Anchorages in Krabi & Phi Phi Islands
Sea-access Railay Bay with its world-class rock climbing, the iconic Phi Phi Islands, and the increasingly remote southern islands of Koh Lanta, Koh Mook (Emerald Cave), and Koh Kradan. The southern route to Malaysia passes through this extraordinary Andaman chain.
Maya Bay Anchoring Ban — Permanent Since 2018
Anchoring in Maya Bay (Koh Phi Phi Leh) is permanently prohibited under Thai national park law to allow coral reef recovery. Day visits via tour boat mooring buoys only (08:00–17:00). Violation results in substantial fines and possible vessel detention. The coral recovery since 2018 has been remarkable — respect the ban and enjoy the improved snorkeling conditions.
Andaman Sea Season & National Park Rules
Best sailing November–April (NE monsoon). SW monsoon (May–October) makes most west-facing bays unsafe. Tidal range 2–3m — set scope for high-water depth. Had Noppharat Thara–Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park fees (~200–400 THB per person) apply throughout the Phi Phi group. Never anchor on coral — snorkel to verify sandy bottom before dropping anchor. Clear Thai customs at Koh Lanta (Ban Sala Dan) or Pak Bara before crossing to Malaysia.
Verified Anchorages — Krabi & Phi Phi Islands
10 anchorages
Ao Nang
Ao Nang Beach · Krabi Ao Nang
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Railay Bay
Rai Leh · Railay Beach · Phranang Bay
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Koh Phi Phi Don
Phi Phi Don · Ko Phi Phi Don
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Ton Sai Bay
Tonsai Bay · Phi Phi Don Tonsai
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Koh Phi Phi Leh (Maya Bay)
Ko Phi Phi Le · Maya Bay · The Beach film location
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Koh Lanta
Ko Lanta · Koh Lanta Yai · Ko Lanta Yai
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Koh Ngai
Ko Ngai · Ko Hai · Hai Island
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Koh Mook
Ko Muk · Morakot Cave Island
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Koh Kradan
Ko Kradan
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Koh Bulon Leh
Ko Bulon Leh · Bulon Le Island · Ko Bulon Le
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Set Your Anchor Alarm Before You Sleep
In Krabi's crystal bays and around the Phi Phi Islands, swell can develop suddenly and the large Andaman tidal range means your position can change significantly overnight. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously — so you can enjoy the sunsets and beach bars with confidence.
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