Thailand’s Marine Parks

Southeast Asia Pilot – October 2025

Thailand’s Marine Parks – Preserving Paradise

Thailand’s marine parks are among the most beautiful in the world, from the granite boulders of the Similans to the emerald lagoons of Phang Nga Bay.

Fragile ecosystems

Yet these fragile ecosystems face pressures from mass tourism, overfishing and climate change. The Thai Marine Park authorities have started limiting visitor numbers, banning anchoring on coral, and enforcing seasonal closures. These measures have helped protect biodiversity while keeping the parks open to yachts.

Embrace the fees

Visiting skippers should be aware of fees and regulations – and embrace them as the price of preserving paradise. Sailing through these parks is a privilege.

Mooring yes – anchor no

Always pick up a mooring instead of dropping your anchor. If there is no mooring option, be careful to drop anchor away from all coral. Take nothing but photos and support local rangers where you can. The reward is clear: crystal waters, abundant marine life and bays that still feel like untouched sanctuaries.

Definitive cruising guideo

For owners, charterers and captains cruising Thailand’s Marine Parks and the wider region, Southeast Asia Pilot remains the definitive cruising guide. It details 600+ anchorages with shoreside tips and other useful insights. It covers nine countries, from the Andaman Sea to the Spice Islands – with introductory notes on several more. Available now in print and digital editions.

⇒ ⇒ ⇒ Buy Southeast Asia Pilot

Southeast Asia Pilot and Phuket Publicity Services do their best to ensure that the information on this website is accurate. However, good seamanship demands that seafarers check critical information carefully with relevant sources to ensure it is up to date.Facebook