Seasonal· Phang Nga Bay (bay-wide)· Thailand
Southwest Monsoon Squalls in Phang Nga Bay
8° 9.0′ N · 98° 33.0′ E · approximate
From May to October the SW monsoon brings sudden squalls and heavy rain, but Phang Nga Bay remains Thailand's best SW-season cruising ground, because many anchorages are sheltered in both monsoons.
Practical
Coordinate is a representative point in the bay. The Southeast Asia Pilot's North Phang Nga Bay chapter focuses on anchorages chosen for shelter from sudden squalls, especially in the SW monsoon. Good SW-season choices: Koh Phanak East Bay, Koh Kudu Yai, Koh Hong, Koh Khlui East, Ao Muang (Paradise Koh Yao), Ao Labu South behind Koh Nui and Capt Ed's Spot. West-facing Koh Yao Yai bays (Loh Paret, Loh Jark) are best left to the NE season. Most of the bay north of Koh Yao is under 10 m and the bottom is mostly mud, so anchor with generous scope before the afternoon squalls build. In the NE season expect light mornings that die by late morning, which makes for short sailing days.
Best for
Planning a May–October cruise
Season
May–Oct
Nearby
- Dragon Spine Sandbar (Koh Yao Noi west coast)2.1 NM away
- Tha Ao Po Pier (Koh Yao Noi west coast)2.7 NM away
- Koh Yao Noi West-Coast Mangroves2.9 NM away
- Ped Num Bay Anchorage3 NM away
- Phang Nga Bay Box Jellyfish / Stinger Warning3 NM away
- Hari Raya (Eid al-Fitr) on Koh Yao3.2 NM away
- Koh Yao Noi Town Centre (7-Eleven, Bakery and Shops)3.2 NM away
- Ramadan on the Koh Yao Islands3.6 NM away