Yott Sailing Fact Box : Thailand

Yacht Charter: Many bareboat, crewed and luxury yacht charters are available from Phuket for cruising in the Andaman Sea, including Sunsail (or Pattaya/Koh Samui for cruising in the Gulf of Thailand). For more information visit For general information visit www.sailing-thailand.net and www.asia-marine.net.

Best Time to Go: All year round sailing. However, June-October is southwest monsoon leaving west coast anchorages of Phuket and the mainland exposed (hot and humid, hottest in April/May and September/October, wettest in September/October). November – May is northeast monsoon, ideal cruising weather for the Andaman coast (average temperature 24-32°C).

Time: GMT +7 hours

Flights: Daily flights into Phuket from Bangkok. New airport in Krabi with regular flights from Phuket and Bangkok.

Port of entry: Ao Chalong, Phuket : 7 49.46N 98 20.76E

Shopping: Phuket and Krabi have everything, the outer islands are limited both for food and souvenir shopping. Tourist souvenirs include wood carvings, shells, pearls, tailored clothing, silks. The open-air markets are well worth a visit. Particularly in Krabi. Haggling is expected. International tourists are entitled to a refund of the 7% VAT on products bought at registered retailers.

Languages: Thai, although english is widely spoken

Currency: Thai Baht, cashpoints accept visa and most people happily take $US.

Customs: Buddhism engulfs every part of Thai life. The religion focuses on awareness, kindness, magnanimity and wisdom resulting in a very gentle and kind people. As a tourist you must show respect to their religion and any icons. Do not touch an adults’ heads, or put your feet up on chairs or ledges. Show respect to the royal family. It is an insult to dress scruffily, men should dress smartly and women should cover their shoulders and thighs if in town, in a temple or with officials. Tipping is not necessary

Information: Weather reports on VHF 69 in Phuket Lagoon at 07.55. SSB weather updates in English on 14320HF at 07.30 and 10118HF at 07.40.

Don’t Miss: Travelling in a tuk tuk, a converted mini delivery van, agree a price before departure. Phuket’s Kings Cup in December, many big race crews worldwide.

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