17 August 2011

Is Thailand the New Mediterranean for Super Yacht Charter?

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Thailand is fast emerging as one of the top destinations for those wishing to take a super yacht charter.

The Kingdom of Thailand’s reputation as the leading tourist hotspot in Asia has long been established: each year more than 12 million visitors come to the ‘Land of Smiles’ to experience its stunning scenery, rich culture and beautiful deserted beaches.

 

Located in the heart of South East Asia, sandwiched between Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia, Thailand offers the very best in super yacht charter as it boasts a large number of tropical islands which make the perfect cruising territory. Here you will find a rich and varied marine life, a warm climate, deserted beaches and incredible food.

Depending on the length of your yacht charter in Thailand, the hardest decision for guests to make will be whether to explore the east coast of the country, and islands in the Andaman Sea, or the west, and the archipelagos situated in the Gulf of Thailand.  

 

Andaman Sea

The most famous island in the Andaman Sea is Phuket, a well established tourist destination with all the activities and facilities that ensue. On the east coast of Phuket are the smaller islands of Koh Lanta, Koh Racha and Phi Phi, all of which are slightly less developed than the popular tourist destinations and are well worth a visit.

Also highly recommended is Krabi, on the main land where there is now a large diving community, and Phang Nga Bay, an area of outstanding natural beauty and boasts more than 100 islands, most of which are uninhabited. Here you will find a super yacht charter heaven; clear blue water punctuated with small islands with intriguing caves, creeks and hidden lagoons which are easily accessible by tender.

Approximately 50 miles northwest of Phuket lies the Similan Islands. Many of those that visit the island can not recommend it highly enough meaning that if your in the area it is a must see on any yacht charter in Thailand. The islands are a series of granite boulders which attract a wonderfully varied coral and marine life and offers some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world.

 

The Gulf of Thailand


There are over 80 islands off the east coast of Thailand, including Koh Samui, which is by far the largest and most developed. North of Samui is the island of Koh Phanghan which is famous for its laid back attitude and full moon parties, which are attended by thousands of party goers every month.

Even more chilled out is the island of Koh Tao, which lies approximately 45km north. So chilled is this island in fact that there is only one road linking the small fishing villages with the stunning beaches that are found in abundance, clearly the islanders have their priorities right. Many of the best coves and beaches are inaccessible without a boat, making this island a true paradise for yacht charter in Thailand.

Another stunning area to visit on your super yacht charter are the islands off Pattaya, on the main land to the north of the Gulf. Islands of interest include Koh Larn, Koh Phai, Koh Samet, Koh Chang and Koh Kut, all of which are only a short distance from Cambodia.