Destination: Phuket, Thailand
Introduction
Phuket is the undisputed hub of yachting in Southeast Asia — a large island linked to the Thai mainland by bridge, with world-class marinas, a thriving charter industry, and superb cruising grounds radiating in every direction. The Andaman Sea surrounding Phuket offers everything a cruising sailor could want: spectacular limestone karst scenery in Phang Nga Bay, pristine coral reefs at the Similan and Surin Islands, calm protected anchorages, and a lively shoreside scene. Phuket hosts the King's Cup Regatta each December — one of Asia's premier offshore events — and the Asia Superyacht Rendezvous, attracting vessels from around the world. The island has four full-service marinas, extensive chandlery and boatyard facilities, and a well-developed network of marine trades that can handle almost any repair or refit. Seasoned bluewater sailors completing an Indian Ocean passage often rate Phuket as one of the great landfall rewards of the circumnavigation.
GPS Coordinates
7° 57' 6.840"N 98° 20' 17.160"E
7 57 6.840N 98 20 17.160E
Protected Anchorages
Ao Chalong (Chalong Bay) in the southeast of the island is the busiest and most practical anchorage, offering good holding over mud in 3–6 metres with a pier for dinghy landing and easy access to town. The bay is well sheltered from the northeast monsoon but can be choppy in a strong southerly. Nai Harn Bay on the south coast is a beautiful, well-protected anchorage in 5–10 metres over sand, very popular with cruisers; rolly in southerly swells. Ao Yon (Yon Bay) on the east coast is quieter and well sheltered behind a headland. Phang Nga Bay — accessible as a day or overnight trip from Phuket — offers dozens of anchorages among the karst islands; Ko Panyee (the floating village), Ko Hong, and Ko Yao Noi are all favourites. Holding is generally excellent throughout on mud or sand. Marinas include Royal Phuket Marina, Yacht Haven (north), Boat Lagoon (Phuket Town area), and Ao Chalong Yacht Club.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
International arrivals must clear customs and immigration at an official Port of Entry. Ao Chalong is the primary entry point for yachts arriving from international waters; Yacht Haven marina in the north also offers clearance. Fly the Q flag on approach and contact the marina or Chalong Harbour on VHF Ch 16. Thailand issues a 30-day visa on arrival for most nationalities, extendable once at an immigration office for a further 30 days. The yacht is issued a cruising permit valid for the same period and must depart or renew within this timeframe. Officially, only a licensed agent may arrange extensions, though many cruisers use marina-based agents. Duty-free fuel is available at some marinas under bond. Arrival from Malaysia via the Malacca Strait or from Sri Lanka/India is common; ensure all crew documents are in order and declare all firearms on board.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Royal Phuket Marina
- Yacht Haven Phuket Marina
- Boat Lagoon Phuket
- Ao Chalong Yacht Club
Renowned Attractions
- Phang Nga Bay — iconic limestone karst towers rising from emerald water, best explored by yacht or longtail; James Bond Island (Ko Tapu) is the landmark
- Similan Islands National Park — 9 granite and coral islands rated among the world's top dive sites, 60 nm northwest of Phuket
- Phi Phi Islands — dramatic twin islands with turquoise lagoons; best visited by yacht to anchor overnight before the day-tripper crowds arrive
- Old Phuket Town — atmospheric Sino-Portuguese shophouse district with excellent street food, art galleries, and the Phuket Weekend Market
- King's Cup Regatta (December) — premier offshore sailing event in Southeast Asia, drawing 100+ boats across multiple classes
- Surin Islands — remote marine national park with outstanding snorkelling and Moken sea gypsy settlements, 55 nm north of Phuket
- Bangla Road, Patong — the legendary nightlife strip; equally legendary if you need a reason to spend a night at anchor rather than in a marina
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: Thai Baht
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
Phuket is Southeast Asia's premier yachting destination — four full-service marinas, superb Andaman Sea cruising, iconic Phang Nga Bay, world-class diving at the Similans, and the legendary King's Cup Regatta combine to make it an essential stop on any Asia circuit.