Sailing Thailand

Most charters start in Phuket, and the island's marinas are where you will pick up the boat. Yacht Haven Marina Phuket and Ao Po Grand Marina sit on the northeast coast, close to Phang Nga Bay. Royal Phuket Marina and Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina lie further south, nearer to Chalong Bay and the routes toward the Phi Phi Islands. If you want to avoid the crossing from Phuket, Krabi Boat Lagoon Marina and Port Takola Marina Krabi put you closer to the limestone towers of Railay and Ao Nang.

The sailing season runs from November to April, when the northeast monsoon brings settled winds and dry days. From May to October, the southwest monsoon delivers rain, squalls, and stronger seas; most charter fleets pull their yachts or move them to the Gulf side. Ocean Marina Jomtien (Ocean Marina Yacht Club Pattaya) is one option on the Gulf coast, but the Andaman is the classic cruising ground for liveaboard charters.

A typical week starts in Phuket, heads east into Phang Nga Bay for the first night, then works south through Koh Hong and Koh Yao Yai to the Phi Phi Islands. From there, you can push down to Koh Lanta or across to the mainland near Krabi. Return legs are often windward, so plan a beat back north or use the overnight motor to keep the schedule relaxed.

The anchorages themselves vary from deep, sheltered bays to shallow sandbars. Many parks charge entry fees for foreign yachts, and mooring buoys replace anchoring in the busiest spots. Check the local notice to mariners before you go, because some of the most photographed spots, like Maya Bay, close or restrict access at certain times of year.