A Taste Of Thailand Courtesy Of Star Clipper
17th April 2019
Two of the Star Clippers team, Emma and Tracy, recently enjoyed a week sailing one of our fantastic Thailand itineraries. Their blog post describes what a cruise like this entails and gives you a sneak peak of what you can expect should you decide to follow in their footsteps.
Day One
After two flights and a short transfer, we finally arrived at The Sala Phuket – and wow, what a stunning resort! Even though it was late at night when we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by all the lovely staff who couldn’t do enough for us. We were shown to our very well appointed room and offered several different choices of pillows, body lotion and soap to pick from.
We decided to head to the restaurant and the setting was just beautiful; all open plan, next to the beach and lit by lanterns and candles. The food was some of the best we’ve ever eaten and so reasonably priced. The sound of the sea soon had us both feeling sleepy, so we headed back to our room ready for a busy next day….
Day Two
After having some more delicious food for breakfast, we headed for a stroll along the beach, which was just stunning.
Our transfer then picked us up to take us to the port ready for our stay on Star Clipper; it’s about a one-hour journey but you get to see lots of sights on the way, including the bustling city of Patong. We were dropped off at the Seaview Hotel and were swiftly checked in for Star Clipper by the very helpful sports team. A short walk across the road to the jetty and we hopped into a tender boat to be whisked off to the ship….what a view as you get closer!
We checked in to our lovely, traditional cabin and quickly unpacked so we could head straight up to the bar for a cocktail of the day – perfect. The bar staff are all fabulous with a brilliant sense of humour and they make a real effort to learn your favourite drinks and cabin number.
We went down for dinner and there was just too much to choose from. After ordering more than we could possibly eat, we went up on deck ready for sailaway – what a wonderful experience. As Conquest of Paradise by Vangelis played over the speakers and the sails were raised, it really was an experience to remember.
Day Three
This morning, we had a leisurely breakfast (food is definitely a common theme on the ship – there is just too much to choose from) then we headed to the Tropical Bar for the Captain’s Welcome, where we were introduced to all the staff and told what was on offer on the ship.
Around lunchtime, we arrived in Ko Surin and it was just breathtaking – completely clear waters with excellent snorkelling and beautiful white sand beaches. There was also a National Park with lots to see – if you can tear yourself away from the picturesque beach.
After a long, hard day of sunbathing, snorkelling and eating ice cream, we went back to the ship to get ready for another evening of food, glorious food and fabulous cocktails.
Day Four
Today we spent the day in Ko Similan, popular amongst Chinese tourists due to it recently being featured in a very famous film. The sand here is like powder between your toes and, again, the snorkelling is excellent. Plus, there’s lots of wildlife to be seen here, such as the giant lizard below….
Tonight is quiz night which provided many laughs – needless to say, we weren’t on the winning team!
Day Five
Today we arrived in Ko Rok Nok, which, again, is just stunning. There’s a long stretch of beach which is completely uncrowded and water that is beautifully clear and calm. There are lots of water sports available here too, including water skiing, wind surfing, wake boarding and stand-up paddleboarding amongst many others.
After another tough day of reading a book on the beach, we got back on the ship and took full advantage of the afternoon snacks on offer before getting ready for Pirate Night at dinner. There was no dressing up required, just the cruise director and her team making everyone laugh at dinner whilst dressed as pirates.
We opted to head up to the deck after dinner for star gazing with the 3rd officer – many others chose to spend the night dancing away in the Tropical Bar.
Day Six
An early start today as we arrive in Langkawi, many passengers opted to do the Langkawi Island Tour excursion which we heard was fantastic. However, we decided to do some exploring of our own and got off the ship and jumped in a taxi (lots of taxi drivers are waiting so there’s no issues in getting one) which took us to the duty free shopping area where there are lots of bargains to be had.
The taxi driver then took us to the cable car, which is the world’s steepest. The views are spectacular and there’s even a little restaurant up the top from which to enjoy them. On our way back to the ship, we passed many monkeys at the side of the road – apparently quite a normal sight in Langkawi.
Tonight we experienced Karaoke Night, a very fun evening (although we were only spectators) with everyone joining in.
With Elizabeth, our Tour Guide, and her endless knowledge of the island, history was brought to life as she pointed out areas of interest. We even enjoyed music from the SKSR choir, three local girls with powerful voices singing a variety of Caribbean-inspired songs. Daiquiris and rum punch were flowing (and included in the ticket price) and everyone had an enjoyable morning. Endless photos were taken, questions asked and answered and it was quite sad when the train trundled back into the station for us to catch our buses back to the port.
Day Seven
We started this morning by climbing the mast – so much fun but very nerve-wracking. The sports team are on-hand to help, so you’re not left on your own and the views are brilliant. It’s definitely a must-try.
Today was spent on another beautiful beach named Ko Kradan, which offers excellent snorkelling and water sports opportunities. Today was also the day of the beach BBQ which offered all sorts of foods and drinks for everyone to enjoy amidst the party atmosphere.
It was a busy night at the Captain’s Dinner and the talent show. Unfortunately, we weren’t lucky enough to sit at the Captain’s table, but it was still a fantastic evening with lobster being offered on the menu – yum! We all headed up to the Tropical Bar to watch the talent show – another evening of lots of laughs.
Day Eight
It was our last day on the ship today, so we decided to take part in the James Bond Island Excursion, not before a photo expedition through Phang Nga Bay, though. We all got in to the tender boats which then circled the Star Clipper as all of its sails were heaved into place – a brilliant photo opportunity not to be missed. The views around this area are spectacular, as there are lots of rock formations which can’t be seen in many other places.
A quick stop at the lunch buffet (it was Italian themed today) and then we jumped into the speedboats ready for our excursion. The guides were fantastic and very informative. The first stop was James Bond Island where the famous film ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’ was shot. There’s also lots of little stalls offering unique Thai arts and crafts. Back on the speedboat, we headed to Koh Panyi, one of the only Muslim villages in the region offering a real insight to local life. There was also a stop for lunch on the island where lots of local dishes are served.
Once we were all back on the speedboat, the guides took us to visit local mangrove forests that feature lots of grottos.
Early evening meant it was time to get ready for our last meal on board – where has the week gone? After dinner, we enjoyed a show from local Thai dancers.
Day Nine
We were off the ship by 9.30am and headed over to the Seaview Hotel where our luggage was stored and we were able to use the facilities for the day. The pool is large and complimentary towels and sun loungers are provided. There is also a complimentary shower room where you can get ready prior to your flight. If you don’t fancy another day sunbathing, you can walk into the lively town of Patong and visit the local shops and restaurants.
If you would like to know more about our South-East Asia cruises, you can call us on 0845 200 6145 or chat to an advisor by using our live chat feature.
