Thailand’s Andaman coast pairs the sheltered bays of southern Phuket with two of the country’s most protected marine parks, Mu Ko Similan and Mu Ko Surin. This 7 day, 6 night yacht charter departs from Nai Harn on Phuket’s south coast and finishes at Ao Po Grand Marina on the island’s northeast shore, tracing a route north through the Andaman Sea. Guests spend the early days snorkelling and diving around Ko Racha Yai’s clear lagoon before heading further offshore to the granite islands of the Similans, then continue north to Ko Bon and Koh Tachai for a chance to sight manta rays and reef sharks.
The route reaches its northern point at Ko Surin Nuea, home to a Moken sea gypsy community on the neighbouring island, before turning back south through Phuket to Ao Po. Both national parks operate on a fixed season, open from mid October to mid May, so timing is a key part of planning this route. Days on board mix long snorkel and dive sessions with quieter time at anchor, and the pace favours guests who want a genuine wilderness feel rather than a string of beach clubs and marinas.