Thailand Guide: Luxury Yacht Charter in Thailand

Thailand’s coastline is split between two very different seas, and that duality is what makes it one of the most rewarding yacht charter destinations in Southeast Asia. The Andaman Sea, along the country’s western flank, delivers the drama: sheer limestone karsts erupting from emerald water, island clusters wrapped in coral reef, and white-sand beaches framed by jungle that runs right down to the tideline. The Gulf of Thailand, on the eastern side, offers a gentler disposition – warm, sheltered waters, palm-fringed islands with shallow reefs, and a laid-back coastal culture that moves at the speed of a longtail boat. Between these two coasts lie more than 1,430 islands, over 3,000 kilometres of shoreline, and cruising grounds that range from the world-famous limestone towers of Phang Nga Bay to the pristine coral gardens of the Tarutao archipelago near the Malaysian border.

What sets Thailand apart for charter guests is the combination of natural spectacle, warm-water comfort and exceptional value. Water temperatures hover between 28–31°C (82–88°F) year-round – you will never need a wetsuit. The northeast monsoon season from November through April delivers dry skies, calm seas and visibility that can exceed 25 metres on the Andaman side, making it the prime charter window. When the southwest monsoon rolls in from May, the Gulf of Thailand takes over with sheltered conditions, steady breezes and blue skies of its own – meaning Thailand is genuinely a year-round chartering country if you know which coast to choose. Add first-rate marina infrastructure in Phuket (five full-service marinas with berths for yachts up to 100 metres), a culinary scene that has earned Phuket UNESCO City of Gastronomy status, and charter rates that sit well below the Mediterranean for comparable quality, and you have a destination that deserves a place on every serious charterer’s shortlist.

Whether you’re planning a week-long Andaman exploration from Phuket, a long weekend in the Gulf islands around Koh Samui, or an extended voyage south through the Phi Phi Islands to the remote Tarutao National Marine Park, this guide covers every region in detail – seasons, distances, signature experiences and the yachts best suited to each cruising ground. Start planning your Thailand charter with Boatcrowd and let our team match you to the perfect yacht and itinerary.

Why Charter a Yacht in Thailand

Two Coasts, Two Seasons, Year-Round Cruising

Thailand is one of the rare charter destinations where the season never truly ends – it simply shifts from one coast to the other. From November through April, the northeast monsoon brings dry weather, flat seas and spectacular visibility to the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe). Winds blow a gentle 2–4 on the Beaufort scale from the northeast, afternoon sea breezes keep things comfortable, and rainfall is negligible. When the southwest monsoon arrives in May, the Andaman’s west-facing anchorages become exposed – but the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Pattaya) picks up with light, steady south-westerlies, calm seas and warm sunshine. Your Boatcrowd charter specialist can advise on the ideal coast for your dates, ensuring you always get the best conditions.

Spectacular Scenery at Every Turn

The Andaman Sea serves up some of the most photogenic cruising in the world. Phang Nga Bay alone contains over a hundred limestone karsts rising vertically from jade-green water – including the iconic James Bond Island (Khao Phing Kan), made famous in The Man with the Golden Gun. Further south, the Phi Phi Islands pair sheer cliff faces with white-sand crescents and underwater visibility that can hit 30 metres on a good day. Koh Lipe and the Tarutao archipelago, near the Malaysian border, offer pristine coral reefs across 50-plus islands in a 1,490 km² national marine park established in 1974. On the Gulf side, the 42 islands of Ang Thong Marine National Park rise from the sea like a Thai Halong Bay, with emerald lagoons hidden inside jungle-clad limestone towers.

Exceptional Value for Luxury Chartering

Thailand delivers five-star charter experiences at a fraction of Mediterranean pricing. A crewed motor yacht in the 78–99’ range starts from around $15,000–$30,000 per week depending on season and yacht, while superyachts (100’+) typically range from $50,000–$120,000 per week. Day charters on a modern motor yacht run from roughly $3,000–$7,000 depending on vessel and duration. Provisioning, dockage and fuel costs are significantly lower than Europe, and crew gratuity follows the standard 10–15% of the charter fee. An Advance Provisioning Allowance of 20–30% covers fuel, food, beverages and park entry fees. The result is more yacht, more days and more experiences for the same budget you’d spend on a shorter Mediterranean holiday.

World-Class Diving and Marine Life

Thailand’s waters support over 200 marine species across its coral reef systems. The Andaman coast offers wall dives, pinnacle sites and cave explorations: Shark Point (south of Phuket) is home to leopard sharks resting on sandy ledges; Koh Haa’s cathedral-like cavern opens at 14 metres into a cavernous swim-through with 25-metre visibility; and the Bida Islands off Phi Phi draw blacktip reef sharks, barracuda, turtles and schooling trevally. On the Gulf side, Koh Tao is one of the world’s premier dive destinations – Chumphon Pinnacle (granite formations from 30 metres to 12 metres depth, carpeted in anemones), Sail Rock (a vertical chimney swim-through from 18 metres to 5 metres, unique in the Gulf), and Southwest Pinnacle all deliver encounters with whale sharks, giant groupers and occasional manta rays during the right season. Snorkellers are equally well served: Bamboo Island off Phi Phi has the best shallow reef in the region, and the Tarutao Marine Park around Koh Lipe supports staghorn, table and brain corals in pristine condition, with clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish and the occasional dugong.

Rich Culture and Warm Hospitality

A yacht charter in Thailand is not just a sea holiday – it is a gateway to one of the world’s most welcoming cultures. Phuket’s Old Town is a living gallery of Sino-Portuguese architecture, colourful shophouses and temples like the Jui Tui Shrine (founded 1911, home of the annual Vegetarian Festival). Krabi’s Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) rewards the climb of 1,260 steps with a golden Buddha and 360-degree views over jungle and sea. The cuisine alone is worth the journey: Thailand’s food is among the most celebrated on earth, from the Michelin-recognised L’Arôme by the Sea in Phuket to the street-food stalls of Patong and the farm-to-table sophistication of Krabi’s Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Your onboard chef can source the freshest seafood, tropical fruit and local spices daily, and many guests find that meals on the aft deck – grilled Andaman prawns, green curry with coconut cream, mango sticky rice – become some of the most memorable moments of the charter.

Top Destinations in Thailand

Phuket – Thailand’s largest island and the undisputed yachting capital of Southeast Asia, with five full-service marinas (Ao Po Grand Marina accommodates superyachts up to 100 metres), a UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation, and direct access to the Andaman’s finest cruising grounds. Phuket is the natural starting point for charters heading north to Phang Nga Bay or south to Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and beyond. The island itself offers everything from the nightlife of Patong to the hillside elegance of Kata Noi and the Sino-Portuguese heritage of Old Town.
Krabi – Roughly 30 nautical miles east of Phuket across Phang Nga Bay, Krabi serves as an alternative base for Andaman charters and offers its own spectacular scenery. The region is defined by towering limestone karsts, mangrove-lined estuaries and over 130 islands. Railay Beach – accessible only by water, its sheer cliff backdrop making it one of Thailand’s most photographed shores – is just a tender ride from Ao Nang. The Tiger Cave Temple (1,260 steps to the summit) and James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay are within easy reach.
Koh Phi Phi – A twin-island cluster roughly 22 nautical miles from Phuket, Phi Phi is the poster child of Thai island beauty. Koh Phi Phi Don is the inhabited island with Tonsai Bay as the main anchorage; Koh Phi Phi Leh is the uninhabited showpiece, home to Maya Bay (made world-famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Beach in 2000), the Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave. Bamboo Island, 40 minutes north, has the finest coral reef in the area. Visibility can exceed 25 metres and blacktip reef sharks are regularly spotted.
Koh Lipe – Thailand’s southernmost inhabited island, sitting within the 1,490 km² Tarutao National Marine Park near the Malaysian border. Koh Lipe is a frontier charter destination – pristine coral gardens, over 50 islands to explore, dugong sightings, and very few other yachts. The park was established in 1974 and supports roughly a quarter of the world’s tropical fish species. Charter season runs October through May; outside those months, conditions are too rough for comfortable cruising.
Pattaya – On the Gulf of Thailand, roughly 165 km southeast of Bangkok, Pattaya is the most accessible charter base in the country. Ocean Marina Jomtien – Southeast Asia’s largest marina with 455 berths and capacity for yachts up to 75 metres – provides a full-service hub for Gulf cruising. Day charters to Koh Larn (a short 7-nautical-mile crossing) and Koh Samet are popular, and multi-day voyages can reach Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Ang Thong Marine Park. The Gulf’s sheltered waters make Pattaya a strong shoulder-season option when the Andaman is at its roughest.
Koh Samui – The largest island in the Gulf’s Chumphon Archipelago, Koh Samui is the natural hub for Gulf of Thailand charters. The island trio of Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao sits roughly 20 nautical miles apart, making for easy day passages. Ang Thong Marine National Park’s 42 jungle-clad islands with hidden emerald lagoons are a 15-nautical-mile cruise from Samui. The Gulf’s warm, calm waters from May through October make this the ideal summer cruising ground when the Andaman is in monsoon.

Best Time to Charter a Yacht in Thailand

Peak Season: December to March (Andaman Coast)

The northeast monsoon delivers the finest conditions of the year along the Andaman coast. Skies are clear, humidity drops to its lowest, and winds from the northeast blow a steady 2–4 Beaufort – enough to keep things comfortable without creating difficult seas. Air temperatures run 25–33°C (77–91°F), sea temperatures hold at 28–29°C (82–84°F), and underwater visibility on the best sites exceeds 25 metres. This is the most popular window for Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi and Koh Lipe charters, and the most sought-after yachts book out months in advance. December through February is the busiest period, with charter rates at their highest and popular anchorages like Maya Bay seeing peak traffic. Enquire early with Boatcrowd to secure your preferred dates and yacht.

Shoulder Season: April, May, October and November

April marks the tail end of the Andaman dry season – temperatures climb toward their peak (often exceeding 35°C / 95°F), the sea is at its warmest (30–31°C / 86–88°F), and anchorages are noticeably quieter. November signals the start of the new season, with the first weeks sometimes bringing transitional showers before the dry pattern settles in. Both months offer softer charter rates and fewer boats. May and October are transition months: the Andaman coast is winding down or gearing up, while the Gulf of Thailand is coming into its own. Your Boatcrowd specialist can navigate these shoulder periods to find excellent conditions at favourable rates.

Gulf of Thailand Season: May to September

When the southwest monsoon brings rain and rougher seas to the Andaman side, the Gulf of Thailand enters its best season. Light, steady south-westerlies, blue skies and warm temperatures (30–33°C / 86–91°F) make Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Pattaya ideal summer cruising grounds. The Gulf is naturally more sheltered than the Andaman, and its islands are closer together – Koh Samui to Koh Tao is roughly 40 nautical miles, a comfortable half-day cruise. Dive conditions at Koh Tao are excellent through this period, with whale shark sightings peaking between March and June. Charter rates on the Gulf are generally more accessible than peak-season Andaman pricing.

Signature Experiences in Thailand

Sunrise at Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Leh – Arrive before the day-trip boats to experience the 250-metre crescent of white sand made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Beach (2000), framed by 100-metre limestone cliffs and water so clear you can count the fish from the swim platform. Your crew times the approach for first light, when the bay is empty and the morning sun paints the cliffs gold.
Kayak Through Phang Nga Bay’s Sea Caves – Over a hundred vertical limestone karsts rise from jade-green water, hiding mangrove-fringed lagoons accessible only by kayak at certain tides. Paddle through the darkened cave mouth of Koh Hong and emerge into a secret lagoon surrounded by towering cliff walls – a natural amphitheatre open to the sky. Your guide handles the navigation; you handle the camera.
Sunset Cocktails at James Bond Island – Anchor off Khao Phing Kan and watch the light shift across the 20-metre karst tower of Khao Ta Pu – the exact spot where Scaramanga’s lair was set in The Man with the Golden Gun (1974). Your crew serves Thai appetisers and chilled prosecco on the aft deck as the Phang Nga Bay karsts turn to silhouettes.
Snorkel Bamboo Island’s Coral Gardens – Koh Phai, 40 minutes north of Phi Phi Don, has the best-preserved coral reef in the Phi Phi group. Visibility routinely exceeds 25 metres over shallow gardens of staghorn and table coral, with clownfish, parrotfish and occasional blacktip reef sharks. Your crew provides full snorkelling kit and a safety tender.
Dive Chumphon Pinnacle, Koh Tao – Twelve kilometres offshore, granite formations rise from 30 metres to just below the surface, carpeted in anemones and patrolled by giant groupers, batfish, lionfish and – in season – whale sharks. This is Thailand’s most celebrated pinnacle dive, and your yacht’s position means you’re on site before the dive boats arrive from shore.
Private Beach Dinner on a Deserted Island – Your chef and crew set up a candlelit table on a quiet stretch of sand on one of Koh Lanta’s uninhabited islands or a secluded Phi Phi beach. Grilled Andaman prawns, green papaya salad, coconut-poached fish and Thai desserts under a sky thick with stars. No roads, no buildings, no other footprints.
Explore Phuket Old Town by Tuk-Tuk – Step ashore for a morning wandering the colourful Sino-Portuguese shophouses of Thalang Road, visit the Thai Hua Museum in a restored colonial mansion, light incense at the Jui Tui Shrine (founded 1911) and taste your way through Phuket’s UNESCO-recognised culinary heritage – dim sum, Hokkien noodles, fresh roti with curry.
Sail Rock’s Vertical Chimney, Gulf of Thailand – A granite pinnacle that breaches the surface between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, with a unique vertical chimney swim-through descending from 5 metres to 18 metres. Schools of batfish circle the rock, and the chimney’s interior is draped in soft coral. One of the most unusual dive sites in Southeast Asia.

Yacht Types Available

Luxury Motor Yachts (78’–99’) – The most popular choice for Thailand charters, offering the speed and flexibility to cover the Andaman’s spread-out island groups efficiently. These crewed vessels typically accommodate 6–10 guests in 3–4 en-suite cabins, with a crew of 3–5 (captain, chef, steward/ess and deckhand). Cruising speeds of 18–25 knots make the 22-nautical-mile run from Phuket to Phi Phi a relaxed morning cruise. Modern flybridge motor yachts carry a full complement of water toys (jet ski, seabobs, paddleboards, snorkelling gear) and offer flexible itineraries across multiple island groups. Weekly rates start from around $15,000–$30,000 depending on season and yacht.
Superyachts (100’+) – For larger groups or guests seeking the ultimate in space, privacy and five-star service, Thailand’s superyacht fleet delivers a world-class experience at rates well below Mediterranean equivalents. Accommodation for 8–12 guests in lavish staterooms, crews of 6–15+, expansive deck areas (jacuzzis, outdoor cinemas, sun lounges) and a full arsenal of water toys from jet skis to diving compressors. Ao Po Grand Marina in Phuket accommodates superyachts up to 100+ metres. Weekly rates typically range from $50,000–$120,000, with the largest vessels commanding $150,000+ per week. Charters operate on MYBA terms with an Advance Provisioning Allowance of 20–30%.
Luxury Catamarans (55’+) – Premium power catamarans from builders like Sunreef and Lagoon (55’–80’) are increasingly popular in Thailand thanks to their shallow draft, exceptional stability and generous living space. The twin-hull design virtually eliminates rolling – ideal for guests prone to seasickness and families with young children – and the shallow draft allows access to anchorages that deeper-keeled vessels cannot reach, including sandy shallows close to shore and the tightest mangrove-fringed bays. Catamarans in this range typically sleep 6–10 guests with a crew of 3–4 and operate all-inclusive. Weekly rates start from approximately $20,000–$40,000 depending on season and model.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a yacht charter in Thailand cost?

Charter pricing varies by yacht size, type, season and inclusions. As a broad guide, crewed motor yachts in the 78’–99’ range start from around $15,000–$30,000 per week, depending on the vessel and time of year. Superyachts (100’+) typically range from $50,000–$120,000 per week, with the largest vessels commanding more. Luxury catamarans (55’–80’) start from roughly $20,000–$40,000 per week all-inclusive. Day charters on a modern motor yacht run from approximately $3,000–$7,000. Most multi-day charters operate with an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) of 20–30% covering fuel, food, beverages, dockage and national park entry fees. Thai VAT of 7% applies. Crew gratuity is customarily 10–15%. Peak-season rates (December–February on the Andaman coast) are the highest; shoulder months and Gulf of Thailand charters offer softer pricing. Enquire with Boatcrowd for a personalised quote based on your dates, group size and preferences.

Are luxury catamarans available for charter in Thailand?

Yes. Boatcrowd’s Thailand fleet includes a growing selection of premium power catamarans and crewed catamarans from builders like Sunreef and Lagoon in the 55’–80’ range. These vessels are ideal for Thai waters thanks to their shallow draft (allowing access to mangrove bays, sandy shallows and tight anchorages that deeper-keeled yachts cannot reach), exceptional stability and generous living space. Most luxury catamarans come fully crewed with a captain, chef and steward/ess and operate on an all-inclusive basis. They are particularly popular with families and multi-generational groups who appreciate the extra beam, the absence of rolling, and easy swim-platform access in the warm, calm waters of the Andaman and Gulf.

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

Absolutely. Thailand has a proven track record as a world-class filming destination. Danny Boyle’s The Beach (2000) starring Leonardo DiCaprio was shot at Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh, turning the cove into a global icon. The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) filmed at Khao Phing Kan in Phang Nga Bay, now universally known as James Bond Island. Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005) used Krabi Province for the Kashyyyk approach scenes. The Impossible (2012) with Naomi Watts was filmed at Khao Lak, and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason shot Bangkok and Phuket sequences. Boatcrowd can arrange production-friendly charters with yachts that accommodate camera crews, lighting equipment and talent. Our team coordinates with local port authorities for filming permits, drone permissions and logistical support. With over 300 sunny days a year and world-class backdrops, Thailand is a production team’s dream.

Is Thailand a good destination for a proposal, honeymoon or milestone birthday?

Thailand is one of the most romantic charter destinations in the world, and a crewed yacht takes celebrations to an entirely different level. Your crew can orchestrate every detail – from a sunset proposal on a deserted Phi Phi beach (complete with champagne, flowers and a photographer arriving by tender) to a honeymoon itinerary with couples’ massages on deck, private beach dinners on a secluded island and rose-petal turndowns in your master stateroom. Milestone birthdays and anniversaries are equally well catered for: a beach-club afternoon at Catch Beach Club in Phuket for a 40th, a Michelin-quality tasting menu prepared by your chef for a golden wedding, a sunset celebration beneath the karsts of Phang Nga Bay for a 50th. The combination of dramatic scenery, warm hospitality and impeccable crew service makes every occasion unforgettable. Let Boatcrowd know the occasion when you enquire and we’ll ensure every moment is perfect.

Can I bring the whole family, including grandparents and young children?

Multi-generational family charters are among the most popular bookings in Thailand. Yachts and catamarans are available in configurations that sleep 8–12+ guests, with flexible cabin layouts to suit grandparents, parents and children. Crews are experienced with guests of all ages: children get age-appropriate snorkelling instruction, beach treasure hunts and kid-friendly menus, while grandparents appreciate calm anchorages, comfortable sun lounges and attentive service. Thailand’s warm, shallow waters are naturally child-friendly, and catamarans are especially popular for families – the stability, wide beam and easy swim-platform access make life aboard relaxed for every generation. Destinations like Koh Lanta’s sheltered bays and the calm waters of Krabi’s four-island group are among the safest and most family-friendly cruising grounds in the region.

Can I combine the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand in one charter?

The Andaman coast and Gulf of Thailand are on opposite sides of the Malay Peninsula, so combining both in a single charter typically involves a significant repositioning passage around the southern tip of Thailand or an overland transfer between coasts. For most guests, the best approach is to choose one coast per charter and enjoy it thoroughly – there is more than enough cruising ground on either side for a week or longer. That said, extended charters of 10 days or more can comfortably cover a grand Andaman itinerary from Phuket south through Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and on to Koh Lipe near the Malaysian border. For guests wanting both coasts, Boatcrowd can arrange back-to-back charters – a week on the Andaman followed by a week in the Gulf – with a seamless transfer between bases.

What are the national park entry fees?

Many of Thailand’s finest cruising destinations sit within national marine parks, and entry fees apply per person. As of 2026, adult entry to most parks (including Phi Phi, Similan Islands, Ang Thong and Tarutao) is 300–400 Thai Baht (roughly $8–$12 USD) per person, with children at half price. These fees are typically included in your Advance Provisioning Allowance and managed by your crew, so you will not need to handle cash at park checkpoints. Some parks limit daily visitor numbers – Maya Bay, for example, caps access – and your captain will secure permits in advance to guarantee entry.