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AO BANG BAO

Anchor off the jetty in 3-5 metres on a muddy bottom near the lighthouse. This spot is sheltered in both seasons and is an interesting mix of local fishing activity and tourism.

The 1-km jetty is lined with an eclectic range of shops and restaurants on pilings. which offer a complete range of fare.

This is the main departure point for tour and dive boats and ferries to the southern islands; it’s a hive of activity. There is a dinghy dock at Buddha View Restaurant on the pier’s north side.

Pandemic impact

The current edition was published just a few months before the Covid-19 pandemic started to bite. We have not attempted to update this online version (or the new ebook version) as some situations change rapidly, while others are subject to unverifiable rumour.

So, if you are cruising now, please verify information before setting out for your destination and please understand that amenities ashore may be less than posted here or in the book. As 'compensation', you'll find many islands and beaches in the kind of pristine condition not seen for many years in the more developed tourist destinations.