Meta Title:
Sailing Route Thailand | 10 Days from Phuket to the Similan Islands
Meta Description:
Sail through the wonders of southern Thailand – from Phuket and Phang Nga Bay to the Similan Islands. Limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and tropical serenity await.
Introduction
To sail among limestone towers, turquoise lagoons, and white beaches — that’s the magic of Southeast Asia.
Southern Thailand is one of Asia’s most spectacular sailing regions, where emerald seas meet golden sunsets and gentle hospitality.
This 10-day route takes you from Phuket through the breathtaking Phang Nga Bay to the protected Similan Islands, blending culture, relaxation, and adventure in perfect tropical harmony.
At a glance:
- Region: Southern Thailand – Andaman Sea
- Duration: 10 days
- Character: Easy island-hopping with tropical scenery and world-class snorkeling
- Ideal for: Leisure sailors, dive enthusiasts, and lovers of island tranquility
The Region at a Glance
Phuket, Krabi, and the Similan Islands form Thailand’s premier sailing playground — a region of calm waters, short passages, and dramatic limestone karsts rising straight from the sea.
The sailing infrastructure is excellent, marinas are modern, and sheltered anchorages abound.
From bustling beach towns to hidden lagoons and marine parks, every leg reveals another facet of Southeast Asia’s maritime beauty.
Nautical Overview:
- Waters: Andaman Sea – between Phuket, Krabi, and the Similan Islands
- Navigation: Visual, simple passages, well-marked reefs
- Best vessels: Catamaran 40–45 ft or comfortable cruising yacht
- Anchorages: Sand or mud, often behind reefs or in calm bays
- Highlights: Easy sailing, snorkeling, local culture
Best Time to Sail
The northeast monsoon season from November to April is ideal: dry, sunny days, calm seas, and steady 3–5 Bft winds from the northeast.
During May to October, the southwest monsoon brings occasional rain and livelier seas — still beautiful, but best suited to experienced crews.
Weather & Conditions:
- Wind: NE 3–5 Bft (Nov–Apr)
- Air temperature: 30–32°C
- Water temperature: ~28°C
- Visibility: Excellent – ideal for snorkeling and diving
- Sea state: Generally calm, especially in bays and lagoons
The Route with Daily Legs
Day 1 – Phuket (Yacht Haven Marina) → Koh Naka Yai (approx. 8 nm, 2 hrs)
Ease into your voyage with a short sail to Koh Naka Yai, a tranquil bay fringed with palms and white sand. Perfect for your first swim, a tropical sundowner, and settling into the rhythm of island life.
Tip: Try the beach restaurant for grilled prawns at sunset.
Day 2 – Koh Naka Yai → Koh Hong (Phang Nga Bay) (approx. 15 nm, 3 hrs)
A day of wonder through Phang Nga Bay, where limestone cliffs rise like cathedrals from emerald water. Enter the hidden lagoon of Koh Hong through a narrow channel at high tide — an unforgettable natural amphitheater.
Tip: Visit by dinghy to explore sea caves and mangroves.
Day 3 – Koh Hong → James Bond Island → Koh Panak (approx. 10 nm, 2.5 hrs)
Sail to the iconic James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan), made famous by The Man with the Golden Gun. Continue to Koh Panak, anchoring in a quiet cove surrounded by cliffs.
Evening dinghy ride through caves and lagoons — pure adventure.
Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Day 4 – Koh Panak → Railay Bay (Krabi) (approx. 25 nm, 5 hrs)
A scenic coastal sail along Krabi’s dramatic shoreline. Railay Bay awaits with its towering cliffs, beaches, and relaxed bars tucked beneath palm trees.
Tip: Dinner ashore – try a spicy Thai curry with fresh-caught seafood.
Day 5 – Railay → Koh Phi Phi Don (approx. 20 nm, 4 hrs)
Head south to the famous Phi Phi Islands. Stop for a swim near Chicken Island before anchoring in Tonsai Bay. Lively nightlife, colorful boats, and a true island vibe.
Tip: Hike up to the Phi Phi viewpoint for a sunset panorama.
Day 6 – Koh Phi Phi Don → Koh Phi Phi Leh → Koh Lanta (approx. 25 nm, 5 hrs)
Early visit to Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh — made famous by The Beach. Then sail to Koh Lanta, known for quiet anchorages, small fishing villages, and exceptional diving.
Tip: Anchor off Kantiang Bay, one of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches.
Day 7 – Koh Lanta → Koh Rok Nok (approx. 20 nm, 4 hrs)
Nature at its purest. Koh Rok is uninhabited and part of a marine park. Crystal-clear water, soft sand, coral reefs teeming with life — a paradise for snorkelers.
Tip: Bring cash for park fees and stay overnight under a star-filled sky.
Day 8 – Koh Rok → Koh Haa (approx. 15 nm, 3 hrs)
A short sail to Koh Haa, a cluster of five tiny islands forming a spectacular lagoon. The visibility here is exceptional — perfect for diving with reef sharks, turtles, and schools of angelfish.
Tip: Early morning light offers the best underwater photography.
Day 9 – Koh Haa → Similan Islands (approx. 50 nm, 9 hrs)
An early start for the open-water passage northwest to the legendary Similan Islands, a marine sanctuary famed for granite boulders, white beaches, and some of Asia’s finest dive sites.
Tip: Anchor between islands #4 and #8 for calm nights and access to trails.
Day 10 – Similan Islands → Phuket (approx. 55 nm, 10 hrs)
A relaxed sail back over deep blue water. Dolphins often escort the bow. Return to Phuket by late afternoon and celebrate the journey with dinner ashore at Nai Yang Beach or in the marina.
Tip: For a seamless finish, book a Thai massage or rooftop cocktail in Phuket Old Town.
Highlights Along the Way
- Phang Nga Bay: Breathtaking limestone karsts and hidden lagoons
- Koh Phi Phi & Koh Rok: Picture-perfect tropical islands
- Similan Islands: World-renowned dive sites with pristine coral gardens
- Railay Bay: Dramatic cliffs and laid-back beach atmosphere
- Thai Cuisine: Fresh curries, seafood, and exotic fruits – perfect onboard fare
Practical Tips
- Recommended yacht: Catamaran 40–45 ft or comfortable cruiser
- Marinas: Excellent facilities in Phuket and Krabi
- National park fees (Similan, Koh Rok): Pay in cash (THB)
- Provisions & fuel: Available in Phuket and Krabi
- Navigation: Visual, reefs well marked – ideal for daylight sailing
- Environmental note: Avoid anchoring on coral; use park mooring buoys
Travel Extension
Before or after your sailing trip, take time to experience more of Thailand’s contrasts — from tranquil beaches to vibrant culture.
In Phuket, explore the colorful Old Town, visit ornate Chinese-Thai temples, and sample authentic street food at the night markets. For a relaxed finale, spend a day at Kata Beach or Nai Harn, where the sunsets paint the sea gold.
If you prefer more nature, head inland to the Khao Sok National Park — a world of emerald rainforest, towering limestone peaks, and the serene Cheow Lan Lake. Floating bungalows, jungle hikes, and kayaking through misty waters make it a magical addition to your voyage.
Alternatively, extend your trip with a few days in Krabi or Ao Nang. These coastal towns offer rock climbing, kayaking through mangrove forests, and relaxed beach cafés with a view of the Andaman Sea.
For culture seekers, fly north to Chiang Mai or Bangkok — explore glittering temples, golden Buddhas, and the pulse of Thai life between food stalls and rooftop bars.
Recommended extensions:
- Phuket: Old Town, markets, and island-hopping excursions
- Krabi / Ao Nang: Cliffs, kayaking, relaxed beaches
- Khao Sok National Park: Jungle, lake lodges, wildlife
- Chiang Mai / Bangkok: Culture, temples, and street food adventures
Conclusion – Who This Route Is Perfect For
This 10-day voyage through southern Thailand is pure sailing bliss — warm breezes, emerald lagoons, and islands straight out of a dream. It’s ideal for those seeking balance: comfort and adventure, culture and calm, discovery and delight.
Best for:
- Leisure sailors and island explorers
- Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts
- Couples or small groups seeking tropical escape
- Those who crave calm seas, warm winds, and postcard-perfect anchorages
SEO Note
Keywords: Thailand sailing route, Phuket yacht charter, Similan Islands sailing, Phang Nga Bay sailing itinerary, Andaman Sea catamaran, Koh Phi Phi cruise
Internal linking suggestions: