The final question is, which one is best for me?
This guide was made to choose the best boat or yacht for your Andaman exploration. We break down the most important factors so you can make the best decision for your unforgettable day on the ocean.
Key Takeaways
- Your destination decides the type of boat you need.
- Balance your budget and flexibility.
- Match your boat to your group size.
- Plan ahead for peak season.
What's Your First Move? (Distance)
The first consideration you need to make when choosing which boat to take is: your destination, the distance from Phuket to the islands dictates whether you’ll be squashed up next to each other for 2 hours or very comfortable with little time for exploring. Your ideal day trip starts with choosing the perfect location for your plans.
Destinations that are close to Phuket.
| Destination | Travel Time (Speedboat) | Best For… | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coral Island & Racha Islands | 45-60 minutes | A quick, easy day trip; snorkeling and water sports. | Colorful coral reefs, calm beaches, and parasailing. |
| Kai Islands | 20-30 minutes | Families with young children; an easy-going beach day. | Tiny, secluded beaches with a very relaxed atmosphere and shallow water. |
For a quick rendezvous with minimal travel time, the Short & Sweet trips to Coral island, Racha, and Kai Islands are ideal. These spots are less than 30 minutes away, making them perfect for families, anyone prone to seasickness, or those who just want to maximize their beach time.
We’ve taken plenty of these trips on the weekend using Tiger Marines
Limpopo, a Speed Boat, it’s a fast yet private experience to maximise your time on the beach or snorkelling. Other options include,a traditional longtail boat for a slightly cheaper and slower option or a catamaran is great for a relaxing day with a larger group.
Classic Day Trip
| Destination | Travel Time (Speedboat) | Best For… | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phi Phi Islands | 45-60 minutes | Iconic sights and cinematic scenery; a lively day trip. | Maya Bay (of “The Beach” fame), Pileh Lagoon, and stunning limestone cliffs. |
| Phang Nga Bay | 60-90 minutes | Unique scenery and soft adventure; kayaking and photography. | The famous James Bond Island, sea caves, and a floating fishing village. |
The Classic Day Trips take you to Phuket’s most iconic and scenic destinations, like the Phi Phi Islands or the unique rock formations of Phang Nga Bay. Travel time for these trips is typically around an hour, so a catamaran is the most popular choice, catamarans are the ideal choice due to their twin-hull design, which provides exceptional stability for a smoother ride, minimizing seasickness. This design also creates a spacious deck for passengers to relax and enjoy the iconic scenery in comfort and speed. It gets you to each spot quickly and gives you more time to explore.
If you prefer a more comfortable and leisurely pace for your group, a speedboat is also an excellent option for cruising to these famous locations.
We would take a Zambezia for a trip like this. The 53-foot, 4-cabin catamaran is the perfect size for these kinds of trips, spacious yet still able to cut through the water at speed.
Long-haul Destinations
| Destination | Travel Time (Speedboat) | Best For… | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Similan Islands | 90 minutes+ | World-class snorkeling and diving; untouched nature. | Crystal-clear water, vibrant marine life, and pristine beaches. (Note: This park is closed May – October.) |
| Surin Islands | 90 minutes+ | Serious snorkelers; a more remote and authentic experience. | Healthier coral reefs and the Moken (Sea Gypsy) village. (Note: This park is closed May – October.) |
For the travelers, the Long Haul Adventures take you to the remote Similan and Surin Islands. These trips require a longer boat ride, but they are a must for anyone who wants to experience world-class snorkelling, pristine beaches, and untouched marine life. Due to the distance, a high-speed boat is the only practical option to get you there and back in a single day. Just remember, these national parks are closed from May to October, so you must plan your visit accordingly.
Budgeting Your Adventure (Cost)
Budget is a huge consideration to take when choosing a boat, here’s a break down of the different costs of different types of tours.
Private Charters
Private charters offer flexibility and exclusivity, but the price is for the entire boat, not per person.
Longtail Boats
The most traditional and economical option.
Cost: Approximately ฿1,500 – ฿3,000 ($50 -$100) for a half-day and ฿3,000 – ฿6,000($100 – $200) for a full-day.
What’s Included: Boat, captain, and fuel. Snacks and drinks are often extra.
Speedboats
Faster and able to reach more distant islands.
Cost: Prices vary widely based on size and destination, but a full-day charter can range from ฿40,000 to over ฿60,000. ($1,200 – $1,900)
What’s Included: Boat, captain, crew, and fuel. Some packages include a basic lunch, soft drinks, and snorkelling equipment.
Yachts/Catamarans
The most luxurious option, best for larger groups or special occasions.
Cost: Can start from around ฿80,000 ($2,500) for a day trip and go up significantly depending on the size and amenities.
What’s Included: Full crew, premium amenities, and often a higher-quality lunch.
Hidden Costs
These are the costs that are not always included in the initial price and can add up. Note that if you charter a catamaran or speed boat, you will receive a Free Hotel Transfer, Free Snacks & Lunch, & up to 6 beers per person.
- National Park Fees
- Hotel Transfers
- Tipping
- Extra Activities: Renting fins for snorkeling, kayaking, or other water sports may not be included in the basic price.
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Souvenirs and Shopping
Disclaimer: Prices and tour inclusions mentioned in this guide are estimates and can change based on the tour operator, season, and market conditions. It’s always best to confirm all details with your chosen provider before booking.
Atmosphere & Group Size
For the Intimate Group (1-6 people)
Longtail Boats:
The most authentic and traditional option. Relaxed, rustic, and charming. This is for travelers who want a private, slow-paced day to truly soak in the scenery. The open-air design offers unobstructed views and is perfect for photography.
Pros: Very affordable, unique Thai experience, great for accessing shallow coves and beaches.
Cons: Slower than speedboats, less comfortable, less safe, and not ideal for travelling long distances (e.g., from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands).
Private Speedboats:
The modern, fast, and flexible choice. High-energy, efficient, and customizable. You’re in control of the itinerary and can avoid crowds by arriving at popular spots before the tour groups. This is the choice for those who want to see more islands in a single day.
Pros: Fast travel time, comfort, freedom to choose your stops, and a luxurious feel.
Cons: Significantly more expensive than a longtail boat.
Our recommendation for intimate groups would be the Limpopo provided by TMC. She is the fastest boat in our fleet, with a cruising speed of 22-27 Knots. She is the perfect boat for a couple or small group wanting to visit multiple islands in the area. A very comfortable boat as she cuts through the waves with little to no bouncing.
For the Mid-size Group (10-30 people)
Speedboat Tours:
A common and popular choice for a reason. Social, bustling, and lively. You’ll be with a mix of other travellers, and the atmosphere can be exciting. The crew is typically energetic and keeps the day moving with a structured itinerary.
Pros: Good value for money, efficient way to see multiple islands, and includes all the necessary logistics (guide, food, gear).
Cons: Can feel crowded, rigid schedule with limited flexibility, and you’ll be on the same timeline as all the other tour boats.
Catamaran Charters:
The sailing option for a more upscale and leisurely day.Chic, comfortable, and celebratory. Catamarans offer more space, often with large lounge nets for sunbathing and a more stable ride. This is an excellent option for a private event, like a birthday or corporate outing.
Pros: Spacious and stable, better amenities (loungers, restrooms, sometimes a bar), and a more relaxed pace.
Cons: Slower than speedboats, and private charters are considerably more expensive than joining a group speedboat tour.
Our recommendation for intimate groups would be the Shashani provided by TMC. She is the 2nd biggest Leopard Catamaran in our fleet, below her sister Sanyati at 51ft. She cruises at 14 knots, making her the ideal boat for Island Hopping. Accommodating up to 15 Guests, she is the perfect boat for small groups that want comfort and to ride in style.
For the Large & Lively Group (30+ people)
The Big Boat/Cruiser Option:
The best choice for large parties, events, or social gatherings. Party atmosphere, spacious, and perfect for team-building or large family reunions. These boats often have multiple decks, sound systems, and even on-board bars or buffets. They’re designed to handle a large number of people comfortably.
Pros: Can accommodate a very large group, excellent for socializing and events, and provides a stable, smooth ride.
Cons: Very slow, limited to major, deeper-water destinations, and you’ll be locked into a set, all-day itinerary.
Our recommendation for intimate groups would be the Shangani provided by TMC. Able To Carry Up To 60 Guests On Day Charters & 14 On Overnight Charters. Her Spaciousness And Ample Room Make Her The Ideal Boat For Large Group Charters. Experience 5* service from our professional crew and have a blast with our water activities that you can’t get bored of!
Other Considerations
Phuket has two main seasons that significantly affect boat travel.
High Season (November – April):
This is the ideal time for boat tours. The weather is typically sunny with calm seas, making for perfect conditions for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving. Visibility in the water is excellent, and all popular routes, including to the Phi Phi and Similan Islands, are accessible. The downside is that this is also the busiest time, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
Monsoon/Green Season (May – October):
Don’t be deterred by the name! While there’s more chance of rain and the sea can be rougher, this season has its perks.
What to Expect: Rain often comes in short, intense bursts, not all-day downpours. The weather can be unpredictable, and some tours to more distant, exposed islands like the Similan Islands may be canceled on a given day for safety.
The Upside: The island is less crowded, and prices for hotels and tours are generally lower.
Best Options: During this time, tours to sheltered areas like Phang Nga Bay are an excellent choice. The bay’s dramatic limestone cliffs and protected waters are less affected by rough seas, making for a safe and enjoyable trip.
The Activities
Different areas around Phuket are known for specific activities.
Snorkeling & Diving: For the most vibrant underwater life, look for tours that go to Phi Phi Islands, Coral Island, or the Similan Islands (seasonal, during high season only). These locations are famous for their crystal-clear water and diverse marine ecosystems.
Kayaking: The best location for sea kayaking is Phang Nga Bay. Tours in this area often include the chance to paddle into “hongs” (hidden lagoons inside the islands) and explore sea caves, with famous spots like James Bond Island.
Sightseeing & Photography: If your main goal is to see iconic landscapes and take stunning photos, tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay or the beautiful Pileh Lagoon in the Phi Phi Islands are a must. These trips focus on the scenic beauty rather than just water activities.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
before going on the yacht trip
The best time for a boat trip in Phuket is during the high season, from November to April. During these months, you can expect sunny weather, calm seas, and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. This makes it the ideal time to visit popular, more exposed islands like the Similan Islands. The downside is that it is also the peak tourist season, so crowds will be larger and prices may be higher.
This depends on your preference and the time of year you’re visiting.
- For High Season or Special Tours: It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially for popular tours or private charters. The best operators can get fully booked, so booking ahead ensures you get a spot on your preferred trip. Online booking platforms can also be a convenient way to compare prices and read reviews beforehand.
- For Low/Green Season or Flexibility: You can often book on arrival and sometimes get a better deal. There are countless tour booths and agencies on every street, and you can often negotiate prices, especially if you’re booking for multiple people or multiple tours. This also gives you the flexibility to check the weather forecast for the next day before committing to a trip.
Yes, absolutely. All reputable tour operators in Phuket are required to provide life jackets for all passengers, including children. Snorkeling masks and fins are also standard equipment on most trips. The boats are typically equipped with basic safety gear, including first-aid kits. For your own safety, it’s always a good idea to listen to the pre-departure safety briefing and know where the life jackets are located on the boat.
Packing light and smart is the key for a boat trip. Here are the essentials:
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen (preferably reef-safe), a hat, and sunglasses. The sun’s reflection off the water can be intense.
- Swimwear and Towel: Wear your swimsuit under your clothes to make it easy. A lightweight, quick-dry towel is a great choice.
- Waterproof Bag/Pouch: This is crucial for protecting your phone, camera, and wallet from splashes or rain.
- Lightweight Clothing: Wear comfortable, breathable clothes like shorts and a t-shirt. A light cover-up or rash guard is also good for sun protection while snorkeling.
- Footwear: Wear sandals or flip-flops that are easy to slip on and off.
- Cash: Have some small Thai Baht on hand for tips, snacks, or souvenirs at island stops.
- Other Recommended Items: Motion sickness tablets if you’re prone to seasickness, a portable power bank, and a refillable water bottle.
In Summary
In conclusion, there are many different considerations to take when choosing the right boat for you. We have done our best to guide you based on your preferred destinations, activities, budget and more. The rest is up to you.
What I would recommend is that you go to a reliable company like Tiger Marine Charter and see their vast list of boats available and see which one fits your style, goals, and budget. Hope you have a great trip on the Andaman Sea, see you next time!