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Junk boat "Chantara"
Overview
Set sail aboard the Chantara for a scenic voyage across the Gulf of Thailand to Koh Phangan, Koh Samui's lush neighboring island. Discover Koh Phangan's pristine coastline and explore the vibrant marine life around Koh Ma, an islet renowned for its clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and diverse tropical fish.
The vessel stops at Thong Nai Pan beach on Koh Phangan, where guests can enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddle surfing, and jet-skiing, or simply unwind with a beachside massage along secluded bays.
About Traditional Junk Boats
The junk is a historic Asian sailing vessel originally developed for coastal navigation and river trade, and it remains an enduring maritime tradition across Southeast Asia. The name traces back to the Malay word djong, meaning vessel.
Key architectural hallmarks of a traditional junk include fully battened sails supported by bamboo yards that can be reefed like window blinds, a blunt bow, a raised stern, and a large, heavy rudder designed to maintain stability without a conventional deep keel.
History of the Chantara
Crafted from solid teak wood, the Chantara was originally built in Myanmar (Burma) toward the end of the 20th century.
Initially navigating the waters of the Mergui Archipelago and the Burma Banks, the vessel was relocated following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, journeying south past Singapore and northward along the Malaysian coastline into the Gulf of Thailand.
Following an extensive refurbishment, the boat operated under the name "Fortune" before being rechristened with its Thai name, "Chantara," in October 2009.
Today, the Chantara is moored in Bangrak Bay in northern Koh Samui. From here, it navigates the waters of the Gulf of Thailand, offering voyages around Koh Samui, Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
Available packages
Group tour — Full day charter to Koh Phangan with sunset
Overview
Cruising every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11:00 to 19:00 (and daily during high season), the Chantara takes you on a full-day voyage to explore the picturesque coastline of Koh Phangan, Koh Samui's lush neighboring island.
Following a freshly prepared Thai buffet lunch on board, the boat anchors off Koh Ma. Here, you can snorkel in clear waters teeming with coral formations, sea anemones, and a variety of tropical reef fish.
The journey continues to Thong Nai Pan beach, a quiet cove where you can relax on the sand, enjoy a traditional Thai massage, or sip a cocktail or fresh fruit shake by the water.
On the return sail to Koh Samui, take in the rugged headlands, quiet coves, and secluded beaches of Koh Phangan while enjoying complimentary appetizers served on deck against the backdrop of the setting sun.
Itinerary
- 10:00Hotel pickup and transfer to the pierTransfer from your accommodation to the pier in Bangrak Bay to board the vessel.
- 11:00Departure from Koh SamuiSet sail from Bangrak Bay toward Koh Phangan aboard the traditional wooden junk boat.
- 12:30Thai buffet lunch on deckEnjoy a freshly prepared buffet featuring five traditional Thai dishes served while cruising.
- 13:15Snorkeling at Koh Ma reefDrop anchor near Koh Ma to swim and snorkel among coral reefs, sea anemones, and colorful marine life.
- 15:30Beach stop at Thong Nai PanAnchor at Thong Nai Pan bay to relax on the secluded beach, enjoy a massage, or purchase refreshments.
- 17:15Sunset cruise back to Koh SamuiSail back toward Koh Samui along Koh Phangan's coastline, with sunset appetizers served on board.
- 19:00Arrival at the pier and hotel drop-offArrive back at the pier in Koh Samui and take your return transfer to your hotel.
Included
Not included / Extra charge
Prices
| Option | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult, 12 years old + |
3,500 THB |
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| Child, 6-11 years old |
2,200 THB |
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| Child, 0-5 years old |
0 THB |
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Private cruises — Full day charter to Koh Phangan with sunset
Overview
Experience an exclusive full-day private charter aboard the Chantara, sailing across the Gulf of Thailand to explore Koh Phangan in privacy and comfort. Tailored to your group's pace, the voyage includes cruising along Koh Phangan's scenic coast, snorkeling at the coral reef around Koh Ma, and relaxing at the tranquil bay of Thong Nai Pan, complete with freshly prepared meals on deck and appetizers served during the sunset return.
In addition to Koh Phangan day cruises, private charter itineraries can be arranged for full-day excursions to Angthong National Marine Park, sunset cruises around Koh Som, or multi-day overnight charters designed around the length of your stay.
Private cruises — Sunset Appetizers Cruise
Overview
Enjoy an intimate late-afternoon private charter aboard the Chantara, cruising between the northern coast of Koh Samui and the peaceful islet of Koh Som. Guests can take a dip in the calm waters, try fishing, or lounge on the spacious teak deck as the heat of the day fades.
As evening approaches, freshly prepared appetizers and refreshments are served on board while you watch the sunset cast golden hues across the Gulf of Thailand before returning to the pier.
Private charter options also include full-day expeditions to Koh Phangan or Angthong National Marine Park, as well as customized overnight cruises tailored to your itinerary.
Private cruises — Sunset Dinner Cruise
Overview
Celebrate an evening at sea aboard the Chantara with a private sunset dinner cruise around Koh Samui and Koh Som. Departing in the late afternoon, the traditional teak junk sets a relaxed pace along the northern coastline, offering opportunities to swim in calm waters or unwind on the open-air deck.
As the sun sets over the Gulf of Thailand, savor a traditional five-dish Thai buffet dinner served on board, accompanied by the evening breeze and panoramic sea views.
Private charters can also be customized for full-day trips to Koh Phangan or Angthong National Marine Park, as well as multi-day overnight voyages tailored to your schedule.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
What happens if the tour is cancelled due to bad weather?
What is the child policy?
What should I know about pickup times?
Can I bring my own drinks on board?
What is included on the boat?
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Terms and conditions, cancellation policy Terms and conditions
- Booking is confirmed only after payment is received and confirmation email is sent.
- Payment must be made within 3 days after reservation and no later than 3 day(s) before the tour, otherwise the reservation expires.