Why Thailand?
The Andaman coast is one of the most visually dramatic sailing grounds on the planet — vertical limestone karsts rising hundreds of metres from flat, jade-green water; hidden lagoons accessible only through caves; beaches with no footprints. Thailand combines this extraordinary scenery with outstanding food, warm water, and charter costs that make the Mediterranean look very expensive indeed.
Best Season
November through April (NE monsoon season). This is the dry season on the Andaman coast — consistent 10–20 knot northeasterly winds, calm seas, and excellent visibility. The SW monsoon (May–October) brings heavy rain, large swells, and many marina closures.
Perfect For
First-time Asia visitors, divers, photographers, and anyone who wants something genuinely unlike the Caribbean or Mediterranean. The combination of extraordinary scenery, warm water, incredible food, and low cost makes Thailand remarkable value for a charter holiday.
Must-Visit Spots
Where to Drop Anchor
Sample Itinerary
7 days in Thailand
Day 1: Phuket → Nai Harn Bay
Depart Yacht Haven Marina, Phuket. Short sail south to Nai Harn Bay — a protected anchorage with a long beach and calm, clear water. Dinner at a beachside restaurant. Easy shakedown day.
Day 2: Nai Harn → Koh Racha Yai
12-mile sail south to Racha Yai. Morning snorkel at Bungalow Bay's reef. Afternoon: explore the island's north coast by dinghy. Anchor in the sheltered bay for the night — often a flat calm.
Day 3: Racha Yai → Ko Phi Phi Don
Sail northeast to Ko Phi Phi Don. Anchor in Tonsai Bay (crowded but atmospheric). Walk to the viewpoint for sunset, dinner at a beachfront restaurant. The nightlife is optional and relentless.
Day 4: Phi Phi → Maya Bay → Phang Nga
Early morning visit to Maya Bay (arrive by 7am). Then sail north into Phang Nga Bay — anchor beneath the karst towers. Afternoon sea kayaking into the hongs. Night anchored in the bay with the karsts glowing at sunset.
Day 5: Phang Nga Bay exploration
Full day in the bay. Visit James Bond Island by dinghy in the early morning. Explore the mangrove channels. Lunch at a floating restaurant village. Sundowner anchored in a quiet karst-surrounded bay.
Day 6: Phang Nga → Koh Yao Noi
Sail to Koh Yao Noi, a largely undeveloped island between Phang Nga Bay and Krabi. Rent bicycles and ride through rubber plantations and rice paddies. Zero mass tourism, excellent local food, early bedtime.
Day 7: Koh Yao Noi → Phuket
Final sail back to Phuket. Stop at Koh Naka Yai for a last swim. Return to Yacht Haven for checkout. Last dinner in Phuket Town's old quarter — the food here is exceptional.
