Thailand Sailing Itinerary

Koh Hong, Phang Nga

Begin your adventure in the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay, sailing into a landscape of towering limestone cliffs and emerald waters. Koh Hong is famed for its hidden lagoon, pristine beaches, and tranquil surroundings, perfect for your first day on the water.

The Day’s Sailing

• 2 Hr Sailing time
• 10 Nautical miles

Mooring

• No moorings are available.
• Anchor between the rock formations at Koh Hong. The best anchorage is off the east side of Koh Hong and west of the shoals extending off Koh Na Khae. Another popular anchorage is at Koh Phanak, to the south of Koh Hong. Koh Planak is a fabulous place to explore if you love caves.
• Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

Situated north of Phuket and west of Krabi Province, Ao Phang-nga National Park is one of the jewels of southern Thailand. You could easily spend two or three days of your Phuket yacht charter cruising in Koh Hong waters. Other intriguing islands besides Koh Hong include Koh Planak, Koh Panyl, Khoa Phing Kan, and Tham Lot. Swimming, snorkeling, exploring the caves, and relaxing in scenic anchorages are the main attractions in the park. Taking the dinghy through the tunnel of Koh Hong into the lagoon to view the “hong” or room is an unforgettable experience.

Facilities

No facilities for yachts are available.

Discover

Kayak into Koh Hong’s hidden lagoon through a narrow limestone entrance for an unforgettable experience. The bay’s calm waters and scenic surroundings also make it ideal for swimming and snorkelling straight from the yacht.

Koh Roi

Cruising in Koh Roi waters west across Phang-nga Bay is a voyage among intriguing and beautiful islands in a tropical wonderland. Koh Roi, and its neighbour, Koh Kudu Yai, are excellent stopover points before heading south toward Krabi and its beautiful beaches, or the world-famous Phi Phi Islands.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 8 Nautical miles

Mooring

No moorings are available. The anchorage off Koh Roi is on the southwest side of the island. The anchorage at Nearby Koh Kudu Yai is on the west side of the island. An islet to the west offers additional protection.

Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Exploring

Facilities

No facilities for yachts are available.

Discover

Explore Koh Roi’s hidden hong on foot or paddle through the caves and hongs around Koh Kudu Yai by dinghy. At dusk, witness thousands of fruit bats take flight from the jungles—a primal and unforgettable spectacle straight out of nature’s history.

Rai Le Beach, Krabi

Sail south to the world-famous Railay Beach, framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat. Rai Le Beach cruising is a delightful sojourn to the mainland of south Thailand, famous for its spectacular beaches fronting the Andaman Sea. Many are inaccessible by road due to the towering cliffs and rock formations on the peninsula, creating a remote and secluded ambience that persists even at some of the more developed beaches.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr Sailing time
• 19 Nautical miles

Mooring

No moorings are available. The best anchorage is off the broad sandy beach.
Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

At the south end of the bay, you’ll find a magnificent reef teeming with sea life and colorful coral. The snorkeling is superb. There are caves and intriguing rock formations along the rocky southern headland. On the beach, you will find some restaurants. Relaxing in the shade with a cool drink and a delicious meal is a pleasant way to spend a mid-afternoon.

Facilities

Water is available by taking the dinghy ashore with a jerry can. Limited provisions are available.

Discover

Step ashore to enjoy the beachside cafés and restaurants, or hike to viewpoints for panoramic vistas of Phra Nang Cave Beach. Railay is also renowned for rock climbing, with routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers, making it a hub for adventure alongside relaxation.

Koh Phi Phi Don – Lanah Bay

Cruising in Phi Phi Don waters is a must during any Phuket yacht charter. Said to be one of the three most beautiful islands in the world, Phi Phi Don is a major tourist attraction, drawing boatloads of visitors every day during the high season from Phuket and Krabi. Yet, it still retains its idyllic charm, with the beachfront restaurants, bars, and shops at Ton Sai Bay blending in with the stunning scenery. Nearby Phi Phi Le is also magnificent, a jewel of the Andaman Sea well worth exploring. Snorkeling and scuba diving on the reefs in the area is some of the best in Thailand.

The Day’s Sailing

• 3 Hr Sailing time
• 16 Nautical miles

Mooring

No moorings are available. Phi Phi Don is comprised of two landmasses connected by a sandy isthmus that forms bays north and south. The best anchorage is on the south side of the island at Ton Sai Bay near the village. There are anchorages on the north side of the island as well, and they can be less crowded. While it is possible to anchor at Phi Phi Le, the water is deep and the bays are busy with tour boats.

Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

A coral reef on the west side of Ton Sai Bay is near the anchorage and is good for snorkeling. Exploring the village, dining at the restaurants, and browsing in the shops is a pleasant way to enjoy a late afternoon or early evening. Longtail tour boats operate from Ton Sai Bay and offer tours to the spectacular caves, hongs, and rocky inlets along the shores of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le. Taking a longtail boat to Phi Phi Le is the most convenient way to enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and snorkelling on the reefs. Maya Bay is particularly scenic. Dive operators are available for excursions to Him Klang reef, just north of Phi Phi Don.

Facilities

Water is available at the floating dock. Limited provisions are available.

Koh Phi Phi Le

The smaller of the two main isles of the Phi Phi group, Koh Phi Phi Le has an area of just four square miles. It’s one of the most scenic islands in the Andaman Sea, with numerous picturesque bays, gorgeous white-sand beaches, excellent snorkeling, and soaring limestone cliffs. One of the most striking features of the island is Maya Bay, where sheer cliffs soar more than 300 feet high on three sides. Several pristine white-sand beaches are ideal places to swim and sunbathe. The snorkelling is superb on the coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. The blockbuster hit movie The Beach was filmed in Maya Bay and released in 1999, which brought Phi Phi Le international fame for its spectacular setting and crystal clear waters.

Koh Racha Yai – West

Cruise west across the bright, blissful expanse of the Andaman Sea, drifting past Thailand’s many islands on your way to distant Koh Racha Yai. Strewn with beaches and coves perfect for sunbathing, Koh Racha Yai is also a favourite of sport fishermen and divers. Cast a line into the waters in the hopes of landing sailfish, mahi-mahi and giant trevally.

The Day’s Sailing

• 5 Hr Sailing time
• 26 Nautical miles

Mooring

Anchoring option

Things to do

Sunbathing, Exploring

Facilities

WiFi, Taxi, Rubbish, Restaurants, Bars, Gift shop

Discover Koh Racha Yai

Underwater sculpture park
Dive Koh Racha Yai’s submerged sculpture park to come face to face with giant stone elephants and other incredible underwater art.

Suggested lunch spots
Break up your journey through the Andaman with a rest stop at Koh Tu Kon Li Ma. This tiny island is one of the most dramatic and unspoilt in the Andaman, so anchor here and soak up the tranquillity.

Koh Rang Yai – West

Yachting in Koh Rang Yai waters is a delight as you cruise along the east coast of Phuket. Koh Rang Yai and the surrounding area are very popular among local boaters, in part because of its location with easy access to Phang-nga Bay, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands. There is a restaurant ashore, and bike rentals are available.

The Day’s Sailing

• 4 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 22 Nautical miles

Mooring

No moorings are available. There are two anchorages off Koh Rang Yai. The one on the west side has a magnificent white-sand beach. The anchorage on the north side of the island is better protected in southwesterly winds.

Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

Swimming at the beach, walking the scenic footpaths, playing miniature golf, or enjoying a tasty meal at the restaurant (it’s only open during the day) is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

Facilities

No facilities for yachts are available.

Discover

Koh Rang Yai offers a peaceful beachfront club and restaurant, ideal for lunch or sunset drinks. The island is also home to a pearl farm, giving a glimpse of local craftsmanship, and its long beach is perfect for biking or a leisurely walk along the shore.

Ao Po Grand Marina

Return to Ao Po Grand Marina for the conclusion of your charter, nestled at the edge of Phuket with stunning views across Phang Nga Bay. This full-service marina makes for an easy and comfortable disembarkation after your week exploring Thailand’s islands.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 30 Mins Sailing time
• 7 Nautical miles

Mooring

Marina Berth / Dock (pre-assigned slip)
Notes: Contact marina on VHF before arrival for berth allocation. Staff are available to assist with docking and final check-out procedures.

Things to do

Near the Moorings base at Ao Po Marina are two resorts with excellent accommodations and fine restaurants. The island of Phuket has so many attractions you could spend a week or two and not see them all. A trip to Phuket Town reveals a city with two distinct characters, the old and historic blended with the modern and chic. The shopping, dining, museums, theaters, and historic sites are enchanting. Phuket is world-famous for its resorts, particularly those on the west coast overlooking the Andaman Sea. You can visit the west coast during the northeast monsoon, when cruising there promises flat water and lots of sunshine. A trip to Phuket wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the FantaSea theme park, a celebration of everything Thai, including the superb cuisine.

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Re Fuel, WIFI, Electricity, Toilets & Showers, ATM, Supermarket/ Provisioning, Laundry, Chandlery Shop, Trash

Discover

Ao Po Grand Marina offers everything you need for a smooth end to your charter. Enjoy a final meal at the marina’s restaurants, pick up last-minute provisions, or simply relax and take in the bay views before departing Phuket.

Koh Hong, Phang Nga

Kick off your power yacht adventure in the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay, where towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically from emerald waters. Koh Hong offers a serene and scenic anchorage with hidden lagoons and pristine beaches, a perfect first stop to relax and explore.

The Day’s Sailing

• 45 Mins Sailing time
• 10 Nautical miles

Mooring

• Mooring Buoys (available; recommended)
• Free Anchoring (limited areas, sand/mud seabed)

Notes: Mooring buoys are preferred to protect the seabed. The hidden lagoon is best accessed by dinghy or kayak at mid-to-high tide.

Things to do

Swimming, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Exploring

Facilities

No facilities for yachts are available.

Ao Phang-nga National Park

Situated north of Phuket and west of Krabi Province, Ao Phang-nga National Park is one of the jewels of southern Thailand. You could easily spend two or three days of your Phuket yacht charter cruising in Koh Hong waters. Other intriguing islands besides Koh Hong include Koh Planak, Koh Panyl, Khoa Phing Kan, and Tham Lot. Swimming, snorkeling, exploring the caves, and relaxing in scenic anchorages are the main attractions in the park. Taking the dinghy through the tunnel of Koh Hong into the lagoon to view the “hong” or room is an unforgettable experience.

Kayak
Kayak through the narrow limestone entrance into Koh Hong’s hidden lagoon for an unforgettable experience. The bay’s calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, making this a serene and scenic introduction to your Thai power yacht charter.

Rai Le Beach, Krabi

Sail south to the world-famous Railay Beach, a dramatic peninsula surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Rai Le Beach cruising is a delightful sojourn to the mainland of south Thailand, famous for its spectacular beaches fronting the Andaman Sea. Many are inaccessible by road due to the towering cliffs and rock formations on the peninsula, creating a remote and secluded ambience that persists even at some of the more developed beaches.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 45 Min Sailing time
• 25 Nautical miles

Mooring

• No moorings are available.
• The best anchorage is off the broad sandy beach.
• Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Notes: Avoid anchoring too close to cliffs or reefs. The bay can be busy with day-trip boats, so plan your anchoring carefully.

Things to do

At the south end of the bay, you’ll find a magnificent reef teeming with sea life and colorful coral. The snorkeling is superb. There are caves and intriguing rock formations along the rocky southern headland. On the beach, you will find some restaurants. Relaxing in the shade with a cool drink and a delicious meal is a pleasant way to spend a mid-afternoon.

Facilities

Water is available by taking the dinghy ashore with a jerry can. Limited provisions are available.

Discover

Step ashore to enjoy beachside cafés and restaurants, or hike to viewpoints for panoramic vistas. Railay is also renowned for rock climbing, with routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers, blending adventure and relaxation in one stunning location.

Koh Lanta Yai

Sail to Koh Lanta Yai, a relaxed island with long beaches, calm waters, and charming coastal villages. This anchorage is ideal during the SW monsoon season, offering direct access to Lanta Old Town and the island’s road network.

The Day’s Sailing

• 3 Hr Sailing time
• 42 Nautical miles

Mooring

• Free Anchoring (sand/mud seabed, good holding)
• Jetty access (available but not well-maintained; exercise caution when landing the dinghy)

Notes: This is the only anchorage suitable during the SW monsoon season. Lanta Marine Services are available during working hours for basic support.

Things to do

Swimming, Snorkelling, Exploring, Sunbathing, Kayaking, Fishing

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars, Toilets & Showers, Supermarket/Provisioning, WIFI (local establishments), Trash

Discover

Enjoy a stroll through Lanta Old Town with its historic wooden houses, boutique shops, and local eateries. The surrounding waters are perfect for snorkelling and fishing, and the beaches provide an idyllic spot to relax while soaking in the tropical scenery.

Koh Phi Phi Don

Cruising in Phi Phi Don waters is a must during any Phuket yacht charter. Said to be one of the three most beautiful islands in the world, Phi Phi Don is a major tourist attraction, drawing boatloads of visitors every day during the high season from Phuket and Krabi. Yet, it still retains its idyllic charm, with the beachfront restaurants, bars, and shops at Ton Sai Bay blending in with the stunning scenery. Nearby Phi Phi Le is also magnificent, a jewel of the Andaman Sea well worth exploring. Snorkeling and scuba diving on the reefs in the area is some of the best in Thailand.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 20 Min Sailing time
• 33 Nautical miles

Mooring

No moorings are available. Phi Phi Don is comprised of two landmasses connected by a sandy isthmus that forms bays north and south. The best anchorage is on the south side of the island at Ton Sai Bay near the village. There are anchorages on the north side of the island as well, and they can be less crowded. While it is possible to anchor at Phi Phi Le, the water is deep and the bays are busy with tour boats.
Dinghy dockage:
No dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

A coral reef on the west side of Ton Sai Bay is near the anchorage and is good for snorkeling. Exploring the village, dining at the restaurants, and browsing in the shops is a pleasant way to enjoy a late afternoon or early evening. Longtail tour boats operate from Ton Sai Bay and offer tours to the spectacular caves, hongs, and rocky inlets along the shores of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le. Taking a longtail boat to Phi Phi Le is the most convenient way to enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and snorkelling on the reefs. Maya Bay is particularly scenic. Dive operators are available for excursions to Him Klang reef, just north of Phi Phi Don.

Facilities

Water is available at the floating dock. Limited provisions are available.

Koh Phi Phi Le

The smaller of the two main isles of the Phi Phi group, Koh Phi Phi Le has an area of just four square miles. It’s one of the most scenic islands in the Andaman Sea, with numerous picturesque bays, gorgeous white-sand beaches, excellent snorkeling, and soaring limestone cliffs. One of the most striking features of the island is Maya Bay, where sheer cliffs soar more than 300 feet high on three sides. Several pristine white-sand beaches are ideal places to swim and sunbathe. The snorkelling is superb on the coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. The blockbuster hit movie The Beach was filmed in Maya Bay and released in 1999, which brought Phi Phi Le international fame for its spectacular setting and crystal clear waters.

Koh Racha Yai, Krabi

Yachting in Koh Racha Yai waters is a delightful experience, presenting an opportunity to explore two intriguing islands about 12 miles south of Phuket and just over 25 miles from the Phi Phi Islands. The largest island is Racha Yai, a premier cruising destination on any Phuket yacht charter because of its gorgeous beach of snow-white sand at Ao Tawan Tok, a U-shaped bay on the northwestern shore. The much smaller Koh Racha Noi is rocky and uninhabited, but it’s known for the excellent fishing in a small bay on the west side of the island.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 50 Min Sailing time
• 25 Nautical miles

Mooring

• No moorings are available.
• Free Anchoring (sand seabed with excellent holding). The best anchorage is off Ao Tawan Tok beach at Koh Racha Yai.
• Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Notes: The west coast is well protected in the SW season. Take care to avoid coral patches when anchoring.

Things to do

The main attractions at Koh Racha Yai are its beautiful beaches ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The scuba diving is superb in these waters. Dive sites for beginner and advanced divers are plentiful. Lucy’s Reef and Marla’s Mystery, a wreck dive, are two popular spots. Drift diving along the eastern shore takes you to steep drop-offs. Manta rays, blue-spotted stingrays, barracuda, grouper, moray eels, and lionfish are just some of the local reef residents. Ashore at Ao Tawan Tok are some restaurants and bars, distinctly laid-back and casual.

Facilities

Restaurants & Bars, WIFI (resort-based), Toilets & Showers, Dive Shop, Trash

Discover

Koh Racha Yai is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, ideal for snorkelling and diving directly from your yacht. Step ashore at the few beachfront restaurants for lunch or sunset drinks, and enjoy the island’s tranquil atmosphere, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Koh Rang Yai

A short sail brings you to Koh Rang Yai, a peaceful island with long sandy beaches and calm, shallow waters. Yachting in Koh Rang Yai waters is a delight as you cruise along the east coast of Phuket. Koh Rang Yai and the surrounding area are very popular among local boaters, in part because of its location with easy access to Phang-nga Bay, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands. There is a restaurant ashore, and bike rentals are available.

The Day’s Sailing

• 1 Hr 40 Min Sailing time
• 23 Nautical miles

Mooring

• Mooring Buoys (available; recommended)
• Free Anchoring (sand seabed, good holding)
• There are two anchorages off Koh Rang Yai. The one on the west side has a magnificent white-sand beach. The anchorage on the north side of the island is better protected in southwesterly winds.
• Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available.

Things to do

Swimming at the beach, walking the scenic footpaths, playing miniature golf, or enjoying a tasty meal at the restaurant (it’s only open during the day) is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, WIFI, Toilets & Showers, Trash

Discover

Koh Rang Yai is home to a relaxed beachfront club and restaurant, perfect for lunch or sunset drinks. The island also has a small pearl farm to explore, and its long beach invites leisurely walks or biking along the shore.

Ao Po Grand Marina

Return to Ao Po Grand Marina at the edge of Phuket, marking the conclusion of your power yacht charter. The marina offers a convenient and comfortable setting for disembarkation, surrounded by stunning views of Phang Nga Bay.

The Day’s Sailing

• 30 Mins Sailing time
• 7 Nautical miles

Mooring

Lazy line on a town quay or in Marinas

Things to do

Sunbathing, Exploring

Facilities

Water Refill & Ice, Restaurants & Bars, Re Fuel, WIFI, Electricity, Toilets & Showers, ATM, Supermarket/Provisioning, Laundry, Chandlery Shop, Trash

Discover

Ao Po Grand Marina provides all the services needed for a smooth end to your charter. Enjoy a final meal at the marina’s restaurants, pick up last-minute provisions, or simply relax and take in the scenic bay views before departing Phuket.