A catamaran tour from Phuket is more than a boat trip – it is a fundamentally different way to experience the Andaman Sea. No engine noise, no jolting over waves, no cramped seating. Instead: white sails, the quiet glide across turquoise water, deck-lounge comfort and the ease of a modern sailing yacht for a small group. TIP offers two catamaran tours from Phuket – a luxury full-day island trip and the most romantic Sunset Cruise Phuket has to offer – plus an afternoon sunset option for those who want to combine sailing with a land-based day.
Anyone planning a boat trip from Phuket faces the same fundamental question: speedboat or catamaran? Both have their place – but they deliver fundamentally different experiences.
A catamaran is a sailing boat with two parallel hulls. The wide, stable platform makes it significantly calmer at sea than a single-hull speedboat – no pitching, no rolling in swell. The spacious deck gives every guest generous room: sun loungers at the bow, a shaded saloon amidships, easy entry into the water from the stern. With sails set, the catamaran moves almost silently – an experience that is fundamentally different from any motorboat tour.
Our verdict: Anyone who considers the journey itself part of the experience – and they should – will always have a better time on the catamaran. The speedboat gets you there faster; on the catamaran, the journey is the destination.
TIP currently offers two catamaran tours from Phuket, deliberately different in destination, duration and atmosphere – the right fit for every type of traveller:
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon on a comfortable sailing catamaran, featuring snorkeling off Coral Island, free time at Kahung Beach, and a breathtaking sunset at Promthep Cape. Dinner on board and the experienced crew of Nikorn Marine make this tour an unforgettable experience at sea.
The Catamaran Sunset Cruise from Phuket follows the island’s spectacular south coast – past Promthep Cape, one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated viewpoints, and Coral Island. On board: a relaxed atmosphere, snacks and drinks, plenty of deck space and the certainty that this sunset will only be shared with those on the boat – no crowds, no noise, no car park.
The Catamaran Sunset Cruise Phuket lasts approximately 3–4 hours from the pier. Departure in the late afternoon, return after dark. No early start, no long day – the ideal complement to another morning activity or a relaxed afternoon in Phuket. Bookable as a standalone tour or add-on to other activities.
Two islands, one catamaran, one unforgettable day: The tour to Coral Island (Kahung Beach) and Raya Island (Racha Island) combines the best of both worlds. Snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, white sand beaches, water sports, and the comfort of the catamaran at every stop. This tour is ideal for anyone who wants to experience maximum variety in a single day—without the hustle and bustle of a crowded speedboat.
The catamaran tour Phuket is not a niche activity – it suits a surprisingly wide range of travellers. Here is why different guest types consistently rate the catamaran as their best day on the water:
The combination of sailing, sea views and sunset makes the catamaran the most romantic boat tour in Phuket. The Sunset Cruise in particular is a consistent highlight for honeymoon trips and anniversaries – with a private-feel experience even on a group booking.
The wide, stable catamaran is significantly safer for children than a narrow speedboat. Large deck for movement, the bow net for lying in, no rough jolting over high waves – children love the catamaran, and parents can relax knowing everyone is safely on board.
Entering the water from the catamaran's wide stern is far easier than from a cramped speedboat. Snorkeling stops at Coral Island and Racha Island offer excellent visibility – and with the included equipment, even first-time snorkelers are fully equipped.
The catamaran's wide dual-hull design dramatically reduces rolling and pitching compared to single-hull boats. Guests who struggle with seasickness on speedboats find the catamaran in Phuket considerably smoother and more comfortable – a genuine advantage on longer crossings.
The ideal time for all catamaran tours from Phuket: steady trade winds for smooth sailing, clear skies, calm sea and perfect sunsets without cloud cover. The Sunset Cruise Phuket reaches its full magic in the dry season, when the sky turns deep orange and pink across the Andaman horizon. High season December to March – book early.
In the rainy season, stronger winds and occasional squalls may occur. Tours are adjusted or postponed in bad weather. The catamaran’s inherent stability means catamaran tours often still run when speedboat tours have already been cancelled – the wide hull handles rougher conditions significantly better than a single-hull boat. Check current conditions at the time of booking.
The catamaran offers more comfort, stability and space – ideal for couples, families and anyone prone to seasickness. The wide double hull dramatically reduces rolling in waves. The speedboat is faster and better for distant destinations like Phi Phi or the Similans. For Coral Island and Racha Island, the catamaran is the more enjoyable choice.
TIP offers two tours: (1) Full-day Catamaran to Coral Island & Racha Island – snorkeling, beach time, lunch on board, ~8–9 hours. (2) Romantic Sunset Cruise Phuket – afternoon sail past Promthep Cape, ~3–4 hours. Both include hotel pickup.
Full-day island tour: approx. 8–9 hours including hotel transfer. Sunset Cruise: approx. 3–4 hours from the pier, departing late afternoon and returning after dark.
All tours include snorkeling (equipment provided), swimming, sunbathing on deck. The full-day tours also include beach time at Coral Island and/or Racha Island. Optional water sports (Sea Walking, parasailing, banana boat) are available at extra cost directly on the islands.
Yes – particularly family-friendly. Wide stable deck, no rough jolting, easy water entry from the stern. Children under 3 typically free. Much safer and more comfortable for children than a narrow speedboat.
November to April (dry season): steady winds, calm seas, clear skies and perfect sunsets for the Sunset Cruise. In monsoon season (May–October): the catamaran’s stability means tours often run when speedboat tours are cancelled. Check conditions at booking.
Prefer maximum speed to the island? Coral Island (Koh Hae) is also available as a speedboat day trip – with Sea Walking, parasailing and banana boat directly at Kahung Beach.
Racha Island is also bookable as a standalone speedboat day trip – more snorkeling time at the island for guests who prefer to maximise beach time over sailing time.
For the most iconic island scenery from Phuket: the Phi Phi Islands with Maya Bay and the Pileh Lagoon. The speedboat is the right choice here – the crossing is too long for the catamaran day format.
The other classic from Phuket: limestone towers, sea cave kayaking and the floating village of Koh Panyee. A natural complement to a catamaran island day on a separate morning.
For the most flexible and intimate experience on the water: private longtail boat trips to nearby bays and beaches, bookable by the hour or half-day.
Choose your catamaran tour from Phuket – full day with islands and snorkeling, or a romantic Sunset Cruise. Both tours are popular and book out fast in high season (December to March). Secure your place early.
Hotel transfer included · Snorkeling equipment included · Lunch included (full-day tours) · Suitable for all ages