Near-perfect sailing conditions, the glorious blue waters of the Andaman Sea, and a Thai island-beauty that boasts luxury villa stays, gourmet restaurants, and fabulous beaches. It’s no surprise that Phuket has become a standout yachting destination internationally. Superyacht owners, boat lovers, and yachties from all over the world descend on the island to experience an exciting calendar of yachting events and experiences.
The yachting culture of Phuket, along with the high-profile regattas and boat shows, adds a sophisticated, glamorous edge to this island in the sun; adding another layer to a vacation hotspot that promises chilled-out, castaway beach days along with hedonistic, high-energy entertainment, not to mention some of the most stunning villa vacation stays in the world.
The 22nd Bay Regatta
Setting sail between February 13-17, 2019, The 22nd Bay Regatta takes in Phuket, Phang Nga, and Krabi. The stunning route takes sailors on an amazing course setting off from Ao Po to Koh Yao Noi, on to Krabi the next day, and around the island on Day 3, before a final-day race to Ao Chalong Bay in Phuket. The four-day event, with a registration day beforehand, was first set up by local sailing enthusiasts in Phuket in collaboration with a photographer. The picturesque beauty of this route is undoubtedly by design and takes sailors through a work of natural art.
2019 Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek
Without doubt one of the most enjoyable and fun race events in Phuket’s boating calendar, Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek runs from July 17-21, 2019. The five-day extravaganza, now in its 16th year, promises some fast and furious races, a fabulous regatta atmosphere, and lovely surroundings. On the east coast of the island, the focus is on highlighting Phuket as a sailing and water-based destination. With an international crowd of visitors and participants, there is a distinctly local feel too, with a welcoming regatta village set up on the beachfront. Sailing is around the Bay of Chalong and the islands surrounding Phuket. With party nights and buffet dinners, there is definitely a strong emphasis on socializing during the night after a day’s adrenaline-fueled sailing.
Phuket King’s Cup Regatta
Arguably one of Asia’s most high-profile and biggest yachting events, the eight-day Phuket King’s Cup Regatta is in its 33rd year. Dates, yet to be confirmed, are November 30th – December 7, 2019, ensuring a fantastic end to another year of fine sailing in the Andaman. With royal sponsorship and some of the best sailing waters at this time of year, the regatta is a popular and fun week attracting thousands.
Asia Superyacht Rendezvous Cup 2020
The Asia Superyacht Rendezvous Cup is an annual three-day event attracting sail and motor superyachts to Thailand’s coasts. This is one of the most exclusive boating dates in Phuket’s yachting calendar with boats setting sail from tranquil Mai Khao Bay. Boats have to be over 70’ to take part in the race to win this coveted trophy. Meanwhile, the action extends to terra firma too with a great off-board atmosphere. After this year’s extravagant success last January 18 to 20, the cup is certain to be looked forward to on its 19th year in 2020.
Enjoy Phuket with a Sailing Experience
If you enjoy getting out on the open water then Phuket is an ideal vacation destination year-round. With calm seas and sublime coastal breezes, the island is a yachting paradise. Take to the Andaman Sea for a day of island-hopping, visiting nearby oases, snorkeling, and swimming in the sea. Koh Khai, Coral Island, and the Racha Islands are close by, with Krabi, Phang Nga Bay, and the Phi Phi Islands further away. For those who love diving, the Similan Islands are world-famous and reachable by boat from Phuket.
Celebrate a romantic holiday with a spectacular sunset cruise complete with bubbles and canapés on a glamorous boat. You can really push the boat out with a gourmet dinner on-board too or an extravagant lunch. Luxury yachts are exclusive, private, and add a whole new dimension to an island vacation in style.
If you are traveling with friends, embrace the thrill of a faster sailing experience or take a more leisurely pace with a family-bonding activity. Either way, you are guaranteed to see Phuket from a whole new perspective.
Discover some of the island’s hidden beaches and explore the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’, a marine playground inspiring boating adventure. Charter a crewed catamaran and lounge onboard as you glide through a scenic seascape. If you’re an experienced sailor, set out with a bareboat charter.
Sailing in Phuket is a spectacular way to immerse yourself in a Thai holiday by the sea. Lounging on deck, looking out to sparkling waters, limestone karsts, and whiter-than-white sands are what beach-destination vacations are all about. You can mix in fishing, sea kayaking, snorkeling, and diving into your island activities too, whilst there’s lots of fun to be had with jet-skis, banana boats, and surfing.
Getting out on the water, with leisurely yachting or on a faster-paced motor yacht and enjoying one of the many watersports on offer is a great way to truly appreciate Phuket. With the sun on your face and the wind in your hair, you can come back ashore to relax in your private luxury vacation villa with mesmerizing views over this coastal beauty.
Featured image courtesy of asia-superyacht-rendezvous.com