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Thailand, often called the "Land of Smiles", is unique in South East Asia in that it was never colonised, this has contributed to a strong and independent cultural identity.
Historical background
Ancient times: The region has been inhabited for thousands of years during which time it has been shaped by various chieftainships and kingdoms, by the Dvaravati and Khmer empires as well as by significant influences from India and China. The Sukhothai kingdom (13th century): Often considered Thailand’s first proper, fully formed monarchy. The foundations for modern Thai culture and the Thai language were laid in this period. The Ayutthaya kingdom (1350–1767): A once mighty city state which ruled large areas of South East Asia and was an important centre for commerce and culture. It was destroyed by an invading Burmese army, this led to Bangkok becoming the new capital. The Ratanakosin period (from 1782): The monarchy was gradually able to adapt and to reform, keeping its capital city at Bangkok. Significantly, the Thais were also able to retain their national sovereignty throughout the entire colonial period. Modern times: Thailand has developed in to a modern nation state, with a constitutional monarchy, a strong national economy and a rich culture. Today it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia.
Culture and traditions
Thai culture is shaped by Buddhism, respect for the monarchy and the royal house, colourful festivals and warm hospitality.
Important cultural highlights
Traditions and festivals
Summary
Thailand is a country where the beauty of nature coexists harmoniously with a very rich cultural heritage. The country’s Buddhist traditions, friendly population and colourful festivals provide for a unique experience. Sailing in Thai coastal waters involves exploring tropical islands, crystal clear waters and historical sites – all with a warm and very welcoming atmosphere. Here’s a detailed description of Thailand’s foremost sailing regions, with wind, weather and a suggested 7 day itinerary for each and including sailing distances as well as highlights to experience at every stop.
Sailing regions in Thailand
1. Phuket and the Andaman Sea
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and the main base for sailing in the Andaman Sea. It’s a region of beautiful chalk cliffs, jungle covered islands, hidden lagoons and crystal clear waters.
Popular islands: The Phi Phi islands, the Similan islands, Koh Racha, Koh Yao Noi and Phang Nga Bay.
2. The Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao)
More tropical and calmer water when compared to the Andaman sea, with great snorkelling opportunities and lush vegetation.
Popular islands: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan (known for its full moon parties), Koh Tao (a diving paradise).
7-day sailing itinerary in the Andaman Sea (based on Phuket)
| Day | Route | Distance (nm) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Phuket → Koh Racha Yai | 20 nm | Chalk white beaches, snorkelling in clear waters. |
| 2 | Koh Racha Yai → Koh Phi Phi | 30 nm | Maya Bay, snorkelling, beautiful nature. |
| 3 | Koh Phi Phi → Koh Lanta | 20 nm | Pristine nature, calm beaches. |
| 4 | Koh Lanta → Ao Nang (Krabi) | 15 nm | Chalk cliffs, shopping, restaurants. |
| 5 | Ao Nang → Koh Hong | 10 nm | A nature reserve, lagoon, perfect for kayaking. |
| 6 | Koh Hong → Phang Nga Bay | 15 nm | Captivating limestone architecture, grottoes. |
| 7 | Phang Nga Bay → Phuket | 20 nm | Back to Phuket, relaxation and a trip to town. |
Day by day description
Day 1: Phuket → Koh Racha Yai (20 nm) Start in Phuket and sail Southwards towards Koh Racha Yai, a beautiful island with chalk white beaches and clear waters. Perfect for snorkelling and for your first chance to relax properly. Activities: Snorkelling, swimming, dinner on the beach. Day 2: Koh Racha Yai → Koh Phi Phi (30 nm) Continue on to the world-renowned Koh Phi Phi with its dramatic chalk cliffs and white sand beaches. Don’t miss Maya Bay (from the film The Beach). Activities: hiking, snorkelling and exploring grottoes. Day 3: Koh Phi Phi → Koh Lanta (20 nm) Sail onwards to Koh Lanta, a calmer island with pristine nature, good beaches and a relaxed tempo. Activities: Cycle tours, visiting local villages, enjoying the sunsets. Day 4: Koh Lanta → Ao Nang (15 nm) Go on shore in Ao Nang, a popular tourist town in Krabi, with restaurants, shopping and good options for the evening. Activities: Shopping, food experiences, walking along the beach. Day 5: Ao Nang → Koh Hong (10 nm) Visit Koh Hong, a National Park with beautiful lagoons and rock formations. Exceptional for kayaking and snorkelling. Activities: Kayaking, snorkelling and exploring nature. Day 6: Koh Hong → Phang Nga Bay (15 nm) Phang Nga Bay is known for its spectacular limestone cliffs which rise sheer out of the water. Grottoes and lagoons are also waiting to be explored. Activities: Boat excursions in the grottoes, kayaking, photography. Day 7: Phang Nga Bay → Phuket (20 nm) Return to Phuket to rest, to visit restaurants and to do some sightseeing in the city. Activities: City walks, temple visits, markets.
Total distance: ca 130 nautical miles.
The Gulf of Thailand – 7 day sailing itinerary (Koh Samui region)
| Day | Route | Distance (nm) | Highlights and activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Koh Samui → Koh Phangan | 12 nm | White sand beaches, full moon parties, snorkelling. |
| 2 | Koh Phangan → Koh Tao | 15 nm | Fantastic waters for diving and snorkelling, a calm atmosphere. |
| 3 | Koh Tao → Koh Nang Yuan | 3 nm | A small, private island with beautiful beaches and snorkelling. |
| 4 | Koh Nang Yuan → Koh Samui | 18 nm | Return to Koh Samui, visit the temples and markets. |
| 5 | Koh Samui → Ang Thong National Park | 20 nm | A group of chalk and limestone islands, lagoons, kayaking. |
| 6 | Ang Thong → Koh Phangan | 25 nm | Relaxation, beach time, local nightlife. |
| 7 | Koh Phangan → Koh Samui | 12 nm | Back at base, swimming and sunbathing, a visit to a restaurant. |
Day by day description
Day 1: Koh Samui → Koh Phangan (12 nm) Sail to the deep green island of Koh Phangan, famous for its full moon parties and yet also for its quiet beaches elsewhere. Activities: Swim at Haad Yuan or at Haad Rin, snorkel and enjoy local food. Day 2: Koh Phangan → Koh Tao (15 nm) A short sail to Koh Tao, one of Thailand’s foremost diving destinations, with crystal clear waters and colourful coral reefs. Activities: Diving, snorkelling and hiking to viewpoints. Day 3: Koh Tao → Koh Nang Yuan (3 nm) Visit the small, private island of Koh Nang Yuan, known for its white sand beaches and snorkelling very close to shore. Activities: Swim with tropical fishes, enjoy peace and quiet. Day 4: Koh Nang Yuan → Koh Samui (18 nm) Return to Koh Samui for more city life and cultural experiences. Visit the Big Buddha temple or the night market at Fisherman’s Village. Activities: Sightseeing, shopping, spa. Day 5: Koh Samui → Ang Thong National Park (20 nm) Ang Thong is a group of 42 islands with limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons and grottoes – it’s perfect for nature lovers. Activities: Kayaking, hiking and snorkelling. Day 6: Ang Thong → Koh Phangan (25 nm) Sail back to Koh Phangan for a little relaxation after your adventure in the National Park. Activities: Beach time, local food, music. Day 7: Koh Phangan → Koh Samui (12 nm) The final stage back to Koh Samui. Take the opportunity to enjoy the beach or to relax before your departure. Activities: relaxation, good food, souvenir shopping. Total distance: ca 105 nautical miles.
