Home 5starmarinephuket Page 12
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 19 | May 28
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Vietjet Takes off to Phuket
Starting from the 19th of May Vietjet is now running the first and only direct service between Hanoi and Phuket.
Vietjet’s new service between Hanoi and Phuket includes one roundtrip flight per day, with each leg taking approximately three hours.
With the new direct route between Hanoi and Phuket, travelers can now fly directly and conveniently to Vietnam’s capital city and other Northern tourist attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang, and more.
Vietjet is already operating the only direct route between Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket with two-hour flights daily.
PHAB 5 a Massive Success
The title said it all, “A Fabulous Cause for Celebration”
On the 20th of May 2023, hundreds of Phuket residents came together to enjoy a night of stunning food and drinks from some of Phuket’s most luxurious hotels. The ACES Angsana venue was the perfect backdrop for the PHAB 5 Masquerade gala dinner.
The dinner was to help raise money so that local children can play a greater role in the industry’s future in Phuket as it offers scholarships to local students who wish to fulfill their dream of working in the hotel industry.
Over 3 million THB was raised on the Phuket Charity Events from silent auctions, online auctions, and a live auction which had some amazing prizes.
The event was a huge success and well done to the Phuket Hotels Association
New rules for Weed in Thailand, is there or not?
Now this is a tough one to answer as no one is 100% sure what will happen. How has this come about, well; in the recent elections the party that won had in its manifest that it would make cannabis illegal again. This has sent shock waves around Thailand as cannabis has become a billion THB industry in a very short time and has created lots of new jobs and helped to bring back the tourists.
We still are not 100% sure what will happen, but after talking to some of the many weed shop owners here in Phuket, they think that cannabis will not be criminalized again, BUT that there will be new restrictions put into place such as asking for id for anyone buying weed and keeping these records so that authorities can see.
It will be interesting to see what happens in the next few months.
Update on the SpeedBoat accident in Phuket
The captain of the speedboat that crashed into a channel marker in Chalong last week has been charged for the accident and it is reported that he has tested positive for a substance.
Luckily for all passaged and crew, no one was seriously hurt.
Similan Islands Closed
The Similan Islands are now closed. Yes, we have told you this before but we are still getting many people asking to book this tour.
Every year, from May 16th until the 15th of October 2023 the Similan Islands are closed to visitors to safeguard the marine habitat and stimulate its recovery. At 5 Star Marine, we stop running tours to the Similan Islands from the 5th of May. Are reason to close the tour off early is that the seas out to the Similan Islands are very open which means they get a lot rougher than seas into Phang Nga Bay.
Maya Bay Closing?
Yes, it is, when? Well, we believe that it will close on the 1st of August 2023, however, we have still not had any official statement as yet from the Thailand National Park authorities. We also believe that Maya Bay will be closed for 2 months and reopen on 1st October.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phang Nga Bay Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phangngamarathon
Laguna Phuket Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phuketmarathon
An Evening with Tyson Fury – https://www.facebook.com/events/249161717663797
PHIST – https://www.facebook.com/events/6035872379834085
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
Full Details Here MAYA BAY CLOSING 2024
Phuket Tourism News | Episode 18 | May 21
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Speedboat accident in Phuket
On Wednesday 17th May a Phuket speedboat carrying 37 people hit a channel marker in Chalong Bay in the south of Phuket. The accident occurred when Thanathip Marine 555 was bringing foreign tourists back from Phi Phi Island to Chalong Bay.
The Phuket speedboat smashed into a channel marker about 700 meters from Chalong pier and sustained huge damage to the bow (front) of the boat. Around 10 people including the Thai speedboat driver suffered broken limbs and all the injured were taken to hospitals around Phuket.
The Phuket authorities were very quick to respond to the incident and had cleared the roads to Chalong Pier to make it easier for the emergency services to arrive and all injured parties were delt with as soon as they arrived at Chalong Pier.
The captain and other individuals will be questioned to find out what was the cause of this accident.
Similan Islands Closed
The Similan Islands are now closed. Yes, we have told you this before but we are still getting many people asking to book this tour.
Every year, from May 16th until the 15th of October 2023 the Similan Islands are closed to visitors to safeguard the marine habitat and
stimulate its recovery. At 5 Star Marine, we stop running tours to the Similan Islands from the 5th of May. Are reason to close the tour off early is that the seas out to the Similan Islands are very open which means they get a lot rougher than seas into Phang Nga Bay.
Maya Bay Closing In August 2023?
Yes, it is, when? Well, we believe that it will close on the 1st of August 2023, however, we have still not had any official statement as yet from the Thailand National Park authorities. We also believe that Maya Bay will be closing in August 2023 and reopen on 1st October.
Neutering Phuket Monkeys
Monkeys are everywhere in Thailand and these inquisitive little creatures do look cute and cuddly; however, they are wild animals and can cause a lot of damage if left unmanaged. There have been parts of Phuket where the local government has moved monkeys away from tourist areas due to the risk of monkeys biting.
Feeding wild monkeys, although looks great for your Instagram reel or Tik Tok video, but it does cause issues, and its something that the local Phuket authorities want to stop.
The other thing that the local Phuket wildlife officials want to stop is the number of monkeys. So, to control the population of macaque monkeys, dozens have been caught and taken to the Nature and Wildlife Education Centre at Khao Phra Thaew Wildlife Sanctuary where they are Neutered and then released back into areas where they can be safe and away from tourists.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phang Nga Bay Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phangngamarathon
Laguna Phuket Marathon – https://www.facebook.com/phuketmarathon
An Evening with Tyson Fury – https://www.facebook.com/events/249161717663797
PHIST – https://www.facebook.com/events/6035872379834085
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
When you come to Phuket there are a few things that are on most peoples to do list. Beaches, Thai food, see an elephant, visit a Temple, see James Bond Island, and visit Phi Phi and walk on Maya Bay Beach.
The question is can you do them all?
Generally, yes you can, as most people when coming to Phuket are here for around 2 weeks and you can easily do all these things and more in 14 days.
BUT
What if you are not here for 2 weeks and your time is limited, or what if you have loads of other activities planned and you only have 1 day spare that you use to see as much of the surrounding Phuket islands as possible, what are your options?
One of our most popular tours is the Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay combined Tour. This private boat tour means that in 1 day you will be able to head down to Phi Phi and get to walk on the stunning Maya Bay.
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.
After you have had your “BEACH” moment you can head out to Pilah lagoon which many people don’t realize was also a backdrop used in the movie The Beach and offers stunning clear water to get that ultimate tropical sea selfie.
If you want to do some snorkeling on your tour then Phi Phi is the place to do this, before you head up to Phang Nga Bay and see the iconic James Bond Island.
Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island
Before you get to see the amazing James Bond Island, whose name in Thailand as Ko Ta Pu, you can experience the spectacle that is Phang Nga Bay. This stunning bay offers you so much to see and do. The hundreds of caves alone could take you months to explore and that’s not to mention the stunning hidden lagoons and beaches or the stunning limestone Karsts that rise up from the emerald waters which you can explore up close by kayak.
But we are her to see the iconic James Bond Island
James Bond Island is one of the must do’s when you are on holiday in Phuket. The island that most people take their selfies in front of is what is called Ko Ta Pu, translated into English, which means Nail Island. This was the island that in the James Bond Movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” was the backdrop when James Bond and Scaramanga had their duel. The island that your private boat will drop you off is called Khao Ping Kan, but both are more commonly known as James Bond Island.
Once you have had that 007 experience it’s time to jump back on the boat and head back to the 5 Star Marine Phuket pier, but before your day is over, how about a stop on a tropical island to enjoy a drink and watch as the sun set behind Phuket. What a way to finish your awesome day.
So, to answer the question, Phi Phi and James Bond on The Same Day – Is It Possible?
With 5 Star Marine Phuket, Yes, it is.
For more details on this or any of our tours visit – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/
Full Details Here SIMILAN ISLANDS CLOSING 2024
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Similan Islands Closed
The Similan Islands are now officially closed.
Every year, from May 16th until the 15th of October 2023 the Similan Islands are closed to visitors to safeguard the marine habitat and stimulate its recovery. At 5 Star Marine, we stop running tours to the Similan Islands from the 5th of May. Are reason to close the tour off early is that the seas out to the Similan Islands are very open which means they get a lot rougher than seas into Phang Nga Bay.
Is Weed legal in Thailand?
In 2018, Thailand became the first Asian nation to legalize medical cannabis. Although cannabis was decriminalized, smoking or vaping in public places is still subject to punishment as a public nuisance infraction. You will see cannabis café’s everywhere in Phuket, there seem to be more of these than 7/11 stores.
But what are the Rules on Cannabis?
Please note that the below are guidelines and the rules may and often do change without notice:
Is it raining in Phuket and what are some of the best apps to use to check the weather in Phuket?
The Phuket weather is always a hot topic. We are currently in what is known as the shoulder period in Phuket. This is the period between the high season and the low season. During this time there are some rain showers that happen, mainly at night with some epic thunderstorms to watch, but these pass relatively quickly.
Some of the apps that we use to check the weather in Phuket are:
We also have a live cam at our 5 Star marine Phuket office which you can see at: https://www.youtube.com/@phuketweather144
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
LATEST NEWS: Similan Islands Thailand are now fully Open
The Similan Islands is one of the best-known island groups in Thailand, and its fame is heavily due to having some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world.
Established as a national park in 1982, Similan Islands are an archipelago of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea, 70 km off the coast in Phang Nga Province. This little archipelago is one of the most interesting snorkeling areas in the world, with stunning crystal-clear waters and an array of marine life. It’s home to turtles and whale sharks (depending on the time of year).
The conditions for coral growth are ideal, with a minimum prevailing sea temperature of about 28°C and exceptionally clear waters. More than 200 species of hard coral alone have so far been identified in this area, while these islands have the greatest profusion of reef fish in Thai waters.
Fun Fact – Similan Islands are the maritime border between India and Thailand
Originally the Similan Islands consisted of 9 islands. The name Similan comes from Malaysian, which means 9. In 2014 the islands Koh Bon and Koh Tachai were added to the Mu Ko Similan National Park. So now the Similan Islands consist of eleven islands but the name has remained the same. To keep it all a bit clear, or to possibly make it a bit unclear the islands have all been given a number in addition to a name.
Koh Huyong (nr 1)
Koh Payang (nr 2)
Koh Payan (nr 3)
Koh Miang (nr 4)
Koh Ha (nr 5)
Koh Payu (nr 6)
Koh Hin Pousar (nr 7)
Koh Similan (nr 8)
Koh Bangu (nr 9)
Koh Bon (nr 10)
Koh Tachai (nr 11)
What to expect on your 5 Star Marine Phuket Similan Island Private Boat Tour
By selecting to go to the Similan Islands Private Boat Tour with 5 Star Marine you will get to see more than you would be able to with other tour operators. The experienced team will take you to the best snorkeling spots and picturesque islands, plus can help you pick the perfect beach to relax upon, ensuring that your day out in these stunning islands is everything you could wish for.
What will you see at the Similan Islands Private Boat Tour?
In the Similan Islands are clownfish (Yes that’s right Nemo fish as most people call them), moonfish, moray eels, seahorses, squids, turtles, all kinds of rays, reef sharks, barracudas, whale sharks, manta rays, and many other species of colorful tropical fish.
Of course, you may not see all these amazing marine creatures at the Similan Islands Private Boat Tour, as it will depend on when you are there, but you are guaranteed to see an array of tropical fish in some of the most crystal-clear water that you will ever experience.
We have not even mentioned the stunning viewpoints at the Similan Islands and if you are feeling fit and healthy then you can head up to the top of one of the viewpoints to get a perfect picture of tropical island life.
Similan Islands is stunning. Is it worth the 2-hour boat ride from Phuket? The answer is simple, Yes, it is.
Book the tour here – https://5starmarinephuket.com/locations/similan/
Full Details Here MAYA BAY, SIMILAN ISLANDS CLOSING 2024
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
Is Maya Bay in Phi Phi closing?
Maya Bay, Phi Phi is one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Thailand the bay and the beach were featured in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio filmed over 20 years ago.
During COVID 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. After doing this they again closed Maya Bay on the 1st Aug 2022 for 2 months. We are expecting the Thailand authorities to do the same again this year, but as of the time of writing, we have not heard anything official. So, watch this space.
Similan Islands Closing
Every year, from May 16th until the 15th of October 2023 the Similan Islands are closed to visitors to safeguard the marine habitat and stimulate its recovery. At 5 Star Marine, we stop running tours to the Similan Islands from the 5th of May. Are reason to close the tour off early is that the seas out to the Similan Islands are very open which means they get a lot rougher than seas into Phang Nga Bay.
Similan stands for “nine” in the Yawi language, as there are nine islands in the archipelago.
Similan National Park comprised nine islands, Koh Huyong, Koh Payang, Koh Payan, Koh Miang, Koh Ha, Koh Payu, Koh Hin Pousar, Koh Similan and Koh Ba-ngu.
Koh Bon and Koh Tachai were later added to the national park, bringing the number of islands under Mu Koh Similan National Park up to 11.
Is it rainy season in Phuket?
The Phuket weather is always a hot topic. We are currently in what is known as the shoulder period in Phuket. This is the period between the high season and the low season. During this time there are some rain showers that happen, mainly at night with some epic thunderstorms to watch, but these pass relatively quickly.
As I sit and write this there was a shower that lasted for 10 minutes and then the sun came out and any surface water evaporated within seconds making it look like it hadn’t rained at all. The one thing about the shoulder period is that the humidity is high, so it really feels a lot hotter than it actually is. The best way to keep cool is to go on a 5 Star Marine Phuket Tour and cool off by snorkeling around Phi Phi Islands.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
There is amazing snorkeling in and around Phuket, but where are some of the best places to go to really get that snorkeling experience? We have chosen 5 (ok seven as we couldn’t get it down to five) that we think are great spots and each has benefits depending on who you are, and what kind of snorkeling tour you are looking for.
These best snorkeling spots in Phuket are in no particular order.
Established as a national park in 1982, Similan Islands are an archipelago of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea, 70 km off the coast in Phang Nga Province.
This little archipelago is one of the most interesting snorkeling areas in the world, with stunning crystal-clear waters and an array of marine life. Its home to turtles and whale sharks (depending on the time of year).
The conditions for coral growth are ideal, with a minimum prevailing sea temperature of about 28°C and exceptionally clear waters. More than 200 species of hard coral alone have so far been identified in this area, while these islands have the greatest profusion of reef fish in Thai waters.
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 Haa & Koh Roc is for you. These small islands are situated just south of Koh Lanta in the Mu Ko Lanta National Park.
For a very special experience, these two islands combine stunning water clarity with a diverse range of colorful marine life and corals and therefore offer some of the best snorkeling opportunities you can find. In season, you can also regularly see whale sharks between these islands too.
The two tropical Racha Islands; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, are sometimes called Raya Island or even King Island. BUT the name doesn’t matter as these stunning Phuket tropical islands provide the ideal destination to enjoy nature with some of the best snorkeling reefs in Thailand and quiet, tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The Racha Islands are comprised of two islands, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. (Yai means “big” in Thai and, noi means “little”). The islands possess crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. They are very popular with divers and snorkellers, with challenging dive sites for advanced divers as well as plenty for beginners and snorkellers.
The Phi Phi islands are an archipelago of 6 islands, with the 2 main islands being Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. These picture postcard islands are excellent tropical getaways in Southeast Asia and are one of the most popular private Phuket boat tours.
Phi Phi has pristine beaches, stunning limestone rock formations, and clear turquoise waters teeming with colourful sea life.
Two of them (Khai Nai and Khai Nok) have superb sandy beaches and incredibly clear water where swarms of colourful and friendly fish come to swim around you. This makes these two Khai islands perfect for those who have never tried snorkeling and would like to try, or for those who are a little nervous to snorkel in deep water. You are able to walk into the water and snorkel right from the beach, you don’t even need to float or swim as you will be able to explorer the underwater world while sanding.
Khai Nui might not have that tropical white sandy beach, or any restaurants, in fact it has nothing at all, BUT you can snorkel here and see an array of amazing marine wildlife, as well as drop in a line and hook and we can pretty much guarantee that you will catch something for either your dinner or the crew’s dinner.
Maiton Island is famous for its unspoiled nature and the spectacular underwater world, and the best things to do at Maiton Island all happen in the clear tropical waters around the island.
Maiton Island offers some fantastic snorkeling. The coral reefs are alive and teeming with a variety of tropical fish and you can also Enjoy a mesmerizing experience through a giant clam garden. The best time for snorkeling at Maiton island is from December to May when the sea around Maiton is crystal clear like a blue mirror.
Coral island is known locally as Coral Island is a great place to visit especially if you like to explore the region’s diverse marine environment and visit different islands., but most people will call it Coral Island. Although being a small island, it has a lot to offer whether you’re looking for a place to relax or go on an adventure.
The island is surrounded by shallow coastal waters with beautiful coral reefs and colorful fishes. There are multiple snorkeling spots around the island.
Captain’s Choice is 5 Star Marine’s one-of-a-kind luxury private custom boat tour experience, providing you with the ideal balance of convenience and flexibility. It brings together a fresh selection of imaginative luxury day cruises suited to your own requirements, with a surprise element thrown in to ensure your day is absolutely perfect.
Simply booking your VIP boat trip is all it takes to embark on an unforgettable Captain’s Choice adventure. On the day of your tour, you just need to show up and let go of the worries of choosing the best lunch spot, prioritising island visits, picking
the ideal spots to sightsee or snorkel and taking weather conditions into account. This is because 5 Star Marine’s experienced Captains will handle all these decisions for you, allowing you to enjoy your time at the tranquil paradise islands scattered around Phuket and Krabi.
With a skilled team of private custom Tour Managers, you can rest assured that your expectations will be exceeded. Whether your goal is to snorkel above stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life, discover Instagram-worthy photo spots, savour a secluded beach picnic lunch, watch a playful pod of dolphins, paddle through caves, climb up to inspiring viewpoints or immerse yourself in hidden lagoons and coves; whatever your preferences are, 5 Star Marine will ensure that you have an idyllic day on the water, creating unforgettable memories.
This region is a marine paradise, featuring an array of sea creatures such as tropical fish, sea turtles and even whale sharks; all of which thrive in the abundance of coral reefs and underwater ecosystems. 5 Star Marine’s knowledgeable guides are at your disposal, providing insights and ensuring that your excursion is of the highest standard. With 5 Star Marine’s Captain’s Choice private custom boat tour experience, you can opt for adventure, exploration, relaxation, sightseeing and more; all of which are fully customizable to your preferences.
As you can tell, each and every Captain’s Choice trip is bespoke, taking your preferences, the timings, weather conditions, etc. all into account. However here are a few inspired private custom luxury speedboat day trips that you could enjoy with 5 Star Marine:
1. Captain’s Choice Afternoon Experience
If you fancy trying your luck at spotting dolphins, and an afternoon trip is what you had in mind, our helpful team at 5 Star Marine might suggest a version of our dolphin spotting with a sunset beach BBQ afternoon. You could enjoy an unforgettable and memorable private custom boat tour experience to share with your friends and family. You can experience the perfect blend of snorkelling, dolphin spotting and traditional Thai style private beach BBQ.
This is a perfect example of what you can trust 5 Star Marine’s Captain’s Choice to bring you; itineraries which are only available to small and private booking groups, and not offered with any other boat tour company. Here you might celebrate a special occasion and enjoy snorkelling in crystal clear waters in the afternoon prior to taking part in our respectful dolphin spotting programme which of course will be tailored to your requirements on the day. At sunset, the 5 Star Marine team can set up a private beach BBQ with authentic satay and side dishes, BBQed on the beach by our crew whilst you and your private group enjoy a drink on fine white sands as you witness an unforgettable tropical sunset experience.
2. Family Friendly Fun
For the ultimate family-friendly day trips from Phuket, our knowledgeable crew is in the know about all the safest and fun spots. One of the top locations includes the Khai Islands, which are a trio of small islands (Khai Nai, Khai Nau and Khai Nok). They are easy to get to, taking only a short 20-minute private speedboat ride before arriving at your destination.
You will not be rushed, and can take your time to enjoy the private custom boat tour experience. If the children are having fun safely shallow snorkelling directly from the beach, 5 Star Marine will encourage you to relax and enjoy the experience at your own pace. For ease with children, you might want to let us arrange a beach picnic for you, or alternatively suggest children friendly food options. Another stop that is certainly popular with families as it is full of fun activities for children and adults alike is Coral Island. At Banana Beach Club you will find a large open style restaurant serving a good selection of dishes, plus massages, canoes and plenty of Instagram-worthy set ups. It is both kid and adult friendly with big loungers, tables in the shade, swings and fun areas to explore for all
3. Captains Choice Tropical Paradise
A private speedboat trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a bucket-list experience and the team at 5 Star Marine are well briefed on all the top spots. This area is a collection of six small islands off the coast of Thailand, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh being the main islands.
Phi Phi Islands are known for their stunning scenery, turquoise waters and breath-taking beaches. If your daytrip on your Captain’s Choice takes you to this area, you will of course have the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and according to your interests. Whether you want to go snorkelling, swimming, soak up some rays or simply relax on the beach, we can help craft an itinerary together that is perfect for you and your private group. Perhaps stop off at Monkey Beach where you’ll be greeted by playful macaques, or visit Bamboo Island where you can enjoy a picnic lunch and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. If you fancy a hidden cove with emerald-green waters, then Pileh Lagoon is perfect spot for a swim to cool off.
4. Private Bioluminescence Captain’s Choice Tour
Immerse yourself in a breath-taking afternoon and early evening excursion with our fully customizable tour, combining the chance to witness the spectacular natural phenomenon of bioluminescence with exhilarating sea canoeing activities. This new itinerary will be tailored to your individual preferences and the sea conditions on the day, taking you on a mesmerizing journey through
the waters surrounding Phang Nga bay. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness the natural wonder of bioluminescence, (which is the capacity of creatures to emit light and can be found in numerous forms in the Phang Nga Bay area such as in the plankton which is present here).
Spend some time on a sea canoe, paddling out to discover hidden caves and lagoons in the Phang Nga Bay area, allowing you to access some of the hidden lagoons. After sunset you may be lucky enough to see the bioluminescence, as the sun sets then light from the plankton is more visually impressive.
5. Escape to Paradise
Feel free to consult with our crew regarding your preferences, whether it be a stunning island, pristine white sandy beaches, a snorkelling adventure, a rustic lunch or just an overall escape to paradise. In this case, our Captain’s Choice might recommend a private speedboat day tour to Raya or Racha Islands, providing you with a personalized experience tailored to your desires. Theses islands provide an
idyllic day trip location to relax and appreciate nature. Offering a balanced mix of peaceful, serene settings together with incredible marine life and some of Thailand’s finest snorkelling areas, these quiet, tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear blue seas.
Located under 1 hour from 5 Star Marine’s base in Boat Lagoon, you relax and unwind at the Racha Islands, enjoying peaceful nature walks, beach time and great snorkelling. If you would like to concentrate on snorkelling spots, our crew know some of the most impressive areas including Siam Bay, which is located on Koh Racha Yai and is renowned for its exquisite coral reefs and marine life including exciting fish species and even sea turtles.
Your Captain’s Choice
No matter what your personal desires are, 5 Star Marine are dedicated to providing you with the ultimate day on the water, tailored specifically to your preferences and are committed to ensuring that your expectations are met.
At 5 Star Marine, we believe that a customized experience is the best way to create lasting memories and with our Captain’s Choice, you’ll have access to exclusive itineraries that are only available to small and private groups, providing a truly unique and intimate experience. You can trust in 5 Star Marine to deliver the perfect day on the water, tailored just for you.
Please contact us to discuss our Captain’s Choice experience, or to book a bespoke private day trip itinerary.
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
www.5starmarinephuket.com
[email protected]
Welcome to the Phuket Tourism News. Each week Shaun and Jay Leshark will bring you weekly Phuket Tourism News. Phuket News that is for you, Phuket News for those coming to Phuket, and Phuket Tourism News that is what you need to make sure you have an amazing time when you come on holiday to Phuket.
What is causing the Phuket Haze?
The local Phuket authorities have said not to worry as the rain will clear the haze. This is what we reported on last week and even thou there had at the time of writing this, been no rain the Haze has gone.
Over the past couple of weeks, there has been a haze over Phuket. No one seems to know 100% where it is coming from BUT there have been a few theories on where the haze came from.
A Belgium expat living in Phuket for the past 13 years has said that the haze “phenomenon” (as the local officials like to call it) is not a natural phenomenon, but it’s from human causes.
He has said that the haze or “smog” as he calls it is a result of human pollutants, heavy burning fields in the north of Thailand along with vehicle emissions and factory pollution. (Oh really…)
Officials have not said anything like this and are saying but they do agree that the winds patterns have been weak which means the haze has been over Phuket for longer than normal.
We think that the haze has something to do with the same whales that have been doing their business in the klongs, hence why we have sent out Pet Dick Jay Leshark to investigate.
Watch this space…
Phuket Tourist Numbers
For 2023, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, known as the TAT, set its target for foreign tourist arrivals at 23 million.
Phuket welcomed 9 million Thai and foreign visitors in 2022, and the target of 12 million for 2023 4 months into the year is looking good. Yet, the huge number of tourists during January, February, and March has started to ease. This is really noticeable on the roads, with there being a noticeable difference in the number of cars and minivans driving around the paradise island of Phuket. The local shopping centers, and beaches are also less busy with tourists.
One thing that has been pointed out by many local people is the voices that you hear in Phuket. During the peak and high season, there was an increase in the Russian language being heard around the island, and in the past few weeks that have been replaced by Chinese. This coming low season will be a very interesting time for Phuket to see how the recovery from the 2 years of the pandemic is really shaping out and with the news below about flights from China, it looks like Phuket is really on track to do over, and above the 12 million.
New Flights to Phuket
More flights have been added between Thailand and China amid surging demand. Spring Airlines of China will increase flights between China and Thailand to cater to the soaring number of visitors, boosting the total flights between the two countries to 82 per week.
In a courtesy call to Phuket governor last week, Chinese Ambassador to Thailand Han Zhiqiang estimated that Chinese tourist arrivals will rise to more than 300,000 in April.
Upcoming Events in Phuket
Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels BLOC Party
Phuket Tourism News now in audio format
We have added the Phuket Tourism News in audio format and you can now listen to it on Apple Music and Spotify or on your favorite podcast provider.
Just search Phuket Tourism News or click the icons below:
Dr Pepper – Please note that the Phuket Tourism News is NOT sponsored by Dr Pepper, however if anyone from Dr Pepper does want to reach out and give us a free baseball cap and mug, we would be very great full. Oh, if you can make it easier to get Dr Pepper into Phuket that would be awesome. Thanks Dr Pepper you ROCK.
Island Escape by Burasari is located on Koh Maphrao (Coconut Island), It is only 10 minutes away from Phuket from the 5 Star Marine Phuket pier at Boat Lagoon Marina.
Island Escape by Burasari Resort and Private Villas provides an ideal quiet getaway, romantic holidays, family gathering and secluded corporate retreats. With a modern lifestyle in the historic charm of Island life, a gorgeous white sandy beach with a local watersport, and an awesome pool. Oh, if you are staying at Island Escape by Burasari and want to book a 5 Star Marine tour we can pick you up right from your resort.
Island Escape by Burasari, Phuket Thailand
Island Escape by Burasari is a 5 Star luxury island resort on the pristine tropical island off the coast of Phuket in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, Coconut Island. Island Escape by Burasari is surrounded by a dreamy landscape of breathtaking ocean views of Phang Nga Bay, cascading waterfalls, three private beaches and lush tropical gardens. Island Escape by Burasari offers a mix of private villas and uniquely designed rooms, each sustainably dressed using natural materials and authentic elements.
Island Escape by Burasari has an ambiance filled with outstanding possibilities. Providing youthful, lively, fun experiences where couples can indulge in privacy and intimacy, while children, extended family and friends can enjoy the resort’s fabulous repertoire of pools and beaches, landscaped gardens, wellness programs and adventure excursions both on land and on the water.
Fabulous food and inspired dining ambiance are part of the uncommonly unique holiday experience. A line-up of tantalizing Thai and international cuisine, ocean-fresh seafood and light-fare favorites plus house-original cocktails and revitalizing fruit shakes prepared by our talented culinary team.
Then there is the pool. It’s hard to write the words to explain the main swimming pool at Island Escape by Burasari. The only thing we can say is WOW, really WOW.
Coconut Island, Phuket Thailand
Even thou Coconut Island or in Thai, Koh Maphrao (Maphrao is the Thai word for coconut) is only 750 meters away from Phuket, at its closest point, the atmosphere on the two islands is very different. Coconut Island offers white sandy beaches and a stunning limestone coastline to explore rock pools and scrambling adventures and a thick tropical forest that is great for hiking and mountain biking. The small village that sits in the middle of the island is a fishing village with a few small very local shops and a small local school.
If you are staying at Island Escape by Burasari you will also get to watch the sunrise over Phang Nga Bay.
5 Star Marine Phuket Tours
If you would like to go on a 5 Star Marine Phuket private boat tour while you are staying at Island Escape by Burasari then you are in for some good news. We can come and pick you up directly from the resort pier, and drop you off when the tour is finished. Door-to-door service. You can either book direct with the Island Escape by Burasari front desk or with us here at 5 Star Marine Phuket.
Island Escape by Burasari Details
Website: www.isescape.com
Telephone: +66 (0) 76643643
Email: [email protected]
Address: Island Escape by Burasari
94/4 Moo 6, Tambon Koh Kaew, Amphoe Muang,
Phuket 83200 Thailand
