A yacht charter guide to Thailand

Thailand's  many islands with exceptional scuba diving make it a deservedly popular charter destination. A Thailand yacht charter will see you cruising past stunning scenery and anchoring in picturesque harbours or by long white-sand beaches. 

Having earned a reputation for catering to discerning travellers, the country also exhibits top-notch superyacht marinas. With an inviting mix of culture, adventurous pursuits, and culinary flavours, a luxury Thailand yacht charter guarantees visitors an unforgettable experience.  

What are the best times to charter in Thailand?  

The best time to charter in Thailand is November to April. As the rainy season winds down in October, drier days are on the horizon in late autumn. A winter or spring charter to Thailand also means you’ll find plenty of sunshine and warmth without the humidity that the summer can bring.  

Phuket

Phuket is the perfect jumping off point for a yacht charter. Home to world-class marinas, this is where you can meet your yacht to further explore the Andaman Sea and its many islands. Before embarking on your charter, take the time to uncover some special places, such as Thailand's first-ever elephant sanctuary where you can to interact with protected elephants. 

Phi Phi Islands

A strand of six picture-perfect isles, the Phi Phi Islands are just south of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. All but one are uninhabited and can only be visited by boat, affording you an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of these protected islands with your yacht's tender. 

One of the Islands, Ko Bida Nok, is famous for being the filming location for the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach. With vibrant reefs abundant in marine life, the Phi Phi Islands are also popular among scuba divers thanks to the gentle currents and variety of sites for all experience levels.  

Similan Islands

Head north from Phuket, and you’ll find the untouched beauty of the Similan Islands of Thailand. The 11 islands in the Similan archipelago are lesser visited than many of the hot-spots in Thailand, so you’ll find pristine beaches, excellent scuba diving and fewer tourists. You might also feel like you’ve been magically transported to the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean when you spy the giant boulders that frame the shores on many of the beaches. Dive into the turquoise waters to explore dive sites formed by these enormous boulders on the seafloor. 

Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan 

The Gulf of Thailand Islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are some of the most popular places in the country, and for good reason. The palm-fringed island of Koh Tao is named for the sea turtles that are found here. 

Scuba divers might be lucky enough to swim alongside green hawksbill turtles at dive sites including White Rock or Aow Leuk Bay. Then it’s a quick hop from Koh Tao to Koh Samui - the latter combines luxury and tropical bliss to offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, high-end hotels, and vibrant culture. 

The laidback island of Koh Phangan beckons with lush jungles, hippie vibes and secret beaches - there’s even a beach here dubbed The Secret Beach, which might not be a total secret any longer, but is certainly worth a visit. The island is a hub for wellness retreats and yoga training, but visitors also flock here to let their hair down at the famous Koh Phangan full moon party.  

Unmissable experiences and attractions in Thailand

Combining breathtaking landscapes, top-tier diving spots, pristine waters, and vibrant cultural sights, Thailand leaves an indelible impression on all who visit. Known as the ‘land of smiles,’ Thailand's warmth and hospitality shine through, ensuring that a yacht charter here will leave you beaming. 

Watersports and marine exploration 

Anchored against the backdrop of towering limestone karst formations, you can dive straight into underwater bliss. Your crew can launch the watersport toys, from multi-level waterslides to SeaBobs that whisk you beneath the water, or take a kayak and paddle in narrow waterways that cut through the islands and duck into caves. 

Thailand is a scuba diver’s paradise and renowned as one of the best dive destinations in the world. You can find a mix of reef, wall and wreck dives affording options for divers of all abilities. 

Cultural delights

The Thai islands also offer a rich tapestry of cultural sights and experiences. Pay a visit to ornate Buddhist temples and shrines that dot the islands. Shop for artisan handicrafts in bustling local markets. Watch a showcase of traditional Thai music and dance, or attend an exciting Muay Thai kickboxing match. 

You might also plan your trip around a Thai festival, like Songkran Festival, also known as the Thai New Year, which takes place in April - prepare for a soaking as throwing buckets of water and water balloons is part of the celebratory spirit!  

Discover authentic Thai cuisine  

Fresh herbs, fragrant lemongrass, spicy chilies, and notes of sweet and sour make Thai cuisine anything but boring. Southern Thailand in particular is renowned for its seafood-centric offerings. To totally immerse yourself in Thai cuisine, your yacht’s crew can arrange a private cooking class where you can learn to prepare authentic dishes using fresh, local ingredients.