Pattaya to Ko Samet
 World
famous as a hectic holiday resort, Pattaya is an essential stopover
on any cruising holiday in the Eastern Gulf of Thailand. This 10-km
stretch of coast is a favourite retreat for Bangkok residents as
well as international tourists.
But for a taste of frenetic resort-city life to contrast with the
solitude of Thailand’s spectacular islands, Pattaya is ready
to welcome all-comers. Pattaya’s proximity to Bangkok has distinct
advantages for sailors too.
Both Royal Varuna Yacht Club, based in a secluded cove between
Pattaya and Jomtien beaches and Ocean Marina run regular yacht races,
while the Yacht Cruising Association of Thailand organises cruising
weekends to the offshore islands.
 Just
five miles from Pattaya Bay is Ko Sak, in days gone by an exclusive
island resort for Thailand’s rich and famous, as well as a
favourite with international jet-setters. Take the footpath leading
south from the beach restaurant and discover who was there before
you. Some of the island’s famous visitors – including
many Hollywood names from the 1950s – left their hand and footprints
set into the cement paving slabs.
Apart from the opportunity to recharge excitement levels, Pattaya
is the natural starting point for a cruise east towards the islands
near Cambodia. Not many yachts ply this coast, but a voyage from
Pattaya to the Ko Chang and Ko Kut archipelagos is a rewarding experience,
with several splendid unspoiled islands en route.
A number of these small offshore islands are within easy reach
of Pattaya and Ocean Marina. Ko Larn, Ko Phai and Ko Kram –
together with the smaller islets around them – are favourites,
with their white sandy beaches, clear waters and great snorkelling.
Cruising further along the coast, 45 miles from Ocean Marina, is
one of Bangkok’s favourite away-from-it-all weekend destinations,
Ko Samet, part of the Khao Laem Ya - Ko Samet National Park.
 Ko
Samet has plenty of restaurants and bungalows, but they are all
built behind the tree line, preserving the beauty of beaches and
coves that fi rst attracted the backpacker set in the 1970s. The
east coast is the most beautiful, with several untouched parts that
holidaymakers rarely visit. Tucked into the northeast corner is
the tiny islet, Hin Khan Na. An idyllic day-stop, there’s an
attractive, peaceful beach ideal for swimming. Ashore are a few
restaurants and even a bakery.
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