Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 0 7620 6704;
www.yacht-haven-phuket.com
)
This marina is at Laem Phrao on the northeastern
tip of Phuket. The Yacht Haven boasts 130 berths with deep-water access and a scenic res-
taurant. It also does yacht maintenance.
BOATING
Asia Marine
(
www.asia-marine.net
; Yacht Haven Phuket Marina)
One of the first yacht charters in Phuket and with
the most diverse fleet cruising the Andaman Sea, Asia Marine has a boat for everyone -
from sleek fibreglass catamarans to wooden junks. Reservations and enquiries are avail-
able online only.
Courses
Popular Thai cooking classes are held in Kata, Phuket Town, Ko Sireh and Patong.
Tours
It's not hard to find elephant rides and 4WD tours of the island's interior, though none of
those will win their way into the hearts of animal rights activists or environmentalists, so
why not take a bike ride?
Amazing Bike Tours
( 0 7628 3436;
www.amazingbiketoursthailand.asia
; 32/4 Moo 9, Th Chaofa, Chalong; day trips adult/child from
1600/1400B)
Amazing Bike Tours, Phuket's best new adventure outfitter, leads small groups
on half-day bicycle tours through the Khao Phra Thaew Royal Wildlife & Forest Reserve,
and it offers terrific day trips around Ko Yao Noi and the gorgeous beaches and waterfalls
of Thai Muang in nearby Phang-Nga province.
CYCLING
Information
DANGERS & ANNOYANCES
During the May to October monsoon, large waves and fierce undertows sometimes make
it too dangerous to swim. Dozens of drownings occur every year on Phuket's beaches, es-
pecially on Laem Singh, Kamala and Karon. Red flags are posted to warn bathers of seri-
ous rip tides.
Keep an eye out for jet skis when you are in the water. Although the Phuket governor
declared jet skis illegal in 1997, enforcement of the ban is another issue. Long-tails can be
hazardous too. Do not expect the boat to see you!
