Koh Samui, the second largest island in Thailand, is now being developed, along with Phuket into a luxury yachting destination.
Southeast Asia’s dynamic superyacht visitor growth and specifically Thailand, links in with the islands luxury appeal of a lavish lifestyle, tranquil beauty, stunning cruising, friendly people and an ancient culture, all helping in growing the country’s reputation as a worldwide yachting destination for the affluent.
Thailand’s yachting wave
Phuket and Koh Samui lead Thailand’s yachting wave. Both islands offer a blend of relaxation, luxurious indulgence, stunning tropical beauty and adventure cruising discoveries. Phuket is busier, yet it offers more to do. Koh Samui is half the size of Phuket and the more laid-back of the two. Even so there is plenty of action as well as luxury.
Staying at Phuket and Koh Samui beach resorts is an experience that awards the ultimate in Thai luxury and adventure. From the diverse range of 5-Star accommodations to the beauty of white sand beaches, vibrant nightlife. And wide choice of fine dining, both islands offer an unparalleled paradise for international superyachts. Along with fantastic voyage adventures to nearby islands.
Marinas
Most yachts arrive at Phuket, the ‘Monaco of South East Asia’. It offers a plethora of stunning beach resorts and nearby uninhabited islands at secluded bays. On land luxurious resorts with high standard marinas are luring in more superyachts. “The region is building yet more marinas which can berth superyachts. “Already you can berth a 130-metre yacht in Phuket’s marinas”, said Gordon Fernandes, Asia Pacific Superyachts co-founder.
The infrastructure for owner visits is already in place. Four modern and well-equipped marinas and a new ‘Private Jet Terminal’ for superyacht visitors along with international airports already exist. Thailand’s yachting industry has undergone significant expansion. The Thai government is working with the country’s superyacht services providers in easing restrictions to welcome more affluent visitors to Thailand.”
Along with the main island, Phuket is comprised of 32 smaller islands such as Phang Nga Bay. It was home to the movie, ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’. The bay is filled with limestone karsts containing mysterious sea caves and hidden lagoons. Phi Phi Islands is home to ‘The Beach’ movie. And the Similan Islands offers adventure and whale sharks, manta rays and leopard sharks.
When seeking culture there’s Old Town, with colonial-era buildings housing chic coffee houses and boutique hotels. There are Chinese shrines and 29 Buddhist temples, including Wat Chalong, where a 60-metre-high stupa houses a bone fragment that is reputedly from Buddha himself.
Staring role
Although Koh Samui started out as a popular beach getaway for backpackers, the island has evolved into a magnet for the affluent. The island offers stunning 5-Star resorts along with beautiful white sand beaches, waterfalls, spectacular viewpoints and ancient temples, as well as a lively Fisherman’s Village and Chaweng Beach night life. Michelin worthy dining, luxurious beachfront resorts and world-class wellness spas are spread throughout the island. The Four Seasons Resort Samui is now filming the third HBO Series, ‘White Lotus’.
Spectacular cruising to the west is Ang Thong National Marine Park with 42 deserted islands and to the north, Koh Tao, rated among the world’s top dive destinations and where you can swim with Whale Sharks.
Amidst the natural beauty of Koh Samui, Captain Charlie Dwyer, co-founder of Asia Pacific Superyachts says, “Superyacht visitors can immerse themselves in a world of comfort, luxury and cultural richness, making Koh Samui a favored destination for those seeking the quintessence of island elegance and amazing Gulf cruising.”
