Ko Chang

Ko Chang and its out-islands offer a quieter, greener alternative to Thailand’s headline sailing grounds. Expect jungle-clad peaks, coral-fringed islets and a compact cruising circuit that rewards careful pilotage and relaxed passages. Conditions are dictated by the monsoons: December to March brings settled north-easterlies and clear water, while May to October favours the archipelago’s east-facing bays under the south‑west monsoon. There are no big marinas here; instead, you’ll find well-protected bays, park moorings and characterful fishing piers at Bang Bao, Salak Phet, Koh Mak and Koh Kood. The distances are short, navigation is mostly line-of-sight, and there’s a satisfying variety of overnight stops — from the reefy snorkel sites around Koh Rang to the mangrove-backed havens of Salak Kok. If you value unhurried passages, warm seas and night skies undimmed by city glow, Ko Chang will suit you. Bring good eyes on the bow for coral heads, plan conservatively around squalls, and you’ll be rewarded with some of Thailand’s most unspoilt cruising.