Phuket, the gem of the Andaman Sea, has already made a name for itself as one of Southeast Asia’s premier sailing destinations. The island attracts a range of seagoing visitors, from luxury yacht owners through to sailing enthusiasts who opt to charter a craft for a few days to explore the unspoilt islands off Phuket’s coast. The King’s Cup Regatta, held every December, is a magnet for world-class yachting competitors from across the world and is undoubtedly one of the reasons why Phuket’s yachting scene has become so strong. The island boasts a total of four main marinas – Royal Phuket Marina, Boat Lagoon, Yacht Haven and the Ao Po Marina – and with each of these well-equipped marinas just a short sail away from countless sublime island destinations, it is no wonder that Phuket’s offshore attractions are set to become ever more popular.
Boat Lagoon
Boat Lagoon, which was the island’s very first marina complex, is located right next door to Royal Phuket Marina, and offers a fully-serviced facility just 20 minutes' drive from Phuket International Airport, making it another convenient destination for yachties that arrived on the island by air. Boat Lagoon has made a name for itself as one of Phuket’s finest dining destinations thanks to its collection of waterside eateries, including La Taverna, Watermark, The Baker, The Gallery and Spice Island. Sailors can also find everyday essential amenities including a bank and a supermarket.
Royal Phuket Marina
Royal Phuket Marina is a destination in itself. Situated in a prime position right in the middle of Phuket’s Eastern Seaboard, this marina has claimed its reputation as the Gateway to Phang Nga Bay, a serene stretch of ocean which offers some of Thailand’s smoothest sailing. Celebrated as Thailand’s first ‘luxury and lifestyle marina’, RPM comprises no less than 250 berths for yachts measuring up to 35 metres. The marina’s sophisticated yachting infrastructure includes a boat lock, a non-tidal deep water basin and private moorings, all on the doorstep of plush private residences. For non-sailors, the facilities on The Fisherman’s Wharf waterfront promenade include restaurants, bars, cafes and shopping boutiques.
Ao Po Marina
Phuket’s Ao Po Marina is also strategically situated for visitors looking to make the most of Phang Nga Bay’s superb sailing grounds. The marina, which comprises a total of 200 berths, is able to accommodate yachts measuring up to 80 metres in length. Another advantage of Ao Po Marina is that it has no tide restrictions. The marina will soon also boast a luxury hotel, private residences and two man-made lagoons. Access to the berths at Ao Po is particularly convenient, as transportation via golf buggy is available.
Yacht Haven
Conveniently situated at Laem Phro, close to Phuket's main deep channel access from the Andaman Sea, Yacht Haven Marina is also ideal thanks to its proximity to Phuket International Airport, making it the perfect choice for visitors that want to get straight to sea after touch down. The marina is home to 150 berths for yachts measuring up to 60 metres and also has fuel, water and provisioning services. Yacht Haven is also home to a selection of apartments for rent on a short term basis, as well as a convenient local supermarket and The Haven restaurant, which serves a menu of home cooked comfort food. The Deck Restaurant, which overlooks the ocean, is also a fine place to grab a bite to eat.
Posted by Max Vee