Thailand: Phuket to Krabi through Phang Nga Bay and the Phi Phi Islands

Cruise north into Phang Nga Bay, where steep limestone formations, narrow channels and low-lying islands replace the more open waters around Phuket. The short passage allows the yacht to move slowly through the area rather than treating the bay simply as a transit point.

Depending on tidal conditions and tender access, the day can include locations around Ko Panyi, sea caves or the Ko Tapu area before the yacht moves to an appropriate overnight position. Much of the appeal here comes from exploring smaller waterways by tender or kayak while the main yacht remains in deeper, suitable water.

Leave the inner bay and cruise south toward Koh Yao Noi. The day’s distance remains short, giving guests time for a leisurely departure from Phang Nga and an afternoon around the island rather than spending several hours continuously underway.

Koh Yao Noi provides a useful intermediate stop between the protected waters of Phang Nga Bay and the longer passage toward Phi Phi. Spend the afternoon swimming, taking the tender ashore or exploring a quieter section of the island before returning aboard for dinner.

Depart Koh Yao Noi for the longest passage of the itinerary, cruising south toward the Phi Phi Islands. The approximately 25-NM leg is still manageable within a charter day, particularly with an earlier departure, and avoids forcing multiple major destinations into a single day.

Arrive around Phi Phi Don and select an overnight position according to weather and park regulations. If conditions and current access rules allow, the itinerary can also include Maya Bay or other areas within Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park before returning to the yacht.

Cruise northeast from Phi Phi toward the Krabi mainland, with the limestone headlands around Railay gradually coming into view. The shorter passage after the previous day’s longer run gives guests more time ashore and keeps the overall pacing balanced.

Anchor or hold offshore in a suitable position and use the tender for access to Railay’s beaches and waterfront areas. The afternoon can be spent ashore or aboard before the final short movement toward Krabi the following day. Krabi’s wider coastal region includes Phi Phi, offshore islands and limestone formations, making this a natural continuation of the charter route.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning around Railay before completing the short passage toward the designated Krabi marina or landing point. Because most of the mileage has already been covered, the final day does not require an early departure or a long transfer before disembarkation.

Arrive in Krabi and complete the charter after approximately 73 NM of cruising. The one-way route avoids backtracking to Phuket while still keeping each individual leg within a practical range for a six-day yacht itinerary.