Sail Phuket & The Andaman Sea

The Andaman Sea Coast and all it has to Offer

The sailing grounds of the western Malay Peninsula extend from the national park islands in the north to quintessential tropical escapes just off the coast of southern Thailand, stretching down to Langkawi, right across the border with Malaysia. However, you don't need to venture far from Phuket's Yacht Haven Marina to discover some of the most idyllic destinations.

If you're planning a Phuket sailing vacation and time is limited, you'll likely face a delightful dilemma: what to leave out? In essence, the question is: north or south?

To the north lie the renowned Similan Islands and, further on, Ko Surin, an offshore national park near the Burmese border. Truly experiencing these aquatic wonderlands requires time. While easily accessible, note that the road bridge at Phuket's northern end necessitates a longer sail around, making a day trip to the Similans quite lengthy. Many charterers opt for stopovers on Phuket's western side at Thap Lamu and/or the inshore Ko Pra Thong, a charming location where you can almost guarantee complete solitude in the bay.

We recommend a two-week charter to fully appreciate these special places north of Phuket and account for the travel time. A shorter trip is still possible and worthwhile, though the trade-off is missing the enticing destinations to the south, which will have to wait for another time. Planning an itinerary is akin to selecting from a menu – a matter of choosing from the many wonderful options available.

Bear in mind that sailing north of Phuket from May to September is not recommended (and may be prohibited by operators) due to the southwest monsoon.

If you prefer to keep your charter close to Phuket, you can enjoy all the island itself offers while still maximizing your boat experience. Phuket's western coast boasts some of the most beautiful spots you'll encounter, with excellent snorkeling and diving locations such as the coral reefs off Kata Beach.

In Phang Nga Bay, sail into a breathtaking landscape of towering limestone karsts rising from emerald-green waters. Gently drift through hidden lagoons by dinghy, paddle into secret caves, or anchor near the iconic James Bond Island for that quintessential photo – all in peaceful seclusion, away from the crowds.

Koh Hong, nestled off the coast of Krabi, is a secluded paradise famous for its crystal-clear waters and majestic limestone cliffs. Drop anchor and spend the day swimming in a tranquil lagoon, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply relaxing on a powdery white beach with a fresh coconut in hand.

Sail past the soaring cliffs of Railay and the lively shores of Ao Nang en route to Phi Phi. This stunning stretch is ideal for rock climbing, beach hopping, or enjoying a romantic sunset dinner onboard as dramatic sandstone formations glow golden in the evening light.

Celebrated for their cinematic beauty, the Phi Phi Islands feature turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and bustling beaches. However, from the comfort of your private yacht, you can escape the crowds, discover secluded bays, and dive directly into crystal-clear waters from the stern.

Further south, roughly halfway to Langkawi on a one-way charter to or from Phuket, lie the Ko Rok Islands. You might think of them as offering more of the same – clear waters, excellent snorkeling, sun-drenched beaches, and friendly locals. Yet, every small island in the Andaman Sea has its unique charm, every peaceful anchorage a destination in itself, offering a chance to reflect on another wonderful day of sailing, where you can completely unwind in the evening and enjoy an early-morning walk through lush tropical forests before setting sail once more.

This is merely a brief overview highlighting some of the more popular destinations for a Phuket sailing vacation. Countless other accessible, safe, and inviting places await your arrival.

The Andaman Sea has distinct wet and dry seasons as determined by the monsoons, but stormy conditions are very rare. The northeast monsoon coincides with peak tourist season in Phuket, in the months of October to April. The weather is consistently good at this time, with light to moderate breezes from the sheltered northeast and calm waters.

From May to September the wind is in the southwest and somewhat stronger, and the coast is more exposed. The southwest monsoon wind range is normally 15 - 25 knots and less predictable than during the north-westerly pattern. This period also brings the rain, but there are numerous fine anchorages sheltered from the south and west to make a sailing holiday comfortable if you keep your plans flexible. This is the low season, and best to limit your itinerary to the area from Phuket south. The weather is still warm, and sailing conditions can be surprisingly good, particularly in the shoulder periods. Expect the occasional afternoon tropical downpour followed as often as not by a still night.

Average daytime temperatures vary only marginally, from 30°C (86°F) in June to 27°C (80°F) in December. The tidal range can exceed 2.5 metres, so tide needs to be considered when navigating and anchoring. Plenty of landmarks mean navigation is line-of-sight, keeping a careful eye on the chart and GPS to avoid the numerous coral reefs. Whatever the time of year, a sailing vacation out of Phuket is within the capability of sailors who have confidence in basic coastal navigation.