Yacht charter in Phuket, Thailand

Most charters depart from Royal Phuket Marina or Ao Po Grand Marina on the east coast — both are 25–40 minutes from Phuket International Airport. Some speedboat charters launch from Chalong Pier in the south, which provides faster access to Coral Island and Racha Yai. Boarding usually starts 30 minutes before departure.

Top half-day routes: Coral Island, Racha Yai, Maithon. Top full-day routes: Phi Phi Islands & Maya Bay (1.5h cruise), James Bond Island & Phang Nga Bay (1h), Similan Islands (3h, season only). Overnight charters typically combine Phi Phi + Krabi or sail south to Koh Lanta.

By speedboat: 45–60 minutes. By motor catamaran (most common): 1.5–2 hours each way. By sailing yacht: 2.5–3 hours. Plan for 8–9 hours total round trip including swimming, snorkeling and lunch — this is why Phi Phi works as a full-day rather than half-day charter.

Yes. Maya Bay reopened in 2022 after restoration. Access is regulated: the inner beach has a daily visitor cap and fee (฿400 per adult), and yachts anchor in Loh Samah Bay on the opposite side. Sunrise and late-afternoon visits avoid peak crowds. Most full-day Phi Phi charters include Maya Bay as a stop.

Phang Nga Bay is on the eastern side of Phuket, closer to Ao Po Marina. The signature stops are Koh Tapu (James Bond Island, from The Man with the Golden Gun), Koh Panyee (a stilt fishing village), and the limestone hongs (sea caves). Best explored by motor yacht with a tender or by sea kayak from a parent yacht.

Yes — Similan and Surin National Marine Parks are closed annually from May to October. Phi Phi Marine Park has visitor caps at Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon. Drone use requires permits in some marine parks. Your captain will know all current restrictions and route accordingly — this is one reason crewed charters are mandatory in Thailand.