Monolithic granite boulders plummet precipitously into the limpid depths, turning this underwater world into a sublime mystical place of exploration. It was a spectacular snorkel as we meandered around boulders and through caves sharing our journey with hundred of fish.
Finally we were in Thailand in the right season. In fact since leaving Australian waters over a year ago, this was the first time we had been sailing in an area at the “right” time. What does the “right” time mean? Well it means it is dry season, therefore not so much rain and not as humid… and more tourists. But for sailors the “right” time, in Thailand, means you are able to explore the west coast of Thailand and visit islands such as Koh Phayam, Koh Surin and Koh Similan, because the prevailing wind is from the north east and you therefore have some protected anchorages to use on the west coast.
We spent a fabulous week snorkelling and diving in the Tarutao National Marine Park. Our favourite spots included Koh Chuku (aka Koh Khai), Koh Lipe and Koh Yang. The snorkelling was great! The corals and marine life were impressive and we spent hours exploring a number of the many snorkelling sites the Tarutao National Marine Park has to offer.
This picturesque gem, south of Phuket, held us captivated for the duration of our stay. What began as a one night stopover ended up being a five night stay. The crystal clear water, with its myriad of aquatic life, so enticed us that, between lazing in the hammock and barbecuing on the beach, we spent the majority of our time snorkelling through the coral gardens. The sea life was extraordinary. We saw a shark, sea snake, moray eels, large titan triggerfish, angelfish, pufferfish, moorish idols, large parrotfish, clownfish and so much more…
In part two of Cruising Phuket we explored the hongs of Phang Nga Bay. Now in part three we head south in search of crystal clear water, and snorkelling opportunities, before hitting Patong for some nightlife!… How does an inconvenient birthday celebration effect our joyous time?
Elephant Tourism – Make an informed decision before you ride an elephant. There is a disturbing history of abuse that the elephant endured.
One of the most stunning features of the Phang Nga Bay area is, undoubtedly, the limestone karsts which jut dramatically from the emerald green sea. The karsts give the area its complicated and mystical beauty. These karsts are often covered or partially covered with lush vegetation, and the bases of these karsts are honeycombed with astonishing caves and aquatic grottos known as hongs in Thai. Many hongs can be explored via kayak or canoe, and some, at low tide, can be traversed on foot. To my mind they are a must see. They are mystical, beautiful and wondrous…
Phuket Islands, palm trees, & barbecues on the white sand beaches, monkeys & giant buddhas. Sailing Phuket, Koh Phi Phi Don & Railay Bay.
Sailing from Langkawi to Ao Chalong in Phuket was our first experience sailing into Thailand waters and clearing customs and immigration at Ao Chalong. Once there, we had to get into our chores… i.e. find a supermarket, laundry, scooter hire, fuel and an engineer! But first we get to explore some of the beautiful Thai islands…
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