Charlie Dwyer is the Captain of the 36-metre superyacht Yanneke Too and has for the past18 years been the organiser of the annual Asia Superyacht Rendezvous held in Phuket, Thailand each December.
A lifelong, ardent American sailor, he has captained some of the most prestigious yachts in the world in the last 20 years, cruising and racing around the Mediterranean and Caribbean seas as well as in Asia. Holding of a 1600 Ton USCG 3000 Ton International license he has accumulated over 500,000nm sailing around the globe.
Calling the island of Koh Samui home for some years he talks about a few of the sailing amongst the Gulf of Thailand group of over 80 islands, most of which are uninhabited. He speaks of incredible cruising options in and around the island and Gulf waters experienced by visiting superyachts such as
- Battered Bull
- Christine
- Michea Rose
- Perseus
- Vertigo
As superyachting in Asia expands he is keen to play his part and has formed Samui Services, which is in itself part of Asia Pacific Superyachts
“Koh Samui in Thailand is he says, “A fascinating world that many of the world’s finest superyachts are discovering throughout South East Asia and the incredible cruising waters of Thailand. A growing number of superyachts are streaming into the exotic island of Koh Samui situated in the Gulf of Siam and famed as the ‘Crown Jewel of Thailand’.
Visiting yachts checking in to Samui can experience some of the most stunning maritime scenery in the world. A tropical gem rising off the south-eastern seaboard of Thailand, Samui is the Kingdom’s second largest island after Phuket. Relatively unknown for years, this sun lover’s paradise of azure waters and uninhabited islands has attained international standards of service and offers amazing itineraries to visiting superyachts.
Samui has earned a reputation for retaining a friendly image as well as a beautiful natural environment in an area stretching to a group of 48 surrounding islands. The island and surrounding area offers extensive cruising in fascinating locations like nearby ‘Ang Thong National Marine Park’, a compact and stunning archipelago of over 80 small and virtually untouched islands, best explored by sea kayak upon anchoring.
Among the Superyachts visiting the eastern Gulf waters of Samui in recent times have been the 67.2 metre superyacht Vertigo, the largest luxury sailing yacht built in the Southern Hemisphere (so far). Her Captain commenting on the Samui visit and agency service wrote: “Captain Charlie’s understanding of Samui and the needs of a Superyacht from a captain’s perspective is invaluable. The owner, guests and ourselves had a wonderful time in the Koh Samui area not only for its beauty but also due to the excellent service Charlie Dwyer and his team gave us.”
Dwyer says, “Though there is no marina there are many anchorages in Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and surrounding areas. Koh Samui is the hub of the Gulf and the best and easiest port of entry in the Gulf of Siam.” The skipper continues, “Returning to the island, I’m reminded each time of the breath-taking natural beauty of Koh Samui and its stunning cruising waters. In beginning a sea journey here one finds a perfect haven to regroup and enjoy life, an important part of the fun and thrill of the destination”, Captain Charlie reports and believes the Superyacht captains and crew appreciate the hospitable nature of Thai people.
“What brings the owners and captains and crew to Thailand is the culture and people with their welcoming smiles and gracious nature. You won’t find this in many other international destinations which superyachts visit.”