 |
|
Koh Chang beach
|
Charter choices
Base facilities
- Brand new marina to be completed October 07
Provisioning
- Seasonal base operating November to April
- Sunny and dry with calm seas
- Light to moderate NE winds
Local attractions and activities
- Koh Chang National Park
- Stunning waterfalls
Local information
- Currency - Thai Baht
- Language - Thai
- Time zone - GMT +7
Already booked? Click here for essential information on Thailand
Opening in October 2007, Sunsail is expanding even further into Asia by launching a new seasonal base in the eastern Gulf of Thailand. Based in the province of Trat, our new base will offer amazing sailing throughout the Koh Chang archipelago. This area incorporates Koh Chang National Park which includes the islands of Koh Chang, the second largest in Thailand after Phuket, Koh Kut, Koh Mak and around 50 other islands.
Cruising notes
Koh ChangKoh Chang itself is surrounded by clear waters while a terrain of high peaks and steep cliffs provide a magnificent backdrop to its breathtaking coastline. The western side of the island is slowly adapting to tourism, but the eastern side has retained its traditional features. New developments are limited to three storeys in a bid to maintain the natural beauty of this island. And it’s working - the majority of resorts in Koh Chang are thatched roof bungalows nestling on inviting beaches.
The beaches of Koh Chang and its archipelago are just one of the many highlights of this area. White Sand beach on Koh Chang is one of the most notable and a popular spot when the sun goes down. Join the locals at one of the traditional restaurants and bars that scatter the area. If peace and tranquillity is more your scene, head over to Klong Prao beach instead. As you sail the waters of Koh Chang and its islands make sure you pay a visit to the quaint fishing villages such as Bang Bao and Salak Phet. Theses communities are built on stilts and welcome visitors into their daily life.
No doubt the stunning scenery from the deck of your yacht will keep you entertained for days, but don’t forget to stretch your land legs and explore the heart of the islands. Renowned for their lush and green landscape, they hide idyllic waterfalls which are a sight not to be missed.
Than Mayom is the most famous waterfall on Koh Chang and is actually a series of three falls along the stream of Klong Mayom. The fertile rainforest keeps it flowing year round and the large pool at its source offers plentiful fresh water for local life. Follow the well marked pathway for a picturesque 45 minute climb to the first set of falls. The views from the top are spectacular – make sure you search out the two stones with inscriptions bearing the initials of King Rama VI and King Rama VII resting on the ground. The second waterfall is about 500 metres east and the third is 1 mile from the first. Another inscribed stone with the initial of King Rama V can be found here. Don’t forget your bathers for an invigorating dip!
The whole archipelago is not only famous for its waterfalls but also abundant coral reefs and long sandy beaches. The whole area is still relatively undiscovered by sailors and Koh Mak is a perfect slice of Thai life. Only 10 miles from Koh Chang it’s worth a full day to explore.
Koh MakWith a 12 mile coastline, Koh Mak is the third largest island of the Marine Park. Its flat terrain is home to numerous coconut and rubber plantations which are skirted by long beaches and clear waters. Shaped like a cross, the best beaches are on the southwest coast at Ao Kao and the northwest coast at Ao Suan Yai. From Ao Suan Yai you can look out across to Koh Raet, Koh Phee, Koh Kham while soaking up the captivating sunset. During low tide a sand dune appears between Koh Maak and Koh Kham allowing you to walk across – but keep an eye on the water and don’t get stranded!
Koh Kut Local Koh Kut island has adapted more to tourism over the last few years but still offers peaceful overnight anchorages. Situated approximately 40 miles southeast of Trat, Koh Kut (known locally as Koh Kood) is the farthest island from the mainland. The oldest village on Koh Kut is the Klong Mad village where the residents are of both Thai and Cambodian origins. About 70% of Koh Kut is covered by tropical rainforest and the island boasts a whole host of scenic beauties including crystal clear waters, pristine beaches and breathtaking waterfalls.
With so many undeveloped islands to choose from sailing in the Koh Chang archipelago is a step back in time. Be one of the first to discover this awe-inspiring area.