Sailing Thailand’s Andaman coast is one of the most rewarding yacht charter experiences in South East Asia. Trade winds from the northeast, consistent from November through April, drive sailing yachts south from Phuket toward the Phi Phi Islands and Krabi with ease, and the return passage north benefits from the same breeze filling through the limestone archipelago of Phang Nga Bay. The fleet of crewed sailing yachts operating from Phuket ranges from light-air performance monohulls to traditionally rigged cruising yachts with extensive live-aboard capability.
The sailing itself is uncomplicated. Phang Nga Bay offers sheltered conditions for shorter hops between the karst islands, while passages to the Similan Islands or Surin Islands further offshore provide proper open-water sailing in reliable winds. The cruising grounds are visually spectacular, and the scenery changes dramatically between bay, open sea and archipelago, meaning there is little repetition across a week-long itinerary.
Charter rates for Thailand sailing yachts start from around 15,000 euros per week and reach 60,000 euros for larger crewed vessels. The advance provisioning allowance adds approximately 30 percent for fuel, food, berthing and crew gratuity. November to April is the most reliable season on the Andaman coast. The Gulf of Thailand offers different, quieter sailing around Ko Samui and Ko Tao, accessible from May to October.
Provisioning from Phuket is practical and good value, with fresh fish from Rawai market, tropical produce readily available and a range of international supplies stocked by marina chandleries.
