LATEST NEWS: Maya Bay Will Close Again in 2024.
Full Details Here MAYA BAY CLOSING 2024
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We take our customer satisfaction seriously; this means that we regularly run staff training. Only yesterday we had our Guide Team in training and planning sessions for the upcoming high season.
One of the things we like to do as a company is run our private boat tours to avoid the crowds. After discussions yesterday we would like to update our recommended departure times.
The recommended departure times for our Private Boat Tours are not set in stone, you have the flexibility to select a different time; however, with that said, our Guide Team feels that the best way to avoid the crowds is to depart from your hotel at the following times:
06:30 AM – Beat the Crowds
This departure time means that we depart from the pier before the large group tours, and just after the sunrise tours. This should allow our Guide Team to build a program that avoids most of the crowds and creates a unique experience for you.
10:30 AM – Behind the Crowds
This departure time means that we depart from the pier after all the large group tours. This ensures we time our tour to go to the best spots after all the group tours have left them. It should also allow us to have clear water on the tour.
Both of these suggested departure times will allow our teams to create the perfect program for you, avoiding the crowds, in all tide conditions. When booking your next private boat tour with us consider these two departure times for the very best experience.
How Long Can You Stay in Thailand? New tourist visa rules, plus a brand-new café opening in Phuket and 5 Star Marine Phuket has a brand-new Phuket weatherman (kind of). All this is discussed in this month’s Breaking Phuket News by the owner of 5 Star Marine Phuket Shaun Stenning and YouTube host Jay Leshark, all while drinking coffee at the brand-new café “Next Door” to the 5 Star Marine towers.
Are you planning a trip to Thailand in the near future? If so, good news for you and good news for anyone working in the tourism industry, Thailand has decided to extend the stay period for those who enter Thailand on a Visa On Arrival. Starting on October 1st, 2022, Thailand CCSA has announced that the Visa extension stay period will be extended from 30 days to 45 days.
“We are looking to extending their stay, This will help boost tourist spending, revive the economy and reduce impact from the coronavirus pandemic.”A CCSA official said.
The Visa extension rule will allow tourists from 64 different countries to come into Thailand without applying for a visa before they arrive. Which countries are on the list? please see below the full list:
The new visa extension is all part of the Thailand government’s efforts to increase economic recovery post-pandemic as it looks to gain 8-10 million foreign arrivals this year. This was the figure reported in The Bangkok Post.
In August, Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said some 1.07 million foreign tourists had entered Thailand in July, which is the first time that monthly arrivals have exceeded 1 million since the pandemic.
But even better news for travelers from Korea, Brazil, Peru, Argentina, and Chile, as you will receive permission to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days under Visa Exemption.
Always wanted a have a coffee overlooking the 5-Star Marine Towers, well now you can. The Next-Door Café has opened right next door to 5 Star Marine offices, so when you come on a 5 Star marine private boat tour you can grab a freshly brewed coffee or a snack before you go.
And finally, 5 Star Marine has a brand-new Phuket Weather Station that can accurately tell you what the weather is doing live, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The new station has been in creation for many years using NASA scientists to help with the hard stuff, hence why their rocket launch for Artemis I was delayed. Many people may say it’s just a coconut on a string, and well to be honest they might be right.
1 Andorra
2 Argentina
3 Australia
4 Austria
5 Bahrain
6 Belgium
7 Brazil
8 Brunei
9 Cambodia
10 Canada
11 Chile
12 Czech Republic
13 Denmark
14 Estonia
15 Finland
16 France
17 Germany
18 Greece
19 Hong Kong
20 Hungary
21 Iceland
22 Indonesia
23 Ireland
24 Israel
25 Italy
26 Japan
27 Korea
28 Kuwait
29 Laos
30 Latvia
31 Liechtenstein
32 Lithuania
33 Luxembourg
34 Macau
35 Malaysia
36 Maldives
37 Mauritius
38 Myanmar
39 Monaco
40 Mongolia
41 Netherlands
42 New Zealand
43 Norway
44 Oman
45 Peru
46 Philippines
47 Poland
48 Portugal
49 Qatar
50 Russia
51 San Marino
52 Singapore
53 Slovak Republic
54 Slovenia
55 South Africa
56 Spain
57 Sweden
58 Switzerland
59 Turkey
60 Ukraine
61 United Arab Emirates
62 United Kingdom
63 United States
64 Vietnam
Get together with your loved ones for a day on the water that will never be forgotten. Our private Phuket Sunset Cruise gives you the freedom to explore the islands surrounding Phuket at your own pace on one of our luxurious 5 Star Marine speedboats.
An ideal combination of snorkelling, dolphin watching, and a private beach BBQ at sunset sets this luxury trip apart from the others. Each reservation is unique and we work with you to ensure you have the best experience possible. Our Phuket Sunset Cruise typically involves setting sail from our Boat Lagoon dock and spending the day cruising around the beautiful islands in the waters that surround Phuket. Enjoy snorkelling in pristine seas teeming with tropical marine life. To make the day seamless, there is no need to worry about bringing snorkelling gear along, as it is all provided onboard for you.
Unlike on group tours, when you may feel pressured to rush through attractions in order to keep to a strict timetable, you may take your time and see everything at your own pace while travelling with 5 Star Marine on your Phuket Sunset Cruise.
In the afternoon, you will get to participate in our respectful dolphin spotting. We at 5 Star Marine know how lucky we are to have the chance to watch dolphins in their natural environment. Due to the fact that dolphins are curious by nature, they frequently approach our luxury speedboats during the Phuket Sunset Cruise to have a closer look, and so this special itinerary allows you the opportunity to enjoy an up-close encounter with these amazing animals.
Just before sunset, indulge in the late afternoon sun by relaxing on a private, tropical beach as our dedicated staff grill beef and chicken satay in the traditional Thai way, right on the stunning soft sands. In between invigorating swims in the turquoise water, enjoy our “Mocktail of the Day” on the beach, while the sun sets in a tropical kaleidoscope. Photo opportunities are abundant as you snap away to remember your truly special Phuket Sunset Cruise.
Our experienced captains and crew know just how to miss the crowds and make your Phuket Sunset Cruise a truly memorable experience.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Thailand is home to a group of islands known as the Phi Phi Islands. The islands are conveniently positioned halfway between Phuket and Krabi, making them equally accessible from both. Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le are two of the largest and most visited islands in Phi Phi, and in addition, Bamboo Island is another popular destination due to its beautiful beaches and crystal blue water.
Koh Phi Phi Don is a vast archipelago off the coast of Phuket. Visitors are attracted to this stunning island for its pristine beaches and the variety of exciting activities available.
Located in the south, Koh Phi Phi Leh is the island that was made famous by “The Beach.” Maya Bay, located nearby, is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax by the water and take in the scenery. However, in order to protect the natural resources of the area, this beach is closed to the public beginning 1st August 2022 for two months for rehabilitation purposes.
Although it is only a small island, Bamboo Island is a popular picnic lunch and relaxing spot due of its picturesque landscape and romantic atmosphere.
Well, if you are looking for a private speedboat day trip from Phuket then the islands area ideal for lounging on the beach, snorkelling amongst colourful fish and coral, photographing stunning karst structures made of limestone, and soaking in the breath-taking scenery.
The Phi Phi Islands are home to some absolutely stunning sights that are increasingly difficult to see anywhere else in Thailand. You can conveniently take a luxury private speedboat with your friends and family to day trip to the Phi Phi Islands, and our experienced crew and captains can assist you in planning you perfect day out in paradise.
Through the assistance of our knowledgeable crew and captains, your tour to the Phi Phi Islands may be tailored to fit your specific needs, whether you’re looking for a day trip or an extended stay. As a result, you get to craft your own unique itinerary and take pleasure in the results of your collaborative planning on the day of your trip.
Our experienced captains and crew know just how to miss the crowds and make it worth your while travelling to the Phi Phi Islands; so, you can rest assured knowing that you are in safe hands.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Our Phuket to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay is one of the most talked-about day trips in all of Thailand. Phuket to James Bond Island by speedboat is a luxurious day excursion that offers both iconic views and more athletic hobbies, such as cave searching and canoeing among the striking rock formations.
Our Phuket to James Bond Island speedboat tour will take you to a region of Phang Nga Bay that is unlike any other in the world because of the striking karst limestone seascapes that rise dramatically from the emerald ocean.
If you choose our Phuket to James Bond Island private speedboat tour, our skilled crews will take you to the famous Koh Tapu (James Bond Island) so that you may take in the sights of Phang Nga Bay’s most iconic location. Since this is a marine protected area, boats cannot go too close, but nearby Koh Ping Ghan is an island with a huge leaning rock and several caves to explore and serves as a great vantage point for taking pictures of the renowned site.
Tourists have flocked to James Bond Island since the 1970s when the island played host to Bond’s villain Scaramanga in the film The Man With the Golden Gun. Because of this well-known film, many satisfied customers have chosen the James Bond Island Speedboat Tour offered by 5 Star Marine.
Whatever your needs may be, 5 Star Marine will do its very best to meet them. In order to give you a day to remember, our seasoned captains and crew will assist you in avoiding the masses. Some possible places to visit during a speedboat tour from Phuket to James Bond Island are:
In order for you to have a Phuket to James Bond Island private speedboat tour that will make lasting memories, we are looking forward to having you join us on board a luxury speedboat provided by 5 Star Marine.
Bookings and Enquiries:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Take a private luxury day cruise Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket with 5 Star Marine and witness the island’s famous landscape with your closest friends and family. Travel in comfort and luxury on one of the VIP speedboats, all of which have been recently renovated.
Highlights:
After over three and a half years of being closed to visitors, on January 1, 2022, the world-famous Bay reopened to day-trippers (by order of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation).
However, beginning August 1, 2022, Maya Bay will once again be closed for two months to allow for natural recovery. Nonetheless, if you are on our Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket, you may still see Maya Bay. You can still enjoy the bay from your own, chartered 5 Star Marine speedboat as per the initial closure period. However, you will not be able to stroll on the actual beach due to the necessary recovery.
Whether or not the beach is accessible, Maya Bay is still a must-see on every Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket. 5 Star Marine is an ethical firm that will make sure you get to see the wonders of Maya Bay without causing any harm to the environment. The Marine Park has put in a lot of effort to restore Maya Bay to its paradisiacal state, so we make sure that our Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket follow the guidelines and are good examples of polite tourism.
Our experienced captains and crew know just how to miss the crowds on your Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket, so, you can rest easy knowing that you are in competent hands.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Enjoy travelling from Phuket to Phi Phi Island with 5 Star Marine, where you and a chosen group of friends or family members may have a luxurious day excursion to see the famous area. Explore this well-known site aboard one of the brand-new, completely updated VIP speedboats when you choose to explore from Phuket to Phi Phi Island.
When you take a day trip from Phuket to Phi Phi Island, you can spend your time exploring the island’s beautiful beaches and snorkelling among the vibrant marine life found in the island’s coral reefs. Soak up the sun and swim about in tropical lagoons while our captains show you the sights.
Booking our Phuket to Phi Phi Island tour grants you exclusive use of a high-end speedboat, so you may explore the islands in whatever order that best suits you. Unlike on group excursions, where you may feel hurried along with other visitors to meet a set schedule, you won’t have to worry about missing anything.
In order to ensure that your Phuket to Phi Phi Island tour with 5 Star Marine is precisely suited to your needs, you will be able to create your own personalised itinerary and interact with your guide on the day of your trip. On the day of your Phuket to Phi Phi Island tour, the sea, wind, and tide may all play a role, and our crew may provide some advice depending on these and other factors.
On January 1, 2022, after over three and a half years of being closed to visitors, the world-famous Bay once again welcomed day-trippers (by order of The Department of National Parks Wildlife and Plant Conservation).
For natural restoration efforts, however, Maya Bay will be closed for two months beginning August 1, 2022. Even so, a visit to Maya Bay is still possible on your Phuket to Phi Phi Island excursion. You may still enjoy the Bay from your own, chartered 5 Star Marine speedboat as per the initial closure period; however, you will not be permitted to stroll on the actual beach itself for the duration of this brief rehabilitation time.
Whether the beach is available for walking or not, Maya Bay is always a must-see on any Phuket to Phi Phi Island tour. 5 Star Marine is an ethical business that will make sure you get to experience the wonders of Maya Bay without causing any harm to the environment.
The Marine Park has put in a lot of effort to restore Maya Bay to its paradisiacal state, so we make it a point that all of our Phuket to Phi Phi Island tours follow the guidelines and do our part to show how responsible travellers can help preserve this precious resource.
Our experienced captains and crew know just how to miss the crowds on your Phuket to Phi Phi Island tour, so you can relax in the knowledge that you are in safe and capable hands.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
One of our most popular day trip destinations is the world-renowned James Bond Island Speedboat Tour, which takes you to Phang Nga Bay. On this luxury day trip, James Bond Island by Speedboat, you will get to enjoy famous sights along with more active pursuits such as exploring caves in the area or taking a canoe out to experience the eye-catching rock formations up close.
Whilst on our James Bond Island Speedboat Tour you will discover stunning and vast karst limestone seascapes which jut out of the emerald-green water, giving the Phang Nga Bay area a truly unique and visually stunning location to explore.
Of course, our experienced teams will get you to the famous Koh Tapu (James Bond Island) when you select our private James Bond Island by Speedboat, to enjoy the scenery of the most notorious spot in Phang Nga Bay. Boats are not allowed too close, as this is a protected marine area, but you can take photos of the famous sight from Koh Ping Ghan; an island with an immensely tall leaning rock and some small caves to explore.
Since the mid-1970s, James Bond Island has been popular with tourists after it became a major attraction following its appearance in the Bond movie, The Man With The Golden Gun; where it provided the hideout for Bond’s antagonist – Scaramanga. This famous film has been the catalyst for many happy guests to select 5 Star Marine’s James Bond Island Speedboat Tour.
In fact, this destination has continued to prove so popular that it has helped support the locals, shops, restaurants, and the floating Muslim community of Koh Panyee; where huts, restaurants, and even a floating football pitch are built over the water. This is part of the experience on the James Bond Island Speedboat Tour.
Visiting James Bond Island by Speedboat is certainly something that should be on your bucket list, especially now as it is quieter than ever before. This James Bond Island Speedboat Tour has something for everyone; whether you want to experience stunning seascapes, partake in canoeing, caving or explore famous locations.
Selecting to go to James Bond Island by Speedboat, 5 Star Marine will work with you to accommodate your desires for the day. Our experienced captains and crew will help you beat the crowds and give you a day to remember. Some of the stops you might want to make on your James Bond Island Speedboat Tour include:
We look forward to welcoming you on board a luxury 5 Star Marine speedboat to experience a truly memorable James Bond Island Speedboat Tour.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Full Details Here MAYA BAY CLOSING 2024
On the 1st of August, Maya Bay Phi Phi will close to give the Thailand National Park Authorities time to check and assess the last few month’s effects of tourists being allowed back on the beach.
Jay Leshark and his kids headed down to Maya Bay with Tour Guide Charlie from 5 Star Marine Phuket on the 31st of July 2022, to get the last walk on the sand before it closes for a few months.
Maya Bay, Phi Phi is one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Thailand IF not the world. The beach was featured in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio which was filmed over 20 years ago.
Maya Bay Beach was closed for over 2 years by the Thai Government to help the ecosystem recover as it had become ruined by over-tourism. It reopened in January 2022 with new rules and regulations that helped to manage the tourists and how they access the bay.
Maya bay become worldwide known after the 2000 film “The Beach” which was an adventure drama film directed by Danny Boyle and based on the 1996 novel by Alex Garland.
There was some controversy during the making of the film, with the production team accused of landscaping some of the beach and removing some of the coconut trees to make it more like the descriptions in the book.
The bay reopened on 1st January 2022 with the new restrictions in place to manage the thousands of tourists that visit Maya Bay each year. Measures were put in place to protect the local ecosystems and these included, not allowing boats to close into the bay and drop anchor, but they now had to go around to the back of the bay and drop off guests at a newly built pier and stairs.
The numbers of guests visiting each day was also restricted as well as not allowing anyone to swim in the waters or even go too deep into the waters. These changes had made a difference, and when YouTube host Jay Leshark and Tour Guide Alex from 5 Star Marine Phuket, visited Maya Bay back in June, they saw baby reef sharks right next to the beach, you can see that video here:
If you still wish to visit Maya Bay then our tours do still head down to Phi Phi, and you can see the bay from a distance, and then head to visit the stunning Pileh Lagoon, or check out the monkeys on Monkey beach.
You can book these tours here:
Enjoy 5 Star Marine’s Phi Phi Island Tour from Phuket; where you and your select group of friends or family will get to experience the iconic scenery on your very own Phi Phi Island Tour luxury day trip. Discover this world-famous location in style and onboard one of the fully upgraded and brand-new fleet of VIP speedboats.
The renowned Bay reopened to day trippers earlier this year, on 1st Jan 2022, after being closed to tourists for almost 3 ½ years (by order of The Department of National Parks Wildlife and Plant Conservation).
However, for purposes of natural rehabilitation, Maya Bay will once again close for 2 months from 1st August 2022 for two months. However, this does not mean you cannot enjoy Maya Bay on your Phi Phi Island Tour from Phuket. As per the original closure period, you can still take in the beauty of the Bay from your privately hired 5 Star Marine speedboat; you simply cannot walk on the actual beach during this short rehabilitation time.
Maya Bay still remains one of the most iconic areas you should visit on your Phi Phi Island Tour; whether the beach is open to walk on or not. As an ethical company, 5 Star Marine will ensure that you enjoy the beauty of Maya Bay whilst practicing responsible tourism to help keep the area protected and allow for it to continue regenerating. The Marine Park has worked tirelessly to get Maya Bay back to its previous paradise condition; so, we ensure that our Phi Phi Island Tours from Phuket adhere to the rules and help demonstrate respectful tourism.
Our experienced captains and crew know just how to miss the crowds on your Phi Phi Island Tour, so you can relax in the knowledge that you are in safe and capable hands.
During your Phi Phi Island Tour from Phuket, enjoy your day observing the stunning coral reefs around Phi Phi which are bursting with colorful marine life, as well as experiencing the natural beauty of the area. Take your time swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear tropical lagoons as our captains guide you around the area.
When you book our Phi Phi Island Tour you get a luxury speedboat all to yourself, which means that you can decide on an itinerary that suits you. This is unlike experiences with group tours when you often get rushed with other tourists on a pre-determined timeframe.
With 5 Star Marine’s Phi Phi Island Tour from Phuket, you get to carve out your bespoke itinerary and can enjoy collaborated planning on the day, for a perfectly balanced experience. Our team of the crew might even discuss a few suggestions based on variables outside of our control such as the sea, wind condition, and tide on the actual day of your Phi Phi Island Tour.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221