Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
3950B per person including meals, equipment and transfer. Many outfits also run all-in-
clusive, three-day (from 13,700B) or six-day (from 23,400B) kayaking and camping
trips.
BOATING
John Gray's Seacanoe
( 0 7625 4505;
www.johngray-seacanoe.com
; 124 Soi 1, Th Yaowarat; adult/child from 3950/1975B)
The ori-
ginal, the most reputable and by far the most ecologically sensitive company on the is-
land. Like any good brand in Thailand, John Gray's 'Seacanoe' name and itineraries have
been frequently copied. Located north of Phuket Town.
Paddle Asia
( 0 7621 6145;
www.paddleasia.com
;
9/71 Moo 3, Th Rasdanusorn, Ban Kuku; day trips from 4300B)
Another
popular company that caters to small groups, Paddle Asia offers several day and multi-
day trips to Ao Phang-Nga and Khao Sok National Park on classic kayaks rather than sit-
on-tops or inflatables.
BOATING
Surfing
Phuket is an undercover surf destination. Once the monsoons bring their midyear swell,
glassy seas fold into barrels. The best waves arrive between June and September, when
08
1611 0791, 08 7889 7308;
www.phuketsurf.com
; Th Koktanod, Kata; lessons 1500B, board rental per hr/day 150/
500B; Apr-late-Oct)
is based in Kata, at the south end of the bay near the best break, which
typically tops out at 2m. Hat Nai Han can get bigger waves (up to 3m) near the yacht
club. Be warned: Kata and Nai Han have vicious undertows that can claim lives.
Hat Kalim, just north of Patong, is sheltered and has a consistent break that also gets
up to 3m. This is a hollow wave, and is considered the best break on the island. Kamala's
northernmost beach has a nice 3m beach break, and Laem Singh, just up the coast in
front of the Amanpuri, gets very big and fast, plus it's sheltered from wind by the
massive headland.
Hat Nai Yang has a consistent if soft wave that breaks more than 200m offshore. Hat
Nai Thong gets better shape. Swells get up to 3m high a few times per year.
Kiteboarding
