The sheer-sided sea mountains that rise vertically out of Phang Nga Bay form some of Thailand’s most spectacular scenery. Images of Phang Nga have travelled the world and shaped perceptions of southern Thailand, and the boating experiences to be had here. As a result the cruising yachtsman may encounter many tour boats with sea canoes during the middle hours of the day but tranquility does return by late afternoon

While the bay itself is not so large, the number of islands, inlets and mangrove channels to be explored ensure that no matter how long a yachtsman spends here, new experiences will always be nearby.

We list only 21 of the many anchorages in this area. Much of the joy of Sailing in Phang Nga, after all, lies in discovering the uncounted creeks, caves and coves for yourself. Most inslands are uninhabited, offering secluded anchorages under soaring cliffs fringed with jungle, as well as fascinating dinghy expeditions to hidden beaches, caves and creeks not shown on charts or maps.

Three rivers run into the head of the bay so the water is silty, though ortherwise clean, forming a milky green backdrop to the striking scenery.

Since a large part of the area north of Koh Yao is shallow (less than 10 metres), it is possible to anchor virtually anywhere in north Phang Nga Bay. This chapter, then, focuses only on the more suitable overnight anchorages-those which provide shelter from the squalls and storms which can hit unexpectedly, particularly in the southwest monsoon season.

Phang Nga Bay - Ed Shiels

Some of the area covered by this section is National Park and rangers patrol around the islands. The entry feel is 200 Baht per boat and 200 Baht per day per person on board, which is collected on the spot.

Reasonably well sheltered, particularly in the southwest season, this anchorage is in five metres on a muddy bottom, tucked in 100 metres southwest of the small rocky outcroop.

the Paradise Koh Yao is a boutique resort nestled in the palm trees behind the beach. There is a floating dinghy jetty in the north of the bay and yachties are welcome to use the restaurant ashore. There is a regular transfer speedboat to The Yacht Haven several times each day.

The bay just to the north, Ao Pho Noi, is great for dinghy excursions, and features several small beaches for landing and swimming against a backdrop of mangroves overhung by towering limestone cliffs. Ashore there are plans for an exclusive boutique resort.

This is a pretty anchorage on the outer fringe of a deep bay backed by mangrove swamps and flat ground. Anchor well out in the bay in 4-5 metres and allow enough swinging room to accommodate an onshore breeze.

The northwest bay offer protection in both seasons, with good holding on a muddy bottom.

Dinghy trips ashore are possible at high tide, where there is a beach with a few huts at the back of the bay. The bay dries a considerable distance from the beach at low tide

The new 56 Pool Villa Evason Hideaway Six Senses Spa at Yao Noi is the fist ultra-luxury hotel to be built on the island . Situated on a small all-tide beach between Ao Muang and Long Beach this property brings a new level of luxury to this once sleepy island. The established Koh Yao Island Resort is just south past the headland and there is a walkway through the mangroves at the back of the outcrop joining the properties.

Anchor in 8-10 metres on the muddy bottom in front of either of these stylish boutique hotels.

The more rustic Long Beach and Sabai Corner bungalows to the south also have small restaurants but their beaches are fringed with drying coral banks at low tide.

For more Information about Andaman Sea Pilot, contact: pilot@image-asia.com

Evason Hideaway, Koh Yao Noi - Bill O’Leary