean. The northeast monsoon, from November through April, generally brings light winds, calm seas and offers sunny and dry weather.