Quick Facts
Why Choose a Private Catamaran Charter Over Group Tours?
When you charter a private catamaran, you're not competing for deck space or waiting for a guide to finish talking to another group. You set the itinerary, choose your islands, and sail on your schedule. No strangers. No "just five more minutes" at Monkey Beach. It's your day.
Private charters are ideal for families wanting a quieter experience, small friend groups looking for a memorable occasion, or anyone who simply prefers a flexible, personalised approach to island hopping. Yes, it costs more than a 50-person speedboat tour, but the control and comfort justify the price.
Types of Boats: Choosing What Suits You
Catamaran (Most Stable & Family-Friendly)
Catamarans are twin-hulled vessels—think of two boats joined by a wide deck. They're exceptionally stable in choppy water, making them ideal for families with young children or anyone prone to seasickness. You get a spacious deck, good shading, and typically a comfortable cabin.
- Capacity: 8–12 passengers
- Speed: Moderate (18–25 knots)
- Best for: Families, groups wanting comfort and stability
- Seasickness risk: Lower than monohulls
Monohull Sailboat (Romantic, Traditional)
Single-hulled sailing vessels offer a classic, serene experience. They're slower and require decent wind, but if you want romance and authenticity, a monohull is unbeatable.
- Capacity: 4–8 passengers
- Speed: Slow (8–15 knots, wind-dependent)
- Best for: Couples, small groups, sunset cruises
- Note: More expensive fuel per hour due to slow speed
Speedboat (Fast, Less Luxurious)
Speedboats prioritise velocity over comfort. You'll cover more islands in a day, but you'll feel every wave and have limited shade. Good for younger groups who don't mind getting wet.
- Capacity: 6–10 passengers
- Speed: Fast (35+ knots)
- Best for: Active groups, island-hopping marathons
- Seasickness risk: Higher in rough seas
Motor Yacht (Premium Comfort)
A proper motor yacht combines speed, stability, and luxury. Expect air-conditioned cabins, multiple decks, professional crew, and fine dining capabilities. Premium pricing, premium experience.
- Capacity: 8–20 passengers
- Speed: Fast and consistent (20–30 knots)
- Best for: Special occasions, corporate events, luxury seekers
- Crew: Captain, chef, stewards typically included
| Boat Type | Capacity | Price/Day THB | Speed | Best For | Stability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speedboat | 6–10 | 12,000–18,000 | Very Fast | Active groups | Moderate |
| Catamaran | 8–12 | 22,000–38,000 | Moderate | Families | Excellent |
| Monohull Sailboat | 4–8 | 18,000–32,000 | Slow | Couples | Good |
| Motor Yacht | 8–20 | 35,000–65,000 | Fast | Luxury, corporate | Excellent |
A Typical Private Charter Day from Chalong Pier
09:00 Departure from Chalong
You arrive at Chalong Pier early. The captain and crew brief you on safety, snorkelling locations, and the day's weather. You cast off.
10:30 First Snorkel at Racha Yai
Racha Yai (Raya Island) offers excellent coral and fish life with moderate difficulty. Most people get 45 minutes of snorkelling time. The crew supplies masks and fins; bring your own if you prefer them.
12:30 Lunch at an Anchor
You anchor in calm water. A lunch of fresh seafood, Thai curries, and fresh fruit awaits. Most charters provide a generous Thai buffet or BBQ on deck.
14:00 Second Snorkel at Racha Noi or Coral Island
If weather permits, you head to Racha Noi (the deeper, more pristine sister island) or closer Coral Island (Koh Hae) for families. Another 45-minute session.
15:30 Leisure Time
You swim, relax on deck, or explore a quiet beach. Some operators offer watersports like paddleboards or fishing.
17:00 Return to Chalong
You arrive back at the pier. Sunburnt, tired, and happy.
Pricing Breakdown & What's Included
What Comes Included
- Captain and professional crew
- Fuel for the full day
- Snorkelling gear (basic mask, fins, snorkel)
- Lunch (typically a generous Thai buffet or BBQ)
- 2 large tanks of drinking water
- Ice for beverages
- First aid kit and safety equipment
What Costs Extra
- Fishing gear rental: 1,500 THB (if captain supports it)
- Wine or champagne: 800–1,500 THB per bottle (markup)
- Underwater camera hire: 800–1,200 THB
- Hotel transfers: 500–1,000 THB per direction
- Extra crew (chef, entertainer): 2,000–4,000 THB
Half-Day Charters (4 Hours)
If a full day is too long or your budget is tight, half-day catamaran charters run 14,000–20,000 THB. You get one snorkel site and lunch is usually skipped. Popular for afternoon departures at 14:00, returning by 18:00.
Popular Island Destinations from Phuket
Racha Yai & Racha Noi (Best for Snorkelling)
Twin islands south of Phuket, 40 minutes by speedboat, 90 minutes by catamaran. Pristine coral, abundant fish, and fewer tourists than Phi Phi. Racha Noi is deeper and more remote.
Coral Island (Koh Hae) – Family Favourite
Just 30 minutes from Chalong, Coral Island is calm, shallow, and perfect for young children. Less dramatic snorkelling than Racha, but safer and closer.
Koh Hae (Quick Escapes)
Even closer than Coral Island, Koh Hae is ideal if you want maximum beach time and minimal transit. Light snorkelling, mostly swimming and lounging.
Phi Phi Islands (2–3 Night Trips)
Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are spectacular but 60+ minutes away. Most private charters offering Phi Phi overnight trips are multi-day. Expect 80,000–150,000+ THB for 2 nights all-inclusive.
Departure Points & Marinas
Chalong Pier (Most Operators)
The busiest departure point. Central, easy access from most of Phuket, affordable transport. Most operators keep their boats here.
Ao Por Grand Marina (North Phuket, Phang Nga Bay)
If you're interested in exploring Phang Nga Bay, limestone cliffs, and Khao Phing Kan (James Bond Island), charters departing from the north are more convenient.
Yacht Haven Lagoon (Luxury Tier)
Modern, upscale marina in Bang Tao. Premium operators and motor yachts. Expect higher prices but more refined surroundings.
Practical Tips & Advice
Book 2–4 Weeks Ahead in High Season
December to March is peak season. Popular boats and dates fill fast. Book early to secure your preferred dates and boat type.
Seasickness: Bring Bags for Young Kids
Even on stable catamarans, some children get queasy. Ask the operator about seasickness tablets or bring your own. Request calm-water itineraries if you're worried.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen is Essential
Thai waters are protected; regular sunscreen damages coral. Use reef-safe, zinc oxide-based sunscreen (SPF 30+). Available at Villa Market or bring from home.
Check the Crew's English Level
If you want storytelling and a guide-like experience, confirm the captain and crew speak conversational English before booking.
Bring a Waterproof Phone Case
You'll want to photograph the experience. A 500–800 THB case from 7-Eleven keeps your phone safe during snorkelling.
Know the Cancellation Policy
Bad weather happens. Confirm whether you get a rebooking, refund, or are expected to go anyway.
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