Phuket is the charter base for the Andaman Sea and one of the two cruising grounds in Asia with a real bareboat fleet. The limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay north of it and the islands south toward Phi Phi and Krabi are the week, the water is warm all year, and the monsoon decides everything about when you go.
Sailing charter Thailand: what a week costs
Sunsail states on its own Phuket page that its sailing holidays start at £1,947 for a 7 day charter during the off-peak season, and that peak season charters start at £3,600 for the same seven days, adding that neither includes flights or spending. The Moorings states a Thailand range from a starting price of $4,899 to $26,999 for a 7 day charter for 2 people. Between them that is a clear picture of a mid-priced cruising ground.
The two monsoons
The northeast monsoon from November to April is the season: settled weather, light winds and flat water, and it is when the fleets are busy and the prices peak. The southwest monsoon from May to October brings rain, swell on the West Coast and a genuine drop in rates, which is what Sunsail's off-peak figure describes. Chartering in the low season is possible and the bays on the east side stay usable.
Where a Phuket boat charter week goes
North into Phang Nga Bay for the karst islands, the hongs and the sea caves, which is the scenery Thailand is chartered for; or south to Phi Phi, Krabi and the Racha islands for the beaches and the diving. Distances are short, the water is sheltered inside the bay, and the wind in the northeast monsoon is light enough that a good deal of the week is motoring.
What to expect of the sailing
Gentle, and that is the point. This is not a wind destination: the appeal is the anchorages, the limestone and the warm water, and crews who come for the sailing rather than the scenery are often disappointed. It suits families, first charters and anyone who wants a catamaran at anchor more than a boat on the wind.
Questions people ask about sailing around phuket
How much is a yacht charter in Phuket?
Sunsail states its Phuket holidays start at £1,947 for a 7 day charter off-peak and £3,600 in peak season; The Moorings states a Thailand range from $4,899 to $26,999 for a 7 day charter for 2. Both read on 11 September 2026.
When is the Phuket sailing season?
The northeast monsoon from November to April: settled weather, light winds and flat water. The southwest monsoon from May to October brings rain and swell, and rates fall accordingly.
Where do you sail from Phuket?
North into Phang Nga Bay for the karst islands and sea caves, or south to Phi Phi, Krabi and the Racha islands. Distances are short and the bay is sheltered.
Is Phuket good for sailing or for anchoring?
Anchoring. The wind in the main season is light and much of the week is under motor; the appeal is the limestone, the bays and the warm water.