The Red Route

There are so many islands and bays to visit on a grand tour of Phang Nga Bay and time will dictate those chosen amidst interests in the geographical structures and marine activities. Rather than a day by day itinerary the following selected sites are proposed for you to build your own personal cruise but even so, once onboard High Aspect, it is inevitable that a new daily plan will emerge.

A leisurely trip of 14 days would cover all, and more, of the route whilst 10 days may be busier. For 7 days a shorter route would be better, perhaps Mai Thon or Khai Nok after Phi Phi Don?

Many of the adjacent islands and beauty spots may be visited by tendor, for ease of access, and to maximise the time available.

Koh Phanak The first overnight stop is at a jungle encrusted, cliff edged island, rising to nearly 1300 feet. The caves and land enclosed lagoons (hongs) are worthy of exploration. Koh Yang Towering karst limestone famously shown in many media, calm anchorage and great base to visit OO7 Island by High Aspects’ dinghy after running past the cliffs of Koh Daeng Yai.

Koh Kudu Noi Passing by Koh Roi with its large hong, to anchor off the Kudu Group again with fine hongs and scenery. Just ½ mile to the south is Koh Yao Noi with great opportunities to explore by dinghy.

Hong Archipelago With its principal, Koh Hong, has some 20 islands to explore, again best by dinghy, Koh Hong itself has the most impressive lagoon inside the island and accessible by dinghy, with just a small entrance through the eroded limestone. Whilst Koh Pak Bia’s curved sandy beach and fine snorkeling are just to the north and Koh Ka is worthy of a pass by on the return leg.

Ao Nang and Ao Rai Le Two spectacular and famous beaches with dramatic scenic backdrops, snorkeling just round the corner amongst several small islets. Shopping and restaurants are abundant ashore at Ao Nang. Rai Le is only accessible by sea as the 'no road' cliff backdrop cuts this beach resort off from the mainland. Watching the rock climbers is fascinating.

Koh Dam Khwan With a fine anchorage off the central reef between Dam Khwan and Dam Hok and with Koh Yawasam just a short ride to the west all having snorkeling spots. Beautiful island group. This is the location of the well-known 'chicken head'.

Koh Phi Phi Don Several anchorages at this 4 mile long world acclaimed island provide beauty, fine exploring and snorkeling whilst diving is ever popular. A quick day trip down to Phi Phi Le to visit Maya Bay (The Beach) is possible for those needing to go but this should be an early morning expedition to ensure some privacy.

The Racha Group Koh Racha Noi, rugged, this island is for keen divers and fishermen and Koh Racha Yai, the best choice for anchoring and stunning beaches together with the fishing and diving.

Further a field is Lanta - a unique island where the old ways still exist, simple and uncrowded it is tranquility itself. Small beach cafes and palm shaded traditional massages are holiday dreams. Excellent Thai cuisine along the shoreline.