Please note: LangkawiCruise.com no longer arranges multi-day yacht charters to Thailand. This guide is kept for reference. For a day or sunset cruise around Langkawi, see private yacht charter or shared sunset cruises.
Sailing from Langkawi into Thai waters combines limestone islands, clear water and two cultures in one trip. Here is how such a trip usually works and what to plan for.
Why sail from Langkawi to Thailand
You sail past limestone cliffs and green islands, stop where you like, snorkel and dive on some of the Andaman Sea’s best reefs, and visit fishing villages and markets on both sides of the border, with the privacy of your own yacht.
Choosing the yacht
Catamarans are stable and spacious for families and groups; monohull sailboats give a more traditional feel; motor yachts are faster. Match the size to your group, and unless you are an experienced sailor, choose a crewed charter with a skipper.
Best time to sail
December to March, the dry season of the north-east monsoon, brings calm and sunny sailing; April and November are transition months. From May to the end of October, the south-west monsoon brings rain and higher waves. See the best time to visit Langkawi.
A classic six-day route
Day 1: Koh Lipe
White sand and coral reefs · Koh Lipe, Thailand ↗
Cross from Langkawi to Koh Lipe for snorkelling, diving or a lazy beach day.
Day 2: Koh Rok
Twin islands, vibrant reefs · Mu Koh Lanta National Park ↗
North to the twin islands of Koh Rok, with bright coral reefs and plenty of marine life.
Day 3: Koh Phi Phi
Maya Bay, Viking Cave, nightlife · Krabi, Thailand ↗
See the Viking Cave from the water, relax on Long Beach or Monkey Beach, and enjoy the evening on Phi Phi Don.
Good to know
Maya Bay: no swimming, boats stay outside the bay, and it closes every year from 1 August to 30 September.
Day 4: Phuket
Big Buddha, Old Town, beaches · Phuket, Thailand ↗
Thailand’s largest island: Patong, Kata and Nai Harn beaches, the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong and the Old Town.
Day 5: Similan Islands
World-class diving · Phang Nga, Thailand ↗
One of the world’s top diving areas, with coral formations, abundant marine life and quiet beaches.
Day 6: back to Langkawi
Sail back, with stops at anything you missed on the way. Fishing is only allowed outside the marine national parks.
Paperwork and safety
Everyone needs a valid passport, and some nationalities need a Thai visa in advance. Keep an eye on the weather, carry a first-aid kit and your medicines, and take travel insurance that covers sailing.
Good to know
All foreign visitors complete the free Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within three days before arriving in Thailand, and most must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before returning to Malaysia. Customs clearance is needed on both sides; the charter company can usually help.
Pack light, breathable clothes, swimwear, a hat and sunglasses, deck shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent and a waterproof bag for your gadgets. See what to pack for a cruise.
Short on time? A 4-hour private yacht charter among Langkawi’s own islands gives you a taste of it in an afternoon.