Sailing and Boating

One of the great ways to enjoy Phuket is sailing in the many beautiful bays. There is no shortage of yacht operators and boat clubs. There is something to suit everybody. Activities range from sailing lessons through yacht charters to dinner cruises. Here is a selection to whet your appetite:
Sunsail Thailand offers a large and varied selection of yachts for charter. They also run a dedicated Sailing School which offers courses catering for all skill levels from beginner upwards. These are affordable and conveniently scheduled. See their website for more details at www.sunsailthailand.com or call +66 (0)76 239057.

Spend quality time exploring all the beauty and activities which the Andaman has to offer with luxury yacht operator - Tawan Cruises. Visit www.tawancruises.com or call +66 (0)81 894 3234 for more information.

Treat yourself to that dream cruise courtesy of Boat Lagoon Yachting Charter. Check out www.boatlagoonyachting.co.th or ring +66 (0)76 238708 for further details of the package.

Andaman Sea Club charters are great value for money. Pretty much everything is included in their day charter price. For more information contact chris@andaman-sea-club.com or rolien@andaman-sea-club.com, or call 08 6045 4634 (Chris), +66 (0)85 069 0940.

Horse Riding

If you are here with your family, horse riding is a relaxing and romantic way for you all to explore Phuket's natural scenery. In contrast, a brisk canter along the beach is most invigorating.
There are two clubs on the island:

Phuket International Horse Club, easily spotted at the entrance to Laguna Resort, and is open seven days a week from 8am until 6pm. Tel: +66 (0)76 324199 or +66 (0)76 324099.

Phuket Riding Club is located in the southern part of the island on the road to Rawai Beach, and offers riding tuition for all levels of ability including children. The Club is open daily from 7am until 6.30pm. Tel: +66 (0)76 288213.

Phuket Butterfly Garden

This is a place of endless educational possibilities. Here you can learn more about the miraculous miniature world of insects and butterflies. Relax in the garden where there are literally thousands of butterflies filling the air or busy seeking pollen among the tropical blooms.

Apart from this garden, a separate area is devoted to the insect world in which you can view an extensive collection of insect specimens and live insects. This is a fantastic place for families with small children but the garden is also a serene retreat for those who seek a romantic arbour to relax with a loved one.

Located in Soi Paneung in the Sam Kong area, the garden is a 5-minute drive from Tesco Lotus. Take the road towards Phuket City and it is on the left-hand side. There is a large sign indicating the turning. Entrance for children under 10 years is 150 baht, adults & kids over 10 years pay 300 baht. Open daily from 9am until 5pm (last admission). For more information ring +66 (0)76 210861 or visit www.phuketbutterfly.com