Experience Yachting Paradise in Thailand

Experience yachting paradise in Thailand

Travel

Written by
Georgia Tindale

Presented by Simpson Marine

Think of Thailand and imagine the ancient Buddhist temples, the lush, green forests, the magnificent cuisine cooked by welcoming locals and, of course, the countless tropical islands. With its gorgeous natural scenery and over 1400 islands for endless exploration, it is no surprise that Thailand is increasingly earning its place as South-East Asia’s premier chartering destination.

For superyacht cruising in the region, the options are abundant, with three main sets of islands to choose from – The Andaman Sea islands, the southern Gulf of Thailand islands, and the east of Bangkok islands – the most exciting challenge is deciding where to start. Chartering in Thailand brings with it endless variety and adventure: you’ll be constantly delighted with the discoveries you make. This stunningly beautiful country also offers a fantastic range of activities for visitors including kayaking, sailing, snorkeling and diving.

The most popular region for visiting superyachts in Thailand is undoubtedly Phuket, as a result of the huge number of yachts present, the superior yachting infrastructure available and the visual splendour of the destination. As a result, Phuket is the ideal location for the beginning and end of your chartering experience in Thailand. Home to the Phuket Race Week, King’s Cup Regatta and several marinas, Phuket becoming internationally renowned as the premier sailing destination in Asia.

The nearby Phang Nga Bay is a perfect choice for chartering, where secret lagoons, crystal clear waters and unspoiled islands await. For scenery, Phang Nga Bay boasts secluded beaches with striking sheer limestone cliffs that jut vertically out of the emerald green water for picture perfect views.

While you’re there, you can visit the James Bond Island, Ko Phing Kan, made famous on the silver screen by ‘The Man With The Golden Gun’, starring Roger Moore as Bond. For delicious and authentic Thai food, stop off at the nearby Ko Panyee fishing village, which is built on stilts in the water, with a towering limestone mountain always visible in the distance.

One of Thailand’s most famous groups of islands is the Ko Hong island group. Pelay Beach is perfect for those looking for a deserted island experience and features distinctive limestone rock formations. Arriving at the uninhabited island of Koh Kong, you will see ‘The Room’, a large lagoon in the middle of the island which changes colour drastically from a deep emerald green to a clear turquoise.

Making full use of your tenders and toys, you can access the lagoon by kayak at low tide, and motor boats (either longtail or speed boats) at mid-tide. If you’re quiet, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife: white-faced gibbons and giant monitor lizards who frequent the main white sand beach.

With countless route options on offer to visiting yachts around Thailand, local experts Simpson Marine make use of their intimate and unrivalled knowledge of the region’s secret spots and highlights to craft a bespoke itinerary for yachts operating in the area. For explorers who want to go further afield, Simpson Marine also create itineraries incorporating the nearby countries Myanmar and Malaysia.