The Beautiful Coral Island – Phuket, Thailand, Private Boat Tour

Coral Island, also known locally as Koh He, is an easy and family-friendly day-trip destination from Phuket. Going on a private VIP speedboat tour of Coral Island 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 can help you pick the beach / restaurant depending on your requirements as they know everything the island has to offer.

Coral Island or Koh He?

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 beautiful island getaway is only about 3 km southeast of Phuket. Coral Island has 2 main beaches: Long Beach and Banana Beach and the snorkeling off Banana Beach is awesome but more of that later. The island is about 2.5 Km long with a dense tropical jungle in the center of the island. There is one other secluded beach on the South of the island called Freedom Beach.

Coral Island – Great for families

Coral Island is one of the best family-friendly tours that 5 Star Marine Phuket runs. The island is safe for children to play, with white soft sand perfect for sand castles, as well as rock pools during low tide for children to explore, and they can learn to snorkel right from the beach, which makes it a fantastic destination for the little ones, and for those that may be a little worried about snorkeling from the back of the boat or in deeper water. The marine life just off the beach is stunning.

There are also plenty of deckchairs that you can sit on, as well as a fabulous restaurant and all the facilities and amenities that children and adults and the older adults (Grandparents) would need.

What to do on Coral Island?

There is so much to do on Coral Island, snorkeling from the beach or going around the backside of the island to do some deeper snorkeling, exploring the island trails and looking for the beautiful hornbills that are iconic on the island. Or just sitting back and enjoying some freshly made Thai food from the awesome restaurant.

Some of the main things you can do:

  • Snorkeling – The island is surrounded by shallow coastal waters with beautiful coral reefs and colourful fishes. There are multiple snorkeling spots around the island. Our 5 Star Marine Phuket Team can show you the best spots to go and teach you how to snorkel.
  • Chilling on the beach – One of the best things to do on a beach is to just relax and soak up the sun. There are deckchairs on the sand or just lay down your towel and watch the world go by.
  • Diving – The island is a great place to learn to dive as well as is suitable for those intermediate divers as there is so much to see. Diverse coral reefs, turtles, lionfish, and various other marine animals all can be seen at Coral Island
  • Other Watersports – There are other watersports available on the island including parasailing and kayaking.
  • Viewpoints and selfie spots – If you are looking for that next Instagram picture then Coral Island has a host of dedicated selfie spots.

Coral Island is a great place to visit especially if you are a family looking for an ideal tropical island private day tour getaway.

For more details on this tour click here

Phuket Tourism News: Happy Easter And It’s SONGKRAN!!!

Phuket Tourism News | Episode 12 | April 9

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.

Songkran 2023

Songkran in Thailand is on 13 April every year, but the holiday period extends from 14 to 15 April. It’s known around the world as “The World’s largest water fight”

 

 

What is Songkran?

Songkran is the Thai New Year’s national holiday and is rich in cultural traditions. Thai’s will visit local temples and offer food to monks, as well as visiting Buddha statues and gently pouring water over these as well as over the hands of the elderly. These traditions represent the purification and the washing away of sins and bad luck.

Most of the world outside of Thailand sees the Songkran holiday for its water fights. Streets around the whole country are closed off to traffic and used as arenas for water fights, using anything and everything to throw water. Huge water guns, hoses, and large buckets filled with blocks of ice in the back of pick-up trucks, are all used for the celebrations. The water fights can last for days.

Then there are the huge speakers blasting out traditional music from every street corner, and dancing in the streets in bright colorful shirts. There are parades and parties everywhere across the country including the famous “Miss Songkran” competitions that includes ladies, boys, girls, men dressed as ladies, and anyone in-between.

In Phuket, Songkran is only one day, whereas in Bangkok the water fights will happen for 3 days.

The History of Songkran

Songkran is the Thai New Year’s national holiday. In the past, Songkran has always been the official NEW YEAR for Thailand, until 1888, when it was changed to April 1st. No Joke it really was. Then in 1940, the Thai New Year was officially switched to 1st January, and Songkran became a national holiday.

Bottom line, Songkran is one of the most fun festivals in the world and you have to experience it at least once. Just know that you will get very wet even if you don’t want to.

Upcoming Events in Phuket

Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels BLOC Party

Tiesto at Andamanda Water Park

Legendary Night of Music

Local Fest

Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels BLOC Party

Dimbulla Estate Phuket International Rugby Elevens 2023

Wedding Fair 2023 – Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town

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:

Thailand’s Glow-in-the-Dark Ocean is Pure Magic

The awesome Chris Parker from the YouTube channel Retired Working For You was down in Phuket a few weeks ago to head out on our brand new tour, Phang Nga Bay Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing Tour.

The Phang Nga Bay Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing Tour is part of 5 Star Marine Phuket’s new collection of luxury and inspired afternoon sea tours tailored to your personal expectations and sea condition on the day of your tour. The Phang Nga Bay Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing tour will take you on a magical journey through the waters around Phang Nga Bay, where you can witness the incredible natural wonder of bioluminescence.

What is Bioluminescence?

Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism. Some creatures are able to emit light and can be found in many forms in the Phang Nga Bay area.

The main organism that creates this natural light show is the bioluminescent plankton, which is present in Phang Nga Bay’s waters. These tiny organisms emit a bright blue-green light when disturbed, producing a captivating appearance in the water. The phenomenon is caused by chemical reactions within the plankton, which produce light as a by-product.

What happens on the Phang Nga Bay Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing tour?

The 5 Star Marine Phuket, private tour will start at lunchtime from our pier at Boat Lagoon Marina. You will set out and the first stop is an awesome lunch at a traditional floating restaurant.

Once you have fueled up on some tasty Thai food, you will be ready to head out on a canoe and discover some hidden caves, coves and lagoons in the Phang Nga Bay area. Ok if you don’t want to paddle don’t worry as one of our team will do it for you, so you can lie back and enjoy the limestone formations and hidden lagoons close up.

And then as the sun sets and the evening slowly comes in over the bay you are at the best time to see one of nature’s true wonders, the bioluminescence. You will be able to see a mesmerizing display of shimmering lights that will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Being surrounded by bioluminescent water is truly enchanting, and this combined with sea canoeing and cave exploring makes the brand new Phang Nga Bay Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing tour a must to do when you are in Phuket.

If you, like Chris Parker from Retired Working For You YouTube channel, would like the opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Phang Nga Bay’s bioluminescence then you can book this tour here

Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island Private Boat Tour

Phang Nga Bay in Phuket, Thailand is possibly one of the most famous Bays in the world.

Most people will only know Phang Nga Bay for one thing, and that is James Bond Island. James Bond Island, or to give it, its real name, Ko Khao Ping Gan, is the beach that was used in the 1970 James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. It was the movie hideout of Scaramanga (played by Christopher Lee) who at one point in the movie had a duel with James Bond (played by Roger Moore) and in the back ground jutting out from is the needle-shaped limestone kast of Khao Tapu, which translates as Nail Mountain. This has become one of the most photographed places in the whole of Thailand, with most people pulling out the fake gun pose for their Instagram selfies.

But there is so much more to Phang Nga Bay than just James Bond Island.

With lofty limestone karsts and a myriad of islands (over 40), the scenery in Phang Nga Bay is stunning. It’s not just the stunning islands that all shoot up from the emerald waters, it’s the caves, the caverns, and the hidden lagoons that all help make Panag Nga Bay something truly special.

  • Ice Cream Cave
  • Bat Cave
  • Oyster Cave
  • Mangrove Lagoon

Or how about a game of football on a floating pitch at the floating village of Ko Panyee, and after you have built up an appetite you can enjoy some fresh seafood at the floating village.

How about a different view of Phang Nga Bay

5-Star-Marine-Samet-Nanghe-Viewpoint

For a fabulous view of Phang Nga Bay, you can head to Samet Nangshe viewpoint on the mainland in Phang Nga province. 5 Star Marine Phuket can even take you here so you can get a stunning picture of the whole of Phang Nga Bay.

 

 

Watch the Phuket Sunset

Before making your way back to base. Perhaps you might make a final sunset stop at Koh Pear, a small strip of an island that looks and feels like you are walking on water – a perfect end to the day.

Phang Nga Bay Private Bioluminescence and Sea Canoeing Tour

5-Star-Marine-BioluminescenceIf you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable experience, then a private bioluminescence and sea canoeing tour should be at the very top of your list. This tour offers a spectacular afternoon and early evening out on the water, combining the opportunity to experience this stunning natural phenomenon as well as exhilarating sea canoeing activities.

This is part of our new collection of luxury and inspired afternoon sea tours tailored to your personal expectations and sea condition on the day. This tour will take you on a magical journey through the waters around Phang Nga Bay, where you can witness the incredible natural wonder of bioluminescence.

For more details on this tour click here.

For full details of our James Bond, Phang Nga tour click here.

Phuket Tourism News, Earths 100 Best Beaches, Earth Hour, Beach Clean Ups

Phuket Tourism News | Episode 11 | April 2

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.

Earth’s BEST 100 Beaches

Is there a definitive list of the best beaches in the world? Well, the World Beach Guide says there is, and this year they released the top 100 beaches in the world. Think powder white sand, turquoise seas, permanent sunshine, and only the lightest of breezes wafting through the palms that fringe the beach and you’re there. From the endless white sands of remote Australian beaches to palm fringed tropical idylls these are all part of the list that the World Beach Guide has compiled.

The best news is that the number 1 best beach on the whole earth is Koh Kradan.

We are so lucky as there are 4 beaches from Phuket in the top 25, and 3 of these are on the 5 Star Marine tour list, so if you want to see them book up a tour NOW.

#1. Koh Kradan // Thailand 🇹🇭

#9. Railay Beach // Thailand 🇹🇭

#18. Freedom Beach // Thailand🇹🇭

#21. Laem Had Beach // Thailand 🇹🇭

Phuket Earth Hour

Earth Hour is a worldwide movement organized by the World Wildlife Fund, WWF (Not the wrestling company). The event is held annually, encouraging individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights, for one hour from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., usually on the last Saturday of March, as a symbol of commitment to the planet.

Earth hour was celebrated all over Phuket with Phuket Hotels, Phuket Resorts, Phuket attractions, and Phuket Schools all turning ff their lights for an hour and doing beach clean ups and other events and activities to help promote and be part of Earth Hour 2023.

Phuket Beach Clean Ups

Phuket has beach clean-ups happening most weekends somewhere on one of the many Phuket Beaches. One of the most active groups for beach cleaning is Sustainable Mai Khao, who are out almost every day cleaning and educating on the importance of keeping Phuket beaches clean. Sustainable Mai Khao’s mission is “Connecting and empowering our community to preserve our natural environment.” If you would like to get involved then you visit their website at www.sustainablemaikhaofoundation.org

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Phuket?

The editor of the YouTube videos Kyle, had the best answer to this question, he said at least 3 times a year.

There are many good times to visit Phuket, and it really does depend on what you are looking for, who you are with, budget and I am sure many more things that I can’t think of right now.

If you want perfect weather then peak season, the end of Dec and Jan is the best time to visit BUT this is also one of the busiest times and most expensive times.

If you don’t mind about the weather and its ok if you get a bit wet or some of the activities are closed, BUT the island is a little quieter and cheaper, than low season July to Oct is a great time to visit.

So, if you want a direct answer, come to Phuket during the shoulder periods. These are the times just before the low season or just before the high season. You will find the weather is pretty good, the prices are reasonable and the island is not too busy.

Upcoming Events in Phuket

Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels BLOC Party

Tiesto at Andamanda Water Park

Legendary Night of Music

Local Fest

Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels BLOC Party

Dimbulla Estate Phuket International Rugby Elevens 2023

Wedding Fair 2023 – Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town

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:

Khai Islands, Best Phuket Islands to Visit

How do you like your eggs?

Well, if you do like eggs then we have three different ones that you can visit on our 5 Star Marine Phuket Khai Island tour.

(Just so you know Khai in Thai means egg, hence the cracking jokes that will be part of this blog.)

Khai Islands

Private Khai Islands 5 Star MarineIf you are looking for an eggs-ceptional tour that is perfect for young families then the 3 Khai Islands tour; Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui, is one of the best.

The 3 Khai Islands is a group of small islands just 20 – 25 minutes away from the 5 Star Marine Phuket pier at Boat Lagoon Marina.

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 eggs-plorer the underwater world while sanding.

The two islands, Khai Nai and Khai Nok, also have some great restaurants and bar’s as well as souvenir shops and many deck chairs and umbrellas. This makes these two islands even more ideal for young families and in fact for multi generation families. Many of the tropical islands that we visit are naturally beautiful, and although they are stunning and pristine, there are no facilities on them. If you are going out with grandparents and young kids, then having shade, restaurant, toilets and chairs makes a big difference, hence why the Khai Islands are perfect for you. They offer stunning tropical beach feel with all the facilities that you need.

But what about Khai Nui?

Khai Islands Private Boat TourKhai 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.

The three Khai Islands, they are hard to be beaten, and if you have a young family or a multi generation family then they are eggs-actly the right tour for you.

You will definitely have an eggs-tra special day when you go on a 5 Star Marine Phuket Khai Island private boat tour, so let’s hatch a plan and get you booked in.

Coconut Island Phuket Thailand, Things to do and Where to Stay

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.

Phuket is known for its full range of things to do for holidaymakers, tourist facilities, and bustling lifestyle, while Coconut Island is far more of a peaceful island set in natural surroundings. Fishing and farming were the two main occupations on the island: rubber trees, local fruits, and vegetables are grown in the central part of the island, now there are two large resorts that have introduced new work opportunities for the Coconut Island residents.

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 on the East side of the island, you will also get to watch the sunrise over Phang Nga Bay.

The Village Coconut Island

Located on the idyllic Coconut Island, The Village offers true luxury and seclusion 500m off the coast of Phuket, Thailand. Jacuzzi suites, Grand Villas and Pool Villas have been built to cater for couples, families, groups, and singles with all of the options encapsulating the privacy and luxury that has come to define The Village. Despite the relaxed atmosphere at The Village, there is no need to slow down completely. They offer a selection of high-end restaurants and bars as well as many fun filled activities including Mountain Biking, Sailing, Kayaking, Thai cooking courses, Spa treatments, and boat trips.

Island Escape by Burasari

5-Star-Marine-Island Escape by BurasariIsland Escape by Burasari is a luxurious private villa’s & 5 stars resort with direct beach access The 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 the Island life. You can enjoy the resort’s fabulous facilities of pools and beach, landscaped gardens, spa and wellness programs and adventure excursions, water slides, and wet and dry playgrounds. Fabulous food and an inspired dining ambiance are part of the unique holiday experience at Island Escape by Burasari as well as the array of activities that you can do, or relax in one of the most impressive pools in Thailand.

Floating Restaurants

Phuket’s floating restaurants (krachang in Thai) are a fun way to enjoy seafood dishes with ocean views and experience something that you have never experienced before. These floating restaurants in Phuket are usually run by local fish farmers, though they often buy live seafood from other fishermen. You’ll see plenty of fish, crabs, and prawns in floating wood-and-net enclosures. You can walk along the planks between the enclosures and choose the seafood that you want to eat. Some seafood items, like mantis shrimp, can be expensive so check the prices first before ordering.

The best time to go is around 5 pm when the weather is cooler, and you can also enjoy watching the Sunset while you enjoy some of the BEST food you have ever had.

5 Star Marine Phuket Tours

Phuket’s floating restaurants (krachang in Thai) are a fun way to enjoy seafood dishes with ocean views and experience something that you have never experienced before. These floating restaurants in Phuket are usually run by local fish farmers, though they often buy live seafood from other fishermen. You’ll see plenty of fish, crabs, and prawns in floating wood-and-net enclosures. You can walk along the planks between the enclosures and choose the seafood that you want to eat. Some seafood items, like mantis shrimp, can be expensive so check the prices first before ordering.

The best time to go is around 5 pm when the weather is cooler, and you can also enjoy watching the Sunset while you enjoy some of the BEST food you have ever had.

5 Star Marine Phuket Tours

We offer pick-ups from both the resorts on the island and if the tide is low, we can also pick you up from the back pier. You can even book a 5 Star marine Phuket tour from the Island Escape reception.

Phuket Tourism News, Thailand PM Prayuth Visit, Patong Bar Crack Downs and Songkran

Phuket Tourism News | Episode 10 | March 27

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.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth’s visit to Phuket

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was in Phuket last week and visited the Soi King Kaew area in Ratsada, one of the poorest neighborhoods on the island, to promote the ‘Ratsada Green in the City’ mangrove tourism project.

The Thailand Prime Minister and his entourage met with local residents to explain the project, and why it is so important to be protecting mangroves not just in Phuket but throughout the whole of Thailand.

The aim of the project is to create a learning center and elevated walkways through the mangroves for people to learn about and appreciate their natural beauty.

Bangla Road Patong Bar crack downs

Night entertainment operators in Patong say their businesses have lost about B100 million in the past week following a raid on a local bar operated by a foreigner who allegedly employed girls aged under 18 as sex workers. Weerawit Kruesombat, chairman of Patong Entertainment Business Association, yesterday met nightspot operators to come up with measures to prevent venues from becoming involved in illegal activities.

This was in response to a raid conducted by a special task force unit from the Department of Provincial Administration, on a bar in Soi Bangla in Kathu district, Patong, Phuket in which two suspects.

Songkran 2023

The fun is coming back to Songkran, organisers have promised, as the first large scale celebration of the occasion in three years is set to take place at Limelight Avenue Mall in Phuket Town next month.

Songkran is Thailand’s most famous festival. The ‘water splashing’ festival marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year. The name Songkran comes from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘passing’ or ‘approaching’. Although getting well and truly soaked is what makes this festival so famous. The festival is an all-out water war, with unsuspecting victims and eager participants being blasted by high powered super-soakers.

Songkran Festival takes place in April every year, from the 13th to the 15th. The festival usually lasts three days, though festivities can start early or end later in some cities.

Which is the best Phuket Elephant sanctuary to visit?

Phuket Nature Elephant Reserve

The Phuket Nature Elephant Reserve is an accredited and sustainable Elephant Sanctuary located on the west coast of the tropical island of Phuket, Thailand. Founded in 2019, elephant conservation is of the utmost importance to us, and the elephant’s welfare is their main goal.

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary was founded by Mr. Montri Todtane, who owned an elephant riding camp in Southern Phuket in the past and decided to change his approach towards a more compassionate form of elephant tourism in 2016.

Inspired by Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a new and final home for elephants who have worked their entire lives in the logging and tourism industry. By joining our programs, visitors can support ethical elephant tourism while enjoying an inspiring and educational experience.

Upcoming Events in Phuket

Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels BLOC Party

Tiesto at Andamanda Water Park

Legendary Night of Music

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:

Ultimate Trips from Phuket

A private speedboat excursion to the islands and coves surrounding Phuket is an excellent way to explore Thailand’s Andaman Sea. These islands are renowned for their crystal-clear seas, pristine white sandy beaches and varied aquatic life, making them perfect for an inspired day trip with 5 Star Marine.

The whole region is home to a varied assortment of marine species, including colourful tropical fish, sea turtles and even whale sharks thanks to its abundance of coral reefs and underwater ecosystems. Our experienced guides are on hand to provide you with crucial knowledge about the marine environment to help ensure that your trip goes smoothly, is memorable, and of course is relaxing. Furthermore, you get to choose either adventure or relaxation (or a combination), as all of 5 Star Marine’s private day trips are customisable.

With so many excellent day trips from Phuket to select from, we have rounded up our top 5 to awaken your interests and inspire you to get out there and explore:

  1. Phi Phi Islands

A private speedboat trip to the Phi Phi Islands is a bucket-list experience that everyone should experience at least once. 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. On your private speedboat tour with 5 Star Marine you will 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 that is perfect for you.

One of the highlights of a Phi Phi day trip is visiting Maya Bay; the area which was made famous by the movie “The Beach” which starred Leonardo DiCaprio. The bay is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and idyllic turquoise waters. You may also want stop 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.

2. Racha Islands

Raya Islands Private Boat TourRaya or Racha Islands are made up of two beautiful islands; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, and they provide a perfect 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 are a stunning day trip option.

Located under 1 hour from 5 Star Marine’s base in Boat Lagoon, you can easily see why these islands are popular for relaxation, beach time and great snorkelling. Some areas to note include 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.

Although most people visit Koh Racha Yai (located just 20 kilometres south of Phuket); we would also suggest allowing 5 Star Marine to take you slightly further to the smaller island, Koh Racha Noi – an uninhabited rocky island with an abundance of outstanding snorkelling bays.

3. The Khai Islands

Private Khai Islands 5 Star MarineFor the ultimate family friendly day trip from Phuket, nothing quite beats the Khai Islands. The Khai Islands are a trio of small islands (Khai Nai, Khai Nau and Khai Nok) located just a short distance from Phuket, around a 20-minute speedboat ride away. They are popular for their picturesque white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters for shallow snorkelling.

During your private speedboat tour with 5 Star Marine, you will have the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and according to your own schedule; stopping off at selected beaches or snorkelling spots that catch your eye. Snorkelling is a popular activity because the warm waters are teeming with marine life and you will get the chance to swim alongside schools of fish in shallow waters for a memorable experience.

Khai Nok Island offers the opportunity to sunbathe on the white sandy beaches and take a stroll around or simply relax. The other islands are perfect for a quick swim, picnic lunch or a snorkelling adventure.

4. James Bond Island

5 Star Marine James Bond IslandJames Bond Island located in Phang Nga Bay, is one of the most famous places to visit, and for an excellent reason. This limestone island was featured in the film “The Man with the Golden Gun” in 1974. The James Bond Island private day trip with 5 Star Marine remains a highly enjoyable and popular experience. During your exciting day, the experienced crew will take you out so that you can take in the sights of Phang Nga Bay’s most iconic location.

As this is a protected marine area, boats are not able to get too close, therefore the nearby Koh Ping Ghan (an island where a large leaning rock stands) gives a perfect vantage point for pictures of the famous island. It also has several caves to explore and some small stalls.

You may choose to try a spot of sea canoeing afterwards. This provides a fascinating way to explore the Phang Nga Bay area and to explore the bay’s limestone cliffs, caves and lagoons. Enter through small tunnels and into caverns and lagoons that larger boats cannot reach, finding hidden gems and creating special memories.

5. Sunset BBQ and Dolphin Spotting

This is certainly a truly unique and unforgettable afternoon experience. When you book a private Sunset Beach BBQ and Dolphin Spotting trip, you get the perfect blend of snorkelling, dolphin spotting and traditional Thai style private beach BBQ.

Join us for a special occasion and family friendly afternoon where you can experience snorkelling in crystal clear waters before taking part in our respectful dolphin spotting programme which can be tailored to your requirements. At 5 Star Marine, we understand that getting the opportunity to see dolphins in the wild is a spectacular experience.

At sunset, indulge in a private beach BBQ featuring authentic satay and accompaniments which are grilled on the beach for you by our attentive crew. In between dips in the refreshing turquoise sea, enjoy a crafted ‘drink of the day’ on the fine white sands as you watch the sky light up in a thousand colours for an unforgettable tropical sunset experience.

With so many inspired day trips to create magical moments, please contact us to discuss any mentioned here, or to book a bespoke private day trip itinerary.

Shaun Stenning

+66 (0) 93720 6221

www.5starmarinephuket.com

[email protected]

Phuket Tourism News, International Woman’s Day, Tourist Police, Phuket Expo

Phuket Tourism News | Episode 9 | March 19

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.

International Woman’s Day

The 8th March 2023 was a huge day for women around the words as ladies, men, kids all got together to celebrate International Woman’s Day. Here in Phuket, there were a host of events and happenings to celebrate the day, including a huge fundraiser at the 4 points by Sheraton to help raise funds for Phuket Has Been Good to Us. The local Government also held events across the island including a presentation to owner of 5 Star Marine Phuket wife, Lisa, who was celebrated for all her amazing work over the past few years here in Phuket. Well done Lisa and to all the hardworking ladies in Phuket.

Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Trains Move Divers on Coral Restoration

Phuket Tourism News now in audio format

In more positive Thailand Government news, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources has been running course for a wide variety of local divers and marine industry professionals to train them up on how to best help coral restoration. Coral is extremally sensitive to its environment and so trying to grow coral or even just trying to manage coral is very difficult. The training given by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources will be ongoing so that more divers are trained to help protect Thailand’s coral reefs as well as helping to restore the reefs back to how they were.

Phuket Tourist Police Looking for Volunteers

Tourist Police in Phuket are seeking foreign volunteers to provide assistance to law enforcers in dealing with other “aliens” This was the headline in the local English speaking newspaper last week. We all hope that when they say aliens, they mean any human from a different county and not that ET has landed in Phuket and is out causing trouble on Bangla Road.

Phuket Expo 2028

Over the past 12 months, all business and individulas in Phuket have been asked to support Thailand’s bid to host the Specialised Expo under the name of the Expo 2028 Phuket Thailand under the theme of “Future of Life: Living in Harmony, Sharing Prosperity”, where health and wealth are in balance, all lives can thrive and prosper, and the environment and nature are restored.

There are billboards everywhere around Phuket and many business have posters up, the biggest question many people have is, What is the Specialised Expo?

I guess that in 2028 if Phuket wins the rights to host it, we will find out what it is.

What is the Best 5 Star Marine Phuket tour to go on?

There are so many awesome tours to go on, there is something for everyone. To find your favorite tour then you can visit the destination page to get all the information on all the private Phuket speed boat tours that we run.

Shaun is a huge fan of the Koh Hong tour

Jay is a massive Phi Phi fan.

Which is your favorite 5 Star Marne Phuket tour?

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.

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