Yacht charter in Thailand
Crewed yacht charters in Thailand centre primarily on the Andaman Sea, departing from Phuket into Phang Nga Bay, Krabi, and the Phi Phi archipelago. The cruising area offers sheltered waters behind dramatic limestone karsts, open passages to offshore marine parks, and clear anchorages. It suits families, divers, and charterers seeking varied itineraries that combine quiet island anchorages with active watersports and cultural excursions.
Best time to charter
The main cruising season runs from November to April during the northeast monsoon, bringing dry weather, calm seas, and light to moderate winds of 10 to 15 knots. December and January are peak charter months with the highest visitor numbers. The southwest monsoon from May to October brings frequent rain and stronger swells on the west coast, though sheltered areas in Phang Nga Bay remain accessible.
Anchorages and harbours to know
Loh Samah Bay, Koh Phi Phi Leh
Vessels use park mooring buoys here, providing tender access and a short walk across the island to Maya Bay, where boat entry is strictly prohibited.
Koh Hong, Phang Nga Bay
A sheltered limestone lagoon accessible by tender or kayak at mid-tide through a narrow cliff opening, offering a secure daytime anchorage.
Ao Chalong, Phuket
Phuket's principal southern anchorage and clearance port, offering good holding in mud and comprehensive shoreside marine support services.
Koh Racha Yai
An island south of Phuket with clear water, coral reefs, and sandy bays that provide sheltered overnight anchorage during the northeast monsoon.
Railay Bay, Krabi
An anchorage set beneath towering karst cliffs, split into West Railay for calm-season daytime stops and East Railay for mangrove tender access.
Practical tips
- Getting there: Phuket (HKT). Phuket's marinas (Yacht Haven, Ao Po Grand, Royal Phuket) are about 15–40 minutes from the airport.
- Charter tax: Thai VAT of about 7% is usually added to the charter fee.
- Phuket (HKT) serves as the primary gateway, with Phuket's marinas (Yacht Haven, Ao Po Grand, Royal Phuket) located about 15–40 minutes from the airport.
- National park fees are payable in cash to rangers upon entering designated marine areas, including Phang Nga Bay and Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi.
- Dress modestly when going ashore in fishing communities or visiting temples; ensure shoulders and knees are covered, and remove footwear before entering buildings.
- Crew can source imported provisions and western goods in Phuket prior to departure, whilst local islands supply fresh seafood, fruit, and drinking water.