LATEST NEWS: Maya Bay Will Close Again in 2024.
Full Details Here MAYA BAY CLOSING 2024
Which Islands Open in October 2022?
This October brings renewed excitement as our guests will be able to enjoy a number of re-openings giving access to more tropical beach destinations.
This time of year also marks the transition from the Monsoon to the dry season, when calmer winds and sea conditions make for an ideal mix. As these destinations are perfect for either day or multi-night private speedboat trips from Phuket, we have pulled together a list of the top 4 places to visit from October 2022 to help inspire you:
Maya Bay (Reopens 1st October 2022)
Maya Bay, located on Phi Phi Ley, is one of the most iconic sites in the Phi Phi islands. It became renowned after featuring as the main location for the 2000 film “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The plot focuses on a group of travellers wanting to create their own haven from the outside world at Maya Bay.
The stunning Bay will now reopen this October after being shut for two months (August and September 2022). Tourists were originally allowed to return in January 2022 after Maya Bay was closed for almost three and a half years.
This year’s closure was put in place in order to rebuild the island’s infrastructure and give the protected area a respite from visitors who had already returned to its beautiful bay. The shutdown of the stunning location serves as a reminder that an enormous amount of work has gone into repairing this bay.
From October when Maya Bay reopens, you will be able to see how the wildlife has returned and thrived; the bay is now home to clownfish, lobsters, and blacktip sharks!
Similan Island – (Reopens 15th October 2022)
snorkelling with diverse and rich coral and marine life
Similan Islands
The breathtaking Similan Islands will also reopen in mid-October again this year. A fantastic island-hopping site off Phuket’s west coast, the islands are teeming with incredible aquatic life, lush coral, and sandy white beaches.
Enjoy a spectacular private speedboat excursion to the legendary Similan Islands, a picturesque archipelago of 9 islands in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand. These islands are only accessible for six months of the year – from the middle of October to mid-May; which means that everyone here at 5 Star Marine is extremely excited about this year’s reopening.
This is one of the most well-known island groups in the region, and it is famous for having some of the world’s most stunning coral reefs. When you first arrive you will see large rocks on the coasts of numerous islands, which form a particular characteristic of this location.
5 Star Marine’s fleet of luxury VIP speedboats has already been granted permission to visit the Similan Island National Park area, so you get to appreciate the natural marine richness and crystal-clear blue seas that this area has to offer.
Surin Island – (Reopens 15th October 2022
The Surin Islands are the ideal underwater playground for scuba diving and snorkelling in Thailand thanks to the beautiful coral reefs and soft, white sand beaches. Mu Ko Surin National Park houses the Surin Islands; which consists of a group of five islands located around 100 kilometres north of the Similan Islands.
Ko Surin Nuea and Ko Surin Tai are the two main islands which have several unspoilt bays and are separated by barely 200 metres of clear water, which creates a shallow and popular snorkelling spot. These islands are still undeveloped, making this a natural habitat for an array of marine life and pristine coral gardens. The area is also known to attract whale sharks, which you might get the chance to see whilst out snorkelling with 5 Star Marine.
As with the Similan Islands, Surin Islands are also only accessible for six months of the year (from mid-October to mid-May).
Koh Ha and Koh Rok – (Accessible 15th October 2022)
By the middle of October, the Monsoon season is ending and the dry season begins, bringing with it more favourable wind and sea conditions. This is a great time to get out and explore, especially if you are searching for something a little more exotic and less well-known.
A private day or multi-night private trip to these magnificent locations will provide some of the greatest snorkelling in the world, combining spectacular water purity with a broad variety of colourful marine life and reefs for a truly unique experience. Whale sharks may also be seen between these islands throughout the season.
Koh Ha and Koh Rok are small islands located immediately south of Koh Lanta, situated within the Mu Ko Lanta National Park. By selecting to explore these islands you will be assured of fantastic snorkelling, lovely soft sandy beaches and fewer crowds than some of the more well-known islands. A bit longer to go compared to most of our other day trip options (which is why many happy clients select a multi-night approach); yet well worth every minute for the assured natural splendour.
We hope you are just as excited as we are about the opportunity to discover the reopened and accessible islands from October 2022!
For Bookings / Enquiries:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Is It Worth Going to Phi Phi Island?
The Phi Phi Islands
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.
So, Is It Worth Going To Phi Phi Islands?
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.
A Luxury 5 Star Experience
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.
Sample Phi Phi Itinerary
- For your private trip to the Phi Phi Islands, start at Maya Bay on Phi Phi Ley as the perfect place to begin your tour. This stunning and well-known cove can be seen from the comfort of your private 5 Star Marine speedboat. Take as many pictures as you like to remember this beautiful bay.
- Snorkel in Loh Samah Bay, a small bay on the opposite side of Maya Bay with beautiful fish and coral reefs.
- Pileh Lagoon features crystal clear, turquoise waters that are inviting for a refreshing dip. In “The Beach,” Leonardo DiCaprio took a dive into this lagoon, making it a must-see on your adventure.
- Visit Small Monkey Beach to witness these mischievous little critters lounging on the karst rocks.
- Even though the entrance to Wong Long Bay is somewhat small, it is still possible to see this beautiful spot on your Phi Phi Islands tour.
- For an additional fee, we can set up a picnic for you in a sandy cove with a shallow bay at Big Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Don, complete with western style or Thai sharing dishes.
- Make a stop in Ao Nuoi for some more snorkelling and explore the area’s beautiful beaches and abundant aquatic life.
- Finally, Bamboo Island is the perfect way to round off your private trip to the Phi Phi Islands as it offers a lovely beach and turquoise seas. You can go snorkelling here, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see a black-tip reef shark
Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket Inclusions
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.
Is It Worth Going to Phi Phi Island? Yes indeed, and you may book here:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket
Beautiful Spots with 5 Star Marine:
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:
- For your Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket, starting at Maya Bay on Phi Phi Ley, is the perfect place to begin your tour since it is a stunning and well-known cove that can be seen from the comfort of your private 5 Star Marine speedboat. Take as many pictures as you like to remember this beautiful bay.
- Snorkel in Loh Samah Bay, a small bay on the opposite side of Maya Bay with beautiful fish and coral reefs.
- Pileh Lagoon features crystal clear, turquoise waters that are inviting for a refreshing dip. In “The Beach,” Leonardo DiCaprio took a diving leap into this lagoon, making it a must-see on every private Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket.
- Visit Small Monkey Beach to witness these mischievous little critters lounging on the karst rocks whilst on your Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket.
- Even though the entrance to Wong Long Bay is somewhat small, it is still possible to see this beautiful spot on your Phi Phi Island tour.
- For an additional fee, we can set up a picnic for you in a sandy cove with a shallow bay at Big Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Don, complete with the western style of Thai sharing dishes.
- If you’re on a Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket, you may stop in Ao Nuoi for some more snorkeling and explore the area’s beautiful beaches and abundant aquatic life.
- Finally, Bamboo Island is the perfect way to round off your Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket, as it offers a lovely beach and pure blue seas. You can go snorkeling here, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see a black-tip reef shark.
Maya Bay Update:
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.
Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket Inclusions:
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.
To book your Boat Trip to Phi Phi Island from Phuket:
Shaun Stenning
+66 (0) 93720 6221
Maya Bay Closing August 1st 2022
Maya Bay is due to close again on the 1st of August 2022 for 2 months. This is part of the National Parks revised plan to maintain the newly restored marine environment. This closure is in line with the closure of other National Parks, for example, the Similan and Surin National Park areas and the Koh Ha and Koh Rok National Park areas.
While Maya Bay will be closed to walk on, sightseeing, swimming, and taking photos from behind the roped line will continue to be available. These are the exact same rules that were instigated during the multi-year closure.
Here at 5 Star Marine we fully support the sustainable nature of closing the park. While some visitors will be sad to realize they can not walk on the iconic beach, it is for the long-term health of the Bay.
Prior to the initial closure a few years ago Maya Bay had a significant amount of reef damage and the Marine Life was scarce to nonexistent. Since the closure the reef has started to restore, Marine Life has come back in abundance and Maya Bay is now the home to some reef sharks.
If you are visiting Phi Phi during the closure period you can still visit the Iconic Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Bamboo Island, Camel Rock, Phi Phi Don, and more. While Phi Phi is well known for Maya Bay it is not all it has to offer.
Thailand Pass Adventures: James Bond Island And Phi Phi Island In The Same Day
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
We are quite often asked if it’s possible to do both James Bond Island and Phi Phi Island on the same day, so we sent Jay out on tour with some of our customers to see if it’s really possible.
Ride along with Jay and the 5 Star Marine team as they stop off in Maya Bay, explore Pileh Lagoon, snorkel with Reef Sharks, Canoe Through the Mangroves, go Pearl Shopping, and finally visit James Bond Island.
This action-packed tour is one to remember and you can experience it here with our 5 Star Marine team on your very own private boat. Watch the tour below:
Phuket Sandbox Update – No Quarantine? No More Sandbox? Phuket Is OPEN.
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
BREAKING NEWS – Thailand Prime Minister Announces No Quarantine For Travellers From Some Countries.
As Phuket and Thailand in general move to a “Live With Covid” model and look to restart tourism the National Government are making positive announcements to support the reopening of Thailand.
In a recent televised announcement, the Prime Minister suggested that from November 1st that travelers from some low-risk countries will be able to enter Thailand without any quarantine or sandbox needed.
Now the full rules and process for entry have not yet been decided but for a look at what we expect to happen please watch our latest update video below:
Phuket Sandbox Update – 7 Day Sandbox, Bars Open, Island Hopping Easier Than Ever!
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
As Phuket transitions away from its wet season towards the dry (or high) season, the Thailand Government has made a major and positive update to the Phuket Sandbox program.
Instead of being a 14-day Sandbox Program or the 7+7 Day Sandbox Model, it is now just a simple and easy ‘7 Day Sandbox’.
Along with the reduction in the Sandbox days, the number of RT-PCR Covid-19 Tests required while staying has also come down. As of now, with the new update, there are just 2 tests required; the first on the day of arrival and the second on day 6 of your stay.
The good news continues as island hopping by private speedboat is now easier than ever before with a wide-ranging 11 destinations now open. Plus, none of these stunning destinations require additional Covid-19 tests for Sandbox Travelers.
The return of the dry season, the reduced Sandbox days model, fewer Covid-19 tests and new island destinations are all pointing in the right direction for our Sandbox Guests.
For full details watch this short video update below:
Island Hopping Here We Go
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
We are thrilled to welcome a LOAD of new destinations to enjoy from 1st October; and yes, these are going to be open to both Sandbox and Domestic guests.
With the change in season, the seas become calmer so let’s take a look at the exciting new destinations which now become accessible; working our way out from our base pier in Boat Lagoon:
1. Khai Islands
Three popular and family-friendly islands offering shallow snorkeling only 15 minutes from the pier. These islands are close together and are especially good for beginner snorkellers as you can go straight off the beach and experience a plethora of tropical fish. Also, a great spot for a beach picnic.
2. Mai Ton & Coral Combination
5 Star Marine runs a respectful dolphin spotting program at Mai Ton Island which is around 30 minutes from Boat Lagoon, where you can also snorkel before making your way to Coral Island, with beautiful snorkeling, plus relax on the beach with great vibes on Banana Beach Club, which also offers activities, massages, lunch, etc.
3. Racha Islands
The two idyllic Racha Islands; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, provide some of the best snorkeling reefs in Thailand and quiet, tropical white powdery beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. With Manta Rays and Whale Sharks hopefully coming back again this October / November, don’t miss your chance to spot these magnificent creatures.
4. Phi Phi
Phi Phi is a particularly well know location in the Phuket region, and now with the change in season you can take advantage of some stunning location all to yourself – literally, you might just be the only boat out there! Enjoy Phi Phi Ley and Bamboo Island and chance spotting turtles and clownfish.
5. Krabi Islands and Hong Krabi
The turquoise waters of the Hong Krabi Lagoon are to die for, and why not get your adrenaline going with a climb up to the new 360-degree viewpoint on Hong Krabi? This 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. It might be a long climb but it is worth the reward. Enjoy the infamous Railay beach for a lunch stop and gorgeous scenery too.
6. Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga truly is one of natures’ spectacular works of art; where the vast karst rock scenery presents a visually stunning location. This location provides a different type of tour, it is not a snorkeling tour, but more about the seascapes, canoeing, caving, and exploring.
7. Koh Rok
The sea becomes like a lake in high season, making Koh Rok and Koh Ha idyllic destinations to make the most of when the season comes around. This area combines stunning water clarity with a diverse range of colorful marine life and corals and therefore offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities you can find. In season, you can also regularly see whale sharks between here and Koh Ha also.
8. Koh Ha
This offers some of the best snorkeling, stunning soft sandy beaches, and is less crowded than the better-known Similan Islands. A little further to travel compared to most of our other day trip locations; but well worth every minute for the guaranteed natural beauty and a great stop on the way to Koh Lipe.
9. Koh Lipe
This will open up in the next few weeks and boy are we raring to go! Koh Lipe is bursting with things to see and do; enjoy a romantic time at Sunrise or Sunset Beach, explore the coral reefs snorkeling at Red Coral, head to Monkey Beach or Stonehenge Rock. You might even get to spot the odd whale shark, Manta Ray, or turtle.
10. Similan & Surin Islands
Two phenomenal island-hopping destinations are situated off the West Coast of Phuket. These areas are bursting with amazing marine life, rich coral, and sandy white beaches. Enjoy a memorable boat trip to the renowned Similan Islands; a stunning archipelago in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand, which is made up of 9 islands. We can’t wait for it to open from October 15th to May 15th. Further away and only open 6 months per year, due to the monsoon season plus in an attempt to preserve the marine environment.
11. Phuket By The Sea Tour
This unique program leaves from Boat Lagoon and travels under the Sarasin bridge then you make your way down to the banana beach past Surin, Kamala, and Patong for example, where you can stop off at a beach club or two!
So there you have it – 11 amazing tours opening up from 1st or 15th October. There are a few rules and regulations for Sandbox and Domestic customers, but please contact us to find out more, and in most cases just need your passport and proof of vaccination.
What are you waiting for? Get out there and explore while you can!
Breaking News – Phi Phi, Phang Nga and Khai Islands Day Trips
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
We have just received updated and encouraging new rules for Domestic and Sandbox guests which make day tours to locations such as Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay even easier.
Here at 5 Star Marine, we have already done the hard work to understand how this affects you getting out on the water, so you can rest easy in the knowledge that we are up to date with the latest requirements. Drum roll please, we have some BREAKING NEWS!
Breaking News (from 8th September):
- Domestic travelers can go to Phi Phi
- Domestic travelers can go to Phang Nga Bay
- Domestic travelers can go to Khai Islands
- Sandbox travelers can go to Phi Phi
- Sandbox travelers can go to Phang Nga Bay
- Sandbox travelers can go to Khai Islands
So, let’s break this down and look at the main positive changes with the new regulations:
DOMESTIC CUSTOMERS
- You can now take a day trip to Phi Phi, The Khai Islands, and Phang Nga Bay (previously you could only go to Coral Island, Racha, or Mai Ton) – please note all criteria below must be met
- Now you only need 1x RTPCR or Antigen test from Phuket for a day trip to Phi Phi, Khai Islands, or Phang Nga Bay (previously 2x tests were required)
- Domestic customers can depart from Boat Lagoon
Domestic Customers’ Requirements:
- Proof of vaccination
- RTPCR or Antigen Covid-19 test (within 72 hours of the tour)
- Register with us 6 hours before the tour
- We will register you with the marine department and relevant national parks
- Passport copy
SANDBOX CUSTOMERS
- If you are on the 7+7 Sandbox Program, you can now take a day trip to Phi Phi, The Khai Islands, and Phang Nga Bay from day 8 – please note all criteria below must be met
Sandbox Customers’ Requirements:
- Proof of vaccination
- RTPCR or Antigen Covid-19 test (within 72 hours of the tour)
- This rule just got easier as you can use your day 6 or 6 test for the tour on day 8, for example
- Register with us 6 hours before the tour
- We will register you with the marine department and relevant national parks
- Passport copy
- PLUS your MorChana app on your phone
- PLUS a transfer form from your hotel (issued after the 7th night of stay) for Phi Phi, Khai Islands, or Phang Nga Bay
Please feel free to contact us to help you get out and explore Phi Phi, the Khai Islands, and Phang Nga Bay now, whilst you can experience these areas like never before with so few tourists around.
Whether you are a Domestic or Sandbox customer we are ready to welcome you safely onboard our TAT SHA Plus certified fleet.
NEWS UPDATE – Sandbox Customers Island Tours
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
PART 1: New Rules for Sandbox Customers
Phuket recently announced some changes for Sandbox customers; what they can do and where they can go. A brand new update states that Sandbox customers can now go to some other islands after their 7th day of being in Phuket (they were previously only allowed to travel to a handful of different islands after day 14 here).
Sandbox customers can currently go to Koh Racha, Coral Island, and Mai Ton. From 1st August the Sandbox scheme will extend further to allow guests to travel to Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay which includes James Bond Island. Hong Krabi might also be added to this list, but this is not confirmed at this point.
PART 2: Why should Sandbox customers take a Private Tour?
We are not running ‘joining group tours’ for Sandbox customers. This is because we are simply trying to minimize the effect a potential positive Covid-19 test would do on our guests. For example, on a group tour if there was one positive case on the boat, then everyone else who went on the boat would need to quarantine too. So, the safest way to take a boat tour is with your friends or family you traveled herewith, (you probably came in on the same flight and are staying together also).
PART 3: How is Sandbox helping the local Phuket Community?
For over 16 months Thailand has been economically devastated, and we have been running a food relief program during this time for an island that depends on tourists to survive. So, the Sandbox is the first step to reopening Phuket and inject some much-needed funds back into the economy. It also provides opportunities for the locals to start working and earning again as demand very slowly starts to return.
Of course, we recognize there are risks associated, but by international tourists coming here, booking hotels, eating at restaurants, taking day tours, taxis, etc. it all helps local people start working again. The good news is that money is being injected into our economy by the Sandbox program, and for this we are grateful. With our 5 Star Marine boats out on tour, it is supporting our captains, boat crew, admin staff, transfer drivers, plus we are supporting other local businesses like Ann’s Kitchen who provide our guest lunches, the shops that supply our soft drinks, and fruit for each boat, etc. The ripple positive effect is beneficial to a number of people and gives Phuket confidence to keep going.
So, we want to say Thank You for supporting us, so we can keep supporting Phuket.
