Time for Thailand
Thailand offers a year-round treat for yachts and superyachts, and there’s somewhere for every season.
09 March 2023
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As borders open up and the strictures of the pandemic fade into memory, Thailand is back on the map as a must-do boating and superyacht destination.
Boasting idyllic cruising, well-equipped modern marinas and a welcoming, professional superyacht community, the country’s flat seas, warm temperatures and spectacular scenery make Thailand an ideal destination in any South-East Asia adventure.
Indeed, between the friendly locals and the fantastic cruising, it’s no wonder they call it the Land of Smiles.
With pristine beaches, stunning uninhabited islands, unusual luxury and delicious spicy cuisine, Thailand offers an array of temptations and can be visited throughout the year, with different seasons in different areas offering different opportunities for something, well, a little different.
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For the Andaman Seas and Phuket (including Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta, Koh Kood, Koh Chang, and Khao Sok National Park), Asia Pacific Superyachts says Thailand’s west coast has three defined seasons: November to March, when a cooling wind gives pleasant daytime temperatures between 26°C-32°C; March to May, when humidity rises as the cooling breeze departs, giving temperatures of 30°C-36°C; and May to October when the monsoon arrives, with peak rainfall from mid-September to mid-October.
Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand follows the same weather patterns as the Andaman Sea coastline, experiencing the most rainfall between May and October, although being one of the wettest areas of the country, rain showers can be expected year-round. Wet season is actually a good time of year to visit the National Park as average temperatures are a comfortable 25 to 26°C, the rainforest is green and lush, and there is more chance of spotting wildlife.
“Now, springing back post-COVID as a favoured yachting destination, we’re thrilled to welcome an increasing number of world-class visiting superyachts,” says Asia Pacific Superyachts Co-founder Gordon Fernandes, who is based in Phuket.
“With four world-class marinas and a superyacht marina in the making, Phuket is one of Southeast Asia’s most popular yachting playgrounds and a key connector for the Asia Pacific region.”
For the Gulf of Thailand region (including Koh Samui, Koh Phan Ngan, Koh Tao, Ang Thong National Marine Park, and Khanom), Koh Samui has three defined seasons: December to February brings fine weather and refreshing winds keeping the temperatures moderate; March to May when temperatures rise a little to 29°C-35°C; while June to November brings a chance of a shower to start with, but with the monsoon in August and September and with peak rainfall between October and November.
A round-up of Thailand’s Top 10 yachting destinations in Luxury Island magazine listed Koh Samui as the number one spot. Says Asia Pacific Superyachts Co-founder Captain Charlie Dwyer, who is based on Koh Samui: “Koh Samui is the hub of the Gulf and the best and easiest port of entry.
“Returning to the island, I’m reminded each time of what brings the owners and captains and crew to Thailand – the beauty of her islands and the culture and people with their welcoming smiles and gracious nature.
“You won’t,” he concludes, “find this in many other international destinations superyachts visit.”
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