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Sailing Itinerary
Thailand 7-Day Sailing Itinerary: Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Phi Phi & Racha
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Explore your sailing route. Click on any location to see each stop. You can find detailed information on each day of the itinerary below with insider tips, recommended restaurants, drone spots, activities, and more.
Complete Itinerary
Detailed day-by-day guide with insider tips, ratings, and everything you need to know.
Emerald karsts, sea caves, and Koh Panyee
Depart Phuket for Ao Phang Nga’s iconic limestone scenery. Kayak sea caves at Koh Phanak, visit the stilted village of Koh Panyee, and anchor in sheltered coves amid towering karsts. Plan around tides, day-boat traffic, and national park rules.
Mooring Information
Anchor in 5–10 m over mud/sand off Koh Phanak with good holding and room clear of cave-tour traffic.
Use park mooring buoys where available near Khao Phing Kan (James Bond area); never tie to fishing gear.
Sheltered overnights include Koh Roi (SW side) and Koh Kudu Yai, well protected in the NE monsoon.
Keep clear of village piers at Koh Panyee; anchor outside the channel and land by dinghy.
Allow for 2–3 m tidal range; set ample scope and monitor swinging room near limestone overhangs.
Avoid anchoring in narrow channels used by longtail boats and tour craft during daylight hours.
Top Restaurants
Simple floating seafood eateries in Koh Panyee serving fried fish, curries, and rice.
Casual noodle stalls and fruit stands along Panyee’s main boardwalk at lunchtime.
Daytime snack vendors near Khao Phing Kan’s beach (cash only; closes by late afternoon).
Plan dinner onboard—most stalls close after tour boats depart.
For variety, stock Phuket specialties before departure and enjoy sundowners at anchor.
Fresh coconut and grilled corn boats occasionally service popular beaches in high season.
Activities
Kayak through tide-dependent caves and interior hongs at Koh Phanak with headlamps.
Dinghy ashore to Koh Panyee to stroll stilted lanes and sample simple seafood lunches.
Swim at small sandy pockets beneath the karsts, choosing slack tide for easier access.
Photograph dramatic limestone spires under golden hour light from the foredeck.
Birdwatch for sea eagles and herons along mangrove-fringed channels.
Plan a scenic loop among islets for a relaxed afternoon cruise.
Water Sports
Sea-kayaking and SUP in sheltered channels around Koh Phanak and Koh Hong (Phang Nga).
Casual swimming off the boat in lee of the karsts; post up a swimmer watch in busy areas.
Light snorkelling on scattered rock patches—expect limited coral compared to offshore islands.
Practice tender handling in tidal streams and narrow cave entrances.
Freediving photo sessions along sheer rock walls in clear morning light.
Avoid motorized tow sports near tour routes and park zones.
Drone Spots
Golden-hour passes over Koh Panyee’s stilted village and karst backdrop.
Top-down views of green hongs and narrow cave entrances at Koh Phanak (fly outside cave openings).
Sweeping lateral shots of vertical karst walls and turquoise channels.
Orbit shots around isolated pinnacles such as Koh Tapu from a lawful distance.
Wide panoramas of the bay’s chessboard of islets from safe altitude below 90 m.
Respect national park and aviation rules; avoid crowds, wildlife, and villages.
Must See
Koh Phanak’s hongs and sea caves, best explored by kayak at mid-to-low tide.
Koh Panyee’s stilted village, mosque, and floating football pitch offer a glimpse of local life.
Khao Phing Kan and the famous limestone pinnacle of Koh Tapu—go early to beat the crowds.
Sheer karst walls and pocket beaches scattered across the bay for photography and swims.
Quiet wildlife moments around Koh Roi’s lagoon and mangroves at dawn or dusk.
Panoramic karst vistas throughout Ao Phang Nga National Park.
Services
Provision, fuel, and water in Phuket before departure; services are minimal inside the bay.
National park ranger stations collect fees; keep tickets handy for spot checks.
Basic mini-shops in Koh Panyee for snacks, water, and ice (limited selection).
Mobile coverage is generally good but can drop near steep cliffs.
No formal repair or medical facilities—nearest are in Phuket or Krabi.
Bring small notes for vendors; ATMs are on the mainland, not in the bay.
Hazards
Tidal currents around headlands and cave entrances; plan approaches carefully.
Shallow sandbanks and drying flats—consult charts and tide tables.
Heavy day-boat traffic at James Bond and Panyee causes wakes and congestion.
Unlit fish traps and floats are common; keep a sharp lookout near dusk.
No anchoring on coral or within marked swim zones; fines apply in park areas.
Strong katabatic gusts can funnel off cliffs—secure awnings and gear.
Tips
Carry cash for park fees and village stalls; cards are rarely accepted in the bay.
Time cave entries for mid-to-low tide and bring dry bags and headlamps.
Start early to miss day-trip flotillas at James Bond and Panyee.
Use VHF 16 for hailing and monitor local weather for squalls in the afternoon.
Keep speed to a minimum near longtail boats and photo spots.
Pack out all trash; no waste facilities within the national park.
Day 2
Phang Nga Bay → Ko Hong (Krabi)
Hong Lagoon and white-sand beach time
A short hop to Ko Hong reveals a jade lagoon accessed through a narrow, tide-dependent entrance. Spend the day kayaking, snorkeling, and relaxing on the white-sand beach, then anchor outside for a quiet night.
Mooring Information
Anchor outside Hong Lagoon in 6–10 m over sand; the lagoon itself is day-use only.
Pick up park mooring buoys off the main beach when available; they fill quickly mid-morning.
Maintain clearance from reef patches along the NE and E sides of the island.
Good overnight shelter in settled conditions on the W to NW side, clear of swim buoys.
Use a stern line to align the bow if light swell wraps into the bay.
Keep the channel to the lagoon entrance clear for kayaks and park boats.
Top Restaurants
Seasonal park snack kiosk by the beach offering simple dishes and drinks (daytime).
Occasional snack boats sell fruit and ice cream in high season—cash only.
Picnic onboard or on the beach in designated areas; pack out all waste.
For more variety, plan dinner aboard at anchor.
Nearby mainland eateries require a longtail transfer; arrange in calm conditions only.
Carry extra drinking water and snacks for the afternoon heat.
Activities
Kayak or SUP into the lagoon and explore shaded corners under cliff overhangs.
Snorkel the sandy reef edge for parrotfish and sergeant majors.
Swim and sunbathe on the main beach before day-trip boats arrive.
Dinghy around to Ko Pak Bia for a picnic on its sand spit (watch tides).
Beachcombing and shell spotting along the high-tide line after 4 pm.
Photography of limestone textures and reflections inside the lagoon.
Water Sports
Sheltered kayaking/SUP in the lagoon and leeward coastlines.
Beginner-friendly snorkeling over sand and scattered coral heads.
Short freedives along the rock wall outside the lagoon entrance.
Gentle swimming in the marked areas—avoid boat channels.
Practice paddle skills in light swell outside the reef.
No spearfishing; this is a national park zone.
Drone Spots
Top-down reveal of the lagoon’s circular basin and narrow inlet.
High oblique shots of the main beach framed by cliffs.
Orbit passes over Ko Pak Bia’s sandbar at low tide.
Coastal tracking shots along the shadowed rock walls.
Keep distance from visitors and wildlife; avoid takeoffs within crowd areas.
Comply with park regulations—drone use may be restricted or require permission.
Must See
Paddle the Hong Lagoon through its narrow entrance at mid-to-high tide.
Stroll the powdery main beach beneath soaring limestone cliffs.
Short nature trail and viewpoint signage near the beach (open seasonally).
Nearby islets Ko Pak Bia and Ko Lao Lading for quiet swims and photos.
Fish and coral life along the outer reef edge in clear morning light.
Karst silhouettes at sunset with Phang Nga’s backdrop.
Services
National park ranger post on the beach for tickets and basic information.
Public toilets and rinse showers near the park station (hours vary).
No fuel, water, or provisioning—stock up before leaving Phuket or Krabi.
Mobile signal is fair but can fade inside the lagoon.
Limited shade—bring sun canopies or umbrellas for the beach.
Basic first-aid from park staff; serious care is in Ao Nang/Krabi.
Hazards
Narrow lagoon entrance with surge at mid-tide and incoming swell.
Coral bommies and rocks near the beach—approach slowly and anchor in sand.
Heavy day-boat traffic 10:00–15:30; expect wakes and swimmers.
Strong katabatic gusts can roll down cliffs—secure tenders and paddle craft.
Do not anchor inside the lagoon or within marked swim areas.
Jellyfish are possible seasonally; carry vinegar and a basic kit.
Tips
Arrive by 09:00 to secure a buoy or anchor spot near the beach.
Check tides for lagoon access; low-water springs can expose rocks at the entrance.
Carry park tickets and keep them visible for ranger checks.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for rocky entries.
Pack a picnic—food options are minimal and daytime only.
Leave the lagoon well before dusk; it is not an overnight anchorage.
Cliffs, caves, and relaxed resort vibe
Sail to Railay’s dramatic headland for soft sand, cave shrines, and world-class climbing. Anchor off Railay West or Tonsai in settled weather, and visit Phra Nang Cave Beach by dinghy for swims and sunset.
Mooring Information
Anchor off Railay West in 5–8 m over sand, outside the swim buoys and longtail lanes.
Tonsai Bay offers additional space but can be rolly—set a stern anchor if swell wraps in.
Avoid East Railay’s shallow mangrove flats; depths dry at low tide.
Dinghy to Phra Nang Cave Beach and land outside the marked swimming zone.
Secure dinghies well—tides rise quickly and longtail wakes are frequent.
In unsettled weather, consider anchoring off Ao Nang for better protection.
Top Restaurants
Beachfront Thai grills along Railay West for seafood and simple curries.
Casual eateries on Railay East boardwalk with sunset views over mangroves.
Tonsai’s chilled cafés serving fruit bowls, satay, and noodle dishes.
Daytime snack boats at Phra Nang selling drinks and light bites (seasonal).
Fresh fruit shake stands tucked along sandy lanes.
Plan an early dinner ashore and return before dark for easier dinghy landings.
Activities
Book a guided rock-climbing session suitable for beginners to advanced climbers.
Kayak the cliff line between Railay West and Phra Nang for caves and arches.
Snorkel around Ko Poda or sheltered coves near Tonsai at midday.
Beach yoga or a casual jog along Railay West at sunrise.
Dinghy exploration along the headland to photograph stalactites.
Evening swim and sunset photos from the boat.
Water Sports
Cliffline kayaking and SUP in light morning winds.
Casual snorkeling off Ko Poda’s shallows and around Chicken Island.
Beginner-friendly freedives beside vertical rock faces in clear conditions.
Beach launches for paddle craft—watch longtail traffic patterns.
Relaxed swimming along Railay West within buoyed zones.
No anchoring on coral near island day-trip beaches; pick sand patches.
Drone Spots
Sunset orbits off Railay West capturing cliffs and longtail silhouettes.
Top-down views of Phra Nang’s sand and cave formations (avoid crowds).
Coastal tracking shots along Tonsai’s rock walls.
Oblique shots of islets off Ao Nang in golden hour.
Respect privacy along resort frontages and avoid flying over climbers.
Adhere to Thai drone rules and park restrictions near offshore islets.
Must See
Phra Nang Cave Beach with its dramatic cliff backdrop and cave shrine.
Railay West’s sunset over the Andaman with silhouettes of karsts and longtails.
Climber-studded limestone walls around Tonsai and Railay East boardwalk.
Island-hop by dinghy to Ko Poda or Chicken Island (Koh Gai) for beach time.
Lookouts and short trails signposted near Railay for coastal views.
Street-side fruit shakes and snack stalls tucked along sandy paths.
Services
Minimarts and beach shops for ice, snacks, sunscreen, and basic toiletries.
Laundry services and massage huts scattered along Railay paths.
Water taxis to Ao Nang run frequently during daylight hours.
Better ATMs and pharmacies are in Ao Nang; carry cash in Railay.
Good mobile data on Railay West; weaker near cliffs.
Tour desks can help arrange climbing guides or island-hopping permits.
Hazards
Afternoon swell and wakes from longtails can make anchorages rolly.
Swim zones and mooring lines crowd the foreshore—navigate slowly by dinghy.
Shallow mud and mangroves at East Railay—avoid at low tide.
Loose rock and small falls possible under cliff overhangs.
Crowded beaches—keep drones and paddlers away from bathers.
Watch macaques near bags and dinghies; secure food and shiny items.
Tips
Arrive before mid-afternoon to find space off Railay West and avoid peak longtail traffic.
Carry cash; some beachside venues don’t accept cards.
Use a stern anchor or swell bridle if afternoon swell develops.
Avoid dinghying close under overhangs where rockfall is possible.
Consider a morning run to Ko Poda before day boats arrive.
Keep navigation lights clear—nighttime longtails can be hard to spot.
Markets, riverscapes, and easy provisioning
Shake off the crowds and head to Krabi for riverside culture, markets, and easy resupply. Anchor off Ao Nang in settled weather or venture up the Krabi River on a rising tide for a mangrove-fringed overnight.
Mooring Information
In settled NE-season, anchor off Ao Nang in 6–10 m over sand, clear of swim buoys.
For a quieter night, proceed up the Krabi River on a rising tide and anchor in 4–6 m mud.
Mind the river bends; favor outside curves for depth and better holding.
Leave space for ferries and tour boats along the main channel.
Use a trip line in the river—submerged debris and logs are possible.
Check clearance under overhead lines and bridges if venturing further upriver.
Top Restaurants
Riverside seafood grills in Krabi Town for fish, prawns, and chili-lime salads.
Night market stalls with satay, pad thai, mango sticky rice, and fresh juices.
Casual curry houses near the pier serving southern-Thai specialties.
Coffee shops and bakeries along the waterfront for breakfast runs.
Vegetarian-friendly eateries around the market quarter.
Family-run noodle shops tucked into side streets near the promenade.
Activities
Shop fresh fruit, herbs, and spices for onboard cooking.
Sample southern-Thai curries and grilled seafood at the night market.
Book a longtail to explore the Krabi River mangroves and caves.
Stretch your legs with a waterfront jog in the morning cool.
Refill water, ice, and basics for the offshore legs ahead.
Catch a Thai massage to ease sailing muscles.
Water Sports
Casual swims off Ao Nang in settled conditions within buoyed zones.
Short SUP sessions along the river at slack tide (watch current).
No reef snorkeling near town—save fins for Phi Phi and Racha.
Kayak the mangrove channels with a local guide for wildlife spotting.
Avoid tow sports near busy ferry lanes and swim beaches.
Use high-vis gear around traffic near Ao Nang.
Drone Spots
Riverscape shots of Krabi’s mangroves and Khao Khanap Nam hills.
Sunset passes over Ao Nang’s curve of beach and offshore islets.
Top-down views of the river’s meanders at low tide.
Avoid flying near the town pier, markets, and dense crowds.
Maintain distances from birds around mangroves and riverbanks.
Follow local regulations; urban flying may be restricted.
Must See
Krabi Town’s Riverside and night markets for local food and crafts.
Khao Khanap Nam’s twin limestone hills and cave area upriver (by taxi or longtail).
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) for a panoramic stair climb inland.
Street art and the crab sculpture along the waterfront promenade.
Ao Nang beachfront promenade for sunset people-watching.
Fresh morning markets for produce and Thai breakfast classics.
Services
Supermarkets, fresh markets, pharmacies, and ATMs throughout Krabi Town.
Fuel, water, and ice available near the main pier (ask locally for current hours).
Medical clinics and a hospital within a short taxi ride from the waterfront.
Mobile coverage is strong; restock SIM data if needed.
Chandlery odds-and-ends available in hardware and marine shops.
Laundry services with same-day turnaround near the market.
Hazards
Shallow bars and shifting mud banks at the river mouth—follow the buoyed channel.
Floating logs and debris after heavy rain; keep speeds low.
Strong tidal currents in the river; set extra scope and consider a second anchor.
Ferry and longtail wakes near Ao Nang and the town pier.
Evening insects upriver—use screens and repellents.
Urban lighting can obscure small craft—fit dinghy and anchor lights.
Tips
Enter the river on a rising tide for depth and easier turns.
Lock the dinghy and use lights for any evening trips ashore.
ATMs, pharmacies, and supermarkets are widely available in Krabi Town.
Refuel and top water in Krabi/Ao Nang if needed before heading to Phi Phi.
Carry small notes for markets and tuk-tuks.
Confirm local taxi or longtail rates before boarding.
World-famous bays and clear-water snorkeling
Glide to the Phi Phi archipelago for teal coves, limestone ramparts, and standout snorkeling. Anchor at Phi Phi Don (Tonsai side) and day-visit protected sites around Phi Phi Leh under national park rules.
Mooring Information
Anchor in Tonsai Bay in 8–12 m over sand; give wide berth to ferry lanes.
Loh Dalum offers shallow, scenic anchoring but can be rolly and crowded.
Quieter day stops include Long Beach, Nui Bay, and Yongkasem (Monkey Bay).
Phi Phi Leh is day-use only with park moorings; no overnight and no anchoring on coral.
Arrive early to pick up a buoy at Pileh or Maya area when permitted.
Rig a stern anchor or bridle if swell refracts into Tonsai.
Top Restaurants
Beachfront Thai and seafood restaurants along Tonsai’s promenade.
Casual curry houses and noodle shops tucked in Tonsai’s lanes.
Fresh fruit shake stands and pancake carts for quick snacks.
Simple grill shacks at Long Beach for daytime bites.
Bakeries and coffee kiosks near the main pier for breakfast.
Dine early to avoid queues and easier dinghy returns before dark.
Activities
Morning hike to the island viewpoint before heat and crowds build.
Snorkel a pair of coves and return for lunch onboard.
Dinghy tour around Phi Phi Don’s south coast for arches and caves.
Beach time and paddling at Long Beach or Loh Moo Dee.
Optional guided dive with local operators on established sites.
Evening stroll through Tonsai Village for snacks and souvenirs.
Water Sports
Excellent snorkeling in clear water around Nui Bay and Monkey Bay.
Intro and advanced diving at nearby sites (book with licensed operators).
Kayak or SUP along limestone faces in calm morning conditions.
Freedive practice on mooring lines in sheltered coves.
Casual swimming off the boat at anchor in Tonsai (use swimmer watch).
Avoid fishing and spearfishing—park regulations are enforced.
Drone Spots
Oblique shots of the isthmus between Tonsai and Loh Dalum from offshore.
Top-down footage over Pileh’s lagoon from outside crowd areas.
Sunset passes capturing the archipelago’s silhouette line.
Keep clear of ferries, helipads, and dense beach crowds.
Check national park rules; drone use may be restricted on Phi Phi Leh.
Fly well away from wildlife and cliff-nesting birds.
Must See
Viewpoint hike on Phi Phi Don for panoramic photos over Tonsai and Loh Dalum.
Snorkel clear shallows at Nui Bay or Yongkasem for reef fish and corals.
Pileh Lagoon’s jade basin ringed by cliffs—buoys only and daytime visits.
Maya area vistas from offshore under current park rules and restrictions.
Long Beach for soft sand and easy swimming with boat views.
Sunset silhouettes of limestone spires from the anchorage.
Services
Small supermarkets, bakeries, and fruit stalls in Tonsai Village.
ATMs, clinics, and pharmacies within walking distance of the pier.
Laundry drop-offs with same-day service in low season.
Mobile coverage is strong; public Wi‑Fi varies by venue.
Park rangers patrol popular sites—retain tickets and follow mooring rules.
Basic hardware and beach-supply shops for odds and ends.
Hazards
Crowded anchorages and constant ferry traffic—maintain watch and lighting.
Strong currents near headlands and between islets at mid-tide.
Swimmers, kayaks, and tour buoys close to shore—approach slowly.
No anchoring on coral in park areas; use sand patches or moorings only.
Afternoon squalls can bring sudden gusts—secure paddle craft and tenders.
Monkeys at beach landings—do not feed and secure dinghy gear.
Tips
Pay Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi park fees and display tickets on request.
Arrive early for moorings on Phi Phi Leh and avoid peak 10:00–15:00 hours.
Use a stern anchor or bridle in Tonsai to reduce swing and roll.
Lock dinghies and avoid leaving valuables on the beach.
Refill water, ice, and basics in Tonsai Village before heading south.
Respect swim zones and ferry lanes—traffic is constant near the pier.
Day 6
Koh Phi Phi → Koh Racha
Clear reefs and relaxed island anchorages
Track south to Koh Racha’s white sands and exceptionally clear water. Anchor in Patok, Siam, or Kon Kae bays for snorkeling, swimming, and an easy night under the stars.
Mooring Information
Patok Bay (W) offers 8–12 m over sand with mooring buoys—can be rolly in W swell.
Siam Bay (N) provides more space and sand patches with good holding.
Kon Kae Bay (NE) is well-sheltered in NE winds with clear-water snorkeling.
Stay outside swim lines and resort day-swim areas when anchoring.
In strong SW-season swell, seek shelter on the NE side or reconsider the leg.
Racha Noi has great diving but limited shelter—avoid overnighting there.
Top Restaurants
Casual beach cafés by Patok Bay for Thai dishes and fresh coconuts (daytime).
Simple grill shacks near Siam Bay with seasonal opening hours.
Kon Kae-side beach bars for sundowners before returning aboard.
Plan dinners onboard; options are limited after dusk.
Fresh fruit and snacks sold from small kiosks in high season.
Bring extra water and ice—resupply is limited on the island.
Activities
Snorkel straight off the stern over sand-to-reef transitions.
Kayak or SUP from bay to bay along the island’s lee side.
Beach time and casual hikes on sandy tracks between coves.
Underwater photography in bright, shallow water.
Relaxed swim training laps within clear, buoyed zones.
Stargazing from the foredeck far from city lights.
Water Sports
Prime snorkeling around Kon Kae and Siam Bay reefs.
Intro dives and guided dives in clear conditions with gentle currents.
SUP cruising in morning glass-offs before sea breeze fills in.
Freediving practice along reef edges with a surface tender.
Casual swims in calm bays—keep clear of boat lanes.
Avoid anchoring on coral; use sand patches or moorings.
Drone Spots
Top-down shots of Patok’s blue gradient against white sand.
Oblique passes along the fringing reef drop-off at Kon Kae.
Sunset orbits capturing the island outline and moored yachts.
Reef patterns at low tide along Siam Bay’s north end.
Avoid flights over swimmers and resort areas; launch from the boat.
Mind seabirds and keep altitude conservative in onshore breeze.
Must See
Patok’s crescent beach with luminous turquoise water.
Kon Kae’s clear shallows for fish and coral gardens.
Siam Bay’s broad sandy bottom and calmer ambience.
Short island paths to low viewpoints over the bays.
Colorful reef fish visible even from the deck on clear days.
Sunset colors reflecting off white sand and limestone.
Services
Limited island shops for snacks, drinks, and basic toiletries.
No fuel docks; top up water and fuel before leaving Phi Phi or Krabi.
Mobile coverage is fair but can drop behind headlands.
Beach showers may be available to day visitors (seasonal).
Basic first-aid; major care is in Phuket.
Dive services operate seasonally; confirm schedules in advance.
Hazards
Reef shelves and coral heads near anchoring zones—use sand patches only.
Afternoon SW swell can make Patok rolly; secure tenders and hatches.
Jet-skis are uncommon but occasional—maintain swimmer watch.
Strong sun exposure—heat and dehydration are common risks.
Occasional jellyfish; carry vinegar and wear rash guards.
Beware of boat traffic at bay entrances when snorkeling.
Tips
Arrive by midday for best light and visibility on the reefs.
Choose NE-side bays if afternoon SW swell builds.
Use a stern anchor or bridle to keep clear of reef edges.
Carry a reef hook for dives and a surface marker buoy.
Rinse gear with fresh water to preserve masks and cameras.
Respect quiet hours—sound carries across the small bays.
Return to Phuket via scenic swim stops
Sail back to Phuket, stopping for a final swim at Coral Island or Nai Harn in settled weather. Anchor in Ao Chalong to go ashore for Old Town, beaches, and a celebratory final dinner.
Mooring Information
Ao Chalong provides a large, deep anchorage with good holding in mud—give room for swing.
Nai Harn Bay offers sand patches in 6–10 m for a midday swim stop in NE season.
Coral Island (Koh He) has day-use moorings; avoid anchoring on reefs.
Stay clear of piers and ferry channels at Ao Chalong; use the dinghy dock.
Expect more roll on the west coast if swell is up; choose east-coast stops if needed.
Secure the tender with a long painter at busy dinghy docks.
Top Restaurants
Sea-view Thai/seafood restaurants around Ao Chalong and Rawai.
Casual eateries and dim sum spots in Phuket Old Town for brunch or lunch.
Night market stalls with local sweets, roti, and grilled seafood.
Beach cafés at Nai Harn for daytime bites and fruit shakes.
Sunset bars near Promthep Cape for golden-hour views.
Finish with a simple seafood feast overlooking the bay.
Activities
Snorkel at Coral Island’s marked areas before returning to Ao Chalong.
Beach stop at Nai Harn for a swim and shore walk in NE season.
Taxi into Phuket Old Town for architecture, coffee, and street food.
Refuel, water up, and organize waste disposal before handover.
Pack and rinse gear for an easy disembarkation.
Toast the week with a sunset drink overlooking the bay.
Water Sports
Snorkeling at Coral Island in calm seas within buoyed zones.
SUP sessions in the lee of Nai Harn or within Ao Chalong in light winds.
Casual swims off the boat with a lookout posted.
Short coastal paddle around Promthep headland in settled weather.
Avoid tow sports near busy anchorages and swim beaches.
Mind jet-ski and speedboat traffic near day-trip beaches.
Drone Spots
Sunset shots over Promthep Cape and Nai Harn Bay (launch offshore).
Top-down frames of Coral Island’s reef edge in morning light.
Wide anchorage panoramas at Ao Chalong with moored yachts.
Urban textures and color in Old Town—observe urban flight restrictions.
Avoid flying near temples and the Big Buddha.
Comply with Thai drone rules; maintain distance from people and airports.
Must See
Phuket Old Town’s Sino-Portuguese streets, cafés, and murals.
Big Buddha viewpoint for island-wide panoramas (taxi from Ao Chalong).
Nai Harn or Ya Nui beaches for a last swim in clear water.
Coral Island’s fringing reef for easy snorkeling on a calm day.
Promthep Cape sunset if timing aligns with your arrival.
Local markets for a final stock of snacks and souvenirs.
Services
Full services in Phuket: supermarkets, pharmacies, clinics, and ATMs.
Fuel, water, ice, and waste disposal available around Ao Chalong (check hours).
Well-stocked chandleries for last-minute gear and spares.
Mobile coverage is strong; rideshare and taxis readily available.
Laundry, SIM top-ups, and souvenir shops near the pier.
Marina and pier staff can advise on current procedures and weather.
Hazards
Busy traffic of ferries, speedboats, and fishing craft around Ao Chalong.
Shallow reefs and swim zones at Coral Island—use moorings only.
Afternoon sea breeze and chop on west-coast beaches.
Mooring field congestion—rig fenders and keep maneuvering speeds low.
Thunderstorms possible even in dry season—secure hatches and canvas.
Beware of theft of loose items at busy dinghy docks—lock valuables below.
Tips
Check fuel, water, and waste plans the day before disembarkation.
Time arrival to avoid afternoon sea breeze in open anchorages.
Use VHF 16 and local working channels to hail the pier for dinghy space.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen at Coral Island; crowds peak late morning.
Keep ship’s papers and park fee receipts handy for any inspections.
Confirm taxi pickup points at the Ao Chalong pier area.
Thailand 7-Day Sailing Itinerary: Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Phi Phi & Racha
Explore Thailand’s Andaman coast on a 7-day sailing itinerary linking Phuket, Phang Nga Bay, Railay and Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Racha. Short, scenic passages thread through towering limestone karsts, turquoise lagoons, and white-sand bays, with ample time to kayak sea caves, snorkel bright reefs, and enjoy beach sunsets.
This route suits crews seeking relaxed day sails with plenty of time ashore. Plan early starts to beat day-trip crowds at Hong Lagoon, Koh Panyee, and Phi Phi’s famous bays. National park rules apply in Ao Phang Nga and Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi; use mooring buoys where provided, avoid anchoring on coral, and pack out all waste.
Best time to sail is the dry season (November–April) for settled conditions and clear water. Expect tidal ranges, busy tour-boat traffic at iconic stops, and limited services on small islands—provision in Phuket or Krabi and carry cash for park fees and local markets.
Highlights:
– Phang Nga Bay: otherworldly karsts, sea caves, and the stilted community at Koh Panyee.
– Ko Hong (Krabi): narrow entrance to a jade lagoon, sheltered beach, and easy snorkeling.
– Railay & Krabi: dramatic cliffs, cave shrines, markets, and mainland culture.
– Koh Phi Phi: white-sand coves, viewpoint hikes, and superb snorkeling and diving.
– Koh Racha: glass-clear reefs, calm swimming bays, and laid-back island vibe.
