Notes from the chart table.

The short answer is yes: miles sailed in Thailand count towards the sea-time requirements for an RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence. The RYA does not restrict qualifying mileage to the United Kingdom or Europe. What matters is the nature of the sailing, the vessel used, the candidate's role onboard and whether the experience is properly recorded.

What does the RYA require? The RYA states that at least 50% of the qualifying sea time should be gained in tidal waters and on vessels under 24 metres.

Are Thai waters tidal? Yes, the west coast of Thailand is considered tidal. We have tidal charts and a tidal range of around 3 metres. It is not quite the tidal range of 15 metres in the UK, which is where one of our founders, Jos, hails from. But it is still a lot more than, say, the Mediterranean Sea — and all miles are logged as tidal.

The west coast of Thailand offers one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding winter sailing grounds. From Phuket and Krabi to the islands of Phang Nga Bay, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, the Similan Islands and the Surin Islands, the region combines warm tropical weather with dramatic scenery and an exceptional variety of sailing conditions.

The principal Andaman sailing season extends from November until April, during Thailand’s northeast monsoon. For many sailors, the most settled period falls between December and March.

Understanding the two monsoons

Thailand’s west coast is strongly influenced by two seasonal weather patterns: the dry northeast monsoon and the wetter southwest monsoon. In October and November, the northeast monsoon becomes established. The prevailing airflow arrives from the Asian continent and crosses the Thai peninsula before reaching the Andaman coast.

Because the west coast lies in the lee of the mainland, conditions generally become drier and more settled. Rainfall reduces, the prolonged southwest swell subsides and many of the coast’s most beautiful anchorages become accessible again.

December to February: the height of the season

December, January and February generally provide the most comfortable combination of weather and sea conditions.

The northeast monsoon does not necessarily deliver a constant northeast wind along the entire coast. Local geography has a considerable effect. Islands, headlands and high land can shelter one area while funneling the breeze through another. Coastal sea breezes may strengthen during the afternoon, while mornings can begin with light or variable winds. However, for the majority of the season the wind is offshore, allowing for fast exciting sailing along the coast and islands.

March and April

March and April remain within the recognized sailing season, but the character of the weather gradually changes. Temperatures and humidity rise as the northeast monsoon weakens. Winds may become lighter and more variable, with longer periods requiring patient sail handling or assistance from the engine. Afternoon cloud development and isolated thunderstorms become increasingly possible as the region approaches the next seasonal transition. By late April and into May, the southwest monsoon begins to return. Weather becomes less settled and the open Andaman coast becomes increasingly exposed to wind and swell arriving from the west.

Note: Seasonal descriptions are a general guide only. Tropical weather can change quickly, and current marine forecasts, warnings and local conditions always determine our final passage plan.