Sample Itinerary
DAY 1
Board your yacht at the northeast end of Phuket island and leisurely cruise to nearby Ko Yai island. Here you can relax and recuperate from your jet lag while the more energetic can explore the caves here and on nearby Ko Phanak island.
DAYS 2 & 3
Ko Yai island is located on the southern end of Phang Nga Bay, the spectacular limestone-studded bay which achieved fame as the setting for one of the James Bond films. In fact one of the many hundreds of outcrops rising sheer from the water is Ko Phing Kan, more popularly known as James Bond Island. You might like to take an interesting side trip up the Klong Khao Thalu River past the fishing village of Ko Pannyi, a tiny village built entirely on stilts. Further up is historic Khao Khain (Cave of Writings). The wall paintings here are said to be over 3,000 years old.
DAYS 4 & 5
You will need to depart fairly promptly for the legendary islands of Ko Phi Phi nestled amid turquoise seas. Though there are only two of them, the anchorages are splendid. Many of the people here do not speak English and so you will get a chance to glimpse life as it has always been in a traditional fishing village. From the Ton Sai Pier on Phi Phi Don, paths circle the entire circumference of the island. Climb up to the top for a spectacular view of the two bays. The uninhabited island of Phi Phi Le is one of the world's major sources of bird's nests of the kind used to make the celebrated Chinese delicacy. The men who gather the nests climb up rickety bamboo towers inside dark and huge caves in order to gather the swallow nests high in the dark.
DAY 6
Just a short run from the Phi Phi Islands are the beautiful white sand beaches of Ao Nang and Ao Phra Nang. For more demanding exercise, there is yet another cave to explore,plus a long climb along a wooden walkway for another spectacular viewpoint. Another steeper path leads to a hidden saltwater lagoon where ropes are provided for guidance. Tough shoes and a tolerance for heights are advocated.
DAYS 7 & 8
From Ao Nang, you can anchor in a secluded harbour with white sand beaches on the island of Koh Racha Yai. This stunning, uninhabited island is perfect for snorkelling and other pleasurable water activities.
DAYS 9 & IO
The nine uninhabited islands that comprise the Similans are washed by the deep, calm waters of the Andaman Sea. Underneath lies the real beauty. The waters surrounding the archipelago support a wealth of marine life and is considered one of the best diving locations in the world. Fishing is good here too.
DAYS 11 & 12 North of the Similans are the islands that make up the Surin National Park. The chief attraction here are fine corals, sea turtles and crystal clear water.
DAY 13
Travel all night is necessary to get back to Phuket and a final day lounging in the sun and enjoying the fine restaurants on the island.
