PHUKET YACHT CHARTER
Sailing in Phuket
Phuket is Thailand's most developed island, and parts of it (I'm looking at you, Patong) can feel like a neon-lit tourist trap. But here's the thing –on a yacht, you'll discover why this place remains the undisputed king of sailing in Southeast Asia
The western coast delivers those postcard-perfect beaches you've been dreaming about, while the eastern side opens up to Phang Nga Bay – a sailor's playground dotted with limestone karsts erupting from emerald waters. This is where the magic happens.
Drop anchor at hidden coves inaccessible by land, and suddenly you're experiencing a Thailand most tourists never see.
When to sail Phuket’s waters
The best sailing happens November through April when winds are steady and seas are calm. The rest of the year brings the southwest monsoon – still sailable for experienced hands but expect some proper weather.
Either way, you'll find professional marinas and sailing infrastructure that's unmatched elsewhere in Thailand.
Trust me – for a week of island-hopping freedom, Phuket is your perfect launching pad. Just don't spend too much time on the mainland – the real treasures await offshore.
Beyond the beach: Phuket’s hiddden cultural heart
Between sailing days, Phuket Old Town is worth your time – a walkable grid of Sino-Portuguese shophouses housing coffee roasters, cocktail bars, and local eateries where the pad thai hasn't been neutered for Western palates. For wellness, skip the tourist traps and head to Atmanjai or Amatara for treatments that go beyond the basic Thai massage.
QUICK GUIDE TO PHUKET
Key Attractions
Skip Patong's chaos and discover the island's northeast coast where luxury meets authenticity. Ao Por and Cape Yamu offer exclusive villas neighboring traditional fishing villages, providing a glimpse of two Thailands existing side by side. Time your visit for the vegetarian festival in October if you want to witness spiritual devotion that makes Western Halloween look tame.
Adventure Sports
For something beyond basic jet skiing, book a session with Phuket Hydrofoil – they'll have you literally flying above water on the latest electronic surfboards and hydrofoil technology. Adrenaline with zero engine noise and zero emissions makes for a surprisingly zen experience once you master the balance.
Wellness
The Thai wellness scene has evolved far beyond basic massage. Seek out Chi Nei Tsang (abdominal chi massage) at Banyan Tree or traditional Tok Sen hammer therapy at Keemala where wooden mallets tap meridian lines, sending vibrations deep into tissue – ancient techniques recently rediscovered by Bangkok's elite.
Art & Culture
Phuket's Old Town has quietly developed one of Thailand's most interesting contemporary art scenes. Visit Wua Art Gallery and Phuket Art Village in Rawai where Thai artists are creating work that goes well beyond tourist-friendly paintings. Time your visit for the annual Phuket Biennale (February) to see installations throughout the historical district.
Food & Drink
Skip the obvious beach restaurants and head to Tunk-Ka Cafe on Khao Rang hill for southern Thai dishes with views over the island, or try the unmarked "Uncle Bao's" in the Old Town for possibly Thailand's best dim sum (arrive before 9am). For evening drinks, the speakeasy trend has hit Phuket – look for the hidden entrance to Zimplex behind what appears to be a traditional herb shop