Phuket Guide: Luxury Yacht Charter in Phuket

Known as “The Pearl of the Andaman,” Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and the undisputed heart of its yachting scene. World-class marinas, stunning beaches, rich culture, and easy access to some of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular cruising grounds make Phuket the natural starting point for any luxury yacht charter in Thailand.

From sleek motor yachts cruising to Phi Phi in under two hours and spacious luxury catamarans gliding into shallow Andaman bays, to grand superyachts venturing to the remote Similan Islands, a yacht charter Phuket experience opens the door to the entire Andaman Sea. Boatcrowd’s local expertise ensures every detail is handled – from VIP marina arrivals and custom provisioning to curating itineraries that balance adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

Why Charter a Yacht in Phuket

World-Class Marina Infrastructure

Phuket is home to several premier marinas including Yacht Haven (with 24/7 superyacht access), Royal Phuket Marina (award-winning facilities), and Ao Po Grand Marina. These serve as gateways to the surrounding islands and provide full provisioning, fuelling, and concierge services. The concentration of yacht services makes Phuket Asia’s most developed charter hub.

Breathtaking Scenery in Every Direction

The waters around Phuket offer a mosaic of seascapes unmatched anywhere on Earth. To the northeast, Phang Nga Bay’s otherworldly limestone karsts rise from emerald waters. To the southeast, the Phi Phi Islands beckon with lush cliffs and turquoise lagoons. To the northwest, the remote Similan Islands present pristine coral-sand beaches and world-class diving. Closer to home, Coral Island, the Racha Islands, and Phuket’s own west-coast beaches – from the golden arc of Surin Beach to secluded Nai Harn and Freedom Beach – deliver immediate beauty.

Rich Culture and Exclusive Experiences

Phuket is far more than beaches. Stroll through Phuket Old Town’s beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese shophouses, visit the hilltop Big Buddha for panoramic views, explore Wat Chalong temple, or browse a bustling night market. Ethical elephant sanctuaries, Michelin-starred restaurants, championship golf courses, and upscale beach clubs complement the marine adventure. Your crew can seamlessly weave these cultural excursions into your charter, whether it’s a guided mangrove kayak to a Buddhist cave temple or a market tour for exotic fruits and Thai spices.

Ideal Starting Point for Extended Charters

Most luxury yacht charters in the Andaman Sea begin and end in Phuket, thanks to its international airport, diverse marina options, and central position. From Phuket, a yacht can reach Phang Nga Bay in under an hour, Phi Phi in 1.5–2 hours, and even the Similan Islands in a half-day passage. This makes Phuket ideal for everything from a quick day trip to a multi-week odyssey covering the entire Andaman coast.

Key Destinations Near Phuket

• Phang Nga Bay – Towering karst formations, James Bond Island, hidden hongs, and the floating village of Koh Panyee. Glass-calm waters ideal for kayaking.
• Phi Phi Islands – Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, Bamboo Island, and superb snorkelling and diving.
• Racha Islands – Electric-blue lagoons, excellent snorkelling, and quiet anchorages south of Phuket.
• Coral Island (Koh Hae) – Just 15–20 minutes from Chalong Bay; vibrant shallow reefs ideal for families.
• Similan Islands – World-class diving, granite-boulder beaches, and Sail Rock viewpoint (4–5 hours northwest).
• Krabi and Koh Hong – Railay Beach, hidden emerald lagoons, and dramatic limestone coastline to the east.
• Koh Maiton and Koh Khai – Quick stops for dolphin spotting and shallow snorkelling on the return to Phuket.

Best Time to Charter in Phuket

High Season: November to April

The northeast monsoon brings mostly dry, sunny weather with gentle winds and calm seas. Crystal-clear visibility for diving and snorkelling, blue skies, and temperatures in the high 20s–low 30s °C. This is the prime window when all destinations are accessible, including the Similan and Surin Islands. Phuket buzzes with international yachts during this period – many superyachts visit between Christmas and Chinese New Year.

Shoulder Seasons: May and October

Transitional months with generally acceptable conditions, fewer crowds, and potentially lower rates. Sheltered areas like Phang Nga Bay remain navigable. Early May can be excellent; late October sees the monsoon retreating.

Monsoon Season: June to September

The southwest monsoon brings more rain, larger swells, and closures of remote marine parks. Charters are possible on Phuket’s east coast, but this season is generally not recommended for a carefree luxury vacation. Many charter yachts relocate to other regions during these months.

Featured Experiences on a Phuket Yacht Charter

• Gourmet Dining – Private chef crafting Thai-fusion menus, fresh-caught lobster, candlelit deck dinners, and beach barbecues on deserted islands.
• Private Beach Picnics – Luxe setups with champagne, silk pillows, and total privacy on uninhabited isles in the Similans or Phi Phi archipelago.
• Diving and Snorkelling – From shallow family-friendly reefs at Coral Island to world-class dive sites at the Similans with manta rays and whale sharks.
• Onboard Wellness – Sunrise yoga on the bow, deep-tissue massage, jacuzzi sessions with panoramic island views, and tailored wellness menus.
• Cultural Excursions – Buddhist cave temples, Phuket Old Town walking tours, local market visits, ethical elephant sanctuary, and longtail boat mangrove tours.
• Watersports – Jet skis, SeaBobs, paddleboarding, kayaking into sea caves, wakeboarding, and clear-bottom kayaks over coral reefs.

Yacht Types Available in Phuket

• Motor Yachts (55’–99’) – Speed, comfort, and flexibility for day charters and multi-day explorations. Ideal for families and groups of 6–12 guests.
• Superyachts (100’+) – Expansive decks, opulent interiors, full water-toy arsenals, and crew ratios rivalling five-star resorts. Perfect for milestone celebrations, multi-generational family reunions, and extended voyages.
• Luxury Catamarans (55’+) – Spacious twin-hull stability, generous deck layouts, and shallow draft for tucking into bays that monohulls cannot access. Ideal for families and groups wanting open-plan living on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions: Yacht Charter Phuket

How much does a yacht charter in Phuket cost?

Day charters on a crewed motor yacht in Phuket typically start from around $3,000–$6,000 for a 55–75-foot vessel. Weekly charters on larger yachts range from $25,000 to $100,000+, with superyacht charters starting higher. All prices vary by season, yacht size, and inclusions. Boatcrowd provides transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

How long does it take to reach the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket by yacht?

By private motor yacht, the journey from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands takes roughly 45 to 90 minutes depending on your vessel’s speed and sea conditions. Fast motor yachts can make it in under an hour, making Phi Phi feasible as a day-charter destination from Phuket.

Is a superyacht charter available in Phuket?

Absolutely. Phuket is Thailand’s superyacht hub, with marinas like Yacht Haven offering dedicated superyacht berths and 24/7 access. Superyacht charter Phuket options include vessels from 100 to 200+ feet, equipped with helipads, beach clubs, gyms, and full spa setups. The 2021 VAT removal on foreign-flagged charters has made Phuket increasingly attractive for international superyachts.

What should I pack for a Phuket yacht charter?

Pack light and casual: swimwear, light linen clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for shore excursions. Most yachts provide towels, snorkelling gear, and toiletries. If you plan to dive, bring your certification card. For evenings, smart-casual resort wear is typical. The crew handles everything else.

Can I charter a yacht in Phuket for a film or TV production?

Yes, and Phuket is one of the best locations in Asia for it. The Andaman’s scenery has featured in major productions for decades – Phang Nga Bay in The Man with the Golden Gun and Maya Bay in The Beach are just two iconic examples. Boatcrowd charters yachts and superyachts to production teams for on-water filming platforms, crew transport, floating accommodation, and equipment staging. We handle marine logistics, vessel positioning, and permit coordination so the production runs smoothly.

Is a Phuket yacht charter a good option for a honeymoon or proposal?

Phuket is a dream setting for romantic charters. Picture a sunset proposal among Phang Nga Bay’s karst towers, a honeymoon island-hopping between Phi Phi and the Racha Islands, or a milestone anniversary dinner on a private beach. Your crew arranges every detail – champagne, flowers, bespoke dining setups – and Boatcrowd’s concierge team can add extras like a private photographer or spa treatments on board.

Can I charter a catamaran in Phuket?

Yes. Luxury catamaran charters are growing fast in Phuket. Boatcrowd’s catamarans start at 55 feet, come fully crewed, and offer wide beam, stable ride quality, and generous outdoor living space that families and groups love. Their shallow draft also allows access to sheltered bays and beaches that deeper yachts must pass by.

Can I visit Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi Islands on the same day charter?

It’s possible on a fast yacht but quite rushed. Most charter specialists recommend dedicating a full day to each. However, a 2–3 day charter from Phuket comfortably covers both Phang Nga Bay and Phi Phi with time to enjoy each destination properly.