Bali / Indonesia:

An incredibly mystical part of the world, Bali offers volcanic scenery, wonderful diverse cultures, arts, temples and a well developed western infrastructure including international airport, luxury hotels and excellent food and nightlife.  With all this to enjoy, Bali is also the perfect place to start a cruise on a luxury boat to discover some of the more than 17 000 islands of Indonesia.  These include Lombok, the Komodo National Park and remote areas of the Banda Sea and the Raja Ampat.

Being the largest archipelago, straddling the equator with over 80 000 km of coastline to explore, many of the islands are remote and uninhabited.  They have an amazing variety of volcanic scenery, marine life, enticing cultures, as well as sailing and diverse marine diving adventures to experience.

If you are sailing this region you will find it is very under-developed compared to the better known destinations in Asia and around the world.  However, yachts that do operate in these waters are often luxurious and well-equipped.  They offer an incomparable range of experiences from night life of Bali, to the fauna of 2 continents.

The Banda Islands and Raja Ampat lies northeast from Flores into the Banda Sea.  This truly incredible sailing and diving spot is made up of a small group of islands in the middle of nowhere.  This has resulted in an incredibly healthy and untouched marine life with huge volumes and varieties of large and small fish species and sea fans, sponges and hard corals.    On land the islands mountains are covered in tropical rainforest.  Some of these mountains can be climbed for those feeling a little energetic.

Thailand:

With over 3000 km of coastline, Thailand offers some of the most exotic yacht charter destinations in the world.  Beautiful beaches, amazing rock formations, spectacular diving and snorkeling are just a few of the attractions.  The warm smiles of the Thai people will make you feel welcome wherever you may be.

Some of the more popular charter areas that are accessible from Thailand are Phuket, the Andaman Islands, Koh Samui and Koh Chang.

7 Days in Thailand

Day 1:  Phang Nga Bay

A suggested departure point for a 7-day cruise from Phuket would be the Yacht Haven Marina, on the northeastern corner of the island.  Just 15 minutes from Phuket International Airport, it is convenient and hassle free.

Once on board, cruise to Phang Nga Bay, famous for it’s 100 or so monolithic limestone kast islets, the incredible scenery will leave you breathless, and the area is classed as a World Heritage Site.  A fabulous place to kayak among the islands and visit a traditional stilted Muslim Shing Village called Koh Panyi.

Day 2 & 3:  Krabi Province

Not far from Phang Nga is the Province of Krabi, again very similar to Phang Nga Bay, Krabi also offers stunning limestone islands, however, Krabi is also home to some of the most beautiful soft white beaches with clear water good for snorkeling and scuba diving.  Within the coastal boundaries of Krabi lie some dream islands. Phi Phi Lay and Phi Phi Don are probably the most popular, but if you are interested in going a little further south you will find Lanta Yai and Lanta Noi Islands that offer great dive sites.

Day 4 & 5:  Patong Bay

A chance to stretch your legs and get in a little shopping, Patong Bay is always a popular outing.  The vibrant street atmosphere, massage parlors, restaurants, jewelry are all part of the Patong culture.  Evenings ashore offer a night of extraordinary shows and cabaret acts.  For the golf lover, Patong has 5 championship standard golf courses and top quality spas.

Day 6:  Similan Islands

The Similan Islands lie approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Phuket in the Andaman Sea.  These 9 small islands were declared a Marine National Park and have since become one of the leading attractions of Southern Thailand.  Rated as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world, a scuba divers paradise where Manta Rays, Whale Sharks and other popular pelagic’ can be found.  Not to be missed are the beaches, snorkeling and swimming, and small treks that allow you to explore this beautiful area.

Day 7:  Surin Islands

Also in the Andaman Sea and just off the mainland Ranong Province, the park’s five islands lie just south of the Burmese border.  Koh Surin Nua and Koh Surin Tai, separated by a narrow strait are the two main islands.   Once again world class diving is within easy reach, as well as the beaches for swimming and snorkeling.  Monkeys and wildlife inhabit the islands and can be seen swinging through the lush trees and vegetation.  A visit to the Moken Sea Gypsy Village is also enjoyed by all.

An overnight cruise to Phuket’s Pansea Beach makes for a good place for the guests to depart the next day.