Koh Siray is on the eastern tip of the southern part of Phuket, separated from the main island by a small river – the area’s main fishing depot – and gives access to the island’s main commercial shipyards. These yards mostly take care of local fishing vessels and shallow draft tour boats; but after several years’ experience, they are able – and have the facilities – to handle keelboats. Appropriate cradles are available but bookings must be made in advance.
A photograph or plan of your underwater hull shape will assist the yard foreman in safely slipping your boat. All yards offer electricity, water and transport to town.
If you decide to slip your boat in the local yards, consider seeking advice from one of the marine services companies for the best options. Many projects are under way in the yards, which may be of interest to boat building enthusiasts.
Close to the river bridge (town side) is Tien Sin Pier where ferries depart for Koh Yao Yai twice daily. At the entrance to the river on the west side on reclaimed land is the Rassada passenger terminal, with ferries to Phi Phi and Krabi.
Pass between Koh Taphao Noi and Koh Taphao Yai, and proceed to the first channel marker shown on the chart. Head towards the second channel buoy and then proceed directly to the headland on the east side of the river entrance.
There are leading marks on shore but this channel is constantly moving, and the best advice we can give is to negotiate the entrance on a three-quarter tide rising and if possible follow a large fishing boat in the river.
There is a light on Laem Tukkae but this approach is inadvisable at night. Once in the waterway, the depth is adequate for most vessels, but the number of boats tied on each side of the river severely restricts its navigable width.
Diesel fuel in large quantities, water, ice, and provisions are available at the fishing port and at the shipyards further upstream on the left and on the right.
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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