The unspoiled West Coast & The Similans
| Description |
From Phuket to the harbour of Thap Lamu, the islands north of Takua Pa and the border town of Ranong is an Andaman wonderland of largely undeveloped beaches and tranquil islands, with the Similan and Surin island groups the gems of The unspoiled West Coast & The Similans the area, presenting an exquisite contrast to the towering limestone monoliths of the Phang-nga Krabi region.
The Similan Islands
Here, huge granite boulders tell of an entirely different geological process to that which created Phang-nga Bay. Astonishing smooth, weatherworn rocks the size of cars and houses tumble down the islands' shorelines, looking like the leftover playthings of a mystical giant. Plummeting 35 meters and more to the seabed, these rocks create a phenomenal underwater world that has been a magnet to divers for years. The crystal-clear water is legendary, while the coral reefs are reputed to be the most colorful and diverse in Thailand.
On the surface, the huge boulders blend seamlessly with lush forest and sparkling white sandy beaches, while the waters surrounding the islands teem with tropical fish, including Whale Sharks and Mantas – even the legendary Black Marlin.
The Surin Islands
Sail 50 nautical miles to the north and you enter a marine national park, the Surin Islands, the closest Thai islands to Burmese waters – but a long step back in time. The Surins are uninhabited except for a few rangers and the ‘Lion Tribe' of ‘sea gypsies', a nomadic sea people who continue a primitive way of life to this day.
For them, time is a vague concept. None knows his own age or can count beyond the fingers on his hand, yet they can hew an ocean-going boat using only the most basic tools, catch fish by hand, and are renowned for their talents as deep divers without scuba gear. For visiting yachtsmen too, the Surins can make time stand still, can make you contemplate staying forever.
| When to Go |
From May through to October, the southwest monsoon brings with it reliable winds averaging 12 knots. Spells of brilliant clear blue skies are interspersed with occasional showers – and temperatures are never lower than 25'C.
Phuket Race Week, held in July each year, is timed to take advantage of the green season’s perfect sailing weather and presents the perfect opportunity to combine a few days yacht racing with cruising Phang-nga Bay under sail.
| Routes |
| Access |
Boat Lagoon Marina is 20km from the airport. Our reservation & main offices.
Getting to Phuket from abroad
There are several direct flights between Phuket and international destinations, e.g. Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Penang, Singapore, and Sydney.
Dragon Air, Malaysia Airlines, Silk Airand Singapore Airlines also operate international flights connecting Phuket with other destinations. Please call airline offices for more details.
Transportation to and from the airport
Phuket International Airport is located approximately 30 kilometers north of the city, tel. 076 327230. Taxis between Phuket City and the airport costs approximately 400 bahts but the fare to the beach ranges between 500 bahts and 600 bahts (The rate may decline now). Minivans charge approximately 80 bahts /person to town, but 120 bahts/person to Patong, Kata and Karon Beaches. Phuket Limousine (tel. 076 248596), located approximately 1 kilometer west of the city, operates hourly shuttles to the airport from 6.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.
By bus
Air-conditionedditioned and non air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal for Phuket several times daily. Trips by air-conditioned bus, which normally leaves in the evening, take about 13 hours.
Call 0 2434 7192, 0 2435 1199 or visit www.transport.co.th for more information.
By car
From Bangkok, take Highway No.4 (Phetchakasem Road) through Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani and Phang-nga Provinces, then cross the Thep Krasattri Bridge or Sarasin Bridge to Phuket Island. The total distance is 862 kilometers and the travel time is approximately 12 hours.
By rail
There is no direct train service to Phuket. Travelers arriving by train must get off at Phun Phin Railway Station in Surat Thani Province and continue by regular bus to Phuket. For more information, call the State Railway of Thailand, 1690, 0 2223 7010, or 0 2223 7020.
By Ferry
During the high season, travelers may opt to get to Phuket from Ko Phi Phi and Ko Lanta (both are in Krabi Province). Few ports in Phuket provide this service with fares ranging between 300 bahts and 500bahts. The trip may take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on weather conditions.
| Back to Top>> |
|
|