Ultimate Day Tour Guide to Phi Phi
The Phi Phi Islands are a collection of six small islands off the coast of Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea. Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are the two main islands in this particular group. The larger of the two, Phi Phi Don, is a vast archipelago off the coast of Phuket which attracts visitors to its pristine beaches and the variety of activities and dining options available.
Located in the south, Koh Phi Phi Leh is the island which was made famous by “The Beach.” Maya Bay is a small, sheltered bay with clear blue waters, white sandy beaches and towering limestone cliffs making it a popular day trip destination in Phi Phi.
Bamboo Island, Mosquito Island, Yung Island, and Palong Island are the other four islands that make up the remainder of the Phi Phi Islands group.
Maya Bay Complete Guide:
- The Bay – This famous bay, situated on Phi Phi Ley, is perhaps the best-known destination in the whole archipelago. The 2000 Leonardo DiCaprio film “The Beach” used it extensively, which was a major contributing factor to the area’s fame during the years which followed.
- Top Tip – So, when is really best to visit Maya Bay? At 5 Star Marine, we have experienced captains and crew who know how to miss the crowds. When planning a private tour to the Phi Phi islands area, we suggest that in order to have a quieter experience, you should visit Maya Bay either early in the morning (between 7am – 9:30am) or later in the afternoon (around 3pm – 4:30pm).
- Rehabilitation Efforts – Maya Bay remains one of the most iconic areas you should visit on your Phi Phi Island private day tour; and right now, the beach is open to visit and walk on. For purposes of natural rehabilitation, Maya Bay will close for certain months during the year. However, fear not – this does not mean you cannot enjoy Maya Bay as you can still take in the beauty of the Bay from a short distance away on board your private boat, yet you simply cannot walk on the actual beach during the rehabilitation times.
- Respectful Tourism – 5 Star Marine are committed to ensuring that guest can enjoy the beauty of Maya Bay, whilst practicing responsible tourism, to help keep the area protected and allow it to continue regenerating. The Marine Park have worked tirelessly to get Maya Bay back up to its previous paradise condition; so, all private Phi Phi day trips adhere to the new rules and help demonstrate respectful tourism.
- Getting There – A floating pontoon is situated on the opposite side of the island, so our Phi Phi private day tours take guests to Phi Phi Leh to the pier at Loh Samah Bay. Here you will be greeted by a National Park ticket booth before you make your way to a wooden boardwalk and nature path which connects Loh Samah to Maya Bay.
- *Please note that the May Bay National Park will in future (updated January 2023) require all visitors to pay fees online prior to entering; 5 Star Marine can assist with this process or any questions guests might have once it is implemented.
Phi Phi’s Ultimate Snorkelling Spots:
A trip to these islands would not be complete without a spot of snorkeling; after all this area is renowned for being home of excellent underwater opportunities. The clear, warm waters house a wide variety of marine life, including impressive coral reefs, colorful tropical fish plus other marine animals.
You are spoilt for choice with so many snorkelling spots around the islands to select from; including shallow coral gardens and deeper areas with more diverse marine life. Some of the most popular snorkeling areas around the Phi Phi Islands include:
- Yong Kasem Bay, which is also referred to as “Monkey Bay” and is not only home to these long-tailed macaques, but the soft sands and coral reefs here can only be reached by boat, making it a perfect stop on your custom Phi Phi day trip.
- Nui Beach can be found on the west coast of Koh Phi Phi Don and is a truly beautiful little cove enclosed by steep karsts to the south of Loh Lana Bay. There is excellent snorkelling to explore on both sides of Nui Bay.
- Bamboo Island is a charming island with bright, shallow waters suitable for both snorkelling and swimming. This small island is located a short boat ride from the larger Phi Phi Islands and is known for its stunning soft sand beaches and clear waters. Take the opportunity to try to see the abundance of tropical fish here or perhaps even the sea turtles.
- Leam Tong Bay is a picturesque bay located on the island of Phi Phi Don and is acclaimed for its clear, turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beach, as well as its excellent snorkelling opportunities. The bay has several spots to select from and discover the beauty of the marine and coral life just underneath the surface of the clear waters.
- Viking Cave is a prominent attraction found on Phi Phi Although the bay and cave are well-known for their scenery, much more can be found underwater with some excellent and noteworthy snorkelling. This cave was named for the ancient, Viking-like murals inside which are thought to have been drawn by sea gipsies or pirates who sheltered here from storms.
- Loh Samah Bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making it another great spot for snorkelling. Some of the species you could be lucky enough to discover include parrotfish, angelfish and clownfish as well as a variety of corals and other marine life.
Phi Phi’s Quietest Beaches:
It is worth noting that many of the beaches on Phi Phi can get busy during peak season, so if you are looking for a truly quiet and secluded spot, you may want to consider visiting one of the smaller, less well-known beaches on the island. Our crew are there to assist you with local knowledge on where is best to go and when in order to miss the crowds. Here is a small selection of secluded, picturesque beaches you could expect to experience on your Phi Phi private luxury day trip:
Ao Nui or Nui Beach is a visually stunning and secluded small cove beach is known for its crystal-clear sparkling waters and soft, white sand. It is an ideal spot for relaxing and sunbathing and is surrounded by lush vegetation, adding to its natural beauty. Located south of Lana Bay, on the west coast of Phi Phi Don, you will find only limited facilities. Therefore, this is a good spot for an arranged beach picnic whilst on your private Phi Phi boat tour.
Moo Dee Bay is located on the south eastern end of the island, providing a secluded and peaceful beach that is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. It is surrounded to the south by coconut groves and to the north by a lush jungle making it feel even more remote.
Laem Tong Beach is only accessible by boat, and located on the north-eastern side of Koh Phi Phi. This access makes it an ideal site for a tranquil beach visit, where if timed right you could enjoy virtually complete privacy here.
Phak Nam Bay, which is often referred to simply as Relax Bay, is located on the east coast of Phi Phi Don Island, just south of Loh Bagao. This beach provides visitors with an off-the-beaten-path felling, and is nestled between the sparkling ocean and the complementary shades of the jungle folliage.
With so many stunning, soft white sandy beaches to pick from, our crew will be happy to help you decide based on your criteria for the day. No two day trips are the same, so we work with you to establish the perfect itinerary to make the most of your day out.
Beachfront Foodies:
We count ourselves lucky to have so many beachfront restaurants, providing a unique and tropical opportunity to dine view of the ocean, sand in your toes and breeze in your hair. Enjoying a holiday vibe lunch with a view of the beach and the ocean can be a genuinely spectacular experience.
Dine on local seafood and other Thai and western foods, often inspired by what is in season and providing you the opportunity to experience something new and different. We round up just a few beachfront restaurants to inspire you with idyllic and unique dining experiences that combine local food, a tropical environment and a laid-back beach ambiance:
- Malee Seafood Restaurant, Koh Phi Phi Don
This local, low-key beach restaurant serves fresh and tasty Thai dishes with notably friendly service. Prices are reasonable, and the menu is varied; offering choices from Thai salads to authentic curries, all enjoyed directly on the beach.
- Takada Restaurant, Zeavola Resort & Spa, Koh Phi Phi Don
Located at the northern tip of the island, Takada beachside restaurant and bar offers 5 Star Mediterranean food which you can enjoy with a calming sea wind and your toes in the soft sand. Light lunches are available, including lamb, steak, salmon, seabass, and local seafood specialties, in an upscale setting.
- Chilli and Pepper, Phi Phi Don
Ok, so this one isn’t quite beachfront but more treehouse on stilts nestled into the cliff at the end of the beach! This is a small, hidden gem with a picture-perfect sea view. Food is freshly made to order, authentic and good value with decent portion sizes at this family-run, off-beaten-track unusual restaurant.
- Hippies Bar, Koh Phi Phi Don
Fun bar with quality local food right on Tongsai beach. Portion sizes are generous and a selection of Thai and Asian favorites are served. Here you will be surrounded by a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, good service, and decent drinks to top it all off.
- Tonsai Seafood, Koh Phi Phi Don
A renowned name in the restaurant lists of Phi Phi; Tong said Seafood has a fantastic beachfront location. A popular spot with seafood lovers due to the generous portions of local seafood and Thai dishes which come with uninterrupted sea views.
- Jasmin Restaurant, Koh Phi Phi Don
This beachfront restaurant in Laem Tong Bay specializes in seafood, Asian and Thai dishes. The owner and staff are all very welcoming and food served is authentic and highly rated. The menu is varied and can cater to vegetarians plus other dietary requirements. It also serves cocktails and drinks, all with enticing oceanfront views.
- Mama Ping, Phi Phi Don
Authentic Thai cuisine situated directly on the beach. Mama Ping is renowned for its friendly, family atmosphere, beach style laid back vibe, and good honest food. With Thai, seafood and vegetarian options you will be sure to find something to suit everyone here.
Get Active:
Phi Phi Don is an excellent hiking location, especially if you appreciate picturesque routes with stunning vistas. The treks on the island are typically moderate in effort, but you may select from a variety of paths based on your interests and fitness level.
The Viewpoint Hike and the Loh Dalum Bay Hike both provide panoramic views of the island and its surroundings, while the Phi Phi Don Village Hike, for example, allows you to tour the local village:
The Viewpoint Hike: This is the most popular hike in Phi Phi and offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding area. It is a moderate hike that takes about 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the level you decide to go up to.
West Koh Phi Phi Coastal Trail: This 2.7-km point-to-point trail is generally considered an easy route; it takes an average of 45 min to complete. It starts from Loh Dalum Beachfront and goes all the way North of the island, all on the coastal trail.
The Phi Phi Don Village Trail: This hike takes you through the village on Phi Phi Don, giving you a chance to see how the local people live and work. It is an easy to moderaate hike that takes about 1 hour to complete, depending on your pace.
The Loh Dalum Bay Hike: This hike takes you to Loh Dalum Bay, a popular beach located on the north side of the island. It is a slightly longer hike that takes about 2-3 hours to complete.
For more hiking / trekking inspiration and detailed routes, you can refer to All Trails. Please remember to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water and be mindful and always respectful of your surroundings when hiking in Phi Phi Don.
The 5 Star Marine crew can assist with the best island drop off points depending on the trail you might want to try out.
Get Me To Phi Phi:
Getting to the Phi Phi Islands from the 5 Star Marine base in Boat Lagoon is an easy affair. The private speedboat journey will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, where the crew will ensure your comfort throughout.
A Luxury 5 Star Experience:
Through the assistance of our knowledgeable crew and captains, your tour to the Phi Phi Islands can certainly be tailored to fit your specific requirements. So, whatever you are looking for, you get the chance to craft your own unique itinerary and take pleasure in the results of the collaborative planning for the perfect day out exploring Phi Phi.
To book, or find out any further information on discovering Phi Phi or any of our other island destinations, please contact us:
Bookings and Enquiries:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
www.5starmarinephuket.com
[email protected]
Top Island Hopping View Points Near Phuket, Thailand
Viewpoints are particularly popular in and around Phuket, Thailand because the area is fortunate enough to be blessed with a diverse tropical landscape and numerous breath-taking natural landmarks and seascapes.
A popular question when guests book a custom private speedboat trip with 5 Star Marine is “where can we island hop to go to a viewpoint?” We find that our luxury daytrips that are complemented by a viewpoint are popular as they offer a unique perspective and a chance to see a location near to Phuket from a different point of view. From a viewpoint, you can see a wider area and take in the natural beauty of a landscape in a way that you cannot from ground level. Some island viewpoints near Phuket offer spectacular panoramic views, which provide a sense of awe, creating a memorable day out on the water.
Getting up to some of the more challenging viewpoints offers a sense of accomplishment; as reaching the top can requires some considerable effort, such as hiking a mountain or climbing a staircase. Once you reach the top you are rewarded with a panoramic view of nature’s beauty. This is the perfect time for a spot of photography, with picturesque views to share on social media and to capture your memories.
1. Phi Phi Viewpoint
The Phi Phi Viewpoint is a popular private tour day trip destination, located in the Krabi province. It offers a panoramic view of the Phi Phi Islands and Andaman Sea, and is located on a hill at the southern end of Phi Phi Don Island which can be reached by a steep climb of about 300 steps.
Once you get to Phi Phi Don, you can reach the viewpoint after around a 30-minute walk, or if you are feeling energetic a brisk 20-minute climb. From here you get the opportunity to see the beautiful turquoise waters and white sandy beaches of the Phi Phi Islands, as well as the surrounding islands. The view is particularly stunning at sunset, when the sky is painted with vibrant hues.
Overall, the Phi Phi Viewpoint is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Phuket and looking for a special day trip; offering breath-taking views and a chance to take in the beauty of the Andaman Sea.
2. Koh Nok Viewpoint
There are few more rustic and tropical locations for a genuine return to nature. This unique island, which is quiet and untouched, is the perfect escape from the trappings of contemporary life. A day trip to this tiny island just south of Koh Yao Noi will give an opportunity to reconnect with nature and create memories that will last a lifetime. This experience is popularly combined with a custom tour or Krabi tour for example.
The hike to the top can be a touch challenging, especially if there has been recent rain. However, a rope and rocks help you climb up, and you are truly rewarded with a stunning panoramic view once you reach the peak. Do remember to bring water and mosquito repellent with you, as you will most certainly need these.
This is more of a climb for adults, but children can play under supervision on the quiet beach below so it is still a popular family option. The climb, although challenging, takes only around 15 minutes, but we would recommend a decent pair of shoes to help with the steep ascent.
3. Railay Bat Cave
The Bat Cave Viewpoint is a popular tourist destination located near Railay Beach in Krabi. If you hire a kayak from Railay beach, you can paddle around to Phra Nang Cave Beach and make your way through the jungle before finding the base of the climb.
It is reached by a short hike from the main beach area, and the actual climb is a steep one through various parts of Bat cave (which is named due to the fact that it is home to a large colony of bats).
Once all the way to the top, you are rewarded with panoramic view of the surrounding area, including Railay Beach, Phra Nang Beach, and the limestone cliffs that define the landscape of the area. From here, take a moment to catch your breath and can take in the beautiful surrounding turquoise waters. Don’t forget your head torch if you want to go all the way to the top, as some areas of the cave are pretty dark!
4. Hong Krabi
Hong Island in Krabi has a spectacular panoramic 360 degree viewpoint which is often enjoyed after taking time to enjoy the beauty of Ko Hong Lagoon on the other side of the island. After this, you can make your way to the impressive metal staircase structure which was built in 2020, and was designed to give panoramic 360o views of Krabi and the surrounding islands. It certainly delivers, and is arguably one of the best seascape views of the Krabi island sets, Phang Nga Bay and surrounding islands in the national park that you can get from anywhere.
The climb is not for the fainthearted, as you will need to ascend the metal stairs (rumoured to be around 420 steps), and progress along wooden walkways for around 10 – 15 minutes in the tropical heat before reaching the top viewing platform. Here, your efforts will be greatly rewarded with arguably on of the most spectacular views.
At around 109 metres above sea level, it is definitely a steep climb, but totally doable and worth the exertion to get up to the top to see views of tropical islands and karst limestone mountains jutting out of the emerald waters. This experience is perfect for a group of friends, but is also safe for families with children too; just remember to take shoes, hats and water with you.
5. Koh Yao Yai Viewpoint
This viewpoint is located in the north of Koh Yao Yai which is a fairly large island located in the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and Krabi. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, laid-back atmosphere and viewpoint.
A visit to the Koh Yao Yai Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding area. It is a popular spot for sunset viewing and photography, and an easy stop off for your day trip to Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island or Krabi.
You can find this viewpoint slightly inland, near to Chong Lard Pier, which offers some of the island’s best views. It is reached via a steep pathway that runs through a coconut and rubber tree plantation. Once at the top, take a breath and enjoy the view with some idyllic photo opportunities.
Overall, we see that viewpoints offer a chance to add something different into your day trip; an opportunity to view a place from a different angle as well as giving you a sense of accomplishment and providing beautiful chances for memorable photography.
Bookings and Enquiries:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
www.5starmarinephuket.com
[email protected]
Top 5 Snorkeling Tours in Phuket, Thailand
The islands around Phuket are known for their crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, making them ideal for exploring and snorkelling. The region is home to a wide variety of coral reefs and other underwater habitats that support a diverse array of sea species, including colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks.
The warm, shallow waters and good depth visibility around many islands that are conveniently accessible on a day trip with 5 Star Marine, making it easy to see the underwater world and explore the reefs up close. In addition, trained guides can provide vital information about the aquatic ecosystems and help ensure a safe, memorable and enjoyable experience on your private speedboat tour.
1. Phi Phi
There are many reasons to consider a day trip to Phi Phi Island, which is located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Thailand. One of the main attractions of Phi Phi Island is its beautiful beaches and turquoise waters, which are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and exploring. The island is home to several stunning beaches, including Maya Bay, which was made famous by the movie “The Beach,” and Bamboo Island, which is known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.
A small selection of good spots for snorkelling in Phi Phi Island, include:
• Maya Bay: This is a popular spot for snorkelling, as the bay is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and is home to colourful tropical fish and sea turtles. Please note that you cannot snorkel directly from Maya Bay beach but can just beyond the bay from the boat.
• Loh Samah Bay: This bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and colourful coral reefs, which are home to a wide variety of marine life.
• Bamboo Island: This small island is located a short boat ride from Phi Phi Island and is known for its stunning soft sand beaches and clear waters. It is a great spot for snorkelling where you might get the chance to see tropical fish and sea turtles, as well as an idyllic lunch picnic spot.
2. Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are well-known for their striking crystal clear seas and varied marine life, making them an excellent snorkelling destination. The islands are part of the Mu Ko Similan National Park, which is home to a diverse array of coral reefs and other underwater ecosystems. With these reefs you will encounter a wide variety of marine life, including colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, and potentially whale sharks.
With a variety of dive sites and snorkelling areas to select from, the Similan Islands are particularly renowned worldwide. Elephant Head Rock, famed for its massive underwater rock formations and colourful coral reefs, and Shark Island, which is home to a variety of sharks and other marine life, are two prime examples.
Overall, the Similan Islands are a fantastic snorkelling location, with pristine seas, rich sea life, memorable scenery, and a broad range of snorkelling spots to explore.
3. Koh Rok / Koh Ha
These islands are for you if you are searching for somewhere a little more exotic and are perhaps as breath-taking as the Similan Islands. These tiny islands are in the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, immediately south of Koh Lanta.
These two islands provide some of the greatest snorkelling options available due to their exceptional water clarity, rich marine life, and colourful reefs, which make for a very unique experience. In season, whale sharks are also frequently observed swimming between these islands.
Visiting Koh Rok and Koh Ha makes for a perfect multi night experience, and will provide some of the greatest snorkelling, beautiful soft sand beaches, and less crowds than the more popular Similan Islands. Compared to most other day trip destinations from Phuket, this one is a little further out, but the assured natural beauty makes the journey worthwhile.
4. Raya / Racha Islands
Raya or Racha Islands are renowned for their pristine seas and rich underwater sea life, making them a popular snorkelling destination. The islands are situated in the Andaman Sea and are home to a multitude of coral reefs and other underwater ecosystems that are teeming with marine life, such as vibrant tropical fish and sea turtles.
Around Racha Island, there are several excellent snorkelling locations, including Siam Bay, which is located on the south side of the island and is renowned for its magnificent coral reefs and aquatic species including colourful tropical fish and sea turtles.
Patok Beach is located on the north side of the island and has a beach which is known for its clear waters and divers’ underwater life, teeming with tropical fish and other marine life. In addition to snorkelling, these islands are home to noteworthy diving locations, have 5 star hotels and restaurants to select from for a tropical lunch.
5. Coral Island
Coral Island, commonly known locally as Koh He or alternatively Koh Hae, is located close to Phuket so lends itself to being conveniently located and extremely family friendly.
This Island is renowned for its crystal blue seas and abundant marine life, making it another popular snorkelling destination to add to your list. It is situated south of Phuket and is home to a multitude of coral reefs and other underwater ecosystems.
There are a number of excellent snorkelling locations around Coral Island, including the coral reefs that encircle the island and the shallow seas along the beaches. In addition, the island is home to various snorkelling and diving locations, including Koh Hae Yai, which is renowned for its vibrant reefs.
Coral Island also lends itself to being a family friendly day trip; not only is it located near to Phuket, but because a trip to Banana Beach Club on the island serves a good selection of dishes, has clean facilities plus offers massages, canoes and plenty of Instagram-worthy set ups.
We look forward to welcoming you for a trip of a lifetime, snorkelling amongst the rich coral and marine life we are lucky enough to have around the islands surrounding Phuket.
Bookings and Enquiries:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
www.5starmarinephuket.com
[email protected]
Our 5 Star Marine Phuket Private Boats
Check out our Private VIP Speedboats
Here at 5 Star Marine Phuket we have a fleet of 15 private VIP Speedboats and Luxury Cruisers (and our fleet is still growing). All our fully customised boats are TAT SHA Plus approved, and adhere to the highest levels of comfort for your ultimate tailor-made experience.
We get lots of questions all the time about the 5 Star Marine Phuket boats. So let’s talk about our boats. Our boats are all the same. So we have Lucas 1 to 15. Same style, same fit out, same layout, same inclusions. Everything’s the same.
So as you step onto the boat from the pier, at Phuket Boat Lagoon, you’ll see that there’s a back deck. This back deck that’s there is to enable easy access on and off the boat. A lot of guests ask us, can the boat come all the way up to the, beach? And the answer is yes, we can back all the way up to the beach. And then you can just step straight off onto the beach. And another great thing is while you’re snorkelling, there are two long ladders there. One that you can go down and one that you can go up.
All our boats have two engines which are better for safety and a nice deck that you can get up and down on nice and easy. And it also protects you from the engines. So when you go snorkelling, you are nowhere near the propeller, which is good.
So as you go inside the boat you’re going to see that actually we just upgraded the cushions inside our boat. Nice big fat cushions. To make it comfortable for you, there is a shaded back area where you can sit and an open front area as well. Both of these are available for you throughout the tour. And inside we also have a cooler full of ice, soft drinks, and water. And if you like, you can bring anything else onto the boat and put it inside the cooler. Also every boat has a toilet.
Now, some of the other questions that we also get asked is there a smaller boat available? The answer to that question is these boats that we’ve just talked about are specifically built here in Phuket for Phuket sea conditions. Now we don’t run smaller boats because we think that it’s unsafe. So all of our boats are two engine boats. They’re all 39 foot long and they’re designed for Phuket specific sea conditions that allows you to have a nice safe trip.
We’re often asked our boats suitable for young kids. The answer to that is yes, of course. And that’s why the boat is so big. That’s why it’s got two engines. We feel very comfortable about it. In fact, all of our boats are named Lucas after my son, who’s been going on board with us since he was 6 months old.
Our crew are well trained and experienced in making sure that you have a safe journey. So who’s going to be on the boat with you? Well look, if you’d like Jay our YouTube host, Jay will be there with you. But typically on our boat, we’re going to have 3 crew on board with you. We’re going to have a captain, an engineer, and an English speaking guide.
Now the captain, his job’s to take care of the boat and make sure that you get from A to B, nice and safely. The guide is there to customize the tour prepare you for each of the stops, help you with your snorkelling, maybe organize where you’re going to go and have lunch and your engineer will be there on the boat helping with your experience as well.
If you’re considering a private boat tour in Phuket we would love to have you on board with us. Whether you’re one passenger or you’re a family group we can customize the program and the tour to suit you. Any questions at all, feel free to drop a comment below. And we’d love to see you on board.
Deep Week Thailand 2022
November 26 – December 3, 2022
Phuket Thailand
Deep Week Thailand is the world’s premier Freediving Education Event and the world’s largest freediving festival! Some of the world’s best free divers assemble in Phuket for a week of freediving activities in one of the most scenic locations in the world.
Led by Adam Stern and Bangkok Freedivers, in partnership with 5 Star Marine Phuket, the event welcomed over 100 free divers from across Asia, Europe, the US, and Australia, making it the world’s largest freediving festival.
What is Deep Week?
Deep Week is a one-of-a-kind experience! There is no other event like this! Deep Week brings the best freedivers, freediving instructors and experts from all over the world, where they can share knowledge and improve their freediving skills. Deep Week Thailand was created by Adam Stern who also created the Freediving Family. Adam is an Australian champion and 8-time Australian record holder in the sport of freediving. He’s not just an athlete, but also a leading educator in this sport.
Along with Adam, 8-time French National Record Holder one of the top freediving educators in the world Thibault Guignes and Ploy Scott, a central figure in the Thai freediving scene and competitive freediver, were on hand to pass over their knowledge and skills to 100’s of free divers.
Phuket is a perfect place to host Deep Week Thailand due to the water clarity and sea conditions which are perfect for Freediving, and working with 5 Star Marine Phuket is ideal due to the short distance from Phuket Boat Lagoon to the dive sites at Racha Yai and Racha Noi.
Along with the day’s Freediving, there were also daily workshops on a variety of freediving topics as well as pool sessions, static sessions, and all the Wave theory sessions needed to complete the Molchanovs freediving course. They also hold free yoga, meditation, and HIIT classes each day.
During Deep Week Thailand, freedivers were able to complete any level of the different courses from Molchanovs freediving.
This was the second Deep Week Thailand and the event is growing with each festival. We are looking forward to Deep Week Thailand 2023
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa Hotel Walk Through
Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa Hotel is one of Phuket’s best hotels. The 5-star Marriott Bonvoy beachfront lifestyle resort comes with a unique design. Situated on the beautiful Mai Khao Beach, and only a 15-minute drive from Phuket International Airport.
5 Star Marine Phuket YouTube host headed up to the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa Hotel to have a look around the stunning resort and check out the rooms and the facilities at this beautiful Phuket 5-Star Resort.
The Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa Hotel offers spacious Deluxe rooms (46 sqm.), homey One Bedroom Suites (97 sqm.), and contemporary, tropical design private Pool Villas starting (117 sqm.).
One of the distinctive design elements of the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa Hotel is the Renaissance Phuket’s signature lobby and villas roofing inspired by the shape of the Leatherback Turtle shell as Mai Khao beach is one of the few Phuket beaches that continue to have nesting turtles.
What about food and drink?
Well lucky for you the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa has a wide selection of onsite restaurants and bars to choose from.
The Sand Box Beachfront Bar & Eatery at Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa is one of the most exclusive beachfront dining spots in Phuket with a modern tropical design, a cool open-concept kitchen, and a brand-new Italian imported wood-fired pizza oven, and all this with stunning views over Mai Khao Beach.
Then there is the multi-award-winning Takieng restaurant. Serving classic Southern Thai and Phuket’s favorite dishes with premium local ingredients, Takieng is in the top 25 Phuket restaurants in 2022. Takieng means ‘lantern’ in Thai, referring to the local fishermen’s daily routine of taking the longtail boat with their fishing nets and lanterns to catch fish at night to avoid the heat from the day’s sun.
Many of the ingredients used are locally sourced, some of which are hyper-locally sourced, such as mole crabs and Lin Harn leaves that can be found exclusively on Mai Khao beach.
There is so much more to The Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa, including the stunning Quan Spa, a fully equipped 24-hour fitness center with daily recreational activities such as Thai boxing, yoga, beach volleyball, and water sports, and a fully staffed Kids Club.
To be fair the best thing to do now is to watch the video of Jay’s walk-through so you can get a full idea of this beautiful 5 Star Phuket Resort.
James Bond Island Tour from Phuket
Getting a private speedboat with 5 Star Marine to tour James Bond Island is one of the most memorable things you can do when you’re in Phuket. Here, we explore what you can expect from a day going on our James Bond Island Tour from Phuket.
5 Star Marine
During our James Bond Island Tour from Phuket, you will have the opportunity to view the island’s most interesting features in the luxurious comfort of a private, fully upgraded speedboat. As you head out to Phang Nga Bay you will be welcomed to the home of some of the world’s most beautiful limestone formations.
One of the most iconic features of Phang Nga Bay is its limestone islets, including James Bond Island and Koh Panyee; The bay is filled with these vertical limestone cliffs which makes the area perfect for kayaking and exploring the sea caves.
The James Bond Island Tour from Phuket with 5 Star Marine is one of the most popular day trips. Rest assured, you and your friends or family will be treated like a “Super VIP” every step of the way. Not only will you get the chance to swim in a secluded lagoon on the way to Phang Nga Bay, but you can also visit the floating island of Koh Panyee and enjoy a traditional Thai lunch.
A private luxury speedboat offers you a truly impressive experience; you have the opportunity to see the best sites, you will also be able to work with our experienced crew to customise your itinerary to suit your specific requirements.
James Bond Island
Located in Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island is a fantastic area to explore. This limestone island is part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park and was featured in the film “The Man with the Golden Gun” in 1974, starring Christopher Lee and Roger Moore where the island was the hideout for Scaramanga.
The James Bond Island Tour from Phuket is a bespoke experience, so our guides and captain can help with spots for lunch such as the floating Ko Panyee village, canoeing or kayaking through caves, finding iconic photo opportunities and many other fantastic activities.
Private Speedboat Benefits
Whether you’re traveling to Thailand for the first time or you’ve already visited, James Bond Island is a must-see. With 5 Star Marine, the James Bond Island Tour from Phuket is a perfect private tour for a full day trip. In addition, you can sit back and relax with the following inclusions for your tour:
• Fresh fruits
• Soft drinks
• Water
• Snorkelling equipment
• Life jackets
• Insurance
• Beach mats
• On tour photos
• Tour video
• Cool towel
• Fins (adults)
• Hand sanitiser
We look forward to welcoming you onboard our luxury speedboats to experience our James Bond Island Tour from Phuket.
Bookings and Enquiries:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
www.5starmarinephuket.com
[email protected]
Thai Food Cooking Class in Phuket | Learning to cook Thai food with Authentic Thai Recipes
Where Can I Learn to Cook Thai Food in Phuket? How can I learn to cook Thai food from the locals? Where is the best Thai authentic cooking class? Which is the best Phuket cooking class?
These are a few questions that many people ask us when they are coming to Phuket, and we 100% understand why you would want to learn to cook Thai food.
CNN recently updated its list of the “World’s Best Food” with 50 of the most delicious dishes ever created. The number one was Massaman Curry, described by CNN as “The king of curries and perhaps the king of all foods”. Also on the list were many other Thai dishes like Tom Yum Goong, Nam Tok Moo, Somtam, and of course Thai Green Curry and the classic Thai dish Pad Thai.
With all these amazing dishes it makes perfect sense that when coming to Thailand you take some time out to go on a Thai Cooking Course, and that’s what we did. Jay Leshark headed to the awesome Brasswok Thai Cooking class to learn how to make some authentic Thai Food.
On the menu was three more traditional style Thai Foods, not the standard dishes thats for sure, such as a spicy Jungle Curry with underdeveloped chicken eggs, or a Tom Yum style dish with chicken feet and a stir-fried prawn with lotus stems. Now, these were special dishes prepared by the awesome Chef Pui the owner, chef, and teacher from Basswok Thai Cooking, just for Jay’s visit. These dishes are the times of Thai food that the Phuket locals would eat at home, they are more like Thai comfort food.
Now on most Thai food cooking classes menus, you will get the standard dishes to cook, you might even get a choice, and if you do then try something different. Of course, Green Curry, Pad Thai, Spring Rolls, and even Massaman Curry are on most Thai cooking schools’ lists and are all fantastic to learn to cook, and of course, eat, but after the experience at Brasswok Thai Cooking Classes, cooking new dishes with ingredients that you may have never used, or even known about is a must.
So yes, when you are in Thailand, you must take a morning or afternoon to go on a Thai Cooking class.
James Bond Island Tour
James Bond Island Tour Explained:
One of our most popular private speedboat day excursions is our James Bond Island Tour, heading out to Phang Nga Bay. This is a sumptuous day trip that includes classic sights as well as more sporty activities such as caving and paddling. On 5 Star Marine’s James Bond Island Tour you will go to a place unlike any other, with stunning karst limestone formations rising steeply from the turquoise waters creating an unbelievable seascape for your special photos.
The Popularity of James Bond Island:
When selecting the James Bond Island Tour by private luxury speedboat, the experienced captain and guides will take you and your select group of friends or family off to the well-known Koh Tapu (James Bond Island) in Phang Nga Bay. Here you can take in the sights of Phang Nga Bay’s fames location. This James Bond Island Tour is one of the most popular day trips run from Phuket, and once you arrive it is easy to understand why.
This area is actually a marine protected site; therefore, boats are not allowed to get too close to the Island. However, right beside is the island of Koh Ping Ghan, which features a large rock that leans to one side and several caves which are perfect to explore. From here, you will have a fantastic area from which to take photographs of the famed landmark during your James Bond Island Tour.
James Bond Island has been a popular destination for vacationers since the 1970s, when it was featured in the film ‘The Man With the Golden Gun’ as the location of Scaramanga’s hideout. The James Bond Island Tour that 5 Star Marine provides remains a highly enjoyed trip as a result of the popularity of the film.
Indeed, this attraction helped to support the inhabitants, stores, restaurants, and the floating Muslim village of Koh Panyee, where huts, eateries, and even a floating football pitch have been erected above the water. This can all be experienced and supported as part of your James Bond Island Tour.
Spotlight on The James Bond Island Tour
No matter what it is that you require, 5 Star Marine will do all they can to provide for your perfect day out. Our experienced team will do their best to steer you away from the crowds so that you may have a day that stands out in your memory. During your James Bond Island Tour some of the possible highlights along the way are as follows:
• Stop by Panak Island to enjoy floating peacefully inside one of the hidden caves surrounded by mangroves, before basking in the golden bay.
• At Ko Kudu Yai, take in the exquisite beauty of the clear waters and indulge in this stunning lagoon.
• For a spot of lunch, we suggest taking you to the small island community of Koh Panyee where you can have some traditional food as well as support the local community.
• Once you arrive at James Bond Island, get snap happy from Koh Ping Ghan for the best shots
• During your James Bond Island Tour we can help you participate in some cave canoeing or exploring if you desire.
• Perhaps get lucky and make a sunset stop at Koh Pear, a very thin strip of sand which appears as if you are walking on water.
James Bond Island Tour Inclusions:
• Experienced Captain and Crew
• Private luxury speedboat
• Fresh fruits
• Soft drinks
• Water
• Snorkelling equipment
• Life jackets
• Insurance
• Beach mats
• On tour photos
• Tour video
• Cool towel
• Fins (adults)
• Hand sanitiser
Bookings and Enquiries:
We’re excited to have you join us on the memorable James Bond Island Tour aboard one of 5 Star Marine luxury private speedboats. Please get in touch to book in advance to avoid disappointment
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
www.5starmarinephuket.com
[email protected]
Favorite Locations
If you are looking for the best Phuket Island destination to visit then I am sure you would just go on your phone and search in Google “Best Phuket Islands to visit”
Yes, that is great, and Google, Alexa, and Siri are all great resources to get multitude of information, BUT I was taught, when visiting a new country or a new city, that if you want to know where the best food is or the best bars and restaurants are, or the best places to hang out or even the best Phuket Islands to visit then you should ask a local.
Our 5 Star marine Phuket team, has over 40 years of experience running Phuket Boat Tours, and not just that many of the 5 Star Marine Phuket Team grow up in Phuket or Phi Phi, or Phang Nga Bay so they have more than just the years of experience out on Boat Tours, they have their whole life living and experiencing the wonders of this beautiful area.
We had one simple question to ask the 5 Star Marine Phuket team and that was; What is your favorite Phuket Tour Destination?
The top 4 Phuket Island Tour destinations from the 5 Star Marine Phuket Team were:
Koh Ha (Including Koh Rok)
If you are looking for something a little more exotic, lesser known, and arguably as beautiful, (if not more), than the Similan Islands, then Koh Ha and Koh Rok are perfect. These small islands are situated South of Phuket. The stunning water clarity with a diverse range of colourful marine life and corals, therefore make Koh Ha and Koh Rok some of the best snorkelling opportunities you can find
Phi Phi
Phi Phi is a really well know location and of course has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Maya Bay made famous after being featured in the 2000 movie, “The Beach” featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. While many people mistakenly believe that Phi Phi is made up of just one Island, in fact, it is a group of 6 islands in total. Phi Phi also offers you experiences such as Monkey Beach and Viking Cave, as well as opportunities to swim with Black Tip Reef Sharks.
James Bond Island
Phang Nga Bay truly is one of nature’s spectacular works of art; where the vast karst rock scenery presents a visually stunning location, and the most famous island in the whole of Phang Nga Bay is James Bond Island. This famous landmark in Phang Nga Bay found its way onto the international tourist map through its starring role in the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun.
Racha
Lying about 20kms south of Phuket, the Racha Islands comprise two islands, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. To confuse matters they are also known as Koh Raya Yai and Koh Raya Noi. Raya Islands provide the ideal destination to enjoy nature. With some of the best snorkelling reefs in Thailand and quiet, tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, they provide a balanced combination of relaxing, tranquil locations with amazing sea life.
So, there you have it, the locals have spoken. Of course, there are many more destinations that you can visit and explore while out on a 5 Star Marine Phuket Private Boat Tour. Just drop us a message and we will be happy to guide you to the best destination for your ultimate Phuket Island experience.
