About Thailand
Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s premier sailing destinations, offering a spectacular mix of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and world-class yachting conditions. The country’s coastline stretches along the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, dotted with hundreds of islands ranging from bustling tourist hubs to secluded beaches.
When to sail?
Thailand’s sailing conditions vary depending on whether you’re exploring the Andaman Sea (west coast) or the Gulf of Thailand (east coast).
For the Andaman Sea, which includes popular destinations such as Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, and the Similan Islands, the best time to sail is from November to April.
During these months, the northeast trade winds are steady, the seas are calm, and sunny skies dominate, creating ideal conditions for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving.
The monsoon season, from May to October, brings heavier rains, stronger winds, and rougher seas, making sailing less comfortable and generally not recommended
On the Gulf of Thailand, including islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, the best sailing months are January to April.
During this period, the weather is warm and mostly dry, and the waters are calm, perfect for relaxed cruising.
The monsoon season here is slightly different: October to December can bring heavy rains and occasional storms, while May to September may also see some inclement weather, although conditions are generally safer than on the Andaman coast during this time.
How to get there?
Thailand is well-connected, making it easy to start your sailing adventure. For the Andaman Sea, the main gateways are Phuket International Airport (HKT) and Krabi Airport (KBV). Both are close to popular sailing hubs, marinas, and islands like Phang Nga, Ao Nang, and the Similan Islands.
If your journey focuses on the Gulf of Thailand, including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, or Koh Tao, the easiest entry is Samui International Airport (USM). Alternatively, travelers can fly into Bangkok (BKK) and take a short domestic flight to their chosen coastal departure point.
Things to do in Thailand
Island Hopping:
Cruise between Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Racha in the Andaman Sea. Anchor in Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh (made famous by The Beach), or discover the quiet lagoons and limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay, including the iconic James Bond Island.
Adventure & Nature:
Hike to the viewpoint at Koh Phi Phi for panoramic island vistas, explore the limestone caves of Phang Nga Bay, or kayak through mangrove forests around Krabi. For something unique, take a day trip to Emerald Pool and Hot Springs in Krabi province.
Cultural Experiences:
Visit local fishing villages on Koh Lanta or Koh Samui, explore ancient Buddhist temples, or enjoy fresh seafood at floating markets. Time your visit with festivals like Loy Krathong or Songkran for an authentic cultural experience.
Sailing route in Thailand
Itinerary for a 10-Day sail from Phuket
Sail from Phuket and embark on a captivating journey around the enchanting isles of the Andaman Sea.
Explore pristine beaches, hidden coves, and turquoise waters while indulging in the ultimate sailing adventure.
Discover the magic of the Andaman Sea as you sail from Phuket and create unforgettable memories on this voyage.
Day 1: Phuket → Koh Yao Noi
Begin your journey with a sail to Koh Yao Noi. Explore the morning market, cycle through villages and rice paddies, then unwind on Pasai Beach. End the day with a beachside seafood dinner under the stars.
Day 2: Koh Yao Noi → Koh Hong
Cruise to Koh Hong, famous for its emerald lagoon. Kayak through limestone cliffs, snorkel the reefs, and hike to the viewpoint for panoramic island vistas before dining al fresco by the beach.
Day 3: Koh Hong → Koh Phak Bia
Sail north to Koh Phak Bia. Enjoy breakfast onboard, snorkel the coral reefs, stroll the island’s perimeter, and relax with a picnic lunch. Wrap up the day with a sunset beach BBQ.
Day 4: Koh Phak Bia → Koh Kai
Anchor at Koh Kai (Chicken Island). Spend the day swimming, snorkelling, or hiking to viewpoints. Enjoy a picnic lunch and a fresh seafood dinner by the shore.
Day 5: Koh Kai → Koh Mai Phai
Head to Koh Mai Phai (Bamboo Island) for a morning of snorkelling at Loh Moo Dee Beach. Wander through mangroves, enjoy local Thai cuisine for lunch, and anchor overnight at Koh Phi Phi Don.
Day 6: Koh Mai Phai → Koh Phi Phi Don
Catch sunrise at Phi Phi Viewpoint, explore the island’s vibrant markets and beaches, and enjoy fresh seafood at Ton Sai Bay. End the day with cocktails or a beach fire show.
Day 7: Koh Phi Phi Don → Phi Phi Leh
Sail to Phi Phi Leh and visit Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, and Pileh Lagoon. Snorkel in turquoise waters, explore Viking Cave, and meet the macaques at Monkey Beach before returning to Phi Phi Don.
Day 8: Koh Phi Phi Don → Koh Khai Nai
Relax on Koh Khai Nai’s white sands. Swim, snorkel, and savour grilled seafood at the island’s beachside restaurant before enjoying sunset drinks on the sand.
Day 9: Koh Khai Nai → Koh Maphrao
Arrive at Koh Maphrao (Coconut Island). Visit the local temple, enjoy a beachfront lunch, and spend a tranquil afternoon on the beach before anchoring at nearby Ko Rang Yai.
Day 10: Koh Rang Yai → Yacht Haven Marina
Cruise back to Phuket’s Yacht Haven Marina. Stroll the docks, enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant, and browse boutiques before a final dinner overlooking the sea.
