Spectacular scenery, cruising, ‘racing’ sailing and some fantastic parties highlight the Phang Nga Bay Regatta now in its 14th year. This four-day event, known as the ‘FUN’ regatta, showcases three of Thailand’s provinces – Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi – and is one of the most scenic regattas on the Asian racing calendar. As a regatta that includes some not-so-serious competition as well as some keen racing, this event endears itself to those who want to cruise and compete with reduced chance of breakage and protests. Although the route changes frequently, sailors of all ages and from all walks of life get together to enjoy a competitive regatta with a beautiful course around the islands of Phang Nga Bay, Krabi, Phi Phi and Phuket.

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As a roaming and sleep-aboard regatta, the event offers yachts the opportunity to visit unique and unusual parts of the bay and savour the views and parties from various anchorages and venues. A favoured spot for the opening party for the past few years has been the Absolute Chandara Resort & Spa at Ao Por, a five-star resort on the east coast of Phuket Island. Racing the first day has taken the fleet up to the northeastern part of the bay to the sheltered anchorage at Chong Lat, and then south to Koh Yao Noi. Postcard perfect scenery abounds at these destinations: the changing light at dusk and dawn reveals a stunning array of gold, orange and purple on the limestone karsts and cliffs of the islands. Yachts are challenged by light winds and strong currents these first race days while the third day has seen a cruise south to Krabi sees better conditions with Phuket the destination on the last day, being a more exciting stretch home.