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 The
Similan Islands
Here, huge granite boulders tell of an entirely different geological
process to that which created Phang-nga Bay. Astonishing smooth,
weather-worn rocks the size of cars and houses tumble down the islands’
shorelines, looking like the left-over playthings of a mystical
giant. Plummeting 35 metres and more to the seabed, these rocks
create a phenomenal underwater world that has been a magnet to divers
for years. The crystal-clear water is legendary, while the coral
reefs are reputed to be the most colourful and diverse in Thailand.
On the surface, the huge boulders blend seamlessly with lush forest
and sparkling white sandy beaches, while the waters surrounding
the islands teem with tropical fish, including Whale Sharks and
Mantas – even the legendary Black Marlin.
 The
Surin Islands
Sail 50 nautical miles to the north and you enter a marine national
park, the Surin Islands, the closest Thai islands to Burmese waters
– but a long step back in time. The Surins are uninhabited
except for a few rangers and the ‘Lion Tribe’ of ‘sea
gypsies’, a nomadic sea people who continue a primitive way
of life to this day.
For them, time is a vague concept. None knows his own age or can
count beyond the fi ngers on his hand, yet they can hew an ocean-going
boat using only the most basic tools, catch fi sh by hand, and are
renowned for their talents as deep divers without scuba gear. For
visiting yachtsmen too, the Surins can make time stand still, can
make you contemplate  staying
forever.
Ko Lanta & Ko Rok Nok
To the south of Phuket you’ll fi nd yet another varied wonderland
of islands not to be missed: the low-lying sandy beaches of Ko Lanta,
Ko Rok Nok with its ancient fertility carvings and Ko Muk famous
for the magnifi cent ‘Emerald Cave’.
Tarutao & Butang Group
Just 30 miles south of Ko Muk, you discover the remote, almost uninhabited
Butang Group – part of the Hat Chao Mai National Park –
teeming with an abundance of fascinating and unusual wildlife.
A short sail east brings you to the mysterious unspoiled island
of Tarutao close to the border with Malaysia, interesting caves
and hidden creeks lead into the mountainous interior, inviting you
into a primaeval world where time stands still.
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The
west coast of Phuket dazzles visitors with some of the clearest
water and most striking beaches in the whole region. Tiny coves
inaccessible by land nestle between occasional clusters of luxury
resorts, villas, restaurants and nightlife – perfect spots
to take your fill of civilisation before heading north or south
along the unspoiled coastline.
