Phuket sits at the gateway to some of the most spectacular island scenery in Southeast Asia. With a private yacht you dictate the pace, the stops, and the crowd — or complete lack of it. Here are the five routes our guests return to time and again.
1. Phang Nga Bay
The undisputed icon. Towering limestone karsts rising from jade-green water, hidden sea caves at Koh Panak, the dramatic Hong Island lagoon, and James Bond Island made famous by The Man with the Golden Gun. It works beautifully in all seasons since the bay is sheltered from the southwest monsoon. Allow a full 8 hours to do it justice and arrive at each stop before the longtail crowd.
2. Phi Phi Islands
Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach. The turquoise water clarity here is exceptional and the cliff scenery is genuinely dramatic. Best November to April when seas are flat. Allow 8 to 9 hours from Phuket. An early 7:30am departure lets you reach Maya Bay before the tour boats and have the beach almost to yourselves.
3. Khai Islands and Maiton
The ideal family day trip. Three small islands clustered together with white sand beaches, calm shallow water, and easy snorkelling straight off the beach. Maiton is a private island with a pristine bay — virtually no crowds outside of peak season. Great for mixed-age groups and first-timers. Allow 6 to 8 hours.
4. Racha Islands
Racha Yai and Racha Noi consistently offer the best underwater visibility around Phuket, often exceeding 20 metres. Deep blue water, healthy coral, and peaceful beaches with far fewer visitors than Phi Phi. Racha Noi requires a longer fuel run and is best on a larger, faster vessel. A snorkeller or diver's dream route.
5. Koh Hong and Krabi
Emerald lagoons enclosed by sheer limestone walls. The Koh Hong ring lagoon at high tide is one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles in Thailand. Less commercialised than Phi Phi with a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-track feel. Kayaking through the sea caves is a highlight. Allow a full day and plan arrival at mid to high tide for the best lagoon access.
Common questions
What is the best island hopping route from Phuket?
Phang Nga Bay is the undisputed icon, with towering limestone karsts, the hidden sea caves at Koh Panak, the Hong Island lagoon and James Bond Island. It works in all seasons because the bay is sheltered from the southwest monsoon.
When should you sail to Phi Phi from Phuket?
Phi Phi is best from November to April when seas are flat. Allow eight to nine hours from Phuket, and take an early 7:30am departure to reach Maya Bay before the tour boats arrive.
Which island hopping route is best for families?
The Khai Islands and Maiton: three small islands clustered together with white sand beaches, calm shallow water and easy snorkelling straight off the beach. Maiton is a private island with virtually no crowds outside peak season.
Where is the best snorkelling near Phuket?
Racha Yai and Racha Noi consistently offer the best underwater visibility around Phuket, often exceeding 20 metres, with deep blue water, healthy coral and far fewer visitors than Phi Phi.
