We get a lot of questions about chartering a yacht in Phuket, so we decided to put together a handy guide with all the info you need. Phuket is a go-to spot for yacht enthusiasts, with its beautiful islands all around the Andaman Sea. Since a ton of people are coming for sailing adventures, it makes sense that there are loads of trustworthy charter companies around here.

Before we get started, let me tell you about a local gem: Tiger Marine Charter. They’re based on the East Coast and have always wowed us with how professional and reliable they are. We’ve gone out with them a bunch of times, and they’re one of the top choices if you’re looking to check out Phuket by yacht.

This isn’t your typical guide. Imagine it as our take on having an epic adventure in the Andaman Sea, keeping it simple and fun.

Why People Choose Phuket as a Cruising Ground? 

1. Geographic location & Accessibility – 

Phuket is right in the middle of the Andaman Sea, making it super easy to get to amazing spots like the Similan Islands, Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga Bay, and the Surin Islands. Also, getting to Phuket is a breeze with its international airport, making it super convenient for crews and guests to arrive.

2. Perfect Sailing Vibes-

The Andaman Sea is pretty chill most of the year, with two distinct seasons. From November to April, the northeast winds are just right for sailing. Chill bays, a variety of anchor spots, and super calm waters make it awesome for quick getaways or more extended charters. I’ve included more about seasons below.

3. Cool Nature Spots-

Phuket is packed with natural wonders, from the limestone karsts and hidden caves of Phang Nga Bay to the awesome dive spots at Similan and Surin Islands. If you are into scuba, beach relaxing, or snorkelling, Phuket has everything you need, plus tonnes of uninhabited coves perfect for a private anchorage.

4. World-Class Yachting Infrastructure-

Phuket has some of the coolest marinas in Southeast Asia, like Ao Po Grand Marina, Royal Phuket Marina, Boat Lagoon, and Yacht Haven. You’ve got everything you need for superyachts, from provisioning to repairs.

5. Lifestyle & Costings-

Phuket is the perfect spot for a chill adventure. You can spend your day sailing, then head back to enjoy some amazing food, fancy resorts, relaxing spas, and a fun nightlife scene, all while soaking up the real Thai vibe, and most importantly, all this doesn’t break your bank compared to some destinations in Europe and the United States.

6. Strategic position in Asia

Phuket is an awesome starting point for exploring Southeast Asia. You can totally set sail to Langkawi (Malaysia), the Mergui Archipelago (Myanmar), the Maldives, or Indonesia from here. Additionally, Phuket is one of the few spots in the world where you can reach most of the beautiful islands within a cruise of 1 hour. 

Seasons in Phuket: What They’re Really Like

Dry Season (High Season: November–April)

This is Thailand at its most picture-perfect: calm mornings, clear skies, and gentle breezes. It’s peak sailing time, which means higher demand and higher prices. If you plan to visit, book your yacht well in advance.

Green Season (Low Season: May–October)

We love this time of year. Expect short afternoon downpours followed by fresh, clear skies. The islands are lush, waterfalls are flowing, and you’ll often have anchorages to yourself. Charter rates are lower, too, though you’ll want some confidence handling occasional squalls.

Yacht Charter Styles: Available in Phuket 

Bareboat rental

If you have qualifications like ICC or RYA Day Skipper, renting a bareboat means you can totally steer your own course. It’s fantastic if you enjoy checking things out on your own schedule.

Charter with a Skipper

Getting a skipper lets you chill out and enjoy without the hassle. They’re more than just drivers; they’ve got the scoop on the secret beaches and local spots to eat that you won’t see in any guidebook.

Charter with a whole crew

This is the best in comfort. If you’re cruising in Phuket for the first time or are not aware of the Phuket waters, we recommend chartering a yacht with a whole crew. The seas on Phuket’s east coast have tides, and the water level increases or decreases, so having a skilled yacht charter company based in Phuket really keeps things chill and enjoyable.

Our Favourite Sailing Routes

Here are some of two the day sailing itineraries, which we follow and love: 

1-Day Phang Nga Bay Escape (Scenery & Culture):

• Morning: Set off from Ao Po Marina and head to Koh Phanak, where limestone cliffs hide secret caves and lagoons. Take a dinghy or kayak through the sea caves (best at low tide).
• Midday: Visit the iconic James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) before the big tourist boats arrive.
• Lunch: Stop at Koh Panyee, the floating fishing village built on stilts. Try a local seafood restaurant for authentic flavours.
• Afternoon: Sail towards Koh Hong (Phang Nga), known for its beautiful lagoon and calm waters—perfect for a swim or paddle before returning to Phuket.

1-Day Phi Phi Highlights (Beaches & Snorkelling): 

• Morning: Depart early and cruise toward the Phi Phi Islands. First stop: Maya Bay (no anchoring allowed, but cruising by is magical). Then head to Pi Leh Lagoon for a swim in its natural pool.

• Midday: Drop anchor near Phi Phi Don for a beachside lunch, or head ashore to try a small local eatery.
  Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day snorkelling around Bida Nok/Bida Nai or relaxing at Loh Dalum Bay, before sailing back to Phuket in the late afternoon

Easy Tips Before You Head Out

1) Park fees are about 400 THB per person per day. Make sure to bring some cash.

2) Mooring Buoys: You’ll be looking at around 200–500 THB in a few bays. Totally worth it to keep coral reefs safe.

3) Grab some ice, water, and drinks before you start your adventure. Sometimes it becomes difficult to find ice and other beverages, depending on the location you are cruising to.

4) For staying connected, pick up a local AIS or TrueMove SIM card at the airport. It’s a great way to get affordable data and coverage.

5) Go with a fully chartered yacht, they have everything you need from beach towels to cold water, and even most of the charter companies in Phuket provide lunch, refreshments and snacks on the way, so you can focus more on enjoyment rather than planning routes, food, tidal waters, locations and others. 

Why should you trust us? 

This guide is written by Richard, a seasoned yachting enthusiast who has been living in Phuket for the last 20 years and has visited all the islands with his 45ft catamaran. He also runs a local travel agency and takes on average five people to the sea with his partner companies.