Sunset Cruise to Koh Hey in Phuket by Sailing Catamaran

Sunset Cruise to Koh Hey in Phuket by Sailing Catamaran

Imagine setting sail from Ao Chalong Pier on a guided sunset cruise aboard a spacious catamaran, heading to Koh Hey (Coral Island). For just over $50 per person, you’ll enjoy about 5 to 6 hours of swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and soaking up stunning sea views. The day culminates with a dinner onboard as the sun dips behind Promthep Cape, offering a picture-perfect end to your afternoon.

What we love about this experience is how relaxed it feels—like a mini escape from the busy beaches—and how much it offers for such a reasonable price. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, beach towels, and free transfers makes it a convenient choice. Plus, the chance to enjoy part of the Andaman Sea with good food and drinks in hand? Hard to beat.

However, a word of caution: the organization can sometimes be a bit chaotic, especially during busy periods or if you’re not quite sure about pickup times. It’s best suited for laid-back travelers, families, or anyone looking to enjoy nature’s beauty at their own pace. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic day on the water with some fun in the sun, this cruise could be just right.

Key Points

• Relaxing pace with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and beach time.
• Included gear and towels add value and convenience.
• Affordable price considering the activities, food, and transfers.
• Stunning sunset views at Promthep Cape create a memorable ending.
• Mixed reviews on organization suggest it’s best for easygoing travelers.
• Family-friendly option with child tickets and simple activities.

A Closer Look at the Sunset Catamaran Experience

When we first consider a sunset cruise in Phuket, we’re looking for a mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and leisure. This tour ticks those boxes, especially with its easy booking process and hotel pickup from many popular areas like Patong, Karon, or Phuket Town, which saves you the hassle of finding your way to the pier.

The departure point is Ao Chalong Pier, a well-known gateway for marine excursions. From there, the catamaran sets sail with a friendly guide (both English and Chinese-speaking options available), helping to create a welcoming atmosphere. The actual ride is approximately two hours to Koh Hey, where you’ll find snorkeling gear, beach towels, and life jackets ready for your use—helping you feel prepared for water fun.

What Makes Koh Hey Special?

Koh Hey isn’t just a stop on the map; it’s a vibrant Coral Island with clear waters teeming with marine life. As one review enthusiastically put it, “coral island has beautiful swimming,” and you’ll have roughly two hours here to indulge. Many travelers appreciate the chance to snorkel, jump from the boat, or simply lounge on the beach.

Several reviews mention how well-organized the water activities are, with fishing gear provided for those interested in trying their luck. As one guest described, “the boat had shady places to sit, the group was about 20-25 people,” making the experience feel intimate rather than overcrowded.

Beach Time and Leisure

After snorkeling, you’ll spend about two more hours relaxing on the beach. The tour provides face masks, tubes, and beach chairs—which make for a comfortable seaside experience. One traveler highlighted: “the staff was very helpful and friendly, making sure we had everything we needed.”

Sunset at Promthep Cape

The highlight of the trip is the sunset view at Promthep Cape, a famous viewpoint on Phuket. The crew will prepare a dinner onboard, accompanied by fruit and drinks, all while you watch the horizon change colors. Keep in mind that weather and tides influence the sunset’s appearance, so it may vary. Guests have described it as “spectacular,” though some noted that timing can be slightly unpredictable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Ao Chalong Pier

Your day begins with a pickup from various Phuket locations, allowing for a smooth transfer to the pier. The short drive means you’re not wasting precious daylight on logistics. Once at Ao Chalong, the catamaran awaits, ready to whisk you away amidst the sea breeze.

Stop 2: Koh Hey (Coral Island)

The main highlight—crystal-clear waters, snorkeling gear, and coral reefs that promise a good chance of seeing marine life. As described in reviews, “snorkeling equipment was included, and the underwater scenery was beautiful.” Expect to jump from the boat, swim, or just relax on the sand.

Stop 3: Beach & Leisure

The next two hours are yours to lie on the beach, try some fishing, or simply unwind. The tour supplies beach chairs, face masks, and tubes, making it easier to enjoy your leisure time without needing to bring your own gear.

Stop 4: Sunset Dinner at Promthep Cape

The final hour involves the dinner and sunset viewing. The crew sets up a buffet-style dinner onboard, with fruit and drinks included. Guests repeatedly mention how relaxing and peaceful the end of the day feels, with the sun setting over the Andaman Sea creating a breathtaking backdrop.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Mixed reviews highlight some practical points. Many travelers praise the friendly staff, good value for money, and beautiful scenery. One reviewer shared, “the trip was absolutely great! suited for families and not a long one.” Another called it “a relaxing, well-organized tour,” emphasizing the small group size and beautiful sunset.

On the flip side, some reviews warn about organizational hiccups, such as late pickups, cancellations, or confusing meeting instructions. One guest noted, “the process was overall slow, and communication about meeting times was confusing.” Others expressed disappointment in limited water supplies or boat condition, so be prepared.

The Food and Drinks

The onboard dinner is described as decent and refreshing, with a buffet and fruit. Be aware that towels are not supplied, so bring your own if you need them. Many reviewers appreciated the included drinks and juices, which added to the laid-back vibe.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a leisurely day on the water. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed pace will find this experience appealing. It’s less about adrenaline and more about enjoying nature, good food, and sunset views.

Practical Details & Tips

• The meeting point is Chalong Pier, with start time at 1:00 pm.
• The tour includes hotel pickup from many popular areas, but note there are additional charges for transfers from places like Mai Khao or Phuket Airport.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen—the sun can be intense during the day.
• Snorkeling gear, beach towels, and life jackets are included, but towels are not supplied.
• The tour lasts about 5-6 hours, making it a great option for a half-day escape.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, which is convenient if the weather looks uncertain.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $50.45 per person, which includes transfers, snorkeling gear, dinner, and drinks, offering good value for a day on the water.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 to 6 hours, starting at 1:00 pm, making it perfect for an afternoon adventure and sunset viewing.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra charges may apply for transfers from some locations, like 200 THB for boat lagoon or Kamala, and higher fees for places like Mai Khao or Phuket Airport. Tipping or optional activities aren’t specified but are typical.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free pickup from many areas such as Patong, Karon, Rawai, and Phuket Town. But check if your location incurs extra charges.

Can children participate?
Yes, there are child tickets for ages 4-11, making it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Towels are not supplied, so pack your own if needed.

What is the food like?
A buffet dinner with fruit and drinks is included, generally described as refreshing and well-organized.

Is the sunset guaranteed?
While most days offer a spectacular sunset, it depends on weather and tide conditions—so it’s not always guaranteed to be picture-perfect.

Final Thoughts

This sunset cruise to Koh Hey offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, water activities, and relaxed dining, all at an affordable price point. Its small-group vibe and inclusive amenities make it an attractive option for those who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water.

While organizational hiccups have been noted, most reviewers agree that the stunning sunset, friendly staff, and beautiful snorkeling make it worthwhile. If you’re after a laid-back experience with minimal fuss and are happy to go with the flow, this tour could be just the ticket.

For families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape from busy beaches, this cruise offers a chance to unwind, soak in the views, and enjoy some beachside fun. Just be sure to prepare for possible delays, bring your own towel, and keep expectations flexible for the weather.

Summary

In essence, the Sunset Cruise to Koh Hey provides a relaxing, scenic, and reasonably priced day out that captures the essence of Phuket’s beautiful marine environment. It’s a good pick for those who value authentic seaside views, simple water fun, and delicious local-inspired onboard dining. If you’re someone who enjoys a laid-back pace and isn’t fussed about perfect organization, this tour is worth considering for your Phuket itinerary.

Remember, it’s all about enjoying the moment—floating on the sea, watching the sun set, and creating memories that’ll last long after you’ve left the island.