explore

thailand &
the andaman sea

the ultimate winter charter destination

Slow horizons, jungle vistas, limestone peaks, and quiet anchorages –for a winter charter that feels effortless.

Thailand and the Andaman coast offer a rare combination of dramatic cruising, cultural depth and gentle cruising conditions. It is a destination where warm seas, sheltered bays and vivid local character come together for one of the most enjoyable winter charter experiences out there.

WHY thailand WORKS FOR WINTER CHARTERS

  • Dramatic cruising: limestone karsts, jungle-backed bays, island-dotted horizons

  • Calm, sheltered anchorages: ideal for families and mixed-level swimmers

  • An abundance of cultural experiences: food, markets, temple architecture, crafts, music

  • World-class diving and snorkelling across the Andaman Sea

  • Easy logistics from Phuket: high service standards and smooth provisioning

From cinematic limestone landscapes to calm, protected anchorages, Thailand’s Andaman Sea delivers a charter experience shaped by comfort, variety and atmosphere. Warm water, short hops and rich onshore culture make it an enduring winter favourite.

Most yachts spend their time at anchor and use tenders to access islands and beaches, with Phuket’s marinas providing straightforward arrival, provisioning and crew logistics when required.

cruising thailand & the andaman sea

islands, bays & BEACHES

  • Sail between vertical karsts rising from still, green water. Quiet anchorages, cinematic views and consistently calm conditions define this iconic cruising ground. Hidden lagoons and narrow channels are ideal for tender and kayak exploration.

  • A protected marine national park renowned for water clarity, granite boulders and vibrant reef systems. This is one of Thailand’s most celebrated areas for diving and confident snorkelling, best enjoyed in settled conditions.

  • Gentle shallows, soft light and healthy reefs characterise this quieter northern group. The pace here is slower and more intimate, making it particularly appealing for families and guests seeking relaxed days on the water.

  • Dramatic cliffs, turquoise bays and sheltered anchorages make Phi Phi instantly recognisable. Best explored early in the morning or later in the day, the islands reward careful timing with atmosphere and calm.

  • Just east of Phi Phi, Krabi’s coastline rises in tall limestone towers above clear, sheltered water. It is ideal for tender exploration, hidden lagoons and slow cruising beneath jungle-backed cliffs, offering some of the most cinematic scenery in the Andaman Sea.

  • Known for pale sand, clear water and calm conditions, the Racha Islands are well suited to paddleboarding, snorkelling and relaxed days at anchor with minimal swell.

  • A quieter southern arc with long beaches, reef snorkelling and a stronger sense of local life. Colourful markets and island communities add cultural texture alongside calm-water cruising.

when to visit & what to expect

Thailand’s Andaman Sea is primarily a winter cruising destination, with conditions shaped by two main monsoon seasons.

November to April
This is the prime season for yachting in the Andaman Sea. The northeast monsoon brings settled weather, lighter winds and calm seas. Water visibility is at its best, making this period ideal for snorkelling, diving and family charters. Most itineraries focus on Phuket, Phang Nga Bay, Krabi, Phi Phi, Similan and Surin during these months.

May to October
The southwest monsoon brings higher humidity, stronger winds and more variable conditions along the west coast. However, protected areas such as Phang Nga Bay and the east coast of Phuket can still offer safe and enjoyable cruising windows, particularly for experienced crews and flexible itineraries.

Seasonal and Cultural Moments
Certain periods also bring distinctive cultural moments, from Loy Krathong’s floating lanterns to temple festivals and local New Year celebrations, best experienced with local guidance and a light footprint.

your THAILAND adventure

Things to do

Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most established superyacht cruising destinations. The Andaman Sea combines sheltered waters, high-impact scenery and refined hospitality, offering a charter experience that balances natural beauty, culture and operational ease.

  • Move between calm bays, swim off the stern and explore limestone inlets accessible only by tender. Distances are short, allowing unrushed days shaped by light, tide and mood.

  • The Similan and Surin Islands offer some of the region’s strongest visibility and coral life. Gentle reefs closer to shore provide accessible snorkelling, while deeper sites suit certified divers.

  • A gentle cultural immersion by water. Glide through mangroves, lagoons and fishing villages in traditional longtail boats, guided by locals who know the tides and channels intimately.

  • From beachside seafood to refined resort dining, with opportunities for onboard cooking demonstrations and seasonal dishes tied to local celebrations.

  • Sunrise stretching on deck, breathwork at anchor or a resort spa afternoon arranged via your captain or broker. Thailand’s wellness culture blends easily into a relaxed charter rhythm.

  • Calm water, snorkelling trails, beach picnics and gentle wildlife encounters create a setting that works naturally for all ages without compromising comfort or sophistication.

  • Guided visits to temples (exteriors only, you can’t go inside), local markets and island communities offer insight into daily life. Traditional music, drumming or seasonal celebrations can be experienced quietly and respectfully, either ashore or hosted onboard.

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and should always be approached with licensed guides. Local customs and dress codes should be observed, particularly on inhabited islands and at temples.

sample charter itineraries

  • 7 days of Lush Landscapes & Calm Water

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  • 10-12 day Itinerary for an Unforgettable Family Adventure

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book a charter with our broker partners

Charterer customers can book a charter in Thailand through our broker partners.