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Thailand, (formerly Siam until 1939) began with migration of Thais from their ancestral home in China into mainland southeast Asia around 10 AD. In the 19th & 20th centuries, European colonial powers threatened, but Thailand survived as the only Southeast Asian country to avoid colonial rule. After the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, Thailand endured 60 years of permanent military rule before the establishment of a democratic system. |
| Total Population:
65.5 million.
Capital: Bangkok (Metropolitan population 6.7 million). Ethnic Groups: Thai 80%, Chinese 8%, Malay/Indian 7%, indigenous and others 5%. Languages: Thai, English (second language), Mandarin, Vietnamese, regional dialects Religions: Buddhism 85%, Muslims are some 10% and other religions 5% including Christianity, Hinduism, especially among immigrants. . Literacy: is a high 94%. Economy: GDP US$ 627 billion, which is the second largest economy in SE Asia. Exports include automobiles, electronic goods, agricultural and fish products. The country has enjoyed a high percentage of income from tourism for over 25 years. Currency: Thai Baht. approx. exchange US$1 = 34 baht (other conversions Converter) |
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Ko Samui: is located in the Gulf of
Thailand, 80 kms off the coast of Suratthani and 560 kms south of
Bangkok.
Serviced by Bankok Airways, with
regular flights
from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi & Singapore the island is a mecca for sailing
and diving enthusiasts. Population: 47,874 (2006). Now estimated at over 50, 000.
Size: Approximate length
15km (10mi), width 13km (8mi) |
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Weather: The fine and clear period is May to September during the south-west wind season |
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Safety: The Ko Samui area is known as an extremely safe
destination on both land
and water. There has never been an incident of piracy in surrounding regions in modern times. Being part of the Gulf of Thailand which is regularly patrolled by the Navy, Coast Guard and Water Police, it should not be confused with occasional trouble spots in the South China Sea and Sulu Sea, over 1,000 miles away, between Borneo and the Philippines. |
| Base Facilities:
Showers/toilets • Bars/restaurants • Hotel and pool •
Telephones • Internet Nearby are: Supermarket • General shops • Market • Bakery • Banks & ATM • Car rental Transfers: Between the airport and base can be arranged after the charter booking is made. Provisioning: Do your own on arrival - or complete a shopping list, which is emailed to you in advance. Staff will buy and have provisions checked and stowed aboard upon your arrival. |
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Sailing
Experience:
For skippering a
bareboat, the good news is you don't need any formal certification. All that's required is experience of being a skipper on a similar sized boat, within about 5 feet. If you're not sure if you qualify, simply submit your experience, based on the type of sailing conditions you're used to (ocean or lake, tidal or non-tidal, long or short distances) and we'll help select the best yacht and destination to suit you. If nobody in your party is experienced you can still enjoy a wonderful sailing holiday by engaging one of our qualified skippers who can show you some basic sailing techniques. |
You may sail anywhere within the designated cruising area or for a 7 day itinerary click here.
OTHER CHARTER BASES IN THAILAND: Ko Chang Phuket .....OR IN MALAYSIA: Langkawi