Best Time to Sail in Thailand and Essential Sailing Tips

The best time to sail in Thailand is between November and February. The weather is more stable during this period, making it ideal for sailing adventures.

Marinas in Phuket

There are two main marinas in Phuket where you can pick up your boat:

• Grand Marina: Located a 30-minute drive from the airport.
• Haven Marina: Only a 20-minute drive from the airport. Remember, the driver’s seat is on the right side in Thailand.

To remind you, no marinas are available throughout your cruise, so stocking up on supplies is essential. After check-in, we recommend driving to a large shopping centre 25 minutes from Haven Marina.

Sailing Tips for Thailand

Sailing in Thailand can be challenging, but it’s manageable for new sailors if you pay attention to the depths and tides. Some anchorages are 10-20 meters deep, so check your anchor chain. Although most of the sailing is in relatively shallow water, the keel depth is not usually a significant problem.

Joining a flotilla can provide a convenient and social way to cruise, offering structured routes and assistance with any issues.

Climate and Sailing Seasons in Thailand

Phuket has a tropical monsoonal climate. It’s warm all year round, but the hottest months are April to May and September to October. The period from July to October is also the wettest due to the southwest monsoon.

Seasons in Thailand

• Rainy Season (Southwest Monsoon): Mid-May to mid-October. The southwest monsoon prevails over Thailand, bringing abundant rain across the country. The wettest period is from August to September, except for the Southern Thailand East Coast, where heavy rainfall continues until the end of the year. November is the wettest month here.
• Winter (Northeast Monsoon): Mid-October to mid-February. This is a milder period, with cooler temperatures in December and January, especially in upper Thailand. However, the East Coast of Southern Thailand still experiences significant rainfall during October and November.
• Summer (Pre-Monsoon): Mid-February to mid-May. This transitional period makes the weather warmer, especially in upper Thailand, with April being the hottest month.

For more information on the climate, visit The Climate of Thailand.

Watch a Quick Overview

Check out this quick video overview: Watch Video