Phang Nga Bay
Ao Phang Nga · Phang Nga National Park
8°16.0'N 98°32.0'E
Depth
3–10m
Bottom
mud
Alarm Radius
80m
Holding
Good
Recommended Anchor Alarm Radius
80m
Set 80m radius for the main bay anchorage. The intricate karst topography provides natural protection from most directions. Tidal range 2–3m — set scope for high water. Multiple anchoring spots throughout the bay.
About This Anchorage
Phang Nga Bay is one of the world's most spectacular cruising grounds — a UNESCO-designated Ramsar wetland site dotted with hundreds of dramatic limestone karst islands rising vertically from the sea. The bay is the backdrop for James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) and contains hidden lagoons (hongs) accessible only by kayak at certain tidal states. The area is part of Ao Phang Nga National Park with anchoring fees payable at the park office. The bay's sheltered nature makes it excellent in all seasons.
Protected From
N · NE · E · W · S
Exposed To
variable (protected by karst islands)
Anchoring Rules
- Anchoring fee
- National park fee: approximately 300 THB per person per day
- Permit required
- Yes
- Permit details
- Ao Phang Nga National Park fee required. Pay at park office or via registered tour operator. Some zones within the park are restricted for ecological protection.
Restrictions: Some sections of the national park are closed to private vessel anchoring to protect mangroves and sea grass. Follow park authority instructions. Do not disturb the sea gypsies' (Moken) communities.
Hazards
- !Submerged rocks and boulders around all karst islands — approach with caution
- !Strong tidal currents through narrow passages between islands
- !Shallow mud flats exposed at low tide — extensive areas dry
- !Fish farms and oyster beds in some inlets
Skipper's Tips
- →Hire a local longtail guide for navigating the inner bay — excellent local knowledge
- →Enter the hongs (sea caves/lagoons) only at mid-tide and with a guide
- →James Bond Island (Koh Tapu) is very crowded with tour boats — early morning or late afternoon visits recommended
- →Anchor off the main tourist routes for tranquility
Facilities
Floating restaurants and village restaurants on Koh Panyi (Muslim fishing village)
Nearest provisions: Phang Nga Town (8nm)
Best Months & Season
November, December, January, February, March, April
NE monsoon season (November–April) provides the best cruising conditions. The bay is largely protected year-round but approach passages from the Andaman Sea can be rough in SW monsoon.
Recommended Anchor Types
Nearby Anchorages
Set Your Anchor Alarm to 80m
In Phuket and Phang Nga Bay, the 2–3m Andaman tidal range means your boat's position changes dramatically with the tide. Safety Anchor Alarm monitors your GPS position continuously so you can explore the hongs, beaches, and karst formations with complete peace of mind.
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