The rocky karst formations of this north-south string of islands – similar to those of Phang Nga Bay – has been declared a marine National Park. The many high, sheer-sided islands with narrow passages between them offer lots of scenic cruising.
The water is rather murky and there are no detailed charts of this group, so take note of the two warning boxes below.
During the calm season several tour boats bring tourists to these islands each day from Samui. The islands are a very popular destination with local Thai tourists, since Ang Thong is on the list of ‘must see’ places for any Thai who wishes to say he’s seen the entire country.
Fishing boats also seek shelter amongst the steep, protective islands here. There are not many beaches, and so only a few places to go ashore.
Anchor in 8 metres on a muddy bottom on the northeast side of the island. This anchorage can be approached from the north or east giving Koh Phi plenty of clearance to avoid underwater reefs.
If you feel like a good hike, a 45-minute climb will take you to a viewpoint overlooking the islands. Shoes are a must, and a bottle of water will prove a treat once you get to the top. South of the main beach you’ll find a huge cave; keep an eye open for wild monkeys and bats. Since Koh Ang Thong is the main island in this group, the National Park HQ has some bungalows available and there is a fee of 200 baht per person.
Approaching from the northeast a course of approximately 230 degrees, north of Koh Sam Sao and Koh Hin Tak avoids all rocks on the way into the anchorage.
Approaching from the southeast, there is a large rock midchannel, which should be left to starboard. Off the small beach is a red buoy, which marks an underwater rock.
Look for a good anchorage in about 7-8 metres off the second beach coming from the south, on the east side of the island. Steps and a little platform offer access to a path leading to an inner lake, and a cave under the mountain.
The anchorage is well off the island on the northeast side in 10 metres on a hard bottom. It is not suitable for overnight stays. This island, at the northern end of the group, away from the worst of the riverine sediment from the west, has reasonable coral formations in limited visibility.
Heading north from Koh Ang Thong to Koh Wua Ta Lab, north of the southern-most beach, there is a coral head right in the middle of the passage. It is possible to pass on either side of this.
Between Koh Wua Ta Lab and Koh Hanuman (Sphinx Head) there is a sharp point of rock just beneath the surface which is only visible at extreme low tides.
While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this book is accurate, the charts of anchorages are based on personal experience and satellite imagery and are intended as a guide only. They should not be used for navigation. Please refer to Official Hydrographic Charts of the respective countries.
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