Phang Nga Bay 
The area bounded by Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi provinces forms
Phang Nga Bay. There are over 100 islands, and the geology
varies from low gently sloping mountains to the steep karst outcrops
for which the bay is most famous.
At the south end of Phuket is a large protected bay, Ao
Chalong, which is the usual port of entry into this region
and where the main port control centre is located.
North Phang Nga Bay
The sheer-sided sea mountains that rise vertically out of Phang
Nga Bay form some of Thailand's most spectacular scenery. Images
of Phang Nga have travelled the world and shaped many people's
perception of southern Thailand, and the boating experiences to
be had here.
As a result the cruising yachtsman may encounter many tour boats
with sea canoes during the middle hours of the day but tranquility
does return by late afternoon.
While the bay itself is not so large, the number of islands, inlets
and mangrove channels to be explored ensure that no matter how long
a yachtsman spends here, new experiences will always be nearby.
Here, we list only a few of the many anchorages in this area. Much
of the joy of sailing in Phang Nga, after all, lies in discovering
the uncounted creeks, caves and coves for yourself (Order the Andaman
Sea Pilot for a guide to 21 Phang Nga Bay anchorages).
Most of the islands are uninhabited, offering secluded anchorages
under soaring cliffs fringed with jungle, as well as fascinating
dinghy expeditions to hidden beaches, caves and creeks not shown
on charts or maps.
Three rivers run into the head of the bay so the water is silty,
though otherwise clean, forming a milky green backdrop to the striking
scenery.
Since a large part of the area north of Koh Yao is shallow
(less than 10 metres), it is possible to anchor virtually anywhere
in north Phang Nga Bay.
Some of the area is National Park and rangers patrol around
the islands. The entry fee is 200 Baht per boat and 200 Baht per
day per person on board, which is collected on the spot.
Koh Hong Group
The best anchorage in this group of islands lies between Koh
Hong and the shallow water to the west of Koh Na Khae.
Suitable for both seasons, this very picturesque anchorage has good
holding in approximately 12 metres on a muddy bottom, and gives
easy access to Koh Hong should you want to explore by dinghy.
Please remember to take a set of paddles in your dinghy so you
don't have to run your outboard engine whilst inside the hong.
Care ought to be taken, if heading north from this location, to
keep well clear of the shallow bank to the west of Koh Na Khae.
The passage between Koh Yai and Koh Na Khae is not recommended for
any but shoal draft vessels.
Yachts proceeding east from this group should pass north around
Koh Na Khae or south of Koh Yai.
Another anchorage is to be found just south of Koh Hong
in 4 - 5 metres on a muddy bottom directly outside the small cave
that opens into the lagoon.
Both these anchorages are very busy with day trips and sea canoe
tours coming and going during the day.
If swimming in these channels beware of strong currents, particularly
during spring tides.
Phang Nga Bay Map
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