Destination: Ko Samui, Thailand
Introduction
Ko Samui sits in the Gulf of Thailand on the opposite side of the Malay Peninsula from Phuket, making it one of Asia's best-kept yachting secrets for those who know about the inverse monsoon seasons. While the Andaman Sea (Phuket side) is rough from May to October, the Gulf of Thailand enjoys its best sailing from June through September — calm, predictable northeast trades, warm water, and far fewer cruising boats. Ko Samui is Thailand's second-largest island, offering a relaxed sophistication distinct from Phuket's bustle. The surrounding waters include the extraordinary Ang Thong Marine National Park — an archipelago of 42 islands with hidden emerald lakes, vertical limestone cliffs, and white sand beaches — and the neighbouring islands of Ko Phangan and Ko Tao, both excellent diving destinations. Samui's marinas are smaller than Phuket's but the welcome is warm and facilities have grown substantially.
GPS Coordinates
9° 30' 43.200"N 100° 0' 48.960"E
9 30 43.200N 100 0 48.960E
Protected Anchorages
Big Buddha Bay (Ao Bang Rak) on the north coast is the most popular cruiser anchorage, in 4–8 metres over sand and mud with reasonable shelter from the northeast. The Big Buddha image at Wat Phra Yai is the navigation landmark. Bophut Bay to the west of Big Buddha is shallower (2–4 metres) but peaceful, with a pretty fishing village and the Fisherman's Village walking street nearby. Mae Nam Bay on the northwest tip is well sheltered from southerly winds in 4–6 metres over good mud holding. Chaweng Bay on the east coast is exposed and not recommended for overnight anchoring. Thong Nai Pan Noi on Ko Phangan (11 nm north) is a beautiful, well-sheltered bay in 4–8 metres, highly recommended for overnight stops. Samui Harbour (Port Samui Marina) has berths and can accommodate vessels up to 30 metres.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
Ko Samui has a domestic airport and ferry port but not an official international yacht Port of Entry. International yachts arriving from overseas must first clear customs and immigration at a designated entry port — Phuket, Krabi, or Surat Thani are the closest options on the Gulf side. Yachts already holding a valid Thai cruising permit can cruise Samui freely. The 30-day visa on arrival is standard for most nationalities, renewable once. Fuel, water, and LPG are all readily available. The Samui Yacht Club assists visiting yachts with local formalities and agent services.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Samui Yacht Club
- Port Samui Marina
- Ko Samui International Boat Club
Renowned Attractions
- Ang Thong Marine National Park — 42-island archipelago with the famous Emerald Lake (Talay Nai), sheer cliffs, and pristine beaches; best explored by yacht or kayak
- Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) — 12-metre golden seated Buddha on a small islet connected by causeway, dominating the north coast skyline and serving as a navigation landmark
- Full Moon Party at Ko Phangan — the legendary monthly beach party on Haad Rin beach attracts tens of thousands; anchor off and take a longtail across
- Ko Tao diving — one of the world's most popular diving learning destinations, 45 nm north of Samui, with excellent reef and wreck diving
- Fisherman's Village, Bophut — charming string of converted Chinese shophouses along the beach with excellent restaurants and a lively Friday night market
- Na Muang Waterfalls — inland jungle waterfalls accessible by scooter or songthaew, a refreshing contrast to the coast
- Secret Buddha Garden (Magic Garden) — hidden hilltop garden of weathered statues created by a local fruit farmer, reached via steep track
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Thai Baht
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Ko Samui and the Gulf of Thailand offer an alternative cruising season (June–September) to Phuket's Andaman, with the spectacular Ang Thong Marine National Park, laid-back anchorages, and the legendary Full Moon Party at neighbouring Ko Phangan making it a compelling destination in its own right.