Visas & Permits
On arrival, if passengers don't have tourist visas they will
be granted entry for one-month. Extensions of seven or 10 days
can be made. Crew get a non-extendable one-month entry —
if you previously obtained a visa from Thai diplomatic missions
abroad, it will be ignored — and are technically in-transit
with the vessel, meaning they will not receive a white departure
card in their passport and must each post a 20,000-baht bond if
they wish to leave the country without the boat.
For this reason, it is simplest if only the skipper actually
signs in as crew, while others enter as passengers.
Permit extensions - Foreign-registered yachts are permitted
to remain in Thailand for up to one year. Yachts are given six
months on arrival, which can generally be extended for an additional
six months. For most, a letter, in Thai, from a marina proving
paid moorage is sufficient. For those not staying in a marina,
a good reason is required, such as needing critical boat work.
Some have used letters from contractors listing work that needs
be done.
Customs will require photos of the boat and work required (an
engine in pieces). Some have reported that they were able to obtain
an extension without a letter of any kind. The situation could
change at any time.
The above content provided courtesy of 8north.com.
Further details may be found at 8north.com.
General Advice
Dress - When dealing with government officials or doing
business in town, it's appropriate to wear clean and slightly more
formal clothes - no T-shirts or flip-flops at check-in time. Untidy
or unclean clothes are considered an insult. For men, a collared
T-shirt or shirt, shoes or sandals, and long pants are preferable.
For women, it's a good idea to have the shoulders and thighs covered.
A blouse with skirt or trousers is ideal, and is comfortable for
buses, etc. Just look around at the local people; they're nearly
always very neat and clean. Follow suit and you should have no problems.
Behaviour - It's not wise to get angry or impatient, to
swear or shout. It's you who loses face, and it's likely to make
the situation even worse. Be polite and attentive, have patience
with any language difficulties, and you'll be surprised at how smoothly
things can progress.
Remember, government officials have a job to do and responsibilities
to carry out, so it's sensible to treat them with appropriate respect.
If you're really having problems, try and get to speak to a superior.
Remember, you're a guest in Thailand.
Attitude - The Thais are friendly, helpful and generous
of spirit. They believe in enjoying everything they do, whether
it's work or play. So if you make your business or social encounters
enjoyable experiences, you also benefit. As in most Asian countries,
it's best that no one loses face in any encounter. Don't argue either
yourself or the other into a corner. It will only produce a stalemate.
As when bargaining over price, they start high, you start low and
you meet in the middle. Everyone goes away happy. Also be respectful
of the numerous religious and royal icons that you encounter. They
are held in reverence by the local people.
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