Sail Koh Chang

Experiencing Koh Chang Archipelago by Charter Boat

The archipelago's main island Koh Chang lies a short ferry ride from mainland Thailand. The nearest airport is at Trat, which has daily flights from Bangkok. Then it's a short bus or taxi ride to the dock and a 30-minute ride on a modern vehicle ferry. Once on the island, you need to get to the chanter base at the small fishing village of Salakpet. Taxis may be hard to come by and it is best to organise transfers when making your boat booking. 

Once in Salakpet the appeal of Koh Chang is immediately apparent and a wonderful voyage of discovery awaits. The truth about Koh Chang is that there are so many islands of different shapes and sizes, all with sailing holiday attractions, that deciding which way to travel is the hardest part. Most seven-day itineraries include the islands of  Koh Rang, Koh Mak and at the turnaround point of Koh Kut (aka Koh Kood), Each has its own appeal, and along the way a myriad of islets beckon for a stop to lunch and swim. 

Sailing Conditions in the Gulf of Thailand

The boat charter season in the Koh Chang islands runs October to April, which with Koh Samui’s alternate season makes sailing in the Gulf of Thailand a year-round activity.

Around Koh Chang the season aligns with the northeast monsoon, and the anchorages facing south are perfect for overnighting. Winds of up to 25 knots can be expected, especially early in the season. From January they tend to ease and become more variable, but there are always good sailing conditions in warm temperatures are comfortable seas.

Late in the season as the northeast monsoon weakens the winds can turn southerly, opening up further options for anchoring in comfort.