By: Aoife Mackenzie
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the Thai island of Phuket, a catamaran charter should be top of your list to try. While this may initially seem like an indulgent and expensive option, Simpson Yacht Charter has a range of curated sailing vacations that cost no more than stays at high-end resorts on the island.
The trips are totally customisable and are ideal for those wishing to experience a more personalised approach to discovering untouched parts of Phuket – and beyond. With a yacht, you have easier access to secret lagoons, coral reefs, deserted beaches and unspoilt islands.
Simpson is Asia’s most established yacht sales company and has been chartering boats in the region for 35 years. It operates a vast fleet of vessels, catering for groups of all sizes, and with a strong emphasis on the comfort and safety of clients. For added peace of mind, you can book directly with Simpson in Hong Kong, which saves you valuable time and energy that would otherwise be spent liaising with agents in Phuket.
Instead of a traditional holiday rental, with Simpson Yacht Charter you can venture to Phuket in an unforgettable way: aboard a floating villa! Experienced yachts-people can opt for a bareboat charter, where you can skipper the yacht yourself.
If you’d rather leave all the hard work to someone else, the company can provide a fully crewed charter to take care of your every need; including a captain, a chef and additional staff, depending on the size of the yacht. The other plus is that crewmembers have local insider knowledge of Phuket and the Andaman Sea.
Simpson’s chic 40-to-60-foot catamarans are favoured by families and large groups for their space, stability and safety. These boats are considerably larger than traditional hotel rooms and include features like lounge areas, sunbathing decks and ensuite queen cabins. The catamarans are equipped with professional and highly qualified staff, a full range of amenities, as well as water-sports supplies and instructors.
The duration and itineraries of charters are flexible and can be designed to suit your requirements and requests. Trips start from four days; which will take you to places like Phang Nga Bay (“James Bond Island”), Krabi, Koh Phi Phi and small islands off the east coast of Phuket. This could be an alternative option for one of the many public holidays in Hong Kong. If you need a longer break, tours covering destinations like the Similan Islands, Railey Beach and Au Nang can last up to 15 days, allowing you to totally relax and disconnect from reality.
Simpson Yacht Charter also offers packages to several other Asian destinations including Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar and Indonesia. In addition to their suggested charters, more adventurous travellers can request special-occasion and cross-border versions.
Find out more at 2555 8377 or charter@simpsonmarine.com. simpsonyachtcharter.com
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This article first appeared in the August/September 2018 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
