Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Ko Phi Phi - 4 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided on the sailing trip?

  The catamaran is equipped with 8 passenger cabins in total: 2 deluxe double cabins on the main deck with slightly larger bathrooms, and 7 standard cabins (4 bunk/twin and 3 double) located below deck. All cabins are en suite with air conditioning and porthole windows.

• Are single travelers required to pay a single supplement?

  No, single travelers joining group trips are paired in shared accommodation with someone of the same gender for the duration of the trip, without an additional single supplement.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. You can expect tantalizing Thai cuisine prepared by a local chef.

• What activities are included and what optional activities are available?

  Included activities feature snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, relaxing on pristine beaches, visiting famous spots like James Bond Island, Railay Beach, and Ko Ha Yai, and snorkeling in Monkey Bay. Snorkelling equipment and two kayaks are provided. Optional activities include a dinghy excursion in Phang Nga Bay and visiting the Shrine of the Sea Princess at Railay Beach.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this sailing adventure is 18 participants.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The sailing adventure is led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a qualified skipper, and a local cook/first mate. They are knowledgeable about the Thai Islands and keen to share their insights.

• What is the minimum age to participate in this tour?

  The minimum age requirement to join this tour is 16 years old.

• Are there any specific health requirements for the trip?

  While there are no specific health requirements, an average level of fitness and mobility is needed (e.g., walking unaided, climbing stairs, stepping on and off small boats, carrying luggage). Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions must complete a medical questionnaire signed by their physician. Please note that constant power for Sleep Apnea/CPAP machines is not available; a suitable battery pack is required.

• Is fresh water readily available for showering on board?

  Fresh water is limited on board, so showers are restricted to one quick shower per person per day. Drinking water, however, is provided free of charge.

• What are the recommendations for tipping the crew and local guides?

  Tipping is customary in Asia. For local guides and drivers, a recommendation of $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is suggested. For the CEO, Skipper, and Cook, a guideline of $10-15 USD per person per day is appreciated at the end of the trip.

• What currency should I use for onboard purchases?

  All purchases made onboard the boat must be made with cash (Thai Baht).

• Is the catamaran always under sail?

  The skipper utilizes wind power when conditions are agreeable. However, motoring the catamaran will be necessary at times due to unfavorable wind conditions. This is a sailing adventure, not a learn-to-sail program, but guests may have the chance to assist with navigation.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on the Sailing Thailand tour?

  The tour offers accommodation on a 25m (82 ft) sailing catamaran, featuring 2 deluxe double cabins and 7 standard twin/double cabins. All cabins are en suite and have air conditioning. Deluxe cabins are on the main deck with porthole views and easier access, while standard cabins are below deck.

• Are there any size limitations for cabins or beds?

  Space in the cabins is very limited. Beds in the cabins are approximately 1.8 meters (6 feet) in length.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travellers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex.

• What is the recommended luggage type for this tour?

  Due to very limited space on board, it is important to bring only soft-sided luggage, such as a mid-sized backpack or soft duffel bag, keeping its weight to less than 15kg. Hard suitcases are not suitable.

• What are the water and shower facilities like on board?

  Fresh water is very limited on board, so showers are limited to one quick shower per person per day. One towel per week is provided for showering, but guests should bring a beach towel. Drinking water is provided free of charge.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. Meals are prepared by a local chef on board.

• Who will be leading the group on this sailing adventure?

  The sailing adventure is led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout the trip, along with a qualified skipper, an assistant, and a local cook/first mate. The onboard team is highly knowledgeable about the Thai Islands.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include snorkeling in crystal-clear water, sailing through stunning southern Thai islands, feasting on tantalizing Thai cuisine, and relaxing on secluded beaches.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  Optional activities include a dinghy excursion in Phang Nga Bay, a visit to the Shrine of the Sea Princess at Railay Beach, and additional snorkeling in Ko Phi Phi Le.

• What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18, with an average of 10 travellers.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage are strongly recommended.

• What currency should I use and how should I manage money on the trip?

  The local currency is the Thai Baht. It's best to carry debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted) and some USD cash for emergencies. All purchases made onboard the boat must be with cash.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is tipping customary, and what are the guidelines?

  Tipping is customary in Asia, usually around 10% for service providers. For local guides or drivers, $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is suggested. For the CEO, Skipper, and Cook, a guideline of $10-15 USD per person per day is appreciated at the end of the trip.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

  Dress standards in Asia are conservative. Modest clothing covering shoulders and knee-length shorts are strongly recommended. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and comfortable in the hot climate.

• Are there any health considerations I should be aware of?

  There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it is your responsibility to consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information and required inoculations. Please note, a constant power source onboard cannot be guaranteed for Sleep Apnea/CPAP machines, so a suitable battery pack is required.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  The minimum age for this trip is 16 years.

• What kind of transportation is used on this tour?

  The tour uses a 25m (82 ft) sailing catamaran. The skipper will use wind power when conditions are agreeable, but motoring may be required during unfavourable wind conditions.

• How can I contact the Skipper CEO before the trip?

  It is highly recommended to download the tour operator App, which provides joining instructions and allows you to connect with your Skipper CEO two days prior to your departure date. The Skipper CEO will also communicate updates via the app's chat section.

• What rules should I be aware of regarding conduct on the trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. The exploitation of prostitutes is also contrary to the tour's philosophy of respect towards local people. The CEOs have the right to expel any group member found in violation of these rules.

• What is the 'Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Ko Phi Phi' tour about?

  This four-day voyage takes you through Thailand's alluring islands on a small private catamaran. You'll snorkel in hidden bays, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy tantalizing Thai cuisine prepared by a local chef. It's designed as a serene escape from the crowds of Phuket.

• What kind of boat is used for this tour?

  The tour uses a 25m (82 ft) sailing catamaran. The skipper will utilize wind power when conditions allow, and guests may have the chance to learn some sailing basics. Motoring may be necessary in unfavorable wind conditions.

• What types of accommodation are available on the catamaran?

  The catamaran has 8 passenger cabins in total: 2 deluxe double cabins on the main deck with porthole views and larger bathrooms, and 7 standard twin/double cabins (including 4 bunk/twin and 3 double) below deck with porthole windows. All cabins are en suite and have air conditioning. Power onboard is 220V with European 2-pin sockets. Beds are approximately 1.8 meters (6 feet) long. Space in cabins is limited.

• Are solo travelers accommodated on this tour?

  Yes, solo travelers are welcome. The trip is designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travelers will be paired in a twin or multi-share cabin with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  Three breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners are included. The tantalizing Thai cuisine is prepared by a local chef onboard.

• What activities are included in this sailing tour?

  Included activities involve sailing the Andaman Islands, visiting James Bond Island, exploring Railay Beach and Ko Ha Yai, and snorkeling in locations like Monkey Bay and potentially Ko Maa. Snorkeling equipment and two kayaks are also provided for your use.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Optional activities include a dinghy excursion in Phang Nga Bay, visiting the Shrine of the Sea Princess at Railay Beach, and additional snorkeling opportunities around Ko Phi Phi Le.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age requirement for this trip is 16 years.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers, with an average group size of 10.

• Who leads the tour on the catamaran?

  The sailing adventure is led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), along with a qualified skipper, an assistant, and a local cook/first mate. The onboard team is knowledgeable about the Thai Islands and dedicated to enhancing your experience.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• Are there any health considerations for this trip?

  Travelers with sleep apnea/CPAP machines should note that there is no constant power source onboard, so a suitable battery pack is required. While there are no specific health requirements, it is recommended to consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information and required inoculations. It's also advised to carry a first aid kit and hand sanitizers, as medical facilities may be remote.

• What currency is used and how should I handle money onboard and ashore?

  The local currency is Thai Baht. It's best to carry debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard networks are widely accepted). USD cash is recommended for emergencies. Credit cards can be used in some larger stores or upmarket restaurants. All purchases made onboard the boat must be made with cash. Ensure USD notes are new and in good condition (post-2003).

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is tipping customary on this trip?

  Tipping service providers (like waiters) at approximately 10% is customary in Asia. For local guides and drivers, $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day is recommended. For the tour operator CEO, Skipper, and Cook, a guideline of $10-15 USD per person per day is appreciated.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs or exploitation of prostitutes?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as this contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of prostitutes is also strictly against the tour's philosophy of respect. The CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group found to be in violation of these rules.

• How should I dress to respect local customs?

  Dress standards in Asia are generally conservative. Modest clothing is strongly recommended, meaning covering shoulders and wearing knee-length shorts or longer. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is comfortable and respectful in the hot climate.

• Are laundry facilities available on board?

  Laundry facilities are not available on board. It is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism. They support community-owned businesses and the tour operator is their largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs so 100% of donations directly benefit Planeterra projects.