Destinations, Southeast Asia
Yacht Charter in Southeast Asia.
Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Limestone karsts, coral reefs, and some of the most rewarding cruising in the world.
Phuket, Phang Nga
Komodo, Raja Ampat
Mergui Archipelago
SECTION 01
Why charter here
Southeast Asia is what the Mediterranean was fifty years ago: extraordinary cruising grounds still in the process of being discovered by the yachting industry. Limestone karsts rising from turquoise water, undeveloped islands, warm hospitality, and coral reefs that rival the best diving on earth.
These are destinations we arrange through our network of trusted partners across the region. Each country has its own regulations and cruising norms, and the right yacht and crew for the trip are shaped as much by these as by the guest’s preferences.
SECTION 02
The cruising grounds
Destination 01
Thailand
Phuket and Phang Nga Bay.
The Andaman coast of Thailand offers some of the most photographed cruising in Asia. Phuket serves as the main charter base, with Phang Nga Bay’s limestone karsts, the Similan Islands’ coral reefs, and Krabi’s dramatic coastline all within a manageable itinerary. The pace of the country is unhurried, and the hospitality is famously warm.
Thailand’s charter regulations are relatively straightforward, making it the most accessible entry point for guests new to Southeast Asian cruising.
Phuket
Destination 02
Indonesia
Komodo, Raja Ampat, Bali.
Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world, seventeen thousand islands scattered across three time zones. For yachting, the important destinations are concentrated: Bali as the arrival point, Komodo National Park for its dragons and dramatic coastal scenery, and Raja Ampat in the far east for what many consider the finest diving on earth.
Indonesian charters require careful vessel selection and often involve longer distances between destinations, but reward guests with landscapes and marine life that few other regions can match.
Destination 03
Myanmar
The Mergui Archipelago.
The Mergui Archipelago is one of the last genuinely undiscovered cruising grounds in Asia. Eight hundred islands scattered along the Burmese coast, most of them uninhabited, with a semi-nomadic Moken sea gypsy population that continues to live largely as it has for centuries. Access requires special permits and is limited to a small number of yachts per year.
The Mergui rewards guests looking for genuine remoteness in a region where remoteness is increasingly rare. Political conditions in Myanmar have made access variable in recent years. We advise on current availability at the time of enquiry.
Destination 04
The Philippines
Palawan and El Nido.
The Philippines has more than seven thousand islands, but for yachting the important cruising ground is concentrated around Palawan and the Calamian and Bacuit archipelagos to its north. El Nido has emerged as the country’s most celebrated destination, with limestone karsts rising from clear water in scenery comparable to Phang Nga Bay but with much more space.
The Philippines offers cruising for guests wanting the visual drama of Southeast Asia in a less-visited setting than Thailand.
SECTION 03
Charter season
The Southeast Asia season varies by country but generally runs during the northern winter and spring. Thailand, Myanmar, and the Philippines operate from November through April, avoiding the monsoon rains. Indonesia has two distinct seasons that vary by region: Bali and Komodo are best April to November, while Raja Ampat in the east is best in the shoulder seasons.
Cyclones are not typically a threat in these waters, but heavy monsoon rains can shape itineraries significantly. Careful planning around regional weather patterns is essential.
SECTION 04
Embarkation and logistics
The primary embarkation hubs are Phuket for Thailand and Myanmar, Bali for Indonesian itineraries in the west and central regions, Sorong for Raja Ampat, and Manila or Puerto Princesa for the Philippines.
Southeast Asian charter regulations vary significantly by country. Some require special permits (particularly Myanmar and parts of Indonesia), and we coordinate all paperwork in advance.
November to April (main)
Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines
Raja Ampat, Komodo
Via Singapore, Bangkok, Bali
Vary by country
Ten to fourteen nights
SECTION 05
Sample seven-day itinerary
A directional guide to a Thailand charter from Phuket, exploring Phang Nga Bay and the islands of the Andaman Sea. Every itinerary is shaped around the yacht, the guests, and the weather window.
SECTION 06
Explore nearby
SECTION 07
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Southeast Asian country is best for a first charter?
Thailand is the most accessible. Charter regulations are straightforward, yacht availability is good, and the Andaman coast offers some of the most photographed cruising in the region. Indonesia is the natural second step, with Bali and Komodo offering more range.
When is the best time to charter in Southeast Asia?
November through April is the main season for Thailand, Myanmar, and the Philippines. Indonesia varies by region: Bali and Komodo are best April to November, Raja Ampat is best in shoulder months. The monsoon patterns require careful planning.
Is Raja Ampat really the best diving in the world?
Many marine biologists and diving professionals consider it so. Raja Ampat holds more marine species than any other single location on earth, and the concentration of fish and coral is extraordinary. It requires longer travel to reach but rewards guests focused on marine life.
Can I charter into Myanmar's Mergui Archipelago?
Yes, but access is restricted to a small number of vessels per year and requires special permits organised months in advance. Political conditions in Myanmar have made access variable in recent years. We advise on current availability at the time of enquiry.
Are the Philippines and Thailand similar for chartering?
Visually similar in some respects, with limestone karsts in both regions, but Philippine cruising is generally quieter with less developed infrastructure. Thailand offers more mature charter operations. The Philippines suit guests wanting the visual drama without the crowds.
PLAN A CHARTER
Every itinerary begins with a
conversation.
Tell us the destination that draws you, or ask us where might best
suit the trip you have in mind. We will shape something around it.