Phuket Yacht Charters

Q: Are the Phi Phi Islands suitable for overnight anchoring

Ton Sai Bay on **Phi Phi Don** has mooring buoys managed by the national park authority, and overnight stays are permitted with the applicable fees paid. Anchoring in the bay itself is technically restricted to protect the seabed. **Phi Phi Leh** is day-visit only; no overnight anchoring is permitted within its perimeter. Anchorages on the north and east sides of Phi Phi Don away from the ferry pier are generally quieter and more comfortable for overnight stays.

Q: How large a group can a charter yacht accommodate in Phuket

The SelectYachts fleet based in Phuket ranges from **two-berth day-charter vessels** to fully crewed motor yachts accommodating up to 60 guests for day events. For liveaboard charters, the typical range is 6 to 12 guests across the catamaran and sailing yacht fleet, with larger motor yachts able to accommodate more. If your group exceeds 12 for an overnight itinerary, chartering two vessels in company is often the most practical solution and adds a social dimension many groups find preferable.

Q: What currency and payment methods are standard for charter costs in Phuket

Base charter fees are typically quoted in **euros or US dollars** and paid by bank transfer prior to embarkation. The Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) for crewed charters, generally 25-35 per cent of the charter fee, is used against fuel, provisioning, mooring fees, and park entrance costs. Unused APA is returned to the client at the end of the charter. Day-to-day incidental spending ashore is most practical in **Thai baht**, and ATMs are readily available near all main marinas.

The Andaman Sea offers over 130 islands within a week's sail of Phuket, with gin-clear water, reliable November-to-April trade winds, and a cruising ground that rewards those prepared to venture beyond the postcard anchorages.

Charter by Vessel Type in Phuket

Catamaran Charter in Phuket

Spacious twin-hull vessels offering stability, comfort, and generous deck space for the ultimate charter experience.

Sailing Yacht Charter in Phuket

Classic sailing vessels that combine timeless elegance with the thrill of wind-powered adventure.

Motor Yacht Charter in Phuket

€2k/week

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Phuket sits at the northern end of the Malacca Strait where the Andaman Sea opens westward toward the Mergui Archipelago and southward toward Langkawi. For yacht charterers, this geography translates into a cruising ground of exceptional variety: limestone karst formations rising vertically from the sea, mangrove-lined bays navigable only by tender, and a handful of liveaboard anchorages where you may find yourself entirely alone after the day-trip longtails return to shore.

The island's two principal marinas, Yacht Haven in the north and Royal Phuket Marina on the east coast, provide well-equipped bases with haul-out facilities, fuel, and provisioning. Most charters depart from these or from Ao Po Grand Marina, also on the east coast. The sailing distances are forgiving: Phang Nga Bay is within two hours under power, the Similan Islands a day's passage north-west, and the Phi Phi archipelago easily reached southward. This is a destination where the itinerary can be genuinely flexible without requiring schedule compromises.

Why Charter in Phuket

The Phang Nga Bay karst system remains the single most architecturally dramatic sailing ground in Southeast Asia. These formations, limestone towers up to 300 metres tall with hidden tidal lagoons inside them, are best experienced from the water at first light, before the tour boats arrive. A charter yacht gives you that timing. You anchor off Koh Panak or Koh Hong the evening before, dine on deck while the limestone glows at sunset, and enter the hongs by kayak at 0700 when the light is oblique and the bay is quiet.

Phuket's culinary depth is a serious draw. The island's Peranakan heritage, the result of centuries of Chinese-Malay cultural exchange, produced a regional cuisine distinct from anything on the Thai mainland. Crab curry with salted egg, mee sua noodles, and Por Pia Phuket fresh spring rolls are all native to this island. Provisioning a quality galley is straightforward from the Saturday Walking Street market in the Old Town, and any competent chef aboard will find the local wet markets in Ranong Road well-stocked with live seafood and aromatics.

For those whose itinerary extends to the northern Andaman, the Similan Islands offer some of the most reliable visibility in the region, regularly exceeding 30 metres. The islands are accessible only by sea, with no resort development, and the marine protected area status means the reef fish populations are genuinely healthy. Liveaboard charters can combine a Similan passage with Surin Islands and the Thai-Myanmar border waters around Koh Bon and Koh Tachai for an itinerary that serious divers will find hard to fault.

Phuket Highlights

Phang Nga Bay hongs at dawn, kayaking into the tidal chambers inside Koh Panak and Koh Hong before the tour traffic begins.

Koh Yao Noi on the east side of the bay, a largely agricultural island with Muslim fishing communities, good anchorage, and a rhythm distinctly removed from the Patong strip.

The Similan Islands (open November to May), nine granitic islands with bouldering topography above the waterline and some of the best diving in the Andaman at sites including Elephant Head Rock and Fantasea Reef.

Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, 20 nautical miles south of Chalong Bay, offering clear water and strong currents that attract manta rays and, seasonally, whale sharks around Noi's southern tip.

Koh Phi Phi Don and the less-visited Koh Phi Phi Leh to the south, where anchoring overnight is restricted but the limestone walls and Pileh Lagoon reward a morning visit by tender.

Koh Lanta's eastern coast, further south in Krabi province, with mangrove-bordered channels, a well-maintained anchorage at Ban Saladan, and access to the Mu Ko Lanta National Park reefs.

Phuket Old Town itself, accessible via the marinas on the east coast, worth a half-day ashore for the Sino-Portuguese shophouse architecture, the heritage temples, and the Saturday night Walking Street market.

When to Sail

The Andaman Sea operates on a monsoon cycle. The northeast monsoon from November through April delivers the most dependable sailing conditions, with consistent Force 2-4 winds from the east or north-east and low swell. The southwest monsoon from May through October brings stronger, wetter weather, though the western side of the peninsula can remain navigable for leeward coastal cruising.

High Season (Jun-Sep)

Technically within the southwest monsoon, June through September sees stronger winds and heavier rainfall on Phuket's western coast. The east coast and Phang Nga Bay are more sheltered during this period. Experienced sailors comfortable with Force 4-5 conditions and reduced visibility will find fewer boats and lower charter rates. The Similan and Surin Islands close to visitors from 15 May through 15 October due to sea conditions and conservation policy, so northern passages are not viable. Charter operators continue to operate throughout the season with adjusted routing.

Shoulder Season (May, Oct)

May and October represent transition months when the monsoon is establishing or withdrawing. Conditions are variable and occasionally unsettled, but not consistently difficult. October in particular often produces pleasant stretches of calm weather, and the bay is noticeably quieter than peak season. Rates are lower, provisioning is unaffected, and the Phi Phi and Phang Nga circuits remain well within reach. These months suit experienced sailors who prefer flexibility and value over guaranteed weather windows.

Choosing the Right Yacht

Catamarans dominate the Phuket charter fleet for good reason. The shallow draught of a performance catamaran allows access to anchorages and beach approaches that remain off-limits to deeper monohulls, and the wide beam creates living space that works well in tropical heat. Manufacturers such as Bali and Aquila are well-represented here because their design priorities, generous deck space, shaded cockpits, and efficient air circulation, suit extended downwind passages between islands in moderate trade-wind conditions. Catamarans also provide the stability that makes onboard dining and socialising comfortable in the typically benign Andaman Sea swell. Motor yachts are the right choice for itineraries demanding range and flexibility without dependence on wind angles. The Azimut and Axopar models in the local fleet reflect two distinct market segments: larger flybridge yachts for groups requiring comfort and speed between distant waypoints, and the smaller centre-console-style Axopars for day-charter exploration where agility matters more than overnight capacity. Sailing monohulls are a smaller part of the Phuket fleet but attract charterers who want to engage properly with the northeast monsoon trade winds on longer passages toward the Mergui Archipelago or down to Langkawi across the Malaysian border. Bavaria models in the local fleet are practical bluewater choices for this kind of passage-oriented itinerary.

Seven Days in the Andaman, Phuket to Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay

A suggested week-long charter route

Day 1

Embark at Yacht Haven Marina in the north of Phuket. Crew briefing, provisioning check, and afternoon departure southward along the east coast. Anchor off Koh Yao Noi for the first night. Dinner aboard with local seafood sourced at the marina before departure. The village of Ban Tha Kai is worth a brief dinghy ashore for context.

Day 2

Morning passage north-east into Phang Nga Bay, arriving at Koh Panak by early afternoon. Set anchor and launch kayaks for an afternoon exploration of the hong interiors. The light inside the tidal chambers is best in late afternoon when it reflects off the water and the limestone walls. Overnight on anchor in the bay.

Day 3

James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) is a 20-minute passage and best visited before 0900 before the tour boats arrive. Continue to Koh Hong for a second hong exploration and lunch at anchor. Afternoon passage south back toward the Koh Yao group. Sundowners off Koh Yao Yai's northern tip.

Day 4

Full-day passage south-east toward the Phi Phi archipelago. Depending on wind direction, raise sail for the crossing, which typically benefits from a north-easterly push during high season. Arrive Phi Phi Don by mid-afternoon, take a mooring in Ton Sai Bay if available, or anchor off the north-east beaches away from the ferry traffic. Dinner ashore at one of the longbeach restaurants.

Day 5

Phi Phi Leh by 0730 before the Phuket day-trips arrive. Tender into Pileh Lagoon and the Viking Cave shoreline. Snorkelling off the south-east cliff faces, which hold resident reef shark populations. Afternoon passage west toward Koh Racha Yai, anchoring in the bay on the north-west coast. Evening dive or snorkel off the shallow reef shelf.

Day 6

Morning diving or snorkelling at Koh Racha Noi's southern tip, where currents aggregate pelagic species. This anchorage is exposed to the south and requires a weather check, but on suitable days it is among the most rewarding dives in the region. Return to Racha Yai for lunch, then passage north back toward Phuket, stopping in Chalong Bay for a last dinner ashore at one of the waterfront restaurants on the pier road.

Day 7

Morning departure from Chalong northward to Yacht Haven or onward to Ao Po Grand Marina depending on disembarkation logistics. Final breakfast underway. The east coast passage in the morning is typically flat calm, with the karst silhouette of Phang Nga visible to the north-east. Disembarkation by 0900-1000 to allow the crew turnover time.

Local Tips

•Thai customs and immigration require notification of itinerary changes if you cross into Malaysian waters. A charter departing Phuket and heading to Langkawi must check out at Satun or Tarutao. Budget at least half a day for the paperwork and confirm your skipper holds the correct vessel documentation before contracting this routing.
•Anchoring is prohibited within the Similan Islands National Park perimeter. All overnight stays require use of the designated mooring buoys, which are limited in number and cannot be reserved in advance. High-season arrivals after mid-afternoon will often find the buoys occupied; build flexibility into northbound passages.
•The Ao Chalong pier area in the south of Phuket is the practical base for crew changes and provisioning mid-charter. Makro on Chao Fa West Road is the most efficient source for bulk provisioning. The Chalong circle wet market opens at 0600 and the seafood quality, particularly for prawns, squid, and fresh-caught snapper, is markedly better than supermarket alternatives.
•Longtail boat etiquette in busy anchorages matters. In Phi Phi and Phang Nga, longtails are working boats, not obstacles. Give them right of way at close quarters, avoid anchoring where you block an established ferry or water taxi line, and instruct guests not to film or photograph local fishermen without permission.
•The southwest monsoon season does not mean the charter season ends. The east coast of Phuket, Phang Nga Bay, and the sheltered bays of Koh Yao remain navigable most days from May through October. What changes is the routing: passage to the Similans or Surin Islands is not viable, and skippers will keep itineraries leeward. Discuss this explicitly when contracting a summer charter.
•Tipping convention for Thai charter crews is approximately 10 per cent of the base charter fee for a fully satisfied client, paid in cash to the captain who distributes among the crew. This is widely expected in the professional sector but not mandatory; the rate reflects the quality of service and the local cost of living context.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to charter a yacht from Phuket+

December through February offers the most consistent northeast trade winds and the lowest chance of rain. January in particular provides Force 2-4 north-easterlies, clear visibility, and settled seas across most of the Andaman cruising ground including the Similan Islands. November and March are strong alternatives with slightly more variability. If the Similans are not on your itinerary, the shoulder months of October and May offer good value and quieter anchorages.

Do I need a licence to charter a yacht in Phuket+

Thai law does not require foreign charterers to hold a sailing qualification to participate in a bareboat charter, but most reputable bareboat operators will require evidence of competence, typically an RYA Coastal Skipper or equivalent qualification alongside a logbook demonstrating relevant offshore experience. If you are not a qualified skipper, a skippered or crewed charter removes this requirement entirely. We recommend bareboat only for those with prior tropical sailing experience, as the channel markers and depth charts in the region require careful navigation.

Can I take the yacht across to Malaysia or Myanmar+

Yes, subject to the correct customs and immigration procedures. Cruising to Langkawi in Malaysia is a popular extension, with a check-out at Satun or Ko Lipe on the Thai side and check-in at Langkawi. The Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar requires a prior cruising permit issued by Myanmar's Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, which typically takes four to six weeks to process. Confirm permit requirements at the time of booking if this routing interests you, as the regulations have changed periodically in recent years.

Are the Phi Phi Islands suitable for overnight anchoring+

Ton Sai Bay on Phi Phi Don has mooring buoys managed by the national park authority, and overnight stays are permitted with the applicable fees paid. Anchoring in the bay itself is technically restricted to protect the seabed. Phi Phi Leh is day-visit only; no overnight anchoring is permitted within its perimeter. Anchorages on the north and east sides of Phi Phi Don away from the ferry pier are generally quieter and more comfortable for overnight stays.

How large a group can a charter yacht accommodate in Phuket+

The SelectYachts fleet based in Phuket ranges from two-berth day-charter vessels to fully crewed motor yachts accommodating up to 60 guests for day events. For liveaboard charters, the typical range is 6 to 12 guests across the catamaran and sailing yacht fleet, with larger motor yachts able to accommodate more. If your group exceeds 12 for an overnight itinerary, chartering two vessels in company is often the most practical solution and adds a social dimension many groups find preferable.

What currency and payment methods are standard for charter costs in Phuket+

Base charter fees are typically quoted in euros or US dollars and paid by bank transfer prior to embarkation. The Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) for crewed charters, generally 25-35 per cent of the charter fee, is used against fuel, provisioning, mooring fees, and park entrance costs. Unused APA is returned to the client at the end of the charter. Day-to-day incidental spending ashore is most practical in Thai baht, and ATMs are readily available near all main marinas.

Talk to our Andaman specialists to match the right vessel to your dates and itinerary.

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